How to Ensure You Get Value from Your New Window Treatment

If you’ve landed on this article, chances are you are considering new window coverings. There is a lot to consider, including value for money. And you are in luck because this article is all about getting the most for what you spend when it comes to window treatments. The answer to the question, “How long should my window coverings last?” isn’t a simple number. There are a lot of variables involved. So let’s break it all down.

Cost or Value?

Budget is important, but all too often, people only look at the upfront cost of a window covering versus the long-term value. This is how many people fall into the trap of buying cheap, big-box store options that end up needing to be replaced 5 years down the road. 

Custom window treatments may cost more up front, but they have more long-term value. Here’s why:

• They are made of higher-quality materials and durable hardware that stand up to heavy use and sun exposure for longer.
• They have superior workmanship over mass-produced options, which can prevent damage from use.
• They are made to fit your exact window size and are expertly installed, protecting them from unnecessary damage.

When your window treatment is made to stand the test of time, it will last longer. This means you’ll spend less in the long run because you won’t be constantly replacing window coverings made of cheap materials. 

Key Factors that Affect Lifespan

Now that we’ve taken a look at how quality can affect lifespan, here are a few more key factors that can affect how long a window treatment lasts before having to replace it.

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  Sun Exposure: UV rays degrade window treatments over time; it’s unavoidable even when you purchase a window treatment made with more UV-resistant materials. But knowing that more intense, direct UV rays can degrade materials faster is important to remember. So even if you bought the same window covering for every window, your south- and west-facing window treatments may need replacing sooner.
• Usage Frequency: This is a bit of a no-brainer, but treatments that are used more often may need replacing sooner as well. Higher use can wear out mechanical parts quicker. This means your own bedroom window treatment may need replacing before the guest room does. 
• Environment: This isn’t just the environment your home is in (like the arid climate of Colorado) but the environment of each room. High humidity in rooms like the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room can warp standard wood or foster mold in lower-quality fabrics. Choosing moisture-resistant window coverings will make your window treatment last significantly longer.
• Maintenance: Most people don’t love chores, but regular gentle dusting and proper care for your window covering can prevent dust accumulation and mechanism jams, extending the life of your window treatment.

How Long Quality Custom Window Treatments Should Last

Remember, these are just estimates and depend on the factors above (usage, maintenance, sun exposure, etc.). But here is what you can expect for the lifespan of custom high-quality window coverings:

Interior Shutters: 20 to 25+ Years

Interior shutters are made from sturdy wood or advanced composites (faux wood). They also act as a permanent fixture, often outliving other interior finishes in a home. Bonus–they are the only window treatment to add value to your home because homebuyers see them as highly desirable and will pay more for a home with them. So even if your interior shutters are 15 years old, you’ll see a return on your investment!

Faux Wood and Wood Blinds: 7 to 15 Years

Thanks to their solid construction and durable materials and mechanisms, custom blinds far outlive their standard big-box options. 

Window Shades (i.e. Roller, Cellular, Roman): 7 to 15 Years

Depending on the fabric and any linings you’ve selected, custom window shades can last between 7 and 15 years. Remember, custom shades are made with higher-end fabrics and will last longer than off-the-shelf options by several years. Also, the precision-measured tracks and better spring or motorized rollers reduce stress on the fabric and internal clutches. 

Key Takeaways 

It’s possible to get value out of your window treatment. Remember the old adage: You get what you pay for. By opting for custom over big-box options, you will get quality, well-made, and expertly installed window coverings that stand up to higher use, UV rays, and more. Don’t forget, how often you clean and maintain your window coverings can play a big role in extending their life. 

Ready to upgrade to custom window coverings that offer a longer lifespan and more value? Elevated Views is here to help! We’ve been helping Coloradans elevate their home or business with beautiful, long-lasting window coverings since 2014. Our experts take you through every step of the process, from helping you choose the right treatment for your needs and budget to measuring and installation. Schedule a free in-home consultation and quote, and we’ll bring the showroom to you.