Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about window coverings, our services, and what to expect when working with us.
Window Covering Basics
The best window covering depends on your specific needs:
- Bedrooms: Blackout shades or cellular shades for light control and privacy
- Living rooms: Wood blinds, plantation shutters, or light-filtering shades
- Kitchens: Faux wood blinds (moisture-resistant) or easy-clean roller shades
- Home offices: Solar shades to reduce glare on screens while maintaining views
- Bathrooms: Vinyl or faux wood shutters that resist moisture
Our design consultants can help you determine the best solution based on your window sizes, lighting needs, and aesthetic preferences.
Installation time varies based on the number of windows and product type:
- Single window: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Average home (10-15 windows): 4-6 hours
- Large home or whole-home project: May require a full day or split across two days
We'll provide a time estimate during your consultation and communicate clearly throughout the process.
Yes, we offer free in-home consultations for most projects involving multiple windows. During the consultation, we'll:
- Measure all windows accurately
- Show you product samples in your actual space
- Discuss options based on your needs and budget
- Provide a detailed written quote
For single-window projects or simple repairs, we can often provide quotes via phone or email after you send us basic measurements or photos.
While we always recommend professional measurement for accuracy, here's the basic approach:
- Inside mount: Measure width at top, middle, and bottom. Use the narrowest measurement. Measure height at left, middle, right. Use the shortest measurement.
- Outside mount: Measure the total area you want covered. Add 2-4 inches to each side for optimal light blockage and privacy.
Note exact window measurements down to 1/8 inch. Our consultants handle all measurements professionally to ensure perfect fit.
Blinds have individual slats (horizontal or vertical) that can be tilted to control light and raised or lowered for visibility. Options include wood blinds, faux wood blinds, aluminum blinds, and vertical blinds.
Shades are continuous pieces of fabric that roll up or fold when opened. They provide a cleaner, softer look. Options include roller shades, cellular shades, Roman shades, and solar shades.
Both can provide light control and privacy — the choice often comes down to aesthetic preference and functional needs.
Product-Specific Questions
Plantation shutters are considered a premium window treatment that can add value to your home. Benefits include:
- Durability: Quality shutters can last 20+ years with proper care
- Timeless appeal: Classic design that doesn't go out of style
- Energy efficiency: Excellent insulation properties
- Home value: Often viewed as a permanent fixture by home buyers
- Light control: Precise control with wide louvers
While the upfront cost is higher than some alternatives, many homeowners find the longevity and aesthetic appeal justify the investment.
Real wood blinds are made from natural wood (basswood, oak, or cherry). They're lighter, can be stained or painted in custom colors, and offer a warm, natural appearance. Best for low-humidity areas.
Faux wood blinds are made from PVC or composite materials designed to look like wood. They're more durable in humid environments (kitchens, bathrooms), easier to clean, and more budget-friendly. They're also more resistant to warping.
For most residential applications, high-quality faux wood blinds are nearly indistinguishable from real wood at a fraction of the cost.
Motorization typically requires specific product designs with built-in motors. Retrofitting existing manual blinds is usually not possible or cost-effective. However, we can:
- Replace your existing treatments with motorized equivalents
- Install new motorized products during any renovation
- Integrate with existing smart home systems (Alexa, Google Home, etc.)
If you're considering motorization, we recommend discussing it during a consultation so we can help you choose products that offer the features you want.
We work with leading manufacturers including Hunter Douglas, Lutron, Bali, Comfortex, and others. This allows us to offer extensive options in:
- Blinds (wood, faux wood, aluminum)
- Shades (roller, cellular, Roman, solar)
- Shutters (wood, composite, vinyl)
- Motorization systems
All products carry manufacturer warranties, and we provide additional labor warranty on our installations.
For the most accurate quote, we recommend:
- In-home consultation: We measure precisely and provide detailed quote (free for most projects)
- Send measurements: If you know your window sizes, we can provide an estimate
- Showroom visit: Browse samples and discuss options with our team
Quotes include product, professional installation, and all necessary hardware. No hidden fees or surprise charges.
Service Questions
Yes! We repair all brands and types of window coverings, including:
- Broken or tangled lift cords
- Malfunctioning tilt mechanisms
- Broken or bent slats
- Damaged brackets or valances
- Motor repairs for motorized systems
Our service vehicles carry common parts for fast turnaround. If we don't have your specific part in stock, we can typically order it within 3-5 business days.
Cleaning frequency depends on product type and household conditions:
- Blinds: Dust weekly, deep clean monthly
- Shades: Vacuum quarterly, professional cleaning annually
- Shutters: Dust weekly, damp wipe monthly
- Drapes: Vacuum monthly, professional cleaning every 2-3 years
Homes with pets, allergies, or high dust may require more frequent cleaning. Our professional cleaning service can help maintain your window treatments year-round.
We serve Northwest Arkansas with our primary service area including:
- Fort Smith (primary — showroom location)
- Van Buren
- Alma
- Greenwood
- Fayetteville
- Springdale
Installation and service calls are available throughout this region. For locations beyond our standard service area, a nominal travel fee may apply — which we'll clearly communicate before scheduling.
Our warranty coverage includes:
- Labor warranty: 1 year on all installations
- Product warranties: Vary by manufacturer (typically 5-25 years)
- Motorization: Varies by system (5 years to lifetime)
We facilitate all manufacturer warranty claims on behalf of our customers. If you experience an issue with your window treatments, give us a call and we'll help determine the appropriate resolution.
Currently, we handle scheduling through direct contact:
- Phone: Call (479) 646-6339 during business hours
- Email: Send your request to estellerich@swcover.me
- Contact form: Fill out our contact form and we'll call you back
We respond to all inquiries within 24 business hours. For urgent repair needs, phone calls receive the fastest response.
Still Have Questions?
Our team is here to help. Don't see your question answered here? Reach out and we'll get back to you within 24 hours.