DIY Guide: How to Easily Fix Broken Window Blinds

 

Window blinds are a fantastic addition to any home - they help control light, ensure privacy, and complement your interior design. Whether you prefer sleek, modern designs or something more traditional, these window treatments offer a perfect blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal. But what happens when they break? Don’t worry, you don’t have to toss them out or call in a professional just yet. I’ll show you how to easily fix broken blinds, saving you both time and money while keeping your space looking polished. 

Identify Your Type of Blinds

source: blindpartsonlineaustralia.com.au

Can I fix blinds myself? While the process might sound a bit technical, with a little patience, it’s completely doable. The first step is to identify the type you have and perform a quick inspection to figure out what's causing the issue. They can hang either vertically or horizontally, and there are a number of small problems that can affect how they hang or rotate. 

Before I delve into the nitty gritty, I recommend that you get high-quality Australian-made blind spares that will last for years to come. Some of the available parts include brackets, chain drives, and motorisation kits for retrofitting roller blinds, which are helpful if you're upgrading or replacing certain mechanisms. For vertical blinds, you may need to source carrier stems or replacement vanes from a more specialised supplier. It's important to match the parts to the type you're working on to ensure a smooth repair process. 

For vertical blinds, rotation issues might stem from them overlapping or hanging backward. It’s also a good idea to check the top for any damage or obstructions that could be preventing them from moving properly. In some cases, you need to replace certain blind spare parts like the carrier stem or the blind itself to restore proper function. If the carrier stems are stuck, a lubricating spray can help loosen them. 

Fixing horizontal variations, on the other hand, can be a bit more complex and you might require different types of blind spares. This is because of the interconnected lift cords that run through the centre, left, and right. If you need to replace these treatments, you’ll first need to unthread the lift cords all the way to the damaged section. Once it’s removed and replaced, you’ll have to restring the cords through the entire set and secure them with the bottom rail to ensure everything works smoothly again. 

Essential Tools and Materials

When it comes to fixing these window treatments, having the right tools and materials makes the process much easier. You’ll want to gather a few basic tools such as a flathead screwdriver for prying off parts and making adjustments, needle-nose pliers for getting into tight spots, and tweezers for more delicate fixes. A pair of scissors is handy for trimming cords, and a lighter is useful for sealing the ends of pull cords to prevent fraying. 

It’s also important to remember that different types of blinds often require different blind replacement parts. Vertical models, for instance, may need replacement carrier stems, vane savers, or even new vanes if one is bent or broken. These parts are relatively simple to replace but specific to vertical models, so it's important to have the right ones on hand before you start. 

Horizontal models, on the other hand, often involve more intricate blinds replacement parts like tilt mechanisms, lift cords, and cord locks, which can wear out over time. If your window treatments are not lifting evenly or rotating correctly, you may need new cord loops, ladder tapes, or even a replacement tilt wand. Since they tend to have more moving parts than their vertical counterparts, it's helpful to identify the exact components that are malfunctioning so you can get the right spares. 

Whether you're working with roller blinds, Venetian, or cellular shades, having the correct spare parts for your specific type is key to a successful repair. Always ensure you’re purchasing parts that are compatible with your model to avoid any unnecessary frustration down the line. 

Fixing Carrier Stems

To fix a broken carrier stem, you’ll first need to remove the blind to give yourself access to the part. Once you have a clear view, use a pair of needle-nose pliers to carefully grip the carrier body. With your free hand, gently twist the stem while pulling it downward to detach it from the body. This step requires a bit of patience to avoid damaging other parts. 

Next, grab a blind replacement part that matches the size and shape of the original. Insert it into the carrier body, pushing it firmly until it slides into place. Once everything is secure, you can reattach the blind to the new stem. With the stem fixed, your window treatments should rotate and function properly again, just like new. 

Fixing Pull Cords

Fixing a broken pull cord is a fairly simple DIY task. First, remove the plugs from the bottom rail to access the lift cords threaded through the slats. Use a flathead screwdriver to pop them out, then pull them out with your fingers or needle-nose pliers. Next, untangle the knots in the lift cords, which you can access once the plugs are removed. If the knot won’t budge, you can cut the cord above the knot and seal the end with a lighter to prevent fraying. 

If you're replacing the damaged cord, remove the blinds from their brackets, pull out the frayed cord, and splice the new cord to the old one. By melting or gluing the ends together, you can easily guide the new cord through the slats. 

Fixing Cordless Blinds

Fixing cordless blinds that won’t go up or down can be a straightforward process. Start by checking for any obvious obstructions that might be blocking their movement. If that doesn't solve the issue, here are a few steps you can try: 

-These window treatments often run on batteries, so low battery power can cause them to malfunction. Replace any low or dead batteries to ensure they’re working properly; 

-Remove one end from the bracket and adjust the tension by spinning the end with the spring. This can help get the blinds working smoothly again; 

-Push them up and slowly release them to reset the internal tension. For horizontal blinds, you can try gently swaying them side to side before lifting them back up; 

-If none of the above works, pull the blinds down at a 45-degree angle and manually unroll them to reset the tension mechanism.