Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule

Since Haven® and Ziptrak® Awnings are typically installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required with the frequency applicable to your environmental risk profile.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

Clear and tinted PVC:

• Rinse PVC with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only.  DO NOT use high pressure washer
• PVC should be wiped with damp micro fibre cloth to remove additional grime. It is very important to clean PVC with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners: VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee® (these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• Allow PVC to dry completely before retracting Awning

Acrylic fabric:

• Rinse Fabric with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Prepare a mixture of lukewarm water and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Rub in mixture with a soft brush and allow the mixture to thoroughly soak into the fabric.
• Rinse well with water
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning
• If waterproofing is required, apply 3M Scotchgard®. Take care to follow instructions on the bottle/can
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning

Splines:

• Clean and lubricate
• Rinse Spline during the fabric cleaning process
• A soft bristle brush can be used to remove dirt and debris caught in the tracking
• Allow Spline to dry completely
• Apply ‘food grade’Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the spline, aiming the applicator into the groove that retains the Haven® or Ziptrak® Spline. *It is intended that the powder coated aluminium channel is coated with silicon spray during this step
• Both inside and outside should be cleaned and lubricated
• ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will damage the spline and void the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean powder coated surfaces with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Motors, springs and locking mechanisms:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any spider webs and dirt with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth. It is very important to clean Motors, springs, locking mechanisms with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Motors should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture

Since Straight Drop and Wire Guide Awnings are typically installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required with the frequency applicable to your environmental risk profile.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

PVC coated mesh:

• Rinse Mesh with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Mesh should be wiped with damp micro fibre cloth to remove additional grime. It is very important to clean mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners: VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee®(these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• Allow PVC to dry completely before retracting Awning

Acrylic fabric:

• Rinse Fabric with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Rub in the mixture with a soft brush and allow the mixture to thoroughly soak into the fabric
• Rinse well with water
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning
• If waterproofing is required, apply 3M Scotchgard®. Take care to follow instructions on the bottle/can
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning

Canvas fabric:

• Canvas awnings should be cleaned, particularly because air pollutants, dirt and grime can become embedded within the fabric interstices
• Canvas should be kept clean by brushing dry fabric regularly with a soft brush/broom
• Hose with cold water, but do not combine the actions of brushing and hosing, as this may abrade coating and impart a scuffed appearance to the fabric once dry
• Do not allow bird droppings, earth, sand or vegetable matter to remain in contact with the canvas
• Do not apply soaps, detergents, cleaning fluids or insecticides
• Keep petrol, kerosene or other similar fluids away from the canvas
• Retractable awnings should not be rolled up when wet
• If rolled up wet, canvas awning fabric should be opened up to dry as soon as practical to prevent mildew growth
• Canvas fabric constantly exposed to rain and moisture are particularly susceptible to mildew growth. Routine cleanings will help prevent mildew growth
• Should mildew spots appear, brush them off before they become attached
• Persistent mould or mildew growth should be treated with White King® solution, please contact Country Blinds for more details should this become an issue

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean powder coated products with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Stainless steel components:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean components with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Apply Marine 2 in 1 Metal Cleaner & Protector, take care to follow instructions on the bottle/can (this step may not need to be done at every Maintenance Interval, as it provides long term protection, inspect during cleaning and re-apply if coating is weak or broken)
• Marine 2 in 1 Metal Cleaner & Protector can be purchased from www.miamistainless.com.au and other good marine supply stores

Motors, springs and locking mechanisms:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval

• Carefully remove any spider webs and dirt with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth
• Motors should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture

Since Window Awnings are typically installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required with the frequency applicable to your environmental risk profile.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

PVC coated mesh:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Rinse Mesh with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Mesh should be wiped with damp micro fibre cloth to remove additional grime. It is very important to clean mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners: VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee®(these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• *very important to clean mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Allow PVC to dry completely before retracting Awning

Acrylic fabric:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Rinse Fabric with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap (such as laundry detergent)
• Rub in mixture with a soft brush and allow the mixture to thoroughly soak into the fabric
• Rinse well with water
• Allow fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning
• If waterproofing is required, apply 3M Scotchgard®. Take care to follow instructions on the bottle/can
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning

Canvas fabric:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Canvas awnings should be cleaned, particularly because air pollutants, dirt and grime can become embedded within the fabric interstices
• Canvas should be kept clean by brushing dry fabric regularly with a soft brush/broom
• Hose with cold water, but do not combine the actions of brushing and hosing, as this may abrade coating and impart a scuffed appearance to the fabric once dry
• Do not allow bird droppings, earth, sand or vegetable matter to remain in contact with the canvas
• Do not apply soaps, detergents, cleaning fluids or insecticides
• Keep petrol, kerosene or other similar fluids away from the canvas
• Retractable awnings should not be rolled up when wet
• If rolled up wet, canvas awning fabric should be opened up to dry as soon as practical to prevent mildew growth
• Fabric constantly exposed to rain and moisture are particularly susceptible to mildew growth. Routine cleanings will help prevent mildew growth
• Should mildew spots appear, brush them off before they become attached
• Persistent mould or mildew growth should be treated with White King® solution, please contact Country Blinds for more details should this become an issue

