Like most things, the shades covering our windows wear out after a while. They might malfunction, failing to raise or lower as they should. They might show their age through threadbare fabrics or noticeable rips and tears. Or, their once vibrant hues may fade to a dull shade of its former glory.
While some window shade issues are repairable, the result might not be as seamless or beautiful as the original shade was. In these cases, a replacement is often the better option. But before you write off repairs, here are a few things you need to know.
3 Things to Know About Repairing Window Shades
When approaching window shade repairs, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, some repairs are trickier than others. Tears are an excellent example of complex repairs that rarely result in a seamless finish. Repairs might not cut it, so a replacement might be the best remedy.
Some Repairs Are Easier Than Others
Some window shade repairs are incredibly easy and will give you the results you’re hoping for in mere minutes.
For example, suppose you have roller shades that refuse to stay down. In some cases, a dirty ratchet can cause this issue. Generally, the remedy for this problem is as simple as accessing the mechanism, cleaning out dust and debris, and lubricating it for smooth function.
Other complications aren’t as easy to repair. For instance, threadbare sections or large tears can require fabric replacements. While you could replace the fabric, it can be tricky to achieve a seamless finish.
Tears Can Be Tricky to Repair
Large tears and rips in fabric shades, like roller shades, can be a hassle to repair. Unlike some shades, roller shades are often made with a single sturdy piece of fabric. If you were to cut out the section of material to replace it with a perfectly matched swatch, attaching the new swatch presents an issue.
Unless you have top-notch sewing skills, attaching the swatch to the existing shade with a needle and thread would likely leave a noticeable seam.
On top of that, some shades feature patterns or textures, further complicating repairs. Finding a fabric swatch that closely matches unique patterns and textures can be difficult, but attaching the fabric to create a seamless finish can be even more of a challenge.
Sometimes, the rip might be minor, featuring a single slash across the fabric. While you could sew the ripped portions together, the problem of the noticeable seam persists.
Given the tricky nature of repairing tears and rips, it’s usually best to replace the entire piece of fabric comprising the shade. With this method, you would need to mount and hem the new material to create a streamlined look. This can be quite a hassle, so many homeowners choose to replace the entire ripped shade.
It Might Be Time for a Replacement
On average, window shades last approximately seven to eight years. While they can last longer with proper care and light usage, many window shades begin showing signs of wear before the decade mark.
For example, the fabric might feature noticeable fading, no longer boasting its original color. It might have nearly threadbare sections that prevent it from offering the privacy and light control it once did. It might have noticeable tears in awkward places, allowing light to stream into your home, even when the shades are closed.
While some of these problems are fixable, repairing them isn’t always the best course of action. Sometimes, replacing the old shades is more cost-effective, as you can scrap the old fabric shades for use on other projects. If your shades are nearing the eight-year mark or have long since surpassed them, a replacement might be the best solution.
Is it Worth It to Repair Window Shades?
Repairing damaged or malfunctioning window shades can be a worthwhile venture if the repair is minor. For example, if the shades are malfunctioning and the repair is as simple as cleaning internal mechanisms, repairing them is well worth it.
However, if the repair is complex and the shades are old, repairing them might not be worth your time. For instance, if the shades are badly torn, threadbare, or faded, minor repairs don’t usually result in a seamless finish. In these cases, it’s usually best to invest in new shades.
Transform Your Home With New Luxury Window Shades
New window shades can work wonders in brightening your home with a splash of beautiful luxury, especially when you’re replacing old, worn-out shades. Whether you want to liven your home with fresh shades or add a layer of convenience with motorized shades, Vogue Window Fashion can help.
Our talented team of window treatment experts can help you find the perfect shades to refresh your home. We offer free consultations, installations, and personalized recommendations for every client. Ready to get started? Contact us to book an appointment and spice up your home with new window shades today!
