Back
to Articles
It is always a smart idea
to obtain the greatest value with any items purchased
for your rental property. Oftentimes, value can be
directly translated into the durability or longevity
of the products you buy.
The
timeless axiom of "caveat
emptor" or let the buyer beware is certainly
applicable in today's marketplace. Any initial savings
you might receive can be entirely eliminated if you
are compelled to either repair or replace the product
after only one or two years usage.
It makes sound
business sense, therefore, to invest in products
yielding the longest life span available. For
example, there are several nationally known televised
mini-blind brands. Unfortunately, however, for
rental property owners, these blinds tend to
be made specifically for light residential use.
While they may offer lovely aesthetic value,
they really aren't built to withstand a beating
from the type of tenants we all sometimes inevitably
encounter.
Agaiditionally provide superior
cleaning qualities.
Also, the tighter the weave
on the fabric, the better cleaning results. Fabrics
with an open weave pattern usually do not clean as
well and also frequently lose their shape. Tighter,
heavier weave fabrics tend to provide better protection
against damaging sun rot or intense heat on exposed
windows.
If you purchase a drapery with a backing or insulation, make certain to only
purchase ones with a soft suede backing. Try to stay
away from the cheaper acrylic or rubber backings.
They do not hold up as long. Once again, for just
a few dollars more, a drapery with a durable suede
backing can last three to five years longer!
Finally, purchase from a
drapery vendor that carries an ample selection of
several hundred drapery fabric choices. Remember,
the more fabrics, the greater the options available
to you in terms of quality, fitting the particular
needs of you or your property, as well as providing
many more price options.
2. Blinds-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
buy. Either select a .008 or .009 nominal thickness
gauge slat. These are certainly superior to .006
gauge. The thicker the slat, the less
prone it is to damage. Second, and just as importantly,
is the mechanical operation of the blinds. All metal
mechanical parts help provide long-term durability.
Finally, only buy blinds with a Lifetime
Warranty on all mechanical parts and workmanship.
In conclusion, why buy a
cheaply made or constructed drapery or blind that
is 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.
Back to Articles |
