How to fix vertical blinds

Deciding how to fix vertical blinds will depend on the issue you are having with your blinds currently. There are a few different issues you could run into with vertical blind repairs; whether it be replacing a vane, fixing a broken gap or replacing a carrier clip we have you covered in this article.

In many ways, vertical blind repairs are easy to perform as do-it-yourself projects but it still pays to know a few things before loosening a single screw. Keep in mind that vertical blinds are investments in home improvements so it is essential to know how to fix vertical blinds in order to perform repairs properly.

Vertical Blind Parts

Before you learn how to fix vertical blinds, you should know the parts so as to understand the instructions that come with each type of repair work. The most common parts of vertical blinds are: Box bracket - these are the box-shaped mounting brackets used for attaching the blinds to the window or wall. Carrier - these carry the vane, the vertical slats, back and forth across the blinds' headrail. Carrier clip - this connects to the carrier and holds the vanes together. Spacing chain connector - this connects and secures the spacing chains' ends. Top track - this houses the mechanisms operating the blind. Vane - this is the panel hanging from the headrail.

If you still have the instructions manual, read and understand the parts so as to be able to successfully follow these how-to steps in order to fix vertical blinds.

There are a few different things which could be the issue if your vertical blinds are in need of repair; we’ve broken it down into handy, easy to follow sections to help you.

Replacing a vane

Vanes are often the first parts of vertical blinds that become broken because of the constant adjustments, among other reasons. Fortunately, these are easy to replace by following these steps.

1. Lift up the broken vane so that it can be removed from its hook on the carrier.
2. Bend it out to open the carrier and bend it down to remove it.
3. Then install the new vane.
4. Align it so that it has the same curve as that of the existing vanes. Hold it near its topmost portion before attaching and locking it into the holder.
5. There are small differences in installing a new vane depending on its type. For an aluminium or vinyl vane, the chain should be inserted through the replacement vane's holes while ensuring that the existing vanes remain aligned.
6. For a fabric vane, push the replacement vane weight back into its pocket. Be sure to attach and secure the spacing chain connector.

Fixing A Broken Gap in A Vane

Instead of replacing an entire vane, fixing its broken gap may be the better solution for the moment. This is especially true for gaps in the strip at the top, which can easily break in the first place and which can be remedied by using a toothpick or paper clip, McGyver style.

1. Basically, place either a a toothpick or a paper clip over the gap, arrange it to make it as inconspicuous as possible, and then tape it down.
2. Cutting a toothpick in two, replacing the two pieces over the missing strip, and taping them down also does the trick.
3. Better yet, use a vane saver. This is an adhesive piece made either from metal or plastic that can be placed over the vane's topmost part; its spike allow it to firmly attach to the vane and to cover up its gap.

Replacing A Carrier Clip

While a broken carrier clip may seem difficult to repair, this is not so for as long as you know what type of vertical blinds are being repaired.

1. Pull out the parts of the carrier clip including the carrier.
2. Using a small pair or pliers, elevate the carrier and then hammer down the carrier clip to remove it.
3. Insert the replacement carrier.
4. In a Graber type of track: use a thin metal stick to pop out the carrier clip.
5. Insert the replacement part.
6. Be sure to use gentle yet firm motions when tugging at any part. Too gentle and it will not budge; too hard and the window blinds can be worse for the wear.