Symptoms
- One side of the shade is lower than the other
- Fabric wrinkles diagonally as it rolls
- Gap on one side between the shade and window frame
- Shade drifts to one side when raised or lowered
Likely causes
- CommonFabric wound unevenly on the roller tubeIf the shade wasn't rolled up perfectly straight even once, it compounds each time.
- CommonMounting brackets not levelEven a slightly uneven bracket installation causes a visible tilt over the width of the shade.
- PossibleOne end cap seated differently than the otherA partially inserted pin or clutch end can throw off the level.
- Less commonFabric itself cut slightly out of squareManufacturing variance can cause a very slight but noticeable skew.
What to do
- Lower the shade fully and check both mounting brackets with a small level.
- Adjust the bracket that's off-level by loosening its screws and repositioning before retightening.
- Roll the shade all the way up by hand, checking that the fabric wraps straight and evenly with no diagonal drift.
- If it wraps crooked, unroll fully and slowly rewind it by hand, keeping the fabric edge aligned with the tube's edge as you go.
- Confirm both end caps (pin and clutch, if applicable) are fully seated in their brackets.
- Operate the shade a few times after adjusting to see if it self-corrects with the improved winding.
- If it's still crooked after re-winding evenly, the fabric itself may be slightly out of square, which typically means a replacement.
Tools and parts
- Small level
- Screwdriver
When to call a pro
Call a blind installer if the brackets are level and the fabric still winds crooked, since it may be a manufacturing defect covered under warranty.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.