My Top Three Choices for Shade Lift Systems
Cordless top-down bottom-up shades. Photography courtesy of Lafayette Interior Fashions.
The choices for window treatments today can be overwhelming: fabrics, trims, hardware, style, etc. Today I'll be breaking down my top three choices for shade lift systems…
#1: The Classic Chain Pull
Chain pulls, also known as chain loops, have been around for a very long time. This is a bead chain that fits into the grooves of a cog at the top of a shade, similar to a bicycle gear and chain. It allows the user to lift and lower many types of shades (roller, cellular, fabric) very easily.
The pros: Low in cost, easy to use and maintain.
The cons: Presents a safety issue unless secured to the wall with a safety tensioner.
Fabric shades operate with beaded chain loop. Notice the tension device mounted to the inside of the window frame. This holds the bead loop taut.
#2: The Sleek Electric Motor
Almost any type of shade can be motorized. Whether with a button on an attached wand or a remote control, these shades are easy to operate. There are many options for power sources such as hard wired, batteries, and solar power. With no cord control, motorized shades are very safe for any home.
The pros: Easy to operate from almost anywhere in the room.
The cons: While cost has come down quite a bit in the past few years, this remains the most expensive option.
Motorization makes operating shades so easy! From anywhere in the room, simply push a button to raise or lower. Charging the battery in the shade is as easy as charging your phone.
#3: The Cordless Spring Lift
Spring lift, also called cordless, systems are very common with solar roller shades, fabric shades, and cellular shades: both standard and top-down, bottom-up. These shades are raised and lowered by hand at the bottom and stop where you want them to stop. Although manual, spring lifts are very safe with the elimination of lift cords.
The pros: Very simple to operate and not very expensive.
The cons: Spring lifts have height, length and weight limitations.
Cordless top-down bottom-up shades are very safe for homes with pets or children. Raise or lower by hand at the top or bottom of shade.
These are my top three choices for shade lift systems, and I cannot rank them in any particular order. Which lift system I recommend really depends on my client's needs, the size and location of windows, and budget. Overwhelmed by the options? I have samples of shades with different lift systems; you can see, touch, and try them all.
Wondering how to pick the perfect window treatment mechanisms for your space? Reach out or leave a comment below with any questions!
Until next time,
Laura