Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorized Blinds

How are motorized window coverings controlled?
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In general, motorized shades are controlled by a wireless remote. They can also be controlled by your home automation system, smartphones or tablets. They can even be controlled by your voice (When integrated with systems like Alexa or Google Home).

There are also simpler motorization systems available where you can simply pull a wand and the shades will stop at the preset top or bottom limit. These are the entry level in motorization.

What is the difference between motorized and automated window coverings?
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Motorized means that your blinds are simply being operated by a motor as opposed to a manual device like a cord or chain.

Automated means programmed to automatically operate on a schedule or when they are included in a scene. With one press of a button or voice command your lights can be turned down, the music can turn on and your shades can drop, so you can have the privacy you need to dance the night away.

How are motorized window coverings powered?
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Motorized window coverings can be powered by the electricity in your home or by batteries. Shades can come with plug in transformers and the wires would be surface run from the shade to an outlet nearby. Wires can also be run (by an electrician or low voltage specialist) and this way we can hide the wiring in your walls.

It’s best to plan early in your build or renovation so that you can add wire where you need it. Your battery powered coverings could be powered by an internal rechargeable motor or by rechargeable or disposable batteries. You’ll find that some systems use AA batteries and others might use D or C Cells.

When should I contact Westbeach about a motorized shade budget?
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We recommend contacting us at the very beginning of your project.

Firstly, it’s much better to have wire run to power the shades prior to drywall being put up. It’s very cheap to run wire – but, after the walls go up, it becomes more difficult to do or you may run into restrictions with shade sizing if you choose battery powered shades.

It’s also a good idea to include motorized window coverings in your initial budget, as this is often an overlooked aspect of homebuilding and renovation. If you plan for the cost of motorized shades at the beginning you will much more likely be able to fit them into your budget.

How large can motorized roller shades be?
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Battery powered shades can be up to 12 feet by 12 feet. Line voltage shades can be as large as you need. You are only restricted by fabric widths, but it’s possible to get around that problem with proper seaming.

Frequently Asked Questions About Window Shades

  • All
  • Cellular Shades
  • General
  • Natural & Wood Shades
  • Roller/Solar Shades
  • Roman Shades
  • Sheered Horizontal Shades
  • Sliding Panels
How Wide Can A Cellular Shade Be?
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Shades Can be made up to 174” as a single regular shade. Top Down Bottom Up is also maxed out at 174. However there is a max square footage of 144 on standard fabrics and 100 on Architella fabrics

Why do I see some manufacturers call them Honeycomb & some call them Cellular Shades?
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These are interchangeable terms. Hunter Douglas invented the Honeycomb shade and therefore calls it Honeycomb Shades. Over the years other manufacturers have replicated their product and used the term Cellular Shades. Although Hunter Douglas is the leader in Honeycombs, other brands that use the term Cellular are offering a similar product.

Can I automate Honeycomb Shades?
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Yes. All the brands of Honeycomb/Cellular Shades that we offer can be motorized or automated with an additional piece of hardware. Only Hunter Douglas offers automated Top Down Bottom Up shades.

Can Honeycomb or Cellular Shades be mounted on Tilt & Turn (Euro-style) windows?
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Yes. Honeycomb Shades can be mounted on tilt and turn windows

Can Tilt & Turn window shades be automated?
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Yes. Hunter Douglas Duettes and their TrackGlide System can now be automated and powered through a battery motor.

Are hardwired motors more powerful than battery motors? Can they lift more weight?
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No. Due to the nature of the design of the product, all cellular motors are low voltage.
The motors are the same whether they are connected to a battery or hardwired through a transformer.

How do I decide which Solar Shade openness percentage is right for what I need?
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Firstly, think about how much you care about outward visibility versus privacy. Roller Shades are like life, in that they come with a series of compromises. The better you can see outside – the better people can see inside your home at night. That’s why figuring out the right balance there is the most important.

Different opacities will all work well against blocking UV but if your goal is to block the sun, go with a 1%. If you want to have some blockage but completely preserve your view, go with a 10%. If you’re somewhere between those two points, you can go with a 3 or a 5%.

