Symptoms
- Shade won't move up or down
- Cordless lift feels jammed
- One side moves while the other doesn't
- Cells (honeycomb pleats) look crushed or bent at one spot
Likely causes
- CommonCord lock mechanism jammedDust or a slightly misaligned cord can stop the internal lock from releasing.
- CommonCells crushed or bent from being closed unevenlyPushing one side down faster than the other can crease the honeycomb material.
- PossibleCordless spring mechanism worn or misadjustedSimilar to cordless blinds, the internal tension spring can weaken.
- PossibleShade off-level in its bracketsAn uneven mount can cause one side to bind while the other moves freely.
What to do
- Check that the shade is level in its brackets and both mounting brackets are securely attached.
- Gently raise and lower using both hands evenly across the bottom rail rather than pulling from one side.
- Inspect the honeycomb cells for a crushed or folded section and gently work it back into shape by hand.
- For corded versions, check the cord lock at the top for debris or misalignment and clean it out.
- For cordless versions, check for a tension adjustment under an end cap per the manufacturer's instructions.
- Operate the shade slowly and evenly several times once freed to help it settle into smooth movement.
- If only one side moves, the lift cord or spring on the stuck side may need professional repair or replacement.
Tools and parts
- None typically needed
When to call a pro
Call a blind repair service if one side is stuck due to an internal cord or spring issue that isn't accessible without disassembly.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.