Chomz Creative

Roller shades are a popular window treatment. After several years the window shades may start to show signs of their age. At that time is it better to replace or repair those old shades?

Roller shades are a popular window treatment. After several years the window shades may start to show signs of their age. At that time is it better to replace or repair those old shades?

While your window shades may still be beautiful and enchanting, as time passes, they do begin to show the signs of wear. The fabric fades in the sun. The control mechanism may not be working properly. Fabric may be torn. All of these affect the appearance of your shades. You are then faced with the decision of replacing the shade with a new one or repairing the existing shade.

One of the main problems that owners of roller shades face is the control mechanism malfunctioning. Shades may not open or may be stuck part way up. Sometimes tightening the springs will make the window shades work better; however, if a shade is stuck trying to correct the problem may end up tearing the fabric forcing you to replace all the shades. Since many of the mechanisms from the older shades are no longer in production, it can be difficult to find parts for repair. Most owners simply choose to replace the old shades with new ones.

While it is possible to replace the entire mechanism and to keep the fabric of the old window shades, but the new fabrics have much to offer that the older fabrics did not have. In fact, it is often more expensive to buy replacement mechanisms than it is to buy whole new shades. In addition, you may find that the older materials have deteriorated over time and will be much more prone to tears and rips, even on the new mechanism. The newer shades are longer lasting and the fabric is more resistant to fading from the sun.

When it is the fabric that is torn or ripped and the mechanism is in good working order, you may want to consider replacing the fabric. Repair of the thin vinyl coated fabrics used in older shades is often not an option. Newer shades use heavier fabric that may give the option of repair if needed. They are a far better choice than the older shades were.

If the wooden hem bar on older window shades was not trimmed correctly, then it may have damaged the paint, window frame or wall from constant friction. The bar can be easily trimmed in order to prevent any further damage. You can use a saw to cut the bar shorter so that the damage does not continue to occur.

While you may be tempted to attempt repairs of roller window shades, you will save time, money and frustration if you simply replace the older shades with newer ones. Shades that are now available will provide far more functionality than older shades that have had attempted repairs.

Replace your older roller shades with new ones in order to keep your home looking fresh and elegant. You will find that the new shades are far more functional than the old ones.