What kind of energy savings can I expect?
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It’s hard to quantify the amount of savings you can get, as every situation is unique. However, as soon as you install a Solar Shade and stand behind it on a sunny day you can feel the difference in heat. It feels like being in the cool shadows on a hot sunny day, which is why people love Solar Shades.

How much care and maintenance do Solar Shades require?
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Basically zero. They should be dusted regularly so that the dust and grime do not build up. But other than that there is nothing you have to do except treat them well.

Do Solar shades offer privacy?
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There are different opacities and some Solar Shades are more private than others. Blackout Shades offer complete privacy and darken the room, while translucent fabrics let in light, but you cannot see in or out. There are semi-sheer and sheer fabrics that are going to offer different levels of privacy.

There are also Solar Shades which are meant for reducing glare and blocking UV light. Solar Shades have different opacities that you can choose from based upon your personal needs./p>

I have really wide windows, can they be done with one Roller Shade?
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Most likely. Roller Shades can be done up to 16 feet wide.

What are Sliding Panel Blinds?
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Sliding Panels are roller shade fabric panels (generally 20-30” wide) that are mounted on a vertical style track which moves left and right, similar to a traditional vertical shade.

Where do Sliding Panel Blinds work best?
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Sliding Panels are suited for large openings or sliding glass doors. They are also a great choice if you’re looking for a room divider!

How wide can Sliding Panels be made?
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Sliding Panels can be made up to widths of 16 feet. If you have a longer span we can connect two tracks, so when they’re closed they meet in the middle.

What kind of fabrics are used for Sliding Panels?
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The vast majority of sliding panel fabrics are roller shade fabrics. You can choose from sheer, semi-sheer, solar fabrics, semi-opaque and room darkening.

Are there size limitations for the edge binding of Natural Shades?
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Yes, there are size limitations for the edge binding of natural shades, such as Roman or roll-up shades. These limitations are typically determined by the manufacturing process and the materials used in the production of the shades. Factors such as the width and length of the fabric, the type of mechanism used to raise and lower the shade and the weight of the fabric can all impact the size limitations for edge binding.

Is edge binding available on all Natural Shades?
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Yes. We will automatically colour coordinate your edge binding but you can also customize your colour choice.

Are liners available with Natural Shades?
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Yes. There are light filtering or room darkening liners to optimize your Light Control. Hunter Douglas Provenance Woven Wood Shades can also have the liner operate independently from the shades so you could have the shade drop down and the independent liner roll up so that when you want to darken the room you just need to drop the independent liner.

Can Woven Wood Natural Shades be automated?
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Yes, they can either be hardwired or battery powered. Woven Wood Natural Shades can also be done as motorized with the Top Down Bottom Up feature.

What is a Sheer Horizontal Shade?
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A Sheer Horizontal Shade is one our most popular shade types. These are a roller shade that has horizontal louvers that can tilt.

What is the difference between Sheer Vertical Shades and Sheer Horizontal Shades?
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The louvers on Horizontal Sheer Shades are horizontal whereas the louvers on vertical sheers are vertical, similar to drapery or vertical blinds.

Do Sheer Shades provide privacy?
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Horizontal sheer shades offer you the ultimate in light and privacy. You can close them to have complete privacy or have them tilted for some privacy with the ability to see out.

Can I choose the color for my Roman Shade’s continuous cord loop?
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Yes. Components are generally colour coordinated to the colour of the fabric, but if you would like to alter the colours of any of the components we’ll do that for you at no extra charge!

Can I order a Roman Shade without a liner?
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Roman Shades should have a liner whether you go with a light filtering, sheer or room darkening. Some Roman Shades actually require a liner, such as the Hunter Douglas Vignettes.

Is the Top Down Bottom Up cordless lift system available with 2-On-1 Headrail Roman Shades?
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No. 2-on-1 headrail shades only come in the rolling style of Vignettes which cannot be done as Top Down Bottom Up. These can be done as cordless. You would just have two separate shades if you wanted to have independent control of two shades in one window opening and Top Down Bottom Up.

