Window treatments are an essential part of your home’s decor. They provide privacy, protection from damaging UV rays, and enhance a room’s visual appeal. Like all interior items, however, your window treatments have a limited lifespan. You may not notice it’s time to replace yours, but you risk your home’s appearance and window functionality if you don’t. We’ve put together a list of signs to let you know it’s time to replace your window coverings.
Trouble Raising & Lowering Your Blinds
Your window blinds should raise and lower smoothly. If you find yourself having to put a lot of force into moving your blinds, it’s likely the lift mechanism is wearing out, and it can be challenging to repair, depending on how old your window treatments are. Your best bet is to look into replacements.
2. Stains, Fading, Discoloration
Prolonged exposure to the sun can cause fading and discoloration on your window coverings. The good news is that the drapes have protected your interior furnishings from that same UV ray-induced fate. You may be able to spot-treat any stains, but if your window coverings look old, they probably are, and you should consider getting some new outfittings for your windows.
3. They Look Outdated
Is your house still operating with the same window treatments it had when you built or purchased it? If it’s been more than a decade, your window coverings may be doing the appearance of your house a disservice. Very bold patterns or styles that are distinctly from years ago can make your windows stand out for all the wrong reasons. Consider buying window treatments in neutral shades to give any room an instant facelift.
4. They No Longer Meet Your Needs
Think back to when you purchased your current window blinds. You most likely had an idea of the function you wanted them to provide. If they no longer serve that purpose, it’s time to trade them in for something that will.
5. Your Energy Bills Have Increased
While it’s true that some window treatments provide much better insulation than others, all window treatments have at least some insulating properties. If your utility costs are increasing, you may need to upgrade to more modern window treatments. Today’s window coverings, especially cellular shades, can significantly reduce insulation and road noise.
6. They’ve Fallen Into Disrepair
If your blinds have broken, bent, or warped slats, it’s time to move onward and upward. Similarly, if your fabric window treatments have any fraying or tears, it’s time to put them out to pasture. Having tattered window treatments can make an entire room less aesthetically appealing.
7. You’ve Recently Replaced Your Windows
This is the perfect time to upgrade your window treatments. Especially if your new windows are a different shape or style than your previous windows, even if they are the same size, you’ll want a fresh new treatment to go with your new windows.
Contact Potomac Paint & Design
Is it time to refresh your window treatments? Let us help you with that. We’re locally owned, which means we are dedicated to the satisfaction of every customer. We are your one-stop shop for window treatments and paint. We offer specialty services, including paint and wallpaper matching. Contact us to schedule your consultation and get your interior project up and running. With three locations in Alexandria, Arlington, and Falls Church, VA, we’re never too far from where you are. We are pleased to serve the areas of Arlington, Alexandria, and Fairfax, VA.
