Troubleshoot Window Shade Problems

Window shades might appear like simple contraptions, but there are many mechanisms at play inside them. Most window shades include a hollow roller at the top and an accordion-like extension of fabric or plastic that makes up the shade portion. Inside the hollow roller is where the working parts exist. Coiled springs are tightened when the string or shade itself is pulled. A ratchet and flat pin hold onto that tension from one side of the roller, releasing it when the shade is pulled down. On the opposite side of the roller is a stationary pin. Window shades tend to malfunction because of their complex design. Use these steps to troubleshoot window shade problems.

Steps

Shades Rolls Up Fast

1. Roll up the shade completely and take the shade off its bracket.
   • Grab the shade and roller in the middle with one hand and the end closest to you with the other hand and lift upward.
2. Unroll the shade while it is off the bracket.
   • Move slowly and carefully to prevent straining the inner coils. The shade's problem lies in the tension of the spring. You need to release that built-up tension by unwinding it slowly and without the extra pressure of gravity.
3. Replace the roller and test it out for workability.

Shade Rolls Up Slowly

1. Pull the shade as far down as it will go. You will know when it has reached its limit when the ratchet catches.
2. Take the shade off its bracket as you would for a shade that rolls up fast.
3. Re-roll the shade about a third to a half of the way.
   • Rolling up too slowly means the coils are loose inside the roller. Re-rolling without gravity might reset the springs.
4. Replace the roller and test it out for workability.

1. Remove the window shade from its brackets.
2. Look inside the roller at the flat pin.
   • Remove the flat pin if it appears bent and try to straighten it with a hammer or other tool.
3. Take a look at the stationary pin.
   • Remove the stationary pin if it appears bent or damaged.
4. Replace the shade and check for wobbling.

Shade Falls Down When Pulled

1. Remove the shade from its brackets and set the shade aside.
2. Move the brackets either closer together or farther apart depending on their initial position.
   • Straighten the brackets if they are in the correct position but are bent or loose. If the bracket position is not the issue, continue to the next step.
3. Replace the window shade's roller.
   • A shade that falls down due to faulty springs is difficult and costly to repair. It is easier to purchase a new window shade roller or new window shades entirely.

Shade Won't Stay Up

1. Remove the shade from its brackets.
2. Open the window shade roller by removing the end cap on the side of the flat pin. Clean and lubricate the ratchet mechanism that won't catch when you pull the shade upward.
3. Replace the shade and test.

Shade Won't Roll Up

1. Remove the shade from its brackets.
2. Remove the end cap on the side of the flat pin.
3. Grab the flat pin with pliers and twist it clockwise gently until you feel some resistance. Replace the shade.

Tips

• Use a step stool or ladder to reach a window shade and remove it from its brackets.

Things You'll Need

• Ladder
• Screwdriver
• Drill
• Pliers
• Hammer
• Lubrication
• Water
• Rag

Sources and Citations

• http://www.allabouthome.com/tips/structure/window_coverings.html
• http://www.womansday.com/Articles/Home/Window-Shade-Problems-Solved.html

See also

• Replace an Exterior Window with Vinyl Siding
• Fit a Roller Blind
• Drape Window Scarves
• Choose a Curtain Rod for Your Window Decor
• Shorten Mini Blinds
• Measure Your Windows
• Buy Soundproofing Curtains
• Hang a Curtain Swag
• Cut Blinds
• Install Curtain Rods

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