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In todays market, there are countless
options for purchasing horizontal
mini-blinds and
vertical-blinds. There are nationally known brands
that are practically household names. However, few
of
these blinds are specifically made for the toughness
and durability needed in rental unit situations.
Unfortunately, and as we all know, tenants can sometimes
be very abusive in terms of damaging your property.
Because the majority of blinds available
are constructed in a lighter weight version intended
mostly for residential usage, it should come as no
surprise that you cannot expect residential type
blinds to last as long as their heavier counterpart.
Therefore, when purchasing horizontal
blinds be sure to look for the following points:
First and foremost with blinds
are the slats. They tend to represent the first point of
damage on a blind. Simply said, try to buy the thickest
slat you can find. Either select a .007 or .009 nominal
thickness gauge slat. These are certainly superior
to .006 gauge. Buyer Beware! Don't be fooled into
believing that .006 gauge is as strong as .008 gauge.
It is as different as 6 pounds is to 7.5 or 9.5 pounds.
The thicker the slat, the less prone it is to damage.
Second, and just as importantly, is the mechanical
operation of the blinds. Those made with all
metal mechanical parts help provide long-term durability.
Finally, only buy blinds with a Lifetime
Warranty on all mechanical parts and workmanship.
Regarding vertical
blinds, you should
consider the following points:
First, be sure to purchase
heavy duty steel headrails. These will provide long-lasting
tough durability. They also are superior in strength
to the lighter weight aluminum headrails frequently
sold today. Second, make sure you purchase
verticals with self-aligning carriers in order to avert tenants
from needlessly stripping the gears. Finally, buy
verticals with nice thick vanes or slats. These will
last longer, block out more light, and make for an
overall better appearance.
In conclusion, why buy cheaply
made or constructed blinds that are more suitable
to limited light usage in residences?
If you save a few dollars initially, how much will
you save when you have to replace it in a year
or two?
Window
coverings are an investment. Spend
wisely and purchase the longest lasting products
you can buy. You will not go wrong with value realized
window coverings.
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