How to Update Your RV's Window Coverings: Blinds and Shades Guide

Updating your RV's window coverings is an excellent way to refresh the look of your coach and enhance your comfort. In this article, the Keystone team walks you through two common types of window treatments: blinds and shades, along with detailed removal and replacement instructions.

Types of Window Treatments

1. Blinds: Composed of multiple slats, blinds help reduce sunlight entering the RV.
2. Shades: Made of a single piece of material, shades come in two varieties: Roller Shades: Operate like a projector screen. Pleated Shades: Feature a folded design.

Most shades and blinds come with retaining clips secured to the wall or window treatment to ensure stability. In the RV industry, the rigid piece that surrounds the blind or shade is commonly referred to as a "window treatment," valance, or lambrequin. These components are essential for privacy and minimizing light around the edges.

Removing the Valance

To access the screws holding your blinds or shades, you need to remove the valance:

1. Locate the L-Brackets: Find the L-brackets securing the window treatment to the wall.
2. Remove the Screws: Using a screw gun with a #2 square bit, remove the screws from all L-brackets. An extension may be useful for better reach, especially in tighter spaces.
3. Access the Blinds or Shades: If your treatment has L-bracket retaining clips, remove the blinds or shades to access the screws holding the top of the window treatment.

Tip: When replacing a window treatment, reconnect everything with the same screws in the same orientation as they were removed.

Removing the Blind or Shade

Horizontal Blinds

1. Locate the Corner Brackets: These secure the blind to the wall.
2. Release the Locking Tab: Pull out the locking tab on the top of the blind to slide it out of the brackets.
3. Install the New Blind: Slide the new blind back into the brackets and reattach the locking tabs. This style does not require any tools for replacement.

Roller Shades

1. Pull Down the Shade: From the closed position, pull the shade down. The roller tube has catch points that prevent the shade from retracting.
2. Retract the Shade: To retract the shade, slightly pull on the shade from the down position, allowing the material to wrap back around the tube.

Pleated Shades

1. Detach the Strings: The shade is attached to the wall with retaining clips. Detach the string from the standoff at the bottom before removing the top section.
2. Install the New Shade: Insert the top section of the new shade, then tie the strings to the standoffs to allow the shade to operate vertically with the window.

Updating your RV's window coverings can significantly enhance the overall look and functionality of your space. Whether you choose blinds or shades, the removal and installation process is straightforward with the right tools and guidance. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to the Keystone team for support. Happy renovating!

Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is deemed to be true and accurate at the time of publication. However, due to the evolving nature of our products and services, there may be changes or updates that occur after this article was published. We encourage users to verify the contents and consult with their dealer or Keystone RV for the most current information. If you have any questions or require further clarification, please do not hesitate to contact your dealer or reach out to Keystone RV directly.