When it comes to home decoration and interior design, your blinds are probably one of the last things you think of. However, your blinds are going to play a significant part in the overall aesthetics of your home.
Window blinds are often a long term solution, but they aren’t designed to last forever. With this in mind, you’re probably wondering how long do window blinds actually last?
If you’re not too sure what the answer to this is or what signs of deterioration you should be keeping an eye out for, we can help.
How long do window blinds last?
As much as we may love our blinds, they’re not designed to last forever. Your blinds will often start to deteriorate after approximately 5 years and it is recommended that you start thinking about replacing them around the 6 to 8-year mark. With regular cleaning, care and maintenance, they may last a little longer, but they will still eventually need to be replaced.
That said, not all blinds age at the same rate. The material makes a big difference. Aluminium venetian blinds tend to hold up well over time and are less prone to warping than timber or faux wood options. Roller blinds can last just as long if the fabric is good quality and they’re not exposed to excessive moisture. If you want blinds that go the distance, it’s worth investing in the right material from the start. Check out our guide on roller blind fabric options to see what suits your space.
What are the top signs that your blinds need changing?
Chances are high that you’re not sure when you last replaced your blinds. If you’re unsure of how old they are and when they might need replacing next, these are some of the signs to keep an eye out for:
Discolouration
If you’re seeing excessive discolouration on your blinds, this is a sign that the slats no longer have the same structural integrity that they had when you first purchased them. Often, this discolouration is caused by the sun, with a yellowish tint or bleaching being the most common indicator. Look for blinds that have a higher UV rating when you are replacing your blinds.
Hard to raise or lower
If you have recently had to start using excessive force to get your blinds to go up or down, they’re probably on their way out. Blinds are supposed to be easy to use, so if you’re having difficulty with them, there’s a good chance that the lifting mechanisms are damaged or deteriorating or the cords are failing.
Warped or misshapen slats
Blinds that have been hanging for many years will often display warped or misshapen slats. This can be caused by a number of different factors including excessive sun damage, humidity or moisture or general wear and tear from children, pets and use. If your slats are broken or warped, it’s time for a replacement.
How do you extend the life of your blinds?
A bit of regular maintenance goes a long way. Dusting your blinds every couple of weeks stops grime building up in the slats and avoids the kind of deep staining that’s hard to reverse. For roller blinds, a damp cloth is usually all you need — avoid soaking the fabric. Our full guide on how to clean roller blinds walks through the process step by step.
It also helps to operate your blinds gently. Yanking cords or forcing stiff mechanisms speeds up wear considerably. If something feels stiff or stuck, it’s worth getting it looked at sooner rather than later before the mechanism fails entirely.
Are you due to replace your blinds?
If your existing blinds are starting to look a little old and will need to be replaced soon, the team at d-bLINDS can help. We specialise in high-quality window blinds in Toowoomba that will look fantastic in your home. Get in touch with our friendly team today and find the perfect blinds to suit your home for years to come.