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How to Troubleshoot Common Window Shade Problems

Lowe's Editorial Team

By Lowe's Editorial Team
Published September 17, 2024

A faulty window shade can compromise on light, temperature control and privacy in your room. We’ll walk you through 5 common problems with window shades and how you can fix and repair them easily.

5 Common Problems with Window Shades and How to Fix Them

The ​Pull Cords Won’t Work

Sometimes the pull cord that you use to raise or lower your shades could have a knot. Here’s how to locate and fix the knot that won’t cause your shades to go up or down easily.

  • Remove the shades from the wall brackets by pushing the blind towards the window and then rotate it downwards until you can release it from the bracket. 
  • Based on your model, the headrail could also be secured with a clip or a knob. Press this clip or turn a knob to dislodge the headrail. If this does not happen by hand, use a flathead screwdriver to do so.  
  • Inspect the fabric to know where the knot is and depending on where the knot is, head to the rail that is closest to it. 
  • Pull off the end caps and slide the slip plate over the rail to reveal the pull cords inside. 
  • You will notice that a round tab that holds these cords taut together. Spread the rail slightly so that the round tab comes off easily. 
  • Locate the knot and untie the knot carefully so as to not damage the cords. 
  • Snap the round tab back in place, slide the slip plate back in along with the end caps and reattach the blinds back in place. 
  • An alternative method would be to access the knot through the side of the blinds with a wire and pull it out through the sides to untie the knot. 
  • If your pull cords have become frayed, it’s best to replace them with a new one. 

Caution

Blinds with pull cords are not recommended for homes with kids and pets to avoid any accidents.

The Spring Mechanism Is Damaged

Window shades should be easy to operate. If it is a hassle, it could be due to a broken or damaged spring in the roller mechanism. Here’s how to fix it and repair your window shades.

  • Follow the steps above to remove your shades from the brackets.
  • You'll see a casing or end caps covering the roller mechanism on one or both sides of the roller tube. These casings or end caps might be secured with some screws, clips, or snaps. Use the screwdriver to remove any screws that are holding the place. 
  • Once you access the roller mechanism, you should see the spring coiled around the roller tube. If the spring appears damaged, replace it. Measure the old spring's diameter and length to ensure you get the correct replacement size. Remove the spring using pliers and insert and fit a replacement spring in its place 
  • Now that the spring is changed, reassemble the headrail and secure the shades back into the brackets.

The Wall Brackets Are Misaligned

A shade that is not well-aligned can affect the aesthetic of your room. This means that the brackets that are meant to hold the shades in place are misaligned. Here’s how to fix it. 

  • Based on the type of shade, remove the blinds, push them towards the window and then tilt them down until they come loose from the brackets. 
  • Use a flathead screwdriver to unscrew the brackets and align them correctly using a level. 
  • Mark the new hole locations on the wall and carefully drill the new pilot holes for the brackets. 
  • Secure the brackets in the newly drilled holes using appropriate screws and reattach the shades back in place. 

The Shades Have Dirt And Stains

The material on your shades is particularly susceptible to damage, making it a common problem area. Factors such as sun exposure, accidental spills, and general wear and tear often lead to fading, staining, or tears. Cleaning them is the only way to go.  

  • Always follow the cleaning instructions that come with your shades. 
  • Wipe the shades with a dry microfiber cloth and run it along from end to end. Avoid applying too much pressure or you could damage the shades, especially if they are made of fabric. 
  • Use a vacuum on a low suction to get rid of dust. 
  • If you have to use water to clean, make sure that you wring out the cloth so that it is nearly dry and do not soak the shades with water. If you use detergent, it should be mild and heavily diluted. Avoid using water to clean shades made of wood. 
  • It is best to avoid using any cleaning solutions on your shades unless it is recommended and is not abrasive to the material of the blinds. 
  • To use any cleaning products, refer to the instructions and lightly blot any stains but avoid rubbing it in.

The Roller Tube Is Broken

Some problems with your roller tube can be caused due to incorrect installation or a bent, warped or cracked roller tube. Here’s how to inspect and fix the roller tube of your shades.

  • First, inspect the roller tube and check whether they are snapped into the bracelets correctly. A simple push should snap it back into place.   
  • If that is not the issue, take a closer look at the roller tube. For minor bends or warping, try applying gentle pressure to bend it back into place. For minor cracks, some adhesive can be a temporary fix.  
  • If you notice any significant damage, it is best to replace the roller tube. Measure the tube's dimensions to find a suitable replacement. Also, check the end caps or the slip plate for any damages and consider replacements accordingly.