How Long Do Different Window Coverings Last?
Window coverings play a significant role in enhancing your home’s aesthetics and functionality. However, their lifespan varies depending on the material, quality, and how well they are maintained. In this guide, we’ll explore the average lifespan of various types of window coverings, including curtains, Venetian blinds, roller blinds, vertical blinds, pleated blinds, faux wood Venetian blinds, and solid wood shutters.
1. Curtains
Average Lifespan: 8–15 years (Although they can last longer as I personally have some cream curtains that have been in use for over 20 years and still look great)
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Fabric Quality: Heavier, durable fabrics like velvet or lined cotton tend to last longer than sheer materials like voile or organza.
Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to direct sunlight can fade and weaken the fabric over time.
Maintenance: Regular dusting, vacuuming, and proper washing can extend the lifespan significantly. (however, cleaning them incorrectly can actually shorten their useful life by shrinking or damaging the fabric, imagine washing genuine velvet curtains in a machine, they would be ruined)
Tips to Extend Life:
Use UV-blocking window films to protect against fading. (easy to apply)
Rotate curtains occasionally to ensure even wear. (very important)
Dry-clean or wash according to the care label to avoid damaging the fabric.
2. Wood Venetian Blinds
Average Lifespan: 5–10 years (these can last longer as I have a real wood venetian that is over 15 years old, the cords and strings have changed colour and the slats have faded but as they face outwards, I don't really notice)
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Material Quality: High-quality wood blinds last longer, but they are vulnerable to warping or cracking in humid environments.
Usage: Frequent opening and closing may cause wear on cords and mechanisms.
Environmental Conditions: Excessive moisture can shorten their lifespan.
Tips to Extend Life:
Avoid installing wood blinds in areas with high humidity, like bathrooms. (choose faux wood instead)
Clean with a dry cloth or a wood-safe cleaner to prevent moisture damage.
Regularly inspect and replace worn cords or damaged slats.
3. Roller Blinds
Average Lifespan: 3–10 years
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Fabric Type: Durable fabrics like polyester blends last longer than lighter, delicate materials.
Mechanism Quality: The roller mechanism may wear out before the fabric itself. (this may happen to cheap, mass produced roller blinds)
Exposure to Sunlight: Prolonged exposure can cause fading or weakening of the fabric. (more expensive roller blinds tend to have higher UV resistance properties built-in)
Tips to Extend Life:
Choose roller blinds with UV-resistant coatings.
Lubricate the roller mechanism occasionally for smooth operation.
Spot clean stains promptly to prevent permanent marks. (especially mould stains)
4. Vertical Blinds
Average Lifespan: 5–10 years
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Material: Fabric slats may fray or discolor over time, while PVC or vinyl slats are more durable but can become brittle.
Mechanism Wear: The headrail and rotation mechanism may wear out with frequent use.
Environmental Factors: Dust and grime can accumulate on slats, especially in high-traffic areas. (too close to kitchen sinks or cookers can result in stains and grease build-up)
Tips to Extend Life:
Clean slats regularly to prevent grime buildup.
Replace individual slats or chains as needed to avoid replacing the entire blind.
Inspect and maintain the headrail mechanism for smooth operation.
5. Faux Wood Venetian Blinds
Average Lifespan: 5–8 years
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Material Durability: Faux wood, typically made of PVC or composite materials, resists moisture and warping, making it ideal for humid areas.
UV Exposure: Although more resistant than real wood, excessive sunlight can still cause fading over time.
Tips to Extend Life:
Clean regularly with a damp cloth, as faux wood is more resistant to water damage.
Avoid abrasive cleaning tools to maintain the finish.
Use in bathrooms or kitchens where humidity might damage real wood blinds.
6. Pleated Blinds
Average Lifespan: 5–8 years
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Material: Pleated blinds are often made of delicate fabrics that can lose their shape or discolor over time. (although we use polyester based materials that are tougher than they look)
Mechanism Wear: The cord or motorised mechanisms can wear out with frequent use.
Cleaning: Improper cleaning methods can damage the pleats or fabric.
Tips to Extend Life:
Clean using a vacuum with a soft brush attachment to preserve pleat structure. (reduce suction power if necessary)
Avoid over-pulling cords to prevent damage.
Choose high-quality pleated blinds for better durability.
7. Solid Wood Shutters
Average Lifespan: 15–30+ years
Factors Affecting Longevity:
Material Quality: Premium hardwood shutters are extremely durable and can last decades with proper care.
Environmental Conditions: Wood shutters can warp or crack in high humidity unless sealed and treated. (choose a reputable company like Country Home Shutters)
Maintenance: Regular cleaning and care can keep shutters looking new for decades.
Tips to Extend Life:
Clean with a damp cloth and wood-safe cleaner to maintain the finish.
Use in rooms with stable humidity levels to prevent warping.
Periodically check and tighten hinges or mounting hardware.
Take care to open and shut louvres gently and in the correct direction.
Summary: Lifespans at a Glance
Window Covering | Average Lifespan |
Curtains | 8–15 years |
Wood Venetian Blinds | 5–10 years |
Roller Blinds | 3 -10 years |
Vertical Blinds | 5–10 years |
Faux Wood Venetian Blinds | 5 - 8 years |
Pleated Blinds | 5–8 years |
Solid Wood Shutters | 15–30+ years |
Factors Affecting Longevity Across All Window Coverings
Quality of Materials: Higher-quality materials typically last longer.
Environmental Conditions: Sunlight, humidity, and temperature fluctuations can degrade materials.
Usage Frequency: Frequent adjustments can wear out mechanisms faster.
Maintenance Practices: Regular cleaning and prompt repairs extend the lifespan of any window covering.
"You get what you pay for" is still true of window coverings.
With our planet suffering from an overload of refuse and discarded items maybe we should be choosing products that will last longer. Most window coverings will have plastic components or man-made fibres that are currently not recycled so buying cheaper is not an environmentally friendly option.
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