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean surfaces with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Zinc or galvanised steel components:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean components with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Allow steel components to dry fully
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the guide bars, ‘L’ Brackets and Awning Arms (with brass rollers), doing this carefully can be difficult. If over spray is causing an issue: simply spray the silicon spray into a clean dry cloth, then apply via the cloth
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime, creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Springs and inside the hood:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any spider webs and dirt with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth

Since Folding Arm Awnings are typically installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required applicable to your environmental risk profile.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

PVC coated mesh:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Rinse Mesh with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Mesh should be wiped with damp micro fibre cloth to remove additional grime. It is very important to clean mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners: VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee®(these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• Allow PVC to dry completely before retracting Awning

Acrylic fabric:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Rinse Fabric with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use a high pressure washer
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Rub in the mixture with a soft brush and allow the mixture to thoroughly soak into the fabric
• Rinse well with water
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning
• If waterproofing is required, apply 3M Scotchgard®. Take care to follow instructions on the bottle/can
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean powder coated products with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Awning arms:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the knuckle joints and elbow joints (joints either end and in the middle of the arms), do this by simply aiming the applicator at the joint then applying a 1-second burst of silicon spray
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime, creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Motors, springs and locking mechanisms:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any spiders’ webs and dirt with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth. It is very important to clean motors, springs & locking mechanisms with a clean cloth that is completely free of debris
• Motors should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture

Since Pleated Awnings are typically installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

PVC coated mesh:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Rinse Mesh with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Mesh should be wiped with damp micro fibre cloth to remove additional grime. It is very important to clean mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners: VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee®(these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• Allow PVC to dry completely before retracting Awning

Acrylic fabric:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Rinse Fabric with fresh water to remove loose dirt and debris, spray with hose or bucket only. DO NOT use high pressure washer
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Rub in mixture with a soft brush and allow the mixture to thoroughly soak into the fabric
• Rinse well with water
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning
• If waterproofing is required, apply 3M Scotchgard®. Take care to follow instructions on the bottle can
• Allow Fabric to dry completely before retracting Awning

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean powder coated products with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Prepare a mixture of cold to lukewarm water (do not exceed 38°C) and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g. pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Guide rollers:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water to remove dirt and debris from Guide rollers
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the knuckle joints and elbow joints (joints either end and in the middle of the arms), do this by simply aiming the applicator at the joint then applying a 1-second burst of silicon spray
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Stainless steel components:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean components with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Apply Marine 2 in 1 Metal Cleaner & Protector, take care to follow instructions on the bottle/can (this step may not need to be done at every Maintenance Interval, as it provides long term protection, inspect during cleaning and re-apply if coating is weak or broken)
• Marine 2 in 1 Metal Cleaner & Protector can be purchased from miamistainless.com.au and other good marine supply stores

Since Roller Shutters are typically installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

Slat curtain: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

*This process should be done prior to cleaning windows, as it will commonly push dirt and debris between perforations, landing on whatever is behind the Slat Curtain. (typically windows).

• Lift roller shutters to expose perforations between slats
• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean shutters with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Microfibre cloth can be used to dry the curtain and remove water spots. It is very important to clean the curtains with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits from the head box and side guides with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean powder coated products with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues
• Carefully remove any spiders’ webs and dirt from opening in the head box with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth. It is very important to clean surfaces with a clean cloth that is completely free of debris
• Motors and components inside Roller Shutter head boxes should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture

Internal winder boxes and controls:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits from the head box and side guides with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean components with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Winder boxes may squeak at times. Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) in the hole where the handle is inserted, do this by simply aiming the applicator at the joint then applying a 1-second burst of silicon spray
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores
• No lubricants to come in contact with internal cord or strap
• Carefully remove any grime off of the surface of the controls with a damp cloth. It is very important to clean surfaces and controls with a clean cloth that is completely free of debris
• *Electronics and controls MUST never get WET

Since Aluminium Shutters typically are installed outside, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

Blades should only be rotated with care, by hand. Never rotate blades by gripping the top or bottom blade in a stack of blades, doing this will put excess pressure on the rotation link screw and can lead to damaging the blade. It is advised to rotate blades using a blade in the middle of a stack and in instances for more than 10 blades, two hand operation is advised. No warranty applies to blades damaged due to misuse.

