Your window shades don’t last forever, and some brands aren’t always designed to last for years and years. At Georgia Blinds & Interiors, we’ve been working with Atlanta homeowners for over 25 years helping them decide whether or not it’s time to upgrade to Hunter Douglas custom window coverings.

The answer we give depends on a few factors, including the type of shade you have, how much wear it’s getting, and what kind of look and function you want in your home.

If you’ve been wondering whether it’s time to upgrade, here are a few things to consider.

When Different Types of Window Shades Need Replacing

Most styles of window shades last between 5 to 10 years. Some last longer with light use and regular maintenance, but others start to show signs of age much sooner, especially in sunny or high-traffic spaces.

Here are a few signs it may be time to replace them:

• They’re faded, frayed, or warped from years of sunlight.
• The lift mechanism no longer works the way it should.
• You’re remodeling and your current shades no longer match your decor.
• You’re not getting the light control or insulation you need.
• You’re tired of cords or concerned about safety, and want something cordless or motorized.

We see these reasons come up a lot. In many homes around the Atlanta area, people hold onto older shades longer than they should. But replacing them can dramatically improve comfort, privacy, and style.

How Long Do Different Types of Window Shades Last?

Not all window treatments age the same way. Here's what we’ve seen across different types of window shades:

• Big box store shades last 2- 7 years with regular use and proper cleaning.
• Blinds can last for a short time or even longer than 10 years, but they may need replacing or repairing if they have issues with their cords, or if the slats warp, crack, or become discolored.

Upgrades in materials, cordless operation, and automation also make new window treatments more efficient, long-lasting, and safer than older styles.

Choosing the Right Replacement for Your Types of Window Shades

At Georgia Blinds & Interiors, we often find that our clients see around 20 years of active use or more from our selection of Hunter Douglas blinds, shades, and shutters. That’s over twice as long as window treatments from other brands!

If you’re thinking of replacing your window treatments, consider your goals for the room:

• Want better insulation? We recommend Duette® Cellular Shades for their energy efficiency.
• Looking for a clean, modern look? Go for Designer Roller Shades or solar shades with a minimalist profile.
• Want elegance and soft fabric? Vignette® Roman Shades are crisp, classy, and come in a stunning array of colors and patterns.
• Need a natural touch? Alustra® Woven Textures Roller or Roamn shades bring warmth and texture and boast modernization options thanks to PowerView® Automation.

Window Treatments That Replace Blinds

Thinking about replacing your blinds with a more durable window treatment option? We recommend custom shutters! Shutters are considered a semi-permanent home upgrade and have the benefit of adding value to your home. Plus—Hunter Douglas shutters come in wood, faux wood, and poly styles that are sturdy enough to stand up to any space. Plus, they will last for years and years.

Update Your Window Shades near Atlanta, Georgia

When it comes to different types of window shades, there’s no exact expiration date. When treated right, they can last for years and years. But if your current shades aren’t working for you anymore, whether that’s visually or functionally, it’s worth looking at new options you can trust to last.

At Georgia Blinds & Interiors, we help homeowners throughout Atlanta precisely fit right shades, blinds, and shutters for their space. Whether you want something new or you’re not sure where to start, our expert team is here to help. Contact us for a free in-home consultation today!

We’re locally owned and operated and service Atlanta as well as surrounding Fulton, Dekalb, and Cobb Counties, including Buckhead, Sandy Springs, Brookhaven, Mid Town, Dunwoody, Marietta, and Decatur, Georgia.