Broken Blinds – Quick Fixes for Handling Broken Blinds

Blinds are one of the most versatile window treatments, fulfilling several needs like light and privacy control apart from allowing us to adjust the outside views as per our preference. The best part about blinds is that they can be adjusted for sufficient privacy while simultaneously allowing in some amount of light during the day. At bedtime, they can be closed for complete privacy and to block all incoming light so you can enjoy a night of deep and restful sleep.

Blinds made from certain materials like real wood even offer insulation which results in considerable energy efficiency and cost savings. And they look great too, instantly elevating any space!

But their charm is easily reversed even if functionality is off. These window treatments typically function well but at times they pose problems like broken slats, slats tilting to one side or being stuck in the up or down position. Thankfully there are easy fixes for all these problems, so there’s no reason to worry! And of course, if you would like help in resolving any challenge posed by your blinds, Budget Blinds is just a phone call away.

Budget Blinds has compiled a guide of some helpful tips for resolving some of the most commonly faced challenges with blinds. Are you ready for some quick fixes? Let’s get started then!

Guide to Fixing Broken Blinds

Faux Wood Blinds in Dining Room

Some of the most commonly faced issues with blinds are: broken blinds, blinds that hang unevenly, blinds that won’t roll up, and many others. Regardless of the type of challenge your blinds are posing, here are some easy-breezy solutions:

Broken Slats

Fixing broken blind slats is comparatively easy as one can easily replace the individual slat instead of having to replace the entire window treatment. Follow the steps listed below to replace a slat:

  1. First remove the plugs located at the bottom of the rail. After removing the plugs, you’ll be able to see the knotted lift cord.
  2. Undo the knot of the lift cord and pull the cord from the front of the blind.
  3. Replace the broken slat and restring the lift cord through each slat in the new blind.

Slats Won’t Lower

Blinds can be easily pulled up to allow more light into the room. However, at times, they get stuck, making it difficult to lower them. This happens especially if the blinds are left in the rolled up position for an extended period. But there’s no reason to worry. This problem can be easily fixed by following the procedure listed below:

  1. Hold the lift cords level and gently pull it. This action should release the blinds’ locking mechanism.
  2. If step 1 doesn’t help release the lock, locate the pin and try to release it. You can release the pin by pushing it to disengage the locking mechanism on the cord, which is located in the headrail where the cord runs. Releasing the pin will release the blinds, lowering them immediately.

Blinds Won’t Lift

For maximum privacy and room darkening, blinds are often pulled down completely. But at times they get stuck and it gets difficult to lift them up. This problem especially occurs when the blinds have been left in the down position for a long duration. But fret not. It can be easily resolved by following a couple of simple steps enlisted below:

  1. Pull down on the bottom rail to reactivate the spring.
  2. The above action should help reset the spring which helps release the stuck up blinds and they can be lifted up easily.

Slats Won’t Tilt

Sometimes there’s a problem with the slats’ tilting mechanism. This happens when the tilt rod becomes disconnected from the tilt mechanism in the headrail due to handling in transit. Follow the following steps to resolve this issue:

  1. First remove the blind from the window.
  2. Then examine the headrail and try to locate the metal rod that runs the length of the headrail. At this point, you should also be able to locate the tilt mechanism. Gently push the end of the tilt rod back into the space where the tilt mechanism is housed. For a more secure tilt positioning, it’s best to push the tilt rod through.
  3. Finally you should be able to replace the blind.

Bottom of the Blinds Won’t Hang Evenly

At times the bottom of the blinds doesn’t hang evenly. This is caused by cords being caught in the headrail. This challenge can be easily tackled by performing the following step:

  1. Simply raise and lower the shades repeatedly until the bottom hangs evenly.

If you would like help in resolving any challenge posed by your blinds, all you have to do is you’re your local Budget Blinds. We would love to assist you!

Or if your blinds are beyond repair, consider replacing them with brand new window treatments from Budget Blinds of Stillwater/Lake Elmo, including motorized window coverings that are easier to operate. Schedule a complimentary in-home design consultation today to explore our latest offerings in shades, blinds, shutters, and draperies. We bring the showroom to you so you can browse in the comfort of your home and as per your convenience!

Call Pamela Today! 651-351-7620 or visit www.budgetblinds.com/stillwater

 

Advertisement

Tell Us What You Love, We’ll Make it Happen

Ready to go custom? Make your window coverings one of a kind? At Budget Blinds of Stillwater/Lake Elmo, you’ll find exactly what you want in custom blinds, shades, shutters, drapes and accessories. We can also custom color match window coverings to coordinate with your walls, furniture, and décor. 

Budget Blinds of Stillwater/Lake Elmo does custom at a price that fits you. That’s why we say we have style and service for every budget. See for yourself — let us bring the showroom to your home!
call 651-351-7620

To stay up to date on design trends, schedule your free consultation or to request a design guide, reach out at pbrown@budgetblinds.com or visit my web page budgetblinds.com/Stillwater

-Pamela Brown

Dress Your Home in Layers This Fall

The fall season is here and that means it’s time to dress your home in layers.  Count on Pamela Brown at Budget Blinds of Stillwater/Lake Elmo to deliver beautiful new window coverings that help keep out the cool temperatures while bringing on the style!

