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Worried why your faux wood blinds (or ‘fauxs’) are warping, fading, yellowing, and cracking? Natural elements, such as exposure to high levels of direct heat and humidity, are the main cause of warping of faux wood blinds.

By their design, modern faux wood blinds are secure and strong, but they are not the best against extreme heat and humidity? Even they are prone to scratches and dents.

Warped shades – blinds with twisted slats – do not provide the same level of light control, privacy, insulation, and energy efficiency as non-warped blinds. Secondly, damaged slats make your window treatments much more difficult to operate.

Don’t worry – there is a quick fix to your warped blinds! Just treat them to withstand heat and moisture or simply wrap a layer of a window film to protect against the sun’s UV damage.

If you are looking for a long-term yet affordable window treatment solution, we recommend exclusive weather-resistant Cordless 2” Faux Wood Blinds. Being cordless, they offer better child safety and security.

Here’s also another alternative to consider: go with solar roller shades, which are especially engineered to withstand extreme heat.

How to Prevent Warping of Blinds

The wisest way to fix warped window treatments is to avoid exposing them to high temperature and water vapors.

Here are some tips to follow:

Paint Them

If your faux wood blinds are hung on the windows of the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry room, paint them with a color that matches your room’s interior decor.

Treat Them for Heat- & Moisture Resistance

Another way to prevent your synthetic wood blinds from warping is to treat them to withstand high amounts of heat and humidity.

Wipe Excessive Moisture

If your ‘fauxs’ are installed in your shower room, they are likely to get wet when you have a shower. Ensure to wipe away excess moisture after every shower.

Shop Blinds in Lighter Colors

If your new faux wood blind are going to be used in very hot areas, such as conservatories and south-facing windows, choose lighter colors to reflect more light. Avoid choosing darky grey or brown faux blinds, as they will absorb more heat and get warped quicker.

Practical, Cost-Effective Ways to Fix Warped Faux Wood Blinds

Replace them with Heat- & Moisture-Resistant Blinds (Best Option)

The best, long-term solution to dealing with warped faux wood shades is to replace them with new faux wood window coverings that offer resistance to heat and humidity.

Straighten Twisted Slats

If the slats of your blinds have got out of shape, one way to fix them is to straighten them. Here are 3 easy steps to follow:

• Step 1: Remove them and wrap them in a damp paper towel.
• Step 2: Lay them on some smooth, flat surface.
• Step 3: Put a heavy object on them when they are drying.

The above process will help the warped slats return to their normal straight position. If the first try doesn’t work, we recommend taking several more tries.

Replace Warped Slats with New Ones

Want to make your ‘faux’ completely functional and looking great again? Here is a cheap way to go! Identify and replace the warped, faded, or cracked slats with new ones.

Here are 6 quick DIY steps for professional-like replacement:

• Step 1: Locate strings on the bottom by grabbing the bottom rail. Pull them through and undo the knots on each side.
• Step 2: Pull the strings through all the slats under the warped or cracked ones.
• Step 3: Once the damaged slats are free, remove them from the ladder string.
• Step 4: Slide the new slats onto the ladder strings.
• Step 5: Rethread the old and new slats and fasten them together.
• Step 6: Pull all the strings through the bottom rail and tie the knot to prevent slipping back.

Real-wood blinds vs faux-wood blinds – which is better?

Making a choice between real-wood and faux-wood Venetian blinds could be a very tough decision. It will depend on your unique, individual circumstances, such as the type of room you are going to install new window coverings in.

Thinner vs Thicker: Real wood shades are thinner than faux woods and they come in classic look and more natural wood tones, to add warmth and rustic touch to your room. On the other hand, faux blinds come with wider slats and a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors to fit versatile decors. So, they are better suited for spaces like a workplace.

Heavier vs Lighter: Faux wood is much lighter and brighter than real wood. Choose faux window covers if you are looking for easier operation.

Affordability: When it comes to budget-friendly window treatments, faux wood blinds are a better option than real wood window treatments. Cellulars offer another lower price option.

Do faux blinds keep heat out in summer?

Yes, they do! They are excellent insulators. During the hot summer months, faux wood blinds with reflective materials are a perfect option, as they can help you to keep your room cool.

Plus, in winter, they can prevent heat escaping through windows or cold drafts from entering your room. They will keep your room warm and heated during cold weather. This phenomenon will improve the energy efficiency of your home and help you save a big amount on energy bills all year round.

Why are my faux wood blinds warping?

