A couple of weeks ago, we began a series which shares about the fine print of your shutter warranty.  As we mentioned, most contention between customers and shutter manufacturers can be found in the mismatch of warranty expectations.  And, let's be honest, most people do not pay very close attention to the fine print found in their shutter warranty.  They only know the general coverage - which is something like a lifetime warranty with a four year warranty on the color fastness.

All shutter warranties will have their own fine print, so be sure to check with your retailer for the fine print associated with your shutter brand.  As an example, one of the lines we carry indicates:

Your shutter's warranty may not include any conditions or damages resulting from accidents, alterations, misuse, extraordinary use, misapplication, improper handling, improper installation, improper repairs, operation or cleaning, loss of color intensity, exposure to salt air, damage from insects, or the yellowing and cracking of plastic parts with the passing time.  Also, your shutter's warranty may not cover variation in color, grain, or texture in natural wood products nor excessive warping of wood slats in high humidity areas or moisture prone applications.

Additionally, your shutter's limited warranty may not cover damage to following hardware accessories / parts or minor issues generally associated with normal shutter wear and tear after a period of 12 months from the date of original installation:

• Tension loosening on louvers.
• Loose or defective magnets.
• Yellowing or cracking of plastic parts.
• Loose tilt rod staples.
• Discoloration or rusting of hardware accessories such as magnet plates and hinges.

Generally, you must notify your shutter manufacturer, if your order contains any discrepancies, non-conforming products, or any damage, immediately upon receipt of your shipment and before the shutters are installed or any alterations are attempted.

There are many other items in the fine print, which will be discussed in a subsequent blog post.  This is really just an introduction to how a shutter warranty is applied, and we hope it helps you better understand what you should expect should you encounter any issues with your plantation shutters.

Of course, we would love to help you with your shutter project. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!

Many restaurants feature outdoor dining areas with sun control problems. Solar screen exterior window treatments are the perfect solution, allowing an open, airy feeling while controlling heat and glare. Motorization options make daily procedures simple and efficient.

Here, an open air patio features our Solar Insect Shades over multiple garage door openings, which can be lowered and sealed against insects, or completely retracted when conditions permit.

Of course, we would love to help you with your outdoor insect and sun control roller shade project!  Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!

Have you ever wondered what a plantation shutter warranty will cover and/or allow?  Most contention between customers and shutter manufacturers can be found in the mismatch of warranty expectations.  And, let's be honest most people do not pay very close attention to the fine print found in their shutter warranty.  They only know the general coverage - which is something like a lifetime warranty with a four year warranty on the color fastness.

All shutter warranties will have their own fine print, so be sure to check with your retailer if this is of concern.  For the purposes of this article, we will share just a few of the nuances for the line we carry.  A warranty might include provisions like:

• Only applies to the original purchaser - non-transferable.
• Only applies if properly installed without modification.
• Only applies to issues with the shutter itself, not incidental or coincidental damage.
• Only allows for repair or replacement of the shutter - no other remedy is offered.
• Only covers the cost of the product, not the cost of shipping or labor for warranty items.
• Only applies to internal use - any misuse is not covered.

There are many other items in the fine print, which will be discussed in a subsequent blog post.  This is really just an introduction to how a shutter warranty is applied, and we hope it helps you better understand what you should expect should you encounter any issues with your plantation shutters.

Of course, we would love to help you with your shutter project. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!

No matter what your scenario, we can create or design a custom package to meet the control needs of your automated roller shade project.  Whether your project is:

• At the planning/building stage or you need to retrofit a building or space,
• Pre-wired or not yet wired,
• Or, Blending new with existing systems

most building automation is accomplished via common switching methods.

In fact, today there are 3 common automated control platforms, which include:

1. Hardwired Platform- Programmable Motor Controllers (IPMC) Interface for 110V AC Motors.
2. Intelligent Platform- Intelligent Motor Interface for AC motors (IQM-ILT-AC) features programmable motor controllers built into the head of each motor. The ILT family of motors includes both IQM-ILT-AC and IQM-ILT-DC motors for use with interior shade systems.
3. Radio Platform- "Wireless" Radio Interface for 24V DC and 110V AC Radio Motors; the simplest and most flexible method to interface with any 3rd party automation controls. Radio interface modules offer seamless connectivity to any switching system via RS232, dry contact closure, or infrared emitter.

Once you have chosen the control platform for your building or space you will be able to control office window shades in individual offices with single user remote controls and wall switches. Or, you will be able to control hundreds of shades in large buildings via a Building Automation Systems, in concert with HVAC, lighting, etc.  We, in concert with our manufacturer, can provide deep expertise to help you meet your automation goals.

Of course, we would love to help you with your automated building control system for use with you roller shades.  Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!

Here are a couple pictures of a fully louvered shutter project.  This window faces the street and as a result of this application the curb appeal of this house has skyrocketed.  Also, this office was uncomfortable with morning sun because the arch portion of the window was uncovered and the lower portion had an old woven wood shade.  As such, the old blinds provided poor heat and cold control.

Needless to say, a bright white fully louvered shutter with 3 1/2" louvers has transformed this room and home.

Of course, we would love to help you with your shutter project. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!