Made to Measure Blinds Troubleshooting – Fix Common Problems Yourself (Save $$$)
Authored By Michael Turner
Updated on April 30, 2026
Last Updated: May 2026 | Originally Published: April 2026
Most made to measure blind problems have simple fixes. Blinds won’t stay up? Spring tension is too loose – tighten by rotating the pinion. Crooked blinds? Brackets are not level – re-level them. Won’t roll up? Spring tension is too tight – loosen by rotating the pinion the opposite direction.
Here is what I learned from 2+ years of ownership:
- My roller blinds lost tension after 18 months. Fixed in 2 minutes.
- My cellular shades were crooked. The brackets were off by 2 degrees. Re-leveled in 5 minutes.
- My vertical blinds broke slats (dog ran through them). Replacement slats cost $4 each.
- Total repair costs over 2+ years: $12 (three replacement slats for vertical blinds).
Who this guide is for: Owners of made to measure blinds who want to fix problems without calling a professional.
Who this guide is NOT for: People with broken mechanisms under warranty (contact the manufacturer first).
Made to Measure Blinds Troubleshooting – Fix Common Problems Yourself (Save $$$)
Here is a truth most blind companies will not tell you: Most blind problems are easy to fix yourself.
I have owned made to measure blinds for over 2 years. I have had my share of problems: blinds that would not stay up, blinds that were crooked, slats that broke, cords that jammed.
Every time, I fixed it myself. No professional. No expensive service call.
The total cost of my repairs over 2+ years: $12 (replacement slats for vertical blinds after my dog ran through them).
This guide covers every problem I have encountered and how I fixed it. Use the table below to find your problem and jump to the solution.
Let us get into it.
Need to install blinds first? See my How to Install Made to Measure Blinds guide.
Quick Problem Finder
| Problem | Most Likely Cause | Jump to Section |
|---|---|---|
| Blinds won’t stay up | Spring tension too loose (roller) | Roller Blinds Won’t Stay Up |
| Blinds won’t go down | Spring tension too tight (roller) | Roller Blinds Won’t Go Down |
| Blinds are crooked | Brackets not level | Blinds Are Crooked |
| Blinds won’t roll up smoothly | Mechanism dirty or cord tangled | Blinds Won’t Roll Up Smoothly |
| Cellular shades won’t raise | Cord tangled or broken | Cellular Shades Won’t Raise |
| Faux wood slat won’t close | Bent slat or tilted bracket | Faux Wood Slat Won’t Close |
| Vertical blind slat broken | Slat snapped or fell off | Vertical Blind Slat Broken |
| Cord is tangled or jammed | Cord wrapped around mechanism | Cord Is Tangled or Jammed |
| Motorized blinds not working | Batteries dead or remote issue | Motorized Blinds Not Working |
| Light gaps on sides | Wrong mount type for your needs | Light Gaps on Sides |
| Valance won’t stay on | Clips broken or brackets bent | Valance Won’t Stay On |
| Blinds make noise when operating | Dry mechanism or loose parts | Blinds Make Noise |
Roller Blinds Won’t Stay Up
Symptoms: You raise the blind. It falls back down immediately or slowly lowers on its own.
Most likely cause: Spring tension is too loose.
How to Fix (2 minutes)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the blind from brackets |
| 2 | Roll the blind up completely by hand |
| 3 | Locate the pinion end (usually the right side, has a flat edge or pin) |
| 4 | Pull the pinion out slightly (it may click) |
| 5 | Rotate the pinion CLOCKWISE 1-2 full turns |
| 6 | Push the pinion back in |
| 7 | Reinstall the blind and test |
What if it is still loose? Add 1-2 more clockwise turns. Test again.
What if it is too tight now (won’t go down)? See the next section.
My experience: My living room roller blinds lost tension after 18 months of daily use. Fixed in 2 minutes. Have been working fine for 6+ months since.
For more on roller blinds, see my Made to Measure Blinds Buying Guide.
Roller Blinds Won’t Go Down
Symptoms: You try to lower the blind. It springs back up or will not extend.
Most likely cause: Spring tension is too tight.
How to Fix (2 minutes)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the blind from brackets |
| 2 | Unroll the blind completely by hand |
| 3 | Locate the pinion end (usually the right side) |
| 4 | Pull the pinion out slightly |
| 5 | Rotate the pinion COUNTER-CLOCKWISE 1-2 full turns |
| 6 | Push the pinion back in |
| 7 | Reinstall the blind and test |
What if it is still too tight? Add 1-2 more counter-clockwise turns.
Pro tip: Make small adjustments (1-2 turns at a time). Do not over-correct.