Pamela Brown of Budget Blinds of Stillwater/Lake Elmo will bring the showroom to you. From her complimentary design consultation to the final installation, she will do it all for you, so you can sit back and relax.

CONTACT PAMELA TODAY!

651-351-7620
https://budgetblinds.com/stillwater/

Retrofit – Smart Home

Everyday life just got easier!

With our Smart Home Collection the shades and blinds you already own just got a whole lot smarter! Because now, we can motorize your existing window coverings with retrofit solutions!

Motorization provides you with home security, child-safety, and energy savings all at the touch of a button! With Retrofit solutions, you can control your window coverings with the touch of a button from anywhere!

Motorized shades are ideal for family rooms, playrooms, kids rooms, and virtually any room in your home. With advances in technology and increased demand for smart and connected living, excitement about motorized blinds has been steadily rising. They provide convenience, safety, and energy efficiency!

First, let’s talk about convenience. Motorized blinds allow you to automate a repetitive task with the touch of a button, located right on your smartphone!

The next benefit is safety. As any new parent knows, cords are dangerous! Most motorized blinds are cordless which takes the danger of choking or accidental strangulation off your mind. Remember, your four-legged fur-babies are susceptible to this as well. The final touch point for today is the benefit of going green.

Maximize your home’s energy efficiency with motorized blinds by keeping the hot sun out while running the air and the heat in during those chilly months!

Explore the many benefits for yourself today! Call me, Pamela at Budget Blinds serving Stillwater at 651-351-7620 to schedule your free in-home consultation and I will help you determine which type of motorized blinds make the perfect choice for your home!-Pamela

Summer Decorating Ideas

Summer is here and I couldn’t be more excited! Summer is all about lazy pool days, soaking in the sunshine, taking out the boat and having a BBQ. There is nothing better than longer warmer days to get you in the decorating spirit. This summer, I have put together a few simple design ideas to help bring a little easy-breezy décor to your home!

Bring the Outdoors In

Summertime reminds me of fresh flowers, ripe fruits and vegetables and wreaths hung on your door to welcome guests to your home. Adding greenery to your style is a simple way to brighten up your space. We recommend a variety of succulents that are low maintenance and beautiful— or take your pick of artificial options that look real so you don’t have to worry about keeping them alive. Hanging a simple green wreath on your front door is another easy and adorable way to incorporate greenery to your home. A small boxwood or magnolia wreath adds the perfect pop of green to your door giving it a fresh new look for the season. Another great option is placing herbs in a planter box— rosemary, sage, basil, thyme to name a few. Place them by a kitchen window and enjoy fresh herbs this summer for salads and family BBQ’s.

 

Textiles Can Go a Long Way

Give your home an easy-going vibe by using different textiles in your home. Bring summer indoors with colorful textiles that reflect the season. Think wicker baskets, lightweight throw blankets for summer nights, colorful bedding and a fun area rug that will completely change the feel of a room. Add style and flare with a geometric rug from Budget Blinds. All our area rugs are available in the classic shapes you’ve come to expect including circular, rectangular, and runner styles. Even better, many of our area rugs are made to order so you can customize them to the exact size you want! Don’t be afraid to incorporate textiles into your home and to get creative with this trend.

 

Treat Your Windows

Fresh draperies and shutters can lighten up an entire room, especially if you consider the details. Add a pop of ocean blue to your home with patterned draperies— a perfect combination of color and functionality. Brighten any space and make windows a work of art with patterned sheer shades paired with white wood shutters. Combine with matching throw pillows to create the ultimate look this summer!

 

 

 

 

Don’t Forget Your Backyard

Summer decorating

Welcome summer by entertaining outdoors. With warm weather and a few extra hours of sunlight, enjoy having a picnic in your yard with family and friends. Bring in low tables, floor pillows and strands of twinkle lights to set the summer mood. Add bright colors such as turquoise, orange, red and white to create a festive atmosphere! Consider buying accent dishes to add splashes of color and pattern to your dinner party. Mix floral, tropical and bohemian themed dishes with your everyday plates and bowls. By mixing and matching you will create a look that is perfectly seasonal.

 

 

Hopefully these design tips help you to create the ultimate summer oasis in the comfort of your own home. Have fun decorating with patterns and colors and don’t be afraid to take some risks.

-Pamela Brown

Four Benefits of Home Automation

 1. Peace of Mind

With home automation, you can control almost everything in your home from securing your alarm system to controlling your window coverings. Smart home technology can provide a certain level of comfort- after all, your home is the place you should feel the safest. With the help of smart home systems, you’re able to turn lighting on or off and open or close your window coverings at all times to make it seem like someone is home even when you’re not. It is a way for technology to provide peace of mind when it comes to your family and their safety.

2. Convenience

Your household may be chaotic, but smart devices are here to make life a whole lot easier. Having these systems in your home make it easy for you to enjoy automated lights, shades, even music at the touch of a button or with a simple command. This technology was invented to make life easier for you.