If you faux wood blinds are made from a composite PVC (polyvinyl chloride) material, they won’t withstand extreme heat and start warping over time. So, always choose more durable, superior quality materials. Once you notice twisting of slats, you can paint them or treat for heat and moisture resistance to prevent further damage.

What faux wood blinds won’t warp?

Heat- & humidity-treated faux wood blinds in white and lighter colors are perfect in the sun. Being durable and completely UV stable, they won’t warp, crack, or yellow when exposed to high amounts of heat and water vapors. They’ll reflect most of the incoming UV rays, retaining less heat.

What are the disadvantages of faux wood blinds?

One major disadvantage of faux wood blinds is that they are not as durable and long lasting as their real wood counterparts. They potentially crack, twist, chip, and stain easier than natural wood window coverings. So, they are a less practical choice for homeowners planning to invest in long-term window treatment solutions.

Does faux wood warp in the sun?

Unlike real (natural) wood, faux wood products are more likely to warp, chip, or fade in harsh sunlight, making them a tough choice for conservatories or high traffic rooms with south-facing windows. An ambient heat build up may cause the PVC material to become pliable and lose shape over time.

Need More Help?

Need expert advice on how to prevent your faux blinds from warping and fading? Contact our professionals using 24/7 live chat or give us a ring at (800) 863-6109.

Looking for a convenient and safe way to roll up or down your roller blinds evenly? While roll up blinds offer a sleek way to cover windows, they can be tricky to roll up and down evenly.

Most roller window coverings are very simple to use. Before you start raising, lowering, or adjusting your roller blinds, check if they use a pull cord, cordless mechanism, top down bottom up lift, or motorization. Each of these lift options employs a different operational mechanism.

A bit costlier option is that of a smart lift system that allows you to roll your blind up or down with just a tap on your smartphone or tablet!

Any roll up mechanism involving cords is unsafe for homes with children and pets. On the other hand, cordless roller blinds are not only easiest to operate (unroll and retract) but also CPSC-approved for maximum pet and child safety.

Here is a comprehensive step-by-step guide on pulling your roller blinds up or down.

Key Points

• What are roller blinds and how to operate them?
• Components of roller blinds
• Steps to pull your roller blinds up or down
• Troubleshooting tips for smooth raising and lowering roll up window coverings
• Tips and considerations for smooth operation

What Are Roller Blinds And How to Operate Them?

Roller blinds are popular window coverings for homes and businesses, which are known for their sleek appearance, easy of operation, and functional versatility.

They consist of a single piece of fabric panel attached to a roller mechanism, allowing them to be raised (lifted or opened), lowered (closed), or adjusted to control light, privacy, energy efficiency, insulation, and blackout functionality in your home.

Understanding how to raise, lift, or retract your roller blinds is essential for proper operation and optimal use. Also, make sure to level and align them during installation.

Components of Roller Blinds’ Roll-up Mechanism

Roller shades comprise several key components that work together to facilitate their pulling up or down evenly. The roller mechanism, consisting of a roller tube and positioned at the top of the blinds, enables smooth raising, lowering, and adjustment.

Control mechanisms, such as chains, cords, and motorization or smart lift systems, provide different options for rolling down and retracting your blinds.

Steps to Safely & Conveniently Pull Your Roller Blinds Up and Down

Rolling up or down or positioning your roller blinds is a straightforward process that can be achieved by following a few simple DIY steps.

The exact method may vary depending on the type of control mechanism used. Here’re some easy steps:

Identify the Control Mechanism

Determine whether your roller window treatments are operated using a chain, cord, or motorized (smart) lift system. This will guide you about the specific steps for raising your window blinds.

How to Pull Chain-powered or Corded Roller Blinds Up or Down

Step 1: Locate the Chain or Cord

If your roller window blinds have a chain or cord, find it on one side of the blinds. Here it should be noted that a corded lift control mechanism is unsafe for homes with young children and pets, as it involves the risk of choking or entanglement for your kids and pets. So, you would always go for a cordless alternative.

Step 2: Pull the Chain or Cord

Gently pull the cord or chain lift in an upward motion to raise your blinds. You should use a smooth and consistent pulling motion for optimal results.

Step 3: Stop at the Desired Height

Raise your blinds to the desired position and release the chain or cord lift. Your blinds should stay in place.

How to Roll Down and Retract Motorized Blinds

Step 1: Locate the Motorized Lift Control

If your roller blinds are motorized, find the lift control switch or remote.

