Whether you go with shutters, blinds or shades for your home, quality window treatments should be enjoyed for a long time. But, like most other things in your home, they’ll eventually need replacing, even more so if they no longer complement your décor.
For years, Louver Shop of Columbia has specialized in making long-lasting custom window treatments here in the USA. With the assistance of our experienced design consultants, we make Columbia residences like yours more beautiful each day, starting with a free consultation.
When your window treatments are getting old, some clues are more clear than others. Here are a couple of clues that yours are needing to be replaced.
Plantation Shutters
While they could seem like a bargain at the time, imported plantation shutters are liable to wearing out more quickly. This is due to the fact they’re often produced from cheaper materials.
At Louver Shop of Columbia, we rely on furniture-grade woods and solid polymer in our custom shutters, which are created to provide many years of trouble-free operation. They’re protected against some of the most typical troubles and have a lifetime warranty on moving parts, workmanship and the painted finish.
Here are some of the most typical troubles that occur when your plantation shutters are wearing out.
1. Cracking, Peeling or Chipping
Because of their energy efficiency, interior shutters are desirable in areas with intense heat and humidity. Unfortunately these weather conditions make them more susceptible to troubles with their finish, like cracking, peeling or chipping. You want your house to look its best, so if your shutters start doing this, it’s time to install new ones.
2. Yellowing
You probably are aware the ultraviolet rays in sunlight are what’s responsible for burning your skin. They can also create other discoloration to your shutters, such as yellowing, over time. While you could refinish your plantation shutters, it’s a long process, especially for wood shutters. You’ll need to unscrew them, strip the paint, carefully repaint them and then reinstall them. As there’s so many things to remember, you run the risk of ruining your shutters altogether with uneven paint or improper reinstallation. This undermines your shutters’ look, not to mention their energy efficiency.
3. Warping or Bending
Premium plantation shutters should retain their shape as time passes, even on large windows. When louvers begin to warp or bend, it’s time to replace them.
4. Regular Tightening Since They’re Sagging
When your shutters’ louvers aren’t tight enough, they’ll need regular tightening or adjusting. This is a time-consuming job that isn’t needed when you have premium plantation shutters.
Blinds
Mini blinds are among the most loved styles for window blinds, due to their affordability, versatility and durability. Unfortunately, they don’t last forever, so here are several signs that yours need to be replaced.
5. Dangling Cords
Older styles of blinds are typically controlled by cords, which isn’t the best idea for kids or pets. If these cords are fraying, it’s a clue that the mechanism may be getting old. Modern custom blinds feature cordless operating systems and can even be opened and closed with your smartphone.
6. Broken or Bent Louvers
Mini blinds can withstand a lot, but in some instances the louvers will break or permanently bend. When this happens, you should get new blinds. For a modern look that’s just as long-lasting, consider faux wood blinds, which look like wood but can withstand heat and moisture.
7. Gaps When Shut
It doesn’t matter what type of horizontal blinds you use, the louvers should fit snugly together when closed. If this isn’t the case, it’s time to get updated ones.
Shades
Shades are well-loved by homeowners since they’re quick to use and clean. They’re usually made from fabric, which can have a few issues as time goes on. Here are a couple signs that you should get new shades.
8. Yellowing
Like plantation shutters, shades are also vulnerable to fading or discoloring because of the sun’s UV rays. When the color gets washed out, it’s time to get new shades.
9. Frayed Sides
This is typically the result of inexperienced installation. If your shades aren’t sized properly or installed wrong, the edges can scrape when you raise and lower them. Eventually, these edges will come apart, making your shades look worn out. At Louver Shop of Columbia, we give free measurements and skilled installation to make sure your custom shades fit just right.
10. Struggles to Raise or Lower
When your shades aren’t raising or lowering like when they were newer, it’s often due to the fact the operating system is wearing out. When you call Louver Shop of Columbia, you’ll have complete access to an extensive range of operating systems, such as cordless and smart automation that moves your shades with a push of your smartphone.
Get Started Creating Your New Window Treatments Now
When you’re due to replace your window treatments in Columbia, rely on the design specialists at Louver Shop of Columbia. We are part of your community, so we’re only a call or text away. Our simple process starts with design advice, a quote and measurements, all at no cost or obligation. Then, we’ll complete the job in just a few weeks with skilled installation.
To begin making your new window treatments, contact us at 888-428-1415 to schedule your free consultation now!