Roller Shades Tracking
We often get asked why long roller shades start to “look crooked” or why the tube doesn’t appear “level.” This phenomenon is known as “roller shade tracking.” Tracking refers to the situation where the roller shade rolls to one side or the other during operation. This issue has a lot to do with the ratio of the width compared to the length. If the width of the shade is much narrower than it is long, it tends to “track”. Tracking, therefore, is when the roller shade starts to roll on its own tube unevenly. This happens more frequently on roller shades that are longer than they are wide.
To make things a little simpler, think about a cat unrolling an entire roll of toilet paper (yikes!). Now, imagine trying to roll it back up to make it look like a new roll! It’s practically impossible to get it placed exactly where it was before it was unrolled!
Now, picture rolling up a small area rug where you only have to roll a couple of feet. It might be easier to align the edges correctly, right? Of course, not all roller shades are as long as a roll of toilet paper, but when a shade is longer than it is wide, issues arise.
As a result of tracking, you might experience telescoping, where the shade rolls toward one side. This can happen if the roller tube is not level or if the mounting brackets are misaligned. We recommend not raising the shades to a distance that is no more than 3 times the width of the shade. For instance, on a 134” high and 40” wide window, we recommend the shades not be raised more than 120” above the finished floor.
A common cause of tracking is over-rolling. This occurs when the shade rolls too tightly, creating tension that pulls it off track. Adjusting the tension on the roller shade can help resolve this problem and promote a more balanced roll.
By understanding these key factors—tracking, over-rolling, and telescoping—you can troubleshoot and enhance the performance of your roller shades. Regular maintenance and careful adjustments will help keep your shades operating smoothly and your living space looking sharp.
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