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FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I begin?
Terminology
Benefits
Pricing
Protecting your investment/Caring for your window treatments
Enlisting help
Light/privacy issues
Measuring
Installation

Where do I begin?

Q: What do I need to know to make an intelligent selection?
A: Making proper window treatment selections is not as simple as you might think. Sure you can do your homework, but the results you end up with can range from ho-hum to stunning! Establish what you need from window coverings whether just for privacy or for looks or both. Window treatments also offer terrific insulation for your home, saving you with your energy bills. Now more than ever, you can educate yourself so that you can make the most of your investment whether it be modest or major. You’ll need to consider your lifestyle, light issues, privacy needs, budget constraints, how long you’ll be in your home, energy needs as well as the design desired.

Terminology

Q: What is a hard treatment?
A: A hard treatment refers to mini blinds, verticals, horizontal blinds, cellular shades, woven wood shades, roller shades and shutters.

Q: What does private label mean?
A: Private label is the name a retailer has given to a line of products, and these are generally lower in price than a name brand.

Q: Should I choose name brand versus private label?
A: You will want to inquire about the guarantee the retailer is offering with the product. This might be a one-year or lifetime guarantee, but you will always need to deal with that retailer, so consider how long the retailer has been in business. A private label does not suggest junk.

Q: What is a soft treatment?
A: A soft treatment is a window treatment that is fabricated from fabric; a drapery, a valance, a roman shade and any other treatment involving fabric.

Q: What’s the difference between a blind and a shade?
A: A blind generally refers to a slatted treatment that offers light control; a shade is typically a style that operates up and down, either exposing or covering, but not offering as much light control as a blind.

Q: What is a custom window treatment?
A: A custom window treatment is designed, fabricated and installed specific to a particular window, allowing for the proper projection, proportion, operation not to mention beauty.

Benefits

Q: Why should I have window coverings?
A: Window coverings can offer the following: privacy, light control, insulating factors, and aesthetic beauty.

Q: What issues should I take into consideration when deciding on window treatments?
A: You’ll want to consider both function and beauty. Consider your lifestyle, the look you want to achieve, your budget, how long you intend to stay in the home, privacy needs and special challenges, if any.

Pricing

Q: How much should I budget?
A: This varies widely and with so many options, you can spend from just under a hundred to cover a basic window, but you can also cover that same window and spend thousands of dollars! Being realistic though, you’ll fall somewhere between. So many variables play into covering your windows depending on how many layers you have, the products you choose, and whether you do it yourself or hire someone to help. This even varies from region to region, so it’s really not easy to say! The best way to determine your comfort level is to do your homework and investigate your options.

Q: How do I find out prices of different products?
A: Visit your local retailers; check on-line, check out the ads in the newspapers. Be aware that custom soft treatments will vary greatly from retailer to retailer.

Q: What is the price range I might expect to have to pay?
A: At the risk of being vague, this is a hard question to answer! Expect to pay from $20 a foot for an inexpensive solution to $200 a foot for a more elaborate treatment. Again, this depends on the route you take…the “do-it-yourself” path or the “do it for me” path.

Q: What’s the difference between ready-made, made-to-order and custom?
A: Ready-made treatments are select sizes a manufacturer offers the retailer. You just purchase “off the rack”. With made-to-order, you are limited to select styles, fabrics and options, but this offers something better than the in stock program. You might consider that “semi-custom.” Custom window treatments are made specifically for YOUR window, taking into consideration proportion, projection, fabric selections and the overall design intent. The sky is the limit (as long as your budget holds out!)

Q: What products are the least expensive, and which are most expensive?
A: When talking about hard treatments, your least expensive products will be mini blinds, although there are varying degrees of quality, even within that product. On the higher end, you’ll find custom shutters. Wood blinds offer a more modest price point; even faux wood blinds are available if wood is not practical!

Q: How can I get a look that doesn’t cost a lot, yet looks nice?
A: This is where you will spend time determining the look you want. Study magazines and look at design books. Visit model homes (those decorated by a builder in a new housing tract.) You’ll find lots of ideas, but whether you can pull it together yourself or you hire out will depend on your level of expertise. If you don’t trust yourself, hire out before you make some costly mistakes—you may find this a wiser route.

Q: I can’t afford to do everything at once. Is that okay?
A: Sure! Of course, you’ll want to address your privacy issues first, and then as your budget allows, continue with the next phase.

Q: There are so many options. How do I select what’s right for me?
A: Determine your needs and desires by listing your privacy needs and lighting issues. Thumb through magazines and books. Keep a design file with styles you like (tear out magazine pages.) You’ll soon realize what styles are pleasing and those that you dislike. If you really feel unqualified to do this, this is the time to seek the help of your local retailer, decorator or interior designer.

Q: Where can I purchase window treatments?
A: You can purchase ready-mades from a retailer or online, made to measure from a catalog, local retailer or online, and custom treatments from a decorator or interior designer.

Q: Should I buy online?
A: You can, however there is always that risk you take if something goes wrong—either on their part or on your end. Even if you choose to buy online, you may want to evaluate the experience by dealing with a human on the phone.