How do I order products / request a quote?
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To order products or request a quote, simply follow these steps:

  1. Shop our selection of blinds or window treatments.
  2. Select your desired product and customize it with the preferred features.
  3. Provide the measurements of your windows for accurate sizing.
  4. Add the chosen product to your quote basket.
  5. Send a request for your quote.
  6. Our team will carefully review your quote and calculate the final purchase price. This price will include shipping costs, applicable taxes, any additional charges and a payment link.
  7. Once you receive the quote, review it and ensure it meets your requirements.
  8. Accept the quote and proceed to pay your deposit securely through Stripe. We accept most major credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  9. Complete the payment process and your order will be confirmed.

Our team is always here to assist you throughout the process and ensure a smooth and convenient experience.

How do I order products / request a quote?
+

To order products or request a quote, simply follow these steps:

  1. Shop our selection of blinds or window treatments.
  2. Select your desired product and customize it with the preferred features.
  3. Provide the measurements of your windows for accurate sizing.
  4. Add the chosen product to your quote basket.
  5. Send a request for your quote.
  6. Our team will carefully review your quote and calculate the final purchase price. This price will include shipping costs, applicable taxes, any additional charges and a payment link.
  7. Once you receive the quote, review it and ensure it meets your requirements.
  8. Accept the quote and proceed to pay your deposit securely through Stripe. We accept most major credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  9. Complete the payment process and your order will be confirmed.

Our team is always here to assist you throughout the process and ensure a smooth and convenient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Window Blinds

  • All
  • Horizontal Blinds
  • Vertical Blinds
When should I use horizontal blinds versus vertical blinds?
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It’s important to consider the specific requirements of your windows and doors.

Horizontal blinds can sometimes create inconvenience by banging around on doors and obstructing the lever handles. Additionally, the stack of horizontal blinds often extends into the slider door opening, which can limit the accessibility and ease of use.

Vertical blinds are designed specifically for doors and offer improved functionality in these scenarios. They effortlessly glide to the side, allowing for easy access and smooth operation of the door. Furthermore, vertical blinds can provide an aesthetically pleasing and cohesive look, especially when paired with horizontal blinds on adjacent windows.

Remember, it’s all about finding the right balance between form and function to achieve the perfect window covering solution for your specific needs.

Can I order additional slats for my wood blind?
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We recommend opting for a professional repair service rather than attempting to replace them yourself. Replacing slats without the proper tools and machines can be a challenging task and may lead to further damage or improper installation.

Our skilled technicians will have the necessary tools and expertise to handle the replacement of slats effectively, guaranteeing a seamless and precise result.

What do I do if the slats will not tilt or turn on my wood blind?
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If you’re experiencing difficulty with the slats of your wood blind, specifically when it comes to tilting or turning, there may be an issue with the drums inside that control the movement of the louvers. It’s possible that these drums have become caught in the headrail, causing the slats to be unresponsive.

To address this problem, you would need to remove the blind and inspect the top rail to locate and resolve the issue. However, if you feel uncertain or uncomfortable about undertaking this task yourself, we recommend reaching out to our dedicated team for guidance and assistance.

My vertical blind vanes are not spaced evenly – can I correct this?
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Absolutely! To correct uneven spacing of vertical blind vanes, you can try the following simple fix: fully extend the blinds to open position and then close them completely. By repeating this process a few times, you’ll often find that the carriers responsible for spacing the vanes will realign and adjust, resulting in a more even distribution.

This method typically helps restore proper spacing and ensures a visually appealing appearance for your vertical blinds. Give it a try and you’ll likely see improvement in no time.

Can I get my vertical blind restrung?
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If you need your vertical blind restrung, we recommend contacting the Venetian Blind Service Centre at 604-874-1121. They specialize in providing professional blind services in the Lower Mainland area. Their experienced team can assist you with the process of restringing your vertical blind, ensuring that it functions smoothly and efficiently once again. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them for expert assistance and a quality solution to your restrung vertical blind needs.

What’s the best way to clean my vertical blinds?
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For PVC vertical blinds, a simple and effective method is to clean them with a mixture of soap and water. Using a soft cloth or sponge, gently wipe the blinds to remove any dirt or grime. Rinse with clean water and allow them to air dry.