Painted and powder coated products:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits from headbox and side guides with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean powder coated products with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent, e.g., pH-neutral liquid hand dishwashing detergent in warm water
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Cleaning and maintaining sliding or bi-fold shutters:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean track external surfaces with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and debris. It is very important to clean surfaces with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Carefully remove any spiders’ webs and dirt from tracks with a soft DRY brush
• Dust and dirt should be removed from bottom tracks by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting
• Rollers and components inside top tracks should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the track internals. Do this by simply using the applicator to spray a light coverage into the groove that retains the shutter top rollers and bottom runners. A light coverage of silicon spray should also be applied to shutter top rollers and bottom runners
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Since Roller Blinds are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required. Light dusting with a hand-held duster is recommended at least once during your maintenance interval period. 

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

• Clean fabric with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dirt and debris. It is very important to clean fabric with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• If spot cleaning is required, please use the following steps:
  • -Prepare a mixture of lukewarm water and mild liquid soap. (such as laundry detergent)
  • -Very gently rub the mixture on to the fabric with a clean microfibre cloth and allow the mixture to sit on the fabric for 5 minutes
  • -Allow fabric to dry completely before retracting blind/s

PVC coated mesh: Should be cleaned as follows

• Clean mesh with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dirt and debris. It is very important to clean mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners:
  VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee® (these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• Allow Mesh to dry completely before retracting blind/s

Painted and powder coated products (like bottom rails and brackets):

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge or non-alcoholic wet wipe. 
• Use a soft brush (non-abrasive) and a dilute solution of a mild detergent in warm water for more stubborn dirt
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Motors, chain drives and springs:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any dirt, spider webs or dust with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth. 
• Motors, Chain Drives and Springs should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture

FAQ: My blind does not roll perfectly straight, will this affect the blind?
A: In most cases this is not a problem. However, if your blind is rolling to one side too much it could start to fray the edge. If this happens, please stop using the blind and call 1300 957 640 so that we can assist in straightening the blind. Continued use of a blind that is not rolling straight to the point of damage will not be covered under warranty. A blind rolling to one side can be caused by drafts through windows and doors where the air movement can make the blind roll to one side, insects being caught in the fabric when rolling up, or even children/pets playing behind the blinds.

FAQ: When my roller blinds become dirty, how should I clean them?
A: Most roller blind fabrics should be cleaned with a damp ‘Magic Block’ or baby wipes (available from supermarkets) using very light pressure on the fabric. Please be aware that excess pressure applied when cleaning can damage the coating on the fabric. During operation, roller blinds can also squash insects. Please keep an eye out for any unsuspecting victims and remove them as quickly as possible as they may stain your fabric.

FAQ: I have gaps at the edge of a blind or between blinds, are these gaps normal?
A: All standard roller blinds (excluding Ziptrak Interior Blinds) will have gaps at the edge or between blinds, this is to allow for brackets and components. We do our best to ensure the installation of the blind mechanism is horizontal and the fall of each blind is vertical however, due to walls/recesses often being ‘out of square’ we can’t always follow the line of the adjacent wall. Ziptrak Interior Blinds are designed with no gaps and can provide complete block-out from daylight.

Since Interior Ziptrak® blinds are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required. Light dusting with a hand-held duster is recommended at least once during your maintenance interval period. 

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

• Clean fabric with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dirt and debris. It is very important to clean fabric with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Country Blinds Pty. Ltd. recommends cleaning via ultrasonic cleaning services
• If spot cleaning is required, please use the following steps:
  • – Prepare a mixture of lukewarm water and mild liquid soap (such as laundry detergent)
  • – *Always test first in an inconspicuous location*
  • – Very gently rub the mixture on to the fabric with a clean microfibre cloth and allow the mixture to
    sit on the fabric for 5 minutes
  • – Very gently remove the mixture with a clean microfibre cloth. It is very important to clean fabric with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
  • – Allow fabric to dry completely before retracting blind/s

PVC coated mesh: Should be cleaned as follows

• Clean mesh with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dirt and debris. It is very important to clean the mesh with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris. 
• Country Blinds Pty Ltd only recommends cleaning PVC with the following three PVC Cleaners:
  VuPlex®, Plexus® or Swiftee® (these can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores)
• Clean as per instructions on bottle/can
• Allow Mesh to dry completely before retracting blind/s

Painted and powder coated products (such as side guides, pelmets and bottom rails):

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any loose surface deposits with a wet sponge. It is very important to clean surfaces with a clean sponge that is completely free of debris
• DO NOT use solvents to remove dust, salt and other deposits
• Ensure you thoroughly rinse the surfaces with clean fresh water after cleaning to remove all residues

Motors, chain drives and springs:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Carefully remove any dirt and dust with a soft DRY brush
• Carefully remove any surface deposits with a soft damp cloth. It is very important to clean motors, chains and springs with a clean cloth that is completely free of debris
• Motors, Chain Drives and Springs should never get WET or be exposed to excess moisture

Since Vertical Drapes and Panel Glides are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required. Light dusting with a hand-held duster is recommended at least once during your maintenance interval period. 

