No matter how good your window blinds are, you are likely going to have to do a simple repair at some point. It has nothing to do with the quality of craftsmanship or the price you pay. Window shades are just like everything else. Sometimes mechanical failure happens. When this happens, you will be prepared.
The Wand or Tilter May Break
Every now and then, the mechanism that allows horizontal window shades to tilt becomes damaged or flat out breaks. When this happens, there is no need to panic and no need to throw away your blinds. Step back, follow these instructions, and your window treatment will function like new in no time at all.
Instructions for Repairing the Wand or Tilter
Once you determine the blinds are broken; you will need to fix it. It doesn’t take long and can be done by anyone. You do not need to call a professional.
1) Start by removing the metal end caps on both sides of the headrail.
a. Headrail: The headrail is at the top of the window blinds and are normally made of metal. Sometimes they are plastic. This is where the controls for the blind or shade is located.
2) Remove the wand or cord tilter by gently pulling on the rod out of the middle.
a. Tilt Cord/Wand: The tilt cord/wand is the mechanism used to twist open the blinds slats for all horizontal blinds.
3) Remove the mechanism from the headrail by gently pushing the mechanism to the right side. This should cause it to “pop” from the headrail.
4) Replace the mechanism with the new or fixed mechanism. Take care that the new mechanism “snaps” back into place at the top of the headrail.
5) Last, replace the tilt rod with the new or fixed rod and replace the end caps.
That is all it takes to fix broken tilt cord or wands. If something does go wrong with your blinds, you now know how to resolve the issue without any problems. The whole process only takes a few minutes and does not require any special tools.
Unfortunately, even though it is simple to do, many people will throw away their perfectly good window blinds because of this. Do not let this happen to you. If something goes wrong with your blinds, check the Internet for a simple solution. Those who do will find their blinds last a very long time.