Q: How do I know I am getting a fair deal?
A: Only you can determine that by comparing prices, guarantees, customer service, etc. You want to do your best to compare apples to apples.

Q: I keep seeing ads for 60% and 70% off retail for blinds. How do I find the best deal?
A: Try to ignore the discount pricing. Instead, find out the bottom line price—and do calculate the installation aspect of the deal. Also, you want to consider the guarantee and customer service the retailer will offer.

Q: Why is custom so expensive?
A: Custom is not an assembly line type of treatment. Attention to details must be considered whether in the design and/or fabrication. Proper proportion, projection and placement of fabric are carefully specified to achieve stunning results.

Q: I want to save money. Should I opt for unlined draperies?
A: By all means, NO!!! Linings serve a purpose; not only to protect your face fabric, but also to add body, enhance the overall look of your face fabric and viewing lining from the street looks much better. You may even find you’ll use less face fabric. Of course, some draperies are not intended to be lined, so that’s quite all right!

Q: What kind of guarantee can I expect?
A: Hard treatment companies will offer different guarantees, some one-year, others lifetime, or limited lifetime. (Kitty chewing on the cord does not qualify!) You’ll want to get your guarantee or warranty in writing.
As far as soft treatments, this will vary, and to varying extents. Workmanship is generally a given, however, fabric durability usually isn’t guaranteed. You’ll want to address this with your retailer/decorator or designer.

Q: What happens if something breaks?
A: Your best bet is to call the retailer/decorator or designer to discuss your options. It may or may not be under warranty. You may be on your own for this one if you opted to do-it-yourself.

Q: Can I cancel a custom order?
A: Typically the 3-day cancellation rule applies, however you may want to clarify this with the person you place the order with. Custom orders are usually not cancelable, but exceptions may apply.

Protecting your investment/Caring for your window treatments

Q: How long will my window treatments last?
A: With proper care, they can last for years. Usually you will opt to change them before they “wear out.”

Q: How do I care for my window treatments?
A: Gentle vacuuming (with proper attachment) and feather dusting will prolong the life of your treatments. Typically, designer fabrics are dry clean only, but not all treatments can be removed. You may want to consider a company that can clean in your home without the need to remove your treatments. Any time you have your draperies treated, you can expect some change, for example shrinkage or even a slight color variance.

Q: What about fading?
A: Window treatments can protect your floors, furniture and upholstery from fading, however, you’ll find the drapery fabrics will fade as well, even if the sun isn’t hitting the fabric directly. You may find a good solution is to professionally tint your windows.

Q: What are the benefits of professionally tinted windows?
A: Professionally tinted windows reduce the harmful UV rays that cause fading, your home stays cooler; and your outside view is enhanced, as if you were wearing sunglasses.
This will certainly protect your window treatment investment.

Q: How long does it take for custom treatments to be made?
A: Once a fabric arrives to the workroom, expect a minimum of 2 weeks to 8 weeks. Some workrooms may have longer lead times, but custom requires extra care, and typically workrooms have many jobs lined up.

Q: I need privacy while my window coverings are being made. Should I just put up sheets?
A: If you feel compelled to put up sheets, at least choose white!!! For more pleasing options, consider the temporary pleated shades that simply stick to your windows and are easily removed. These are available through your retailer/decorator or interior designer.

Enlisting help

Q: Who should I call to help me with my window treatments?
A: You can consult your local retailer, decorator or interior designer.

Q: How do I know if the person I hire is qualified?
A: Do your homework first. Ask questions and inquire about their background.

Q: Where can I find window treatment ideas?
A: You’ll find a myriad of styles in magazines, design books and catalogs. Visit retail stores and model homes. Check online for lots of ideas.

Q: What should I choose if I want to change my décor often?
A: Select neutral hard treatments. Your fabrics and related accessories can change with your mood or the season.

Q: When should I call a designer?
A: If you don’t feel capable of carrying out the project, call in a designer, but do your homework first to give the designer enough information to help YOU achieve the look that will be right for you. Also, if you don’t want to risk making expensive, time-consuming mistakes, the designer might be the wise choice.

Q: How do I find a decorator or designer?
A: Ask your friends for referrals. Contact a retailer in the area that might be able to recommend someone. A local upholsterer may know someone. Check the internet for someone in your area—they may have a website.

Q: Do I pay for a consultation?
A: Sometimes yes, and sometimes no. Expect to pay for consulting if you do not purchase; sometimes the consultation is free with a purchase. Be respectful of a professional’s knowledge and time.

Q: What information do I need to provide to a decorator or designer?
A: The specialist will need to know your lifestyle, your privacy needs, your light control issues, the style you hope to achieve, your likes and dislikes. Have that design file ready to show to the decorator or designer. The more information, the better your chances are you will be able to communicate your desires.

Q: I found my own fabric. Will the professional accept my own fabric?
A: Most often, yes. However, it’s not uncommon for the designer to charge more for this service, only because they have less control in this situation if fabric has to be replaced. Check with your specialist before making purchases.