3Energy Efficiency

Did you know that you can save money on your energy bill with home automation? It’s estimated that we lose over 50% of our home’s heating and cooling through the windows. So rather than cranking up your heat or air conditioning to avoid uncomfortable temperatures in your home, consider automated Smart Shades by Budget Blinds. These automated shades can be controlled with the touch of a button or with your favorite smartphone or tablet.

4. Child Safety

As a parent, your number one concern is your child’s safety. It is important to not overlook basic household items such as window coverings when childproofing your home. Smart home technology can be a major benefit for parents. Having automated shades by Budget Blinds can eliminate dangerous dangling cords out of a child’s reach keeping them safe around all windows.

Simply put, smart home technology is life changing. From security and light control to child safety, the benefits are endless.

visit my website to book your FREE in-home design consult, today!
www.budgetblinds.com/stillwater

7 TIPS FOR A SAFER HOME

The Window Covering Manufacturers Association announces historic new window covering safety standard, strengthening window covering safety:

Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) announced today the approval of a new window covering safety standard by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) that will require a vast majority of window covering products sold in the United States and Canada to be cordless or have inaccessible or short cords.  The new safety standard, ANSI/WCMA A100.1-2018, strengthens window-covering safety by requiring that all stock products sold in stores and online—which account for more than 80 percent of all window covering products sold in the U.S. and Canada—to be cordless or have inaccessible cords.

There are two unwritten rules in the parent-child relationship: Children will play with and around things they are not supposed to, and parents must do their best to keep their children from getting into danger.

As a help to parents, Budget Blinds encourages parents to look for hidden hazards around window areas, particularly the window cords.

While nothing can replace the careful watch of a loving parent or caregiver, we encourage parents of infants and toddlers to opt for cordless or motorized treatments to eliminate the hazards posed by dangling window cords.

Corded window treatments can pose entanglement and strangulation hazard to small children and pets. The Consumer Products Safety Commission has received reports of nearly 200 strangulation deaths involving window covering cords and chains from 1991-2000. Nearly 10 percent of these deaths involved the inner cords, which run through horizontal blinds.

Budget Blinds encourages new parents to replace window treatments featuring looped cords or treatments manufactured before 2001 with cordless or motorized options to minimize strangulation hazards.

Window treatments manufactured after 2001 have updated safety features like breakaway tassels and inner cord stops.

 

Budget Blinds offers these seven tips to families with young children:

  1. Keep all cords out of reach from small children and pets.
  2. If your window treatments were purchased before 2001, or you don’t know when they were purchased, it’s a good idea to replace them with updated treatments with enhanced safety features, such as: breakaway tassels, inner-cord stops, retractable pull cords, cordless operation and motorization.
  3. If you move to a new home, ask when the window treatments were purchased and look for safety features like breakaway tassels, cord cleats and cordless operation.
  4. Secure all pull cords out of reach by using a permanent cord cleat.
  5. Retrofit kits are available to enhance the safety of looped pull cord window treatments.
  6. Place cribs and other low-standing furniture (beds, bookshelves, toy boxes, chairs, etc.) away from windows to prevent young ones from accidentally tumbling from windows.
  7. Install window guards. Don’t rely on screens designed to keep bugs out to keep children and pets in.

I offer consumers convenient, free in-home consultations, so busy parents-to-be need not shop from store to store to find the right cordless or motorized window treatments. 

Parents don’t have to sacrifice style for safety! We have a variety of options for families to consider.

Thank you,

Pamela Brown

 

 

 

3 Tips to Decorating with UltraViolet [2018 Pantone Color of the Year]

“The Pantone Color of the Year has come to mean so much more than ‘what’s trending’ in the world of design; it’s truly a reflection of what’s needed in our world today.” – Laurie Pressman, Vice President of the Pantone Color Institute.

The 2018 Pantone Color of the Year is UltraViolet. The Pantone Color Institute chose Ultra Violet because it is “A dramatically provocative and thoughtful purple shades [it] communicates originality, ingenuity, and visionary thinking that points us toward the future.”

If you want to bring the 2018 Color of the Year into your home, make sure you follow these 3 basic, yet essential steps to ensure you have the most stylish home in town!

Step 1: Use the 60-30-10 Rule

When introducing Ultra Violet, or any other color scheme into your home, be sure to use the 60-30-10 Rule. To do this, mentally divide a particular room into 3 different percentage categories. 60% should be a dominant color, 30% should be a secondary color and 10% should be the accent color.

Some throw pillows, a vase or a great piece of art in UltraViolet will give a room that 10% pop of accent color that you need!

Step 2: Create Flow

To create the best look in your home, make sure your UltraViolet décor “flows” from one room to the next. Avoid using the same exact objects in each room, instead create an interesting visual experience with a mix of items, materials, and fabrics from one room to the next.

Step 3: Don’t Play It Too Safe

Go for that UltraViolet accent wall or couch! Sure, it’s less practical, but if you’ve always fantasized about it, do it! Life is short… Letting your home be too boring is the biggest mistake of all.

To stay up to date on design trends, schedule your free consultation or to request a design guide, reach out at pbrown@budgetblinds.com or visit my web page budgetblinds.com/Stillwater

-Pamela Brown