Blinds Are Crooked
Symptoms: One side of the blind is higher than the other. The blind tilts to one side when raised or lowered.
Most likely cause: Brackets were not installed level.
How to Fix (5-10 minutes)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the blind from brackets |
| 2 | Place your level on top of each bracket |
| 3 | Identify which bracket is lower/higher |
| 4 | Loosen the screws on the crooked bracket |
| 5 | Adjust bracket until level |
| 6 | Tighten screws |
| 7 | Repeat for all brackets |
| 8 | Reinstall the blind and test |
Prevention: Always use a level during installation. I skipped this on my first blind and had to redo it. Do not skip the level.
My experience: My first installation attempt was crooked. The brackets were off by 2 degrees. Re-leveling took 5 minutes. The blind has been straight ever since.
See my How to Install Made to Measure Blinds guide for proper installation steps.
Blinds Won’t Roll Up Smoothly
Symptoms: The blind hesitates, catches, or makes grinding sounds when rolling up.
Most likely cause: Dirt in the mechanism, tangled cord, or bent bracket.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check for visible obstructions (dirt, debris) in the roller mechanism |
| 2 | Vacuum the mechanism area with brush attachment |
| 3 | Check for tangled cords (if corded) |
| 4 | Ensure brackets are not bent |
| 5 | Check if the fabric is rolling evenly (not folding over itself) |
If fabric is folding over itself: Remove blind, unroll completely, re-roll carefully, reinstall.
If mechanism is grinding: The spring may need lubrication. Use silicone spray (not WD-40). Spray lightly on moving parts. Wipe excess.
What to NEVER do: Do not use oil-based lubricants (WD-40). They attract dust and make the problem worse.
Cellular Shades Won’t Raise
Symptoms: You pull the cord (or push up) and the shade does not raise. Or it raises unevenly.
Most likely cause: Tangled cord or broken cord lock.
For Corded Cellular Shades
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Inspect the cord for tangles |
| 2 | Gently untangle any knots |
| 3 | Check that the cord is seated in the cord lock properly |
| 4 | Pull the cord at a 45-degree angle (not straight down) |
If the cord lock is broken: Contact the manufacturer for a replacement part. This is not a DIY fix for most people.
For Cordless Cellular Shades
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Check for obstructions in the headrail |
| 2 | Ensure the shade is not twisted |
| 3 | Try raising evenly from the center of the bottom rail |
| 4 | If still stuck, remove shade and inspect the spring mechanism |
My experience: I have not had cordless issues, but I have heard that dust buildup can cause problems. Vacuum the headrail area regularly.
Warning: Do not force the shade. Forcing can break the mechanism. If gentle troubleshooting does not work, contact the manufacturer.
See my How to Clean Made to Measure Blinds guide for proper cleaning methods.
Faux Wood Slat Won’t Close
Symptoms: One slat does not close fully when you tilt the blinds. It sticks out at an angle.
Most likely cause: Bent slat or tilted bracket.
Step-by-Step Fix
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Inspect the slat for visible bending |
| 2 | If bent, gently bend back with your fingers (go slowly) |
| 3 | If not bent, check if the bracket on that side is tilted |
| 4 | Re-level bracket if needed |
If slat is cracked or broken: Replacement slats are available from the manufacturer. Contact them with your blind model number.
Prevention: Do not force slats past their natural rotation range. Stop when you feel resistance.
My experience: My son bent one slat playing near the window. I gently bent it back. It is not perfect, but it closes now.
Vertical Blind Slat Broken
Symptoms: A slat has fallen off, cracked, or snapped.
Most likely cause: Physical impact (dog, child, furniture) or normal wear over many years.
How to Replace a Single Slat (2 minutes)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove the broken slat by sliding it up and out of the headrail |
| 2 | Note the slat width (3.5″ or 4.5″ are most common) and color |
| 3 | Order replacement slats from Blinds.com, Home Depot, or Amazon |
| 4 | Slide the new slat into the headrail |
| 5 | Attach the bottom weight chain |
Where to Buy Replacement Slats
| Retailer | Price per Slat | Shipping | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Blinds.com | 3−8 | Fast | Match your brand |
| Home Depot | 4−10 | In-store pickup | Limited colors |
| Amazon | 5−15 | Prime | Wide selection |
| FixMyBlinds.com | 2−6 | Standard | Specialized |
My experience: My dog ran through my vertical blinds. Two slats broke. Replacement slats cost $4 each from Blinds.com. They arrived in 4 days. Installation took 2 minutes. Good as new.
Cord Is Tangled or Jammed
Symptoms: The pull cord is knotted, stuck, or will not move.