Step 2: Activate the Motorized System

Press the button on the “push-button” unit or use the remote control to raise your blinds. The motor will lift the window coverings to the desired height automatically.

Step 3: Stop at the Desired Height

Once the blinds have reached the desired position for the intended light control and privacy, press the stop button or use the remote control to halt the motor.

Step 4: Integrated Into your Smart Home for Ultra-Convenient Operation

A motorized lift mechanism can also be integrated into your existing smart home automation system. It will allow you to operate your shades with the help of an app on your smartphone. You will also be able to automate the lift of your blinds based on the time of the day, room temperature, and the amount of light entering your home.

Troubleshooting Tips for Rolling Blinds Up or Down

While raising your roller blinds is generally a smooth and hassle-free process, occasional issues may arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips to fix common issues with the roller mechanism of your window coverings:

Stuck Blinds

If your blinds do not raise (open) smoothly or get stuck, check for any obstructions (obstacles) in the roller mechanism or along the track. Remove any debris or grime and gently adjust the fabric to allow free movement.

Uneven Lifting

If one side of your roller blinds raises higher than the other, check for any tension in the chain, cord, or motorized lift system. Ensure that the lift control mechanism is properly aligned and not entangled.

Tips and Considerations for Smooth Operation

To maintain the smooth operation of your roller window coverings and ensure their longevity, consider the following tips:

Regular Cleaning & Maintenance

Dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on the fabric and affect the roller blinds’ upward or downward movement.

Clean the fabric regularly using a soft cloth, brush, or a vacuum cleaner with a brush attachment.

Lubrication

Apply a small amount of silicone-based or other lubricant, recommended by the manufacturer of your product, to the roller mechanism if it starts to show signs of friction or stiffness.

This will help restore smooth operation.

Safety Precautions

When raising, lowering, or positioning your roll-up blinds, be mindful of any nearby objects or furniture items to avoid potential entanglement.

Keep cords, chains, or wands out of reach of children, secure them with cord safety devices, or go for the best option, i.e., a cordless roller mechanism.

By following these DIY steps and considering the tips provided, you can easily and safely raise your roller blinds, allowing you to control light, privacy, and ambiance in your home, office, or other space with ease.

Conclusion

Roller blinds are easy to roll up and down window treatments. You can choose a corded or any of the available cordless options to operate them, including top-down, bottom-up, motorized, and smart lift systems. If you go with a smart lift system, rolling your blinds up or down will be an ultra-convenient task.

FAQs

How do you make roller blinds go up and down?

If your roller blinds are wand-operated, hold the rod or wand and push the fabric up until the blinds reach the desired height. Similarly, you can attempt to lower the blind as far down as it will go. If you hit resistance, slightly bring the fabric towards you and give it a gentle tug.

In the case of cordless roller blinds, simply pull down on the bottom rail for a precise and quiet cordless operation. Try to take hold of the bottom of the blind by the bar and gently pull it downwards and stop pulling down when the fabric has un-rolled to the desired position. To raise the shade, gently pull and release and the shade will automatically retract.

Is it better to roll blinds up or down?

It depends on your specific needs. If you want to enjoy restful sleep in the middle of the day, turn your roller blinds up. It will also improve privacy and prevent passersby from viewing the inside of the house. To let in a small amount of light, when you are not going to sleep, it’s best to turn your roller blinds down and close them.

In other words, when you are “up” and awake during the daytime hours, just angle your blind facing upward. And when you are “down” and ready to go to sleep during the nighttime hours, make sure to roll the blinds downwards.

Which way do you roll blinds for privacy?

Blinds rolled in the “up” (rounded side facing out) direction, offer more privacy and light control since the convex side faces the window, blocking out both light and views from the outside. However, when the rounded side is facing out, it may not be aesthetically pleasing.

If your roller blinds come with a wand, hold the wand and turn it in the direction (typically clockwise) that closes the slats for better privacy.

Need Further Assistance?

Still unsure how to roll the blinds up or down for the desired amount of natural light (or room darkening effect), privacy, and energy efficiency? Contact our professionals using 24/7 live chat or give us a ring at (800) 863-6109 for expert advice and custom solutions.

Want to repurpose your extra faux wood blinds slats? Or do you think your old blinds are broken, outdated, or you just want a new look by replacing them with different window covers? Before you toss the extra slats or old faux wood blinds in the trash, consider these creative ideas to upcycle your unused blinds slats or old window blinds.

You can use the slats for crafting projects or DIY home decor. Just make sure to thoroughly clean them  before repurposing.

