In the past people used standard lift cords to lift heavy shades. There were a number of challenges with this type of cord system. One being that once the shade was raised to the top there was a very long, very dangly, cord hanging down. Most installers screwed a cord cleat into the wall which enabled the cord to be wrapped around it and kept it out of reach of young curious hands.
The other problem with this type of cord system was that it just wasn't practical. there was a lot of strain on the cord (or person lifting it) and usually the cords were damaged. These types of cord systems are now being made obsolete for many obvious reasons (namely corded blinds are being made obsolete due to the inherent dangers and risk of death or injury to young children. You can read about that in this blog discussing the CPSC's decision.) New and exciting changes are coming to the window covering industry. Many manufacturers are designing new and better lifting systems for most shades, including heavy to lift window coverings.
3 Excellent Options
Lets discuss specific methods that might be new to you on how to lift those heavy shades.
Continuous Cord Loop
Cordless systems
Motorization
Continuous Cord Loop is still being offered and is a great option. The cord never gets any longer or shorter. Lifting is made easier than ever with very little strain to the shades headrail. The cord goes through a clutch in the headrail which is attached to an axle that spools the cord that runs through the shade down to the bottom rail. While this is an ideal option for older people who have limited strength, it may not necessarily be the best option for very tall windows as it takes a lot of hand over hand motion to raise or lower the shade.
The Cordless System is a robust entry into the family of cord systems and is especially useful for heavy shades. this system eliminates the use of cords and creates a clean look for the shade. This system has gained in popularity with our clients. The mechanism is spring-loaded which makes moving the shades easy. All that you have to do is grab the rail and adjust it manually to the desired height. This can be implemented with blinds, Duettes, and Roller Shades. There are some size restrictions, but a professional window coverings person will be able to guide you through the process and help select the best product for your window covering needs.
Another cord system that fits in with cordless family would be a retractable cord system. Technically it's not cordless but because of the proprietary mechanism, named UltraGlide, it is a hybrid of a corded and spring-loaded cordless system. When the cord is pulled down to its limit the cord retracts, resetting the spring mechanism in which a pumping movement is utilized. So since the cord always returns to its start position we can term it cordless. This system can be tricky to use as there is a proper way to raise the shade. Some instruction is needed. So, if using this particular cord system in a guest room it can be a little complicated for a guest to use without proper instructions.
Motorization is among my favorite systems and a top seller. You can either hard-wire the shade in which an integrated system comes from wires embedded in your walls into the shade, or a battery operated system can be used. The technology has advanced and is easier and more convenient than ever to use. I could do an entire blog on motorization alone. There are many details to discuss with this type of operating system, but a window covering professional will help you and guide you through the entire process. It is well worth the time spent discussing all the variations.
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Window Fashionista assists many people across the country. We are partnered with Paul Kempler of Kempler Design. Paul Kempler is considered the window coverings expert in our industry. As Kempler Design we have been assisting people with covering their challenging windows for over thirty years, and welcome the opportunity to work with you on your window treatment project. Please contact us to see how best we may serve your window covering needs.
Useful links:
Options for Lifting Heavy Shades - Kempler Design Blog
Lifting Heavy Shades - YouTube Video Kempler Design Vlog
A better solution for lifting heavy shades-Window Fashionista Blog
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