Vale Blinds Direct Rod Control for Skylight roof windows with top bar 2 Metres

We bought one of these for use on three Velux which are in a holiday flat we own. The Rod was only used by us as we didn't want to risk guest forgetting to close the windows. The plastic joint in the extending rod snapped after 4 months so probably used on about 20 times. It now if fixed in its extended position with jungle tape and stored under the bed.. We have a Velux version that we use at our home which has been in daily use for 8 yrs and is perfect. Wish I had spent the extra on a Velux one for the flat.

It takes a physical effort to open a velux window, and to expect a cheap plastic clip to be able to replicate this force is asking for trouble. As for using it to open or close blinds, as the pole is lowered and the angle of the pole alters as a result, it becomes impossible to complete the action, leaving the blind only partly closed. In other words, not fit for purpose.

This is very cheap, and as a result is cheaply constructed. It's light (which is a good thing), but once extended it needed to be screwed so tightly to keep it from collapsing on itself and allow me to open/close my window, that I now am unable to unscrew and collapse it when it's not in use.I was also sent the wrong product when I first ordered it (an actual blind!) and had a pretty ridiculous time trying to get the right product sent to me instead.

I bought this to replace the Velux one I bought a year ago, which snapped at the top, so I was left with a sturdy rod but no 'end' to open either the window or the blind.This rod does just about do the job, although the rod is very flimsy and bends (especially if extended). It is not terribly suitable for my Velux window, but it does also open and close the blind which is great. So at a push, it works ok.At this price I thought it was worth keeping, as to buy a new Velux rod would cost double the price, which yet again may only last for a year.I have thought I may try buying the top alone, and getting someone to fix it to the broken Velux rod. That could also work with any suitable but stronger rod.

recently had installed a skylight in the kitchen but had to climb on the kitchen units every time you wanted to open the skylight, but with this extendable pole it has made the task of opening so much easier.the rod is extendable to reach up to about 3m and substantial enough to do the job. highly recommend it if you are strugling with your skylight.

Value for money

Opens my falco roof windows ok but as not a full circle it's hard to close the handle in place but manageable and better than not being able to work the windows at all, a bit flimsy at full extent but probably should have gone for 3m

Never had a problem with this item. Glad I never spent a fortune on a genuine one.