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

Block-out polyester direct coated fabric:

• Clean fabric with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dirt and debris. It is very important to clean fabric with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• If spot cleaning is required, please use the following steps:
  • – Prepare a mixture of lukewarm water and mild liquid soap (such as laundry detergent)
  • – *Always test first in an inconspicuous location*
  • – Very gently rub the mixture on to the fabric with a clean microfibre cloth and allow the mixture to sit on the fabric for 5 minutes
  • – Very gently remove the mixture with a clean microfibre cloth. It is very important to remove the mixture with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
  • – Allow fabric to dry completely before drawing blades open

Cleaning and maintaining tracks:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean track external surfaces with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and debris. It is very important to clean tracks with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Use a dry soft brush (non-abrasive) to brush away build up from track internals
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the track internals. Do this by simply aiming the can 5-10cm away from the track internals and applying short 1-second bursts of silicon spray between the blades, with the intention of applying a light coverage on the metallic components inside the track
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Since Roman Blinds are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required. Light dusting with a hand-held duster is recommended at least once during your maintenance interval period. 

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

• Dust should be removed by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting
• If spot cleaning is required, please contact Country Blinds for more details on how to do safely
• Any spot cleaning should be tested on an inconspicuous area first
• It is very important to clean fabric with a clean microfibre cloth and allow fabric to dry completely before lifting blind

Cleaning and maintaining Roman blind cords:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean cords with a damp cloth or baby wipe if required
• Ensure that lift cords remain untangled

Since Venetian Blinds are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

• Dust should be removed by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting or a hand-held duster
• Should excess surface dust remain, remove with a clean, damp microfibre cloth. It is very important to clean blades with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris

Cleaning and maintaining Venetian blind cords:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean cords with a damp cloth or baby wipe if required
• Ensure that lift cords remain untangled

Since Cellular Blinds are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Dust should be removed by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting or a hand-held duster

Cleaning and maintaining Cellular blind cords:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean cords with a damp cloth or baby wipe if required
• Ensure that lift cords remain untangled

Cleaning and maintaining Cellular Skylight blinds:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Dust should be removed from side channels by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting or a hand-held duster
• Should excess surface dust remain in the side channels, remove with a clean, damp microfibre cloth. It is very important to clean channels with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Allow channels to dry completely then lubricate channel internals by applying a ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the channel internals. Do this by simply aiming the can 5-10cm away from the channel internals and spraying with the intention of applying a very light coverage on the internal surface of the channel only. Use care not to get over-spray on cellular fabric
• *ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime, creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

Since Curtains and Sheers are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

Fabric: Should be cleaned as follows

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Do not allow dust to accumulate. Dust should be removed by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting or a hand-held duster
• Since fabrics vary from curtain to curtain, it is advised that the care instructions contained on the care label (sewn into the heading of each curtain) are followed. Failure to do so will void all warranty on the fabric and lining
• Not all curtain fabrics can be dry-cleaned
• Most curtain fabrics are not able to be machine washed

Possible curtain shrinkage of up to 3% of total drop may occur after washing and/or ironing

Cleaning and maintaining curtain tracks:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean track external surfaces with a damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and debris. It is very important to clean tracks with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Use a dry soft brush (non-abrasive) to brush away build up from track internals
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the track internals. Do this by simply using the applicator to spray a light coverage into the groove that retains the Curtain runners and cord. A light coverage of silicon spray should also be applied to pulley ends
• ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime, creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores
• Clean cords with a damp cloth or baby wipe if required
• Ensure that lift cords remain untangled
  

FAQ: My curtains fabric has some creases, will these disappear?
A: Whilst all curtains are pressed before leaving the factory, inevitably curtains may gather creases during transport. Some fabric compositions may react worse than others; linen for example. These creases should drop out over the next 2-3 weeks. If deep creases still persist, contact our team on 1300 957 640 and we will quote you on our steaming service.

FAQ: How do I wash my curtains?
A: It is recommended curtains be professionally dry-cleaned, seeing as by using this service, any cleaning is done so at the risk of the cleaner. Please understand there is always a very high risk of shrinkage when curtains are cleaned, even when dry-cleaned, and this shrinkage is NOT covered by our warranty. If you are unsure find the care code on the tag of your curtains and call Country on 1300 957 640 for advice.

Since Plantation Shutters (timber