Window shades aren't as popular as they once were, but they still cover millions of windows--except when the shades are broken. Here's how to fix them.

How Does It Work?

Components of a typical window shade mechanism.

A window shade is a flexible covering attached to a roller mounted at the top of a window, designed to regulate the light or view. A window shade uses a hollow roller with a coiled spring inside. Pulling down on the shade puts more tension on the spring. Once you stop pulling, a ratchet and flat pin at one end of the roller holds the tension until you release it. The other end of the roller has a round stationary pin that turns freely in its bracket.

A roll-up blind is a combination of a venetian blind (see Window Blind Repair) and a roller shade. A roll-up blind has slats and pulleys that move only up and down; there is no tilting mechanism.

Fix-It Tip

When purchasing a new window shade, look for one that is made to last and won't require frequent service.

What Can Go Wrong?

Window shades are relatively simple in operation and easy to fix. The tension on the roller may be too loose or too tight. The shade may not stay down. The shade may be stuck all the way up or down. The shade may fall out of the bracket. The shade cloth may tear.