Extra or unused blind slats are perfect for making awesome, inexpensive gifts. Just cut the slats to size, decorate with paint or markers, and add a ribbon or string.

Or you can reuse the leftover blind slats to make perfect trays for organizing spices, crafts, nail polish, office supplies, and pretty much anything else.

Plus you can renovate or update your old blinds for a new look and functionality.

Key Points

• Get crafty: Cut faux wood slats into smaller pieces for decorative boxes, labels, or even play road signs for kids’ playtime.
• Repurpose old blinds for home decor: Make trays, picture frame backing, or upcycle the slats into furniture like placemats or headboards.
• Renovate your existing blinds: Deep clean blinds, replace damaged parts, repaint for a fresh look, or upgrade to motorized operation.
• Recycle responsibly: Check local facilities or contact the manufacturer for recycling options. In some cases, they can be repurposed as fuel pellets.
• Dispose properly: Remove non-recyclable components like cords or Cordless lift system and follow local guidelines for responsible disposal. Consider professional blind disposal services if unsure.

What are Faux Wood Blinds?

Made from PVC or composite products, faux wood blinds are durable, hard-wearing, and affordable window treatments. They consist of horizontal slats that are moisture-resistant, waterproof, and easy to clean. You can even dip them in water for a quick deep clean. Faux wood blinds are perfect for humid spaces like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and sink areas.

Faux wood blinds are popular window treatments due to their durability, affordability, decorative appeal, and resemblance to real wood.

However, over time, they may become worn out, faded, warped, cracked, damaged, or simply outdated. Instead of throwing them away, discover creative ways to give them a new life or ensure they are properly disposed of.

7 Quick, Practical Tips to Repurpose Extra Slats or Old Blinds

1. Make Lampshade: Make or decorate a lampshade.
2. Create Placements: Make placemats and furniture out of unused slats or old blinds.
3. Use on Boxes & Pins: Paint the slats to use them on boxes and bins.
4. Give Updated Look to Headboard: Weave your old linen or vinyl blind slats over a headboard and staple in place to give your headboard an updated look.
5. Make a Fruit Basket: Take your damaged faux wood blinds down and repurpose them to make a fruit basket. You’ll only need scissors, a stapler, ribbon, and a double-sided tape.
6. Artwork on Old Mirror: Trim the edges of your old blind slats, hot-glue them to the back of your old mirror to turn it into a work of art.
7. Play Road Barriers: Take some old blind slats, hold them in place with bright orange tape to create play road barriers and other road signs for fun truck and car playtime for your kids.

6 Creative and Sustainable Solutions to Deal with Your Unused or Old Blinds

Want to replace your faux wood blinds with new ones or advanced upgrades, like blackout cordless cellular shades and unsure how to deal with the old window coverings?

If your old faux wood blinds aren’t providing privacy, security, and light control, instead of simply discarding them, consider exploring creative and practical solutions to give them new life, reduce waste, and contribute to a greener environment.

Scroll on to explore various options for repurposing, recycling, and upcycling old faux wood blinds, as well as provide tips for their proper disposal.

1. Consider Renovating Your Old Faux Wood Blinds

Are you really fed up with your old imitation wood shades? If not, you can consider renovating them to restore their functionality and decorative appeal. You can breathe new life into your worn out window treatments.

To start, thoroughly clean the slats and other components of the blinds by dusting or using a damp cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or grime.

If your window shades are heavily soiled, you can use a mild soap solution. Next, inspect the window coverings for any damaged slats or hardware and replace them if necessary.

If you want to update the color or finish of your old blinds, you can consider painting or staining them with a suitable product.

Lastly, check the cord lifts and mechanisms for smooth operation, lubricating them if needed.

2. Upgrade them with Motorized Smart Lift Systems

If you are looking for a child-safe cordless, motorized, or smart window covering, you can renovate and upgrade your old faux wood shades for the same functionality. If you install a smart lift, it can be integrated into your existing smart home automation system.

3. Creative Repurposing Ideas for Your Old Faux Wood Blinds

Crafting Projects

Unsure what to do with old faux wood blinds? Don’t underestimate the potential of your old faux wood window treatments in crafting projects. Cut them into smaller pieces to create unique decorative boxes, coasters, or trivets. Also, you can turn the slats of old, broken faux wood blinds into a sunburst mirror.

