In Hawaii’s tropical climate, window coverings are essential to help keep homes cool and protect interior furnishings and flooring from fading and sun damage. Effective window treatments also help keep energy bills low and contribute to interior design. If your window coverings don’t meet your standards, here are a few signs that it may be time to replace them.

How to Know When You Need New Window Treatments

1. Discoloration

Sunlight and moisture combined with age can lead to blind or shutter slats becoming yellow or discolored over time. Deep discoloration may also indicate the material is degrading.

When choosing new treatments, look for UV-resistant materials like poly or vinyl shutters.

2. Broken Slats

Humidity and heat can cause slats to warp as well. Shutters or blinds with broken, peeling, or bent slats not only look unappealing but also offer less privacy and sun protection. They may even prevent the covering from closing or opening properly.

3. Difficult to Operate

Blinds or shutters should open and close or adjust for brightness smoothly. If you constantly have to fiddle with the opening mechanisms or manually adjust the slats to close properly, it’s time to replace them. Rust, mold, and humidity may all negatively impact operating mechanisms.

4. You’re Remodeling

Window coverings are a part of the exterior and interior decor. If you remodel, repaint, install new windows, or add a room, this is a perfect time to assess the style and functionality of your current window treatments.

Choose new coverings that complement the renovations, and upgrade to moisture or sun-resistant materials.

For traditional and stylish window coverings, consult Saiki's Window Designs, Inc. in Mililani. They’ve provided Oahu with interior and exterior shutters and blinds for over 20 years. They sell and ship to neighbor islands too. Call (808) 384-5003 to make an appointment, or find a full range of products and services on their website. Visit them on Facebook to see product installation photos.