RV Day/Night shades, also known as Duolite shades, RV pleated shades, or sun up/sun down shades, are a common feature in many recreational vehicles. These shades are designed to provide both privacy and light control, with one half of the shade made from opaque fabric and the other half from semi-transparent light-filtering fabric.
Repairing Broken Strings
One of the most common issues with RV Day/Night shades is broken strings. Over time, the thin cords that control the movement of the shade can fray, wear out, or even snap, causing the shade to become loose and difficult to operate. Fortunately, this is a relatively easy repair that can be done with a few simple tools and a replacement cord.
To replace a broken string, you’ll first need to remove the shade from the RV window. This typically involves unscrewing the trim around the shade and carefully detaching the shade from the mounting brackets. Once the shade is removed, you can access the broken string and replace it with a new one.
The replacement cord is readily available and inexpensive, often costing just a few dollars for a 100-yard roll. When selecting a replacement, make sure to choose a cord that matches the thickness of the original, usually around 1.4mm. You can find these cords at fabric stores, RV supply shops, or online retailers.
To install the new cord, simply thread it through the holes in the shade and secure it at the bottom with the provided screws or clips. Be sure to follow the original stringing pattern to ensure the shade operates correctly. Once the new cord is in place, reattach the shade to the RV window and test it to ensure it’s working properly.
Replacing Worn-Out Cord Guides
Another common issue with RV Day/Night shades is worn-out cord guides. These small plastic or metal pieces help to keep the cords in place and prevent them from rubbing against the shade fabric, which can cause premature wear and tear.
If you notice that the cord guides are worn or damaged, you can replace them with new ones. This process is similar to replacing the broken strings, as you’ll need to remove the shade from the RV window to access the cord guides. Once the shade is removed, simply pry out the old guides and snap in the new ones, making sure they are properly aligned and secured.
Attaching Cord Retainers
In some cases, the cords on your RV Day/Night shade may become loose or start to sag, causing the shade to operate unevenly or even fall out of place. To address this issue, you can install cord retainers, which are small plastic or metal clips that attach to the shade and hold the cords in place.
Cord retainers are typically inexpensive and easy to install. Simply position them along the length of the shade, spacing them out evenly, and secure them in place with screws or adhesive. This will help to keep the cords taut and ensure the smooth operation of your RV Day/Night shade.
With these simple repairs, you can extend the life of your RV Day/Night shades and maintain their functionality for years to come. Remember to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and take your time to ensure a proper and secure installation.