While faux wood blinds made with a mixture of PVC and recycled hardwood cannot be recycled again, their sturdy nature makes them ideal for different types of crafting projects. With a little creativity, some basic DIY skills, and crafting supplies, you can transform your blinds into functional and visually appealing products.

Garden Markers or Plant Labels

Another ingenious way to repurpose your old synthetic wood blinds is by using them as plant labels or garden markers.

Cut your blinds into strips or small squares, write or paint the names of your herbs, vegetables, or flowers, and insert them into the soil.

These DIY garden markers are not only a practical option but also add a touch of rustic appeal to your garden.

Picture Frame Backing or Matting

Consider repurposing your old faux wood blinds as backing or matting for picture frames.

By cutting them to size, you can create a textured background that seamlessly complements your photographs or artwork. This will add an interesting visual element while also making use of an old material that would otherwise go to waste.

4. Recycling Options for Old Faux Wood Blinds

Are faux wood blinds recyclable? Yes! If your old faux wood blinds are no longer providing sun protection, insulation, light control, and other benefits, consider recycling them.

Local Recycling Centers or Facilities

Many communities have recycling centers or facilities that accept window blinds for recycling.

Contact your local waste management facility or recycling center to inquire about their policies and procedures for disposing of your old faux wood shades.

They may have specific guidelines on how to prepare and drop off the old blinds for recycling.

Contacting Your Blind Manufacturer

Some blind manufacturers offer recycling programs for their window treatment product. Reach out to them and inquire about any recycling practices/options they have in place.

They may provide instructions on how to return the old blinds or direct you to authorized collection points.

Repurposing as Fuel Pellets or Biomass

In certain cases, old faux wood shades can be repurposed as biomass or fuel pellets. Check with local biomass facilities or energy production centers to see if they accept old blinds for this purpose.

This option offers an alternative use for the blinds and contributes to renewable energy generation.

5. Tips for Proper Disposal of Old Faux Wood Blinds

Check Local Recycling Guidelines & Regulations

Before disposing of your old faux wood blinds or shades, familiarize yourself with the local recycling guidelines and regulations.

Different regions may have specific rules regarding the disposal of blinds and other household items. Adhering to these guidelines will ensure that you dispose of the blinds in an environmentally responsible manner.

Remove Non-Recyclable Components

Before recycling or disposing of the blinds, remove any non-recyclable components, such as cords or metal hardware.

Separating these materials allows for more efficient recycling and ensures that only the appropriate parts are processed.

6. Consider Professional Blind Disposal Services

If you’re unsure about the best way to dispose of your old faux wood blinds, consider hiring the services of professional blind disposal experts.

These service providers specialize in the proper handling and disposal of old window treatments, ensuring they are processed in an environmentally friendly manner.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a crafty enthusiast or simply looking for a fresh update for your faux wood blinds, you can repurpose them into useful objects. Give them a new life with a modern makeover, or recycle them for a sustainable solution. Give your blinds a second life and keep them out of landfills. Just grab your tools and do something creative with your old window covers.

Through repurposing, recycling, upcycling, and responsible disposal, you can minimize waste and contribute to a more sustainable future.

FAQs

Can you cut down faux wood blinds?

Yes, easily! Use a wooden blinds cutter to cut faux wood blinds or their slats to the right size when repurposing them. You can also trim or cut down the width to the right size when installing them. Before you start cutting, remove the metal stiffener brackets from the sides. Sand down rough or jagged edges to prevent them from scratching paintwork.

What can you make with wooden blinds?

• Use old mini slats of wood blinds to create beautiful garden markers.
• Create a quilt design wall.
• Transform old wooden blinds into play road barriers – a fun project for young children.

What can you do with old bamboo blinds?

Here’re 6 surprising ways to reuse old bamboo blinds:

• Make a DIY placement by cutting a 18” x 12” (1.5 ft x 1 ft) section of old bamboo blinds.
• Make a sunburst mirror
• Cover up shelving
• Create lampshades
• Make bamboo vase cover
• Decorate side table

What are the disadvantages of faux wood blinds?

• Faux wood blinds made from PVC and composite products contain more grooves than real wood, which makes slats difficult to clean.
• Require regular maintenance.
• These window treatments are heavier than their real wood counterparts.
• It is difficult to re-stain faux wood blinds.
• They suffer fading due to excessive, prolonged exposure to direct sun.

Need More Help?

Still unsure what you can do with your unused or old faux wood blinds? Get a free consultation now! Use 24/7 live chat or give us a call at (800) 863-6109 to contact our design experts for tips and custom or DIY solutions.