10 Reasons To Update Your Windows

When is the last time you took notice of your window treatments? For most people, window treatments fade to the background of your home’s ambiance and we only notice when they’re ready to be replaced. Most treatments have a usable life of 7-10 years, depending on frequency of use. Other times, you may just be due for an update. Here are 10 reasons to explore new window treatment options.

1. Bent & Broken Slats

Blinds that have bent or slats are often showing signs of heat, moisture, or use damage. In these cases, you blind my stop working properly and may look unsightly. In many cases, a simple slat replacement is needed and your treatment is as good as new, but in the event the treatment is irreparable, explore a new treatment.

Pro-Tip: Identify why your slats became damaged and select a treatment that is more appropriate for your home. Kids, pets, and renters may be to blame for the bent and broken slats. Explore cordless options for pets and kids and more durable options for renters.

2. Your Treatment Is Difficult or Impossible To Operate

Modern window treatments are easy to use, and many contain springs that help raise and lower heavy treatments with ease. So, if your treatments require a bit of force to operate, or perhaps they don’t operate at all, then it’s time for new treatments. You may be experiencing damaged cords, lifting mechanics, or your treatment is on the verge of breaking.

Treatments that require excessive force can be dangerous. The extra force being exerted on the treatment could cause it to fall out of the window. Be sure to replace these treatments as soon as possible to keep your household safe. For larger windows, explore Two-On-One headrail treatments to minimize the force needed.

3. Frayed Cords

Nothing says “replace me” as much as frayed cords. Typically, frayed cords are a sign the treatment has reached the end of it’s life and is ready to be replaced. Other times it’s a sign there may be something wrong with the internal mechanisms of the treatment. In either case, your treatment may be in danger of jamming or breaking, rendering the treatment useless.

4. Discolored Slats

While new treatments are fade and discoloration resistant, some older treatments may still be susceptible to yellowing and fading. Similarly, incorrect care could cause discoloration. In general, this is a sign of material degradation and should be replaced. If your windows are prone to direct sunlight for extended periods of time explore newer products with UV protection and fade and discoloration resistant technology.

5. Frayed Edges

If your fabric or screen-based treatments such as roller shades, honeycomb shades, or natural wovens are starting to fray at the edges, this means the treatment is rubbing on the window frame, window handle, or some other obstruction. For roller shades, it could mean your treatment roll is off-kilter.

While these issues may not be as urgent as the others, it is a sign the treatment should be replaced before the issue progresses too far. Having treatments custom-made for your window will prevent this from happening.

6. Slats and Louvers Don’t Close Tightly

When slats and louvers don’t close as tight as they use to, or if the tilt wand/cord barely makes the slats move, your tilt mechanism has probably given out. With many treatments, this part cannot be easily replaced without re-cording the entire treatment. Therefore, it’s usually better, and more cost-effective, to replace the entire treatment.

7. Your Treatment Isn’t Safe For Kids

Did you know that exposed cords are a strangulation risk for kids and pets? The window treatment industry is dedicated to providing safe options for households with kids and pets. Upgrading to a cordless option is easy and helps keep your loved ones safe. Learn more about Child Safety here.

8. They Don’t Meet Your Needs

Perhaps you purchased a home with existing treatments or purchased an off-the-shelf treatment and it doesn’t meet your window treatment needs. Take a look at your treatments. Do they offer the privacy you need? Do they keep the Florida sun out? Perhaps you’re just not happy with the look?

Your blinds may be in perfect condition, but if they’re not useful it may be time to explore replacements. Not only will you be happier, but newer blinds are more energy-efficient and could help cut down on heating and cooling. Chat with a window treatment expert to see what treatment meets all your needs.

9. They’re Out of Style

If you have the same blinds you’ve had for 20 years then it may be time to replace them. Simple as that. Not only has new technology allowed for longer-lasting and more energy-efficient treatments, but they also give your room a fresh, new, look. Other than Plantation Shutters, most window treatments have a 7-10 year lifespan.

10. You Remodeled

Whether you replaced drywall or replaced windows, your old treatments may not fit in the new space. While most windows are standard sizes, the frames and space window treatments fit into are not. This is why custom treatments are a better solution - custom-made, for your windows. Take this opportunity to replace your treatments with a newer, safer, and more efficient option.

Ready To Replace?

Browse the many options we offer and schedule a free consultation with a window treatment expert to get started. We can help make selections and ensure you get the best treatments for your lifestyle. We offer free consultations, free measurements, and free installation.

Get in touch today by scheduling a meeting, calling us at (800) 210-5005, or emailing at hello@solanashades.com.