For fabric vertical blinds, spot cleaning is recommended. Prepare a solution of warm water and mild dish soap. Dip a clean cloth or sponge into the solution and gently blot any stains or soiled areas on the fabric. Avoid rubbing vigorously to prevent damage. After spot cleaning, use a clean cloth or towel to blot away excess moisture and allow the blinds to air dry.

Remember, regular dusting is essential for maintaining the cleanliness of all types of window coverings. Use a feather duster, a microfiber cloth or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush attachment to remove dust from your vertical blinds on a routine basis. This helps to prevent the buildup of dirt and keeps them looking their best.

How do I order products / request a quote?
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To order products or request a quote, simply follow these steps:

  1. Shop our selection of blinds or window treatments.
  2. Select your desired product and customize it with the preferred features.
  3. Provide the measurements of your windows for accurate sizing.
  4. Add the chosen product to your quote basket.
  5. Send a request for your quote.
  6. Our team will carefully review your quote and calculate the final purchase price. This price will include shipping costs, applicable taxes, any additional charges and a payment link.
  7. Once you receive the quote, review it and ensure it meets your requirements.
  8. Accept the quote and proceed to pay your deposit securely through Stripe. We accept most major credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  9. Complete the payment process and your order will be confirmed.

Our team is always here to assist you throughout the process and ensure a smooth and convenient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Window Shutters

  • All
  • Composite Shutters
  • Vinyl Shutters
  • Wood Shutters
Do shutters provide a blackout from light?
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Shutters offer excellent light control, although they may not provide complete blackout capabilities. When it comes to blocking out light, shutters can be rated at 4 out of 5 stars on a scale of effectiveness. The solid louvers play a significant role in minimizing the amount of light that enters a room. However, it’s important to note that there may be some minimal light leakage between the individual louvers and along the edges where the wood stile meets each louver.

While shutters can significantly darken a room, they may not achieve complete darkness, especially in situations where absolute blackout is required, such as for home theaters or bedrooms. If total darkness is a priority, alternative window coverings like blackout curtains or shades specifically designed for light blocking may be more suitable.

What is the expected life of wood shutters?
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Our wood shutters come with a Limited Lifetime Warranty, ensuring their longevity and durability. While it’s difficult to provide an exact number of years for the expected life of wood shutters, you can have peace of mind knowing that they are designed to withstand the test of time.

The Limited Lifetime Warranty reflects our confidence in the quality and craftsmanship of our wood shutters. We are committed to providing you with a window covering solution that will last for many years, enhancing the beauty and functionality of your home.

It’s important to note that the lifespan of wood shutters can be influenced by various factors, including proper maintenance, environmental conditions and usage. By following the recommended care and maintenance guidelines, such as regular dusting and occasional cleaning, you can help prolong the life of your wood shutters and keep them looking their best.

How do I choose the right louvre width for my shutters?
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Choosing the right louvre width for your shutters is an important decision that can greatly impact the overall look and functionality of your windows. As a general guideline, we recommend scaling the louvre width based on the size of your windows.

How long do vinyl shutters last?
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Our vinyl shutters are backed by a lifetime warranty, ensuring their durability and longevity. While it’s challenging to provide an exact lifespan for vinyl shutters, you can have confidence in their ability to withstand the test of time.

Vinyl shutters are designed to be highly durable and resistant to various factors that can affect their lifespan, such as moisture, UV rays and everyday wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, including regular cleaning and inspection, you can help extend the life of your vinyl shutters even further.

The lifetime warranty reflects our commitment to providing you with a high-quality window covering solution that will stand up to the demands of everyday use and continue to enhance the aesthetics of your home for many years.

Can you paint vinyl shutters?
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While it is possible to paint vinyl shutters, it’s important to note that doing so will void the warranty. Our vinyl shutters are specifically designed and manufactured to provide long-lasting performance and durability in their original state.