Q: What if I don’t like what the decorator/designer does for me?
A: Make sure you hire someone you connect with—this is no time to be intimidated by someone you don’t like! During the design process, make sure everything is explained to you so there are no misunderstandings. The specialist should be able to provide you with enough visuals and information so you won’t be surprised. If it’s a matter of workmanship, that’s one thing, but to give your ok and then realize you don’t like the results—is a whole different issue. A word of caution: never say ok to a design if you feel pressured into buying.

Q: What about fire-proofing?
A: Generally this is not necessary, except for treatments fabricated for public areas. Some fabrics are inherently fire resistant, while others need to be specially treated, and require special care when fabricating.

Q: How do I cover challenging windows?
A: This is best left to the professional. Contact your local retailer/decorator/or designer, who can guide you through the entire process.

Q: What do I do with all the various windows in my house? They’re all so different.
A: To achieve a proportional, unified look, turn to the professional to achieve stunning results.

Q: My husband loves toys. Can we motorize our window treatments?
A: Certain treatments lend themselves to motorization. Your best bet is to contact a company that specializes in this area. Some treatments require hardwiring, so if you can plan in advance when building or remodeling, this is the time to check with your professional so you can plan accordingly.

Q: What treatments can I motorize?
A: Some hard treatments, roller shades, roman shades and draperies are some of the major styles that can be motorized.

Q: Can draperies help with the echo problem we have?
A: Not only do draperies add to the beauty of your home, they can enhance the acoustics by absorbing sounds, and eliminating that “hollow” feel.

Light/privacy issues

Q: I don’t want to block my view. What are my options?
A: If you need privacy at times, but not during the day for instance, consider a cellular shade or other shade that raises completely out of the way. Draperies that open completely off the window are another option, as long as you have additional wall space beside the window. Contact your local window specialist for your best solutions. Seeing your particular window is key!

Q: Privacy is not an issue. Do I need window coverings?
A: While you may enjoy the open view during the day, having a window treatment over the window at night can provide a more complete look to a room at night, while offering insulation from heat and cold.

Q: I don’t want people to see in, but I don’t like the look of blackout treatments. What do you suggest?
A: An opaque treatment will be the solution—light will filter in, and all someone can see from outside might be shadows, but no details.

Q: I have children and pets—what are safety issues I need to consider?
A: Safety is a major concern within the window covering industry. Always keep cords up and out of the way from little hands and pets, and never position a crib near a window with a cord. Cordless blinds are an option. Window treatments with cords should always include the child safety tag for you to read. The tag isn’t meant to be left on, but be sure to be aware of the dangers cords pose and be safe!

Q: Do the windows viewable from the street all have to look the same?
A: Not necessarily, however, sticking with a consistent neutral color is much better. A blue cell shade just doesn’t make a positive curbside statement!

Q: I like it dark when I sleep. What are my options?
A: Consider a black out drapery, black out roller blind or room darkening hard treatment. You will always have some light leakage around the edges, but that can be solved with over treatments. The room darkening treatments are less dark than black out treatments. Consult your specialist for best solutions.

Q: The glare on our television is terrible. What can be done about this?
A: Usually the room darkening or black out treatments will do the trick. Contact your specialist for solutions.

Measuring

Q: Should I measure my own windows for blinds?
A: You can, however measuring by a professional will yield the best results, and the responsibility will be on their shoulders. Even if they charge for a measure, consider it insurance--a small price to pay for a job done right.

Q: Should I measure my own windows for draperies?
A: Usually not. The designer will probably measure but the installer will do the final measure.

Installation

Q: What about installing window treatments?
A: A mini-blind installation is one thing, but for most window treatments, leave installing to the professionals.

Q: Can I save money by installing my own draperies?
A: You can, but most likely you’ll end up with disappointing results. Having the right tools, hardware and the know-how makes the difference. A professional installer can make a so-so drapery look great, and the do-it-yourself installer can make the beautifully fabricated draperies look like disasters!

Q: I live in an area where it gets really hot, and also really cold. Can window treatments help?
A: Window treatments can offer excellent insulation properties. Interlining draperies offers even more protection and adds to the beauty of the treatment.

Q: I have pets. What should I choose?
A: Steer clear of treatments that “puddle” on the floor—you may find your cat has found a new favorite spot! Dark fabrics will show lighter pet hairs and some fabrics will naturally attract hair more readily than others. Inform your specialist that you have pets, so you can be advised of your options. As with children, please make sure your cords do not pose a hazard to your beloved 4 legged friends.



Q: Can I measure, order and install myself?
A: If you have the talent and confidence, yes.

Q: Can I make my own window treatments?
A: If you have the talent, time and perseverance.

Q: How do I determine how much fabric I will need?
A: You can solicit help from a local fabric shop, or by following the directions in a book or on a pattern. Typically, your fabric will be 54”. You’ll also want to consider the repeat of the pattern.

Q: Where can I find fabric?
A: You can find decorator fabrics at a retailer, online, through a catalog, a designer/decorator or upholsterer. You may come across seconds, which have flaws, but for some projects these are just fine. Ordering cut yardage is often more expensive than off-the-bolt fabrics.