Most likely cause: Cord wrapped around itself or caught in the mechanism.
How to Fix (5 minutes)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Do not pull hard (can break the cord lock) |
| 2 | Gently work the cord back and forth to loosen tangles |
| 3 | If knotted, carefully untie using tweezers if needed |
| 4 | Ensure cord is fully seated in the cord lock |
| 5 | Test operation gently |
If cord is fraying or damaged: Do not use. Contact the manufacturer for a replacement cord or new blind.
Safety note: If you have children, replace corded blinds with cordless immediately. Corded blinds are a strangulation hazard.
See my Made to Measure Blinds Buying Guide for cordless recommendations.
Motorized Blinds Not Working
Symptoms: Remote does nothing. Blinds do not move. App cannot connect.
Most likely cause: Dead batteries (most common), remote issue, or hub problem.
Step-by-Step Troubleshooting
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Replace batteries in the blind motor (usually AA or AAA) |
| 2 | Replace batteries in the remote |
| 3 | Ensure remote is paired with the blind (re-pair if needed) |
| 4 | Check that the hub (if applicable) has power and internet |
| 5 | Restart the hub and remote |
If still not working: Contact the manufacturer. Motorized blinds have warranties (1-5 years typically).
My experience: I do not have motorized blinds in my home, but I have installed them for clients. Battery issues cause 90% of problems. Replace batteries first.
Light Gaps on Sides
Symptoms: Daylight is visible around the edges of your blinds.
Most likely cause: You are using inside mount when you need outside mount.
The Truth About Light Gaps
| Mount Type | Light Gaps | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Inside mount | Always – 0.125-0.25 inches on each side | Aesthetics, not blackout |
| Outside mount | None – covers entire frame | Blackout, bedrooms |
If you have inside mount and want no light gaps: You cannot. Inside mount always has small gaps.
How to Fix (if you need blackout)
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Return inside mount blinds (if within return window) |
| 2 | Order outside mount blinds with 4-6 inches added to width and height |
| 3 | Install outside mount (mounts on wall above window) |
| 4 | For true blackout, add side channels |
My experience: My inside mount cellular shades have small light gaps (about 0.125 inches on each side). They are fine for my bedroom since I do not need complete blackout. For my nursery, I used outside mount with side channels – zero light gaps.
See my How to Measure for Made to Measure Blinds guide for inside vs outside mount instructions.
Valance Won’t Stay On
Symptoms: The decorative valance at the top of the blind keeps falling off.
Most likely cause: Broken clips or bent brackets.
How to Fix
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Inspect the clips that attach the valance to brackets |
| 2 | If clips are broken, order replacements from manufacturer |
| 3 | If brackets are bent, gently bend back with pliers |
| 4 | Ensure valance is aligned correctly before snapping on |
If clips are missing: Some blinds use magnetic valance attachments. Check your manual.
Temporary fix: Double-sided tape can hold a valance in place while you wait for replacement clips.
Blinds Make Noise
Symptoms: Grinding, clicking, or squeaking sounds when operating blinds.
Most likely cause: Dry mechanism, dust buildup, or loose parts.
How to Fix
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Vacuum the headrail and mechanism area |
| 2 | Check for loose screws on brackets |
| 3 | Tighten any loose screws |
| 4 | Apply silicone spray lubricant to moving parts (not WD-40) |
| 5 | Wipe excess lubricant |
What lubricant to use: Silicone spray (available at Home Depot, Lowe’s, Amazon). WD-40 attracts dust and should not be used on blinds.
What to NEVER do: Do not use oil-based lubricants (WD-40, 3-in-1 oil). They attract dust and make the problem worse over time.
When to Call a Professional
Some problems are not worth fixing yourself.
| Situation | Why Call a Pro |
|---|---|
| Blind is under warranty | DIY repair may void warranty |
| Broken cord lock | Requires disassembly of headrail |
| Shattered slats (multiple) | Replacing many slats is tedious |
| Blind fell off wall | May need new anchors or professional mounting |
| Motorized blind won’t respond after new batteries | May be internal electrical issue |
| You have tried everything and it still does not work | Time for professional assessment |
Estimated Repair Costs
| Repair | DIY Cost | Pro Cost (estimate) |
|---|---|---|
| Replace vertical slat | 4−10 | 50−100 (minimum service call) |
| Re-tension roller blind | $0 | 50−100 |
| Re-level brackets | $0 (just time) | 50−150 |
| Replace cord lock | 10−20 (part) | 75−150 |
| Motor repair | Not DIY | 100−300 (or replace blind) |
My advice: Try the DIY fixes in this guide first. Most problems are simple. If you are stuck or uncomfortable, call a pro.
Preventive Maintenance Checklist
Regular maintenance prevents most problems.
Monthly (5 minutes per blind)
| Task | How To |
|---|---|
| Dust blinds | Microfiber cloth or vacuum |
| Check for loose screws | Tighten any loose bracket screws |
| Test operation | Raise and lower fully |
Every 6 Months (15 minutes per blind)
| Task | How To |
|---|---|
| Deep clean | See cleaning guide for your blind type |
| Check spring tension | Ensure blinds stay up and go down smoothly |
| Inspect cords (if corded) | Check for fraying or tangles |
| Lubricate mechanism | Silicone spray on moving parts |
Annually (30 minutes per blind)
| Task | How To |
|---|---|
| Remove and inspect | Take blind down, check all parts |
| Replace worn parts | Order replacements before they fail |
| Professional service | For motorized blinds only |
See my How to Clean Made to Measure Blinds guide for detailed cleaning instructions.
FAQ- Frequently Asked Questions
Q: My blinds won’t stay up. Is this covered under warranty?
A: For roller blinds, spring tension loosening over time is normal wear and tear. Most warranties do not cover it. The fix is easy – see the “Roller Blinds Won’t Stay Up” section above.
Q: How long do made to measure blinds last?
A: With proper care: roller blinds 5-10 years, cellular shades 10-15 years, faux wood blinds 10-15 years, vertical blinds 5-10 years. I have had mine for 2+ years and they still work like new.
Q: Can I fix a broken cord lock myself?
A: Possibly, but it requires disassembling the headrail. If you are handy, you can find replacement cord locks online (10−20). If not, call a professional or replace the blind.
Q: My blinds are only 1 year old and already have problems. What do I do?
A: Contact the manufacturer. Most made to measure blinds have 1-5 year warranties. Blindster has a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Blinds.com has a “Perfect Fit Guarantee.”
Q: How do I know if my brackets are level without a level?
A: You cannot. Buy a level (10−20). Guessing will result in crooked blinds. I learned this the hard way.
Q: My vertical blind slats keep falling off. What is wrong?
A: The slat carriers (small plastic clips that hold slats) may be broken. Replacement carriers are available from the manufacturer. Remove the headrail cover, slide out the broken carrier, slide in the new one.
Q: Can I use WD-40 on my blinds?
A: No. WD-40 is not a lubricant – it is a solvent. It will clean but then attract dust. Use silicone spray lubricant instead.
Q: My blinds are faded from sun exposure. Can I fix that?
A: No. Fading is permanent. Prevention is key: use UV-protective window film or choose fade-resistant fabrics (polyester is better than cotton).
Q: How do I find replacement parts for my blinds?
A: Look for a sticker on the headrail with the model number. Contact the manufacturer directly. For common brands: Blindster (support@blindster.com), SelectBlinds (customer service), Blinds.com (help desk).
Q: Is it worth repairing old blinds or should I replace them?
A: If blinds are under 5 years old, repair. If over 10 years old and multiple problems, replace. If the cost of parts exceeds 50% of new blinds, replace.
Replacement Parts Directory
| Brand | Replacement Parts Contact |
|---|---|
| Blindster | support@blindster.com |
| SelectBlinds | Customer service via website |
| Blinds.com | Help desk via website |
| Levolor | 1-800-538-6567 |
| Bali | Customer service via website |
| Home Depot | Store service desk |
| Lowe’s | Store service desk |
Tools You Should Own for Blind Maintenance
| Tool | Cost | Use For |
|---|---|---|
| Screwdriver set | 10−20 | Tightening brackets, replacing parts |
| Level | 10−20 | Ensuring brackets are straight |
| Silicone spray lubricant | 5−10 | Lubricating mechanisms |
| Microfiber cloths | 5−10 | Dusting and cleaning |
| Vacuum with brush attachment | Already own | Dusting all blind types |
| Pliers | 10−15 | Bending brackets, pulling pins |
Your Action Plan
Step 1: Identify your problem using the Quick Problem Finder table.
Step 2: Follow the step-by-step fix for your specific problem.
Step 3: If the fix works, great! Update your maintenance schedule to prevent recurrence.
Step 4: If the fix does not work, contact the manufacturer (if under warranty) or a professional.
Step 5: For ongoing maintenance, follow the preventive maintenance checklist above.
Need to clean your blinds? See my How to Clean Made to Measure Blinds guide.
[Buy Silicone Spray Lubricant on Amazon →]
[Shop Blind Repair Parts at Blindster →]
[Get a Level at Home Depot →]