If you choose to paint your vinyl shutters, we recommend using Stix primer followed by a Scuff-X Matte finish for optimal adhesion and a professional-looking finish. However, it’s crucial to understand that any alteration to the shutters from their original state will void the warranty.

While the need to use the warranty is rare due to the durability of our shutters, we want to emphasize that any modification or alteration to the shutters, including painting, may compromise their performance and void the warranty.

How long do composite shutters last?
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Our composite shutters are backed by a Lifetime Limited Warranty, ensuring their durability and longevity. It’s important to note that this warranty does not cover swelling caused by excessive moisture. Like any natural product, composite shutters can be affected by extreme changes in heat and moisture.

With proper care and maintenance, composite shutters can provide many years of reliable performance and aesthetic appeal. Regular cleaning and avoiding exposure to excessive moisture or humidity can help extend the lifespan of your composite shutters.

The Lifetime Limited Warranty reflects our commitment to providing you with a high-quality product that is built to last. It covers defects in materials and workmanship, giving you peace of mind and confidence in your investment.

Where are composite shutters best suited for?
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Composite shutters are a versatile window covering option that can be used in various areas of your home. They are well-suited for most rooms and windows, except for the bathroom and areas near sinks where excessive moisture exposure is common.

Composite shutters can be a stylish addition to living rooms, bedrooms, dining rooms and even common areas like hallways and entryways. They provide an elegant and timeless look that complements a wide range of interior design styles.

In living rooms and bedrooms, composite shutters offer excellent light control and privacy, allowing you to adjust the louvers to your desired level of brightness and maintain the desired level of privacy. They can also help enhance the energy efficiency of your home by providing insulation and reducing heat transfer.

While composite shutters are suitable for most areas, it’s important to avoid installing them in bathrooms or areas near sinks. The high humidity and moisture in these areas can potentially lead to swelling or warping of the composite material over time.

How do I order products / request a quote?
+

To order products or request a quote, simply follow these steps:

  1. Shop our selection of blinds or window treatments.
  2. Select your desired product and customize it with the preferred features.
  3. Provide the measurements of your windows for accurate sizing.
  4. Add the chosen product to your quote basket.
  5. Send a request for your quote.
  6. Our team will carefully review your quote and calculate the final purchase price. This price will include shipping costs, applicable taxes, any additional charges and a payment link.
  7. Once you receive the quote, review it and ensure it meets your requirements.
  8. Accept the quote and proceed to pay your deposit securely through Stripe. We accept most major credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  9. Complete the payment process and your order will be confirmed.

Our team is always here to assist you throughout the process and ensure a smooth and convenient experience.

Frequently Asked Questions About Window Drape & Upholstery

  • All
  • Drapery/Curtains
  • Ripplefold Drapery
What is the difference between drapes and curtains?
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Curtains are typically the go-to choice for those seeking a more casual or relaxed atmosphere. They often hang to the bottom of the window, offering a charming and breezy appeal. On the other hand, drapery exudes an air of sophistication and formality. It tends to extend all the way to the floor, creating an elegant and luxurious ambiance.

Another factor that sets drapery apart is its thicker liner. This liner not only enhances privacy but also provides superior light control and insulation, making it an ideal option for bedrooms or spaces where maintaining a cozy and serene environment is a priority.

By carefully considering the formality, length and functionality of your desired window coverings, you can transform your space into a personalized sanctuary that perfectly reflects your style and preferences.

Is drapery in style?
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Drapery is experiencing a resurgence in popularity and for good reason! This classic window covering option is making a big comeback in the world of interior design. Why? Because drapery offers a multitude of benefits and adds a touch of elegance to any space.

One of the key advantages of drapery is its customizability. With various fabric options, patterns and styles available, you can tailor your draperies to perfectly match your personal taste and complement your existing home decor. Whether you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more traditional and opulent feel, draperies can be designed to suit your unique style.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, draperies are also highly functional. They excel at room darkening and sound dampening, making them an excellent choice for bedrooms or spaces where privacy and tranquility are essential. By blocking out excess light and reducing noise, draperies create a peaceful and comfortable environment.

Moreover, draperies serve as the perfect finishing touch for your home. They add a layer of visual interest and texture, enhancing the overall ambiance of the room. Whether you’re looking to make a bold statement or add a subtle accent, draperies can elevate the style and sophistication of your space.

What types of windows would you not recommend drapery for?
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While drapery can be a versatile and stylish choice for many windows, there are a few scenarios where it may not be the most suitable option. One factor to consider is the available space on either side of the window for the drapery stack. Draperies typically require a certain amount of space to stack when opened. If your window lacks sufficient room for the stack, it may limit the functionality and visual appeal of the drapery.

Additionally, while draperies can be used for various window types, they are often reserved for more formal rooms or bedrooms. Their luxurious appearance and ability to create a blackout effect make them ideal for creating a sophisticated atmosphere and ensuring optimal privacy.

That being said, draperies can work exceptionally well for wide windows or sliding glass doors. Their generous width and floor-length design can beautifully frame these larger openings, adding an elegant and dramatic touch to the space.

Can drapery be automated?
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Absolutely! Drapery can indeed be automated, offering convenience and modern functionality to your window coverings. Motorization is the key to automating draperies and there are various options available to suit your specific needs.

Motorized drapery tracks can be powered using either low voltage or line voltage. This allows you flexibility in choosing the power source that works best for your setup. In most cases, you can simply plug the motorized drapery tracks into a standard outlet, making installation hassle-free.

Furthermore, with the advancement of home automation technology, motorized drapery tracks can seamlessly integrate into your existing home automation system. This integration allows you to control your draperies using your preferred automation platform or even through voice commands. Imagine adjusting your draperies with a simple voice command or with the touch of a button on your smart device, creating the perfect ambiance for any occasion.

Automating your draperies not only adds a touch of luxury but also provides practical benefits. With automated control, you can easily adjust the amount of natural light, enhance privacy and create a more energy-efficient environment.

Who makes the best drapery track?
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When it comes to drapery tracks, two notable brands stand out for different reasons. Lutron is renowned for manufacturing some of the quietest and most advanced drapery tracks in the industry. Their tracks operate smoothly and silently, providing a seamless and tranquil experience.

On the other hand, Hunter Douglas is known for creating drapery tracks that offer exceptional aesthetic appeal. Their tracks are designed with attention to detail, featuring beautiful finishes and stylish options that can effortlessly enhance the overall look of your draperies and the room as a whole.

What is a ripplefold drapery?
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A ripplefold drapery is a type of window treatment that features evenly spaced, uniform folds that create a sleek and modern aesthetic. The term “ripplefold” refers to the continuous ripples or gentle waves formed by the drapery fabric as it hangs from the track or rod.

Unlike traditional pleated draperies, ripplefold draperies use specific hardware and a unique track system to achieve their signature look. The fabric is attached to carriers that move along the track, creating consistent and evenly spaced folds when the drapery is opened or closed.

Ripplefold draperies are available in a wide range of fabrics, colors and patterns, allowing for customization to suit individual preferences and complement the overall decor of a room. They can be manually operated or motorized for added convenience and ease of use.

What are the advantages of ripplefold drapery?
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One of the key advantages of ripplefold draperies is their ability to stack back tightly, taking up minimal space when fully open. This makes them an ideal choice for windows where space is limited. Additionally, the uniform folds of ripplefold draperies provide a clean and contemporary appearance, making them suitable for modern and minimalist interior designs.

How do I order products / request a quote?
+

To order products or request a quote, simply follow these steps:

  1. Shop our selection of blinds or window treatments.
  2. Select your desired product and customize it with the preferred features.
  3. Provide the measurements of your windows for accurate sizing.
  4. Add the chosen product to your quote basket.
  5. Send a request for your quote.
  6. Our team will carefully review your quote and calculate the final purchase price. This price will include shipping costs, applicable taxes, any additional charges and a payment link.
  7. Once you receive the quote, review it and ensure it meets your requirements.
  8. Accept the quote and proceed to pay your deposit securely through Stripe. We accept most major credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
  9. Complete the payment process and your order will be confirmed.

Our team is always here to assist you throughout the process and ensure a smooth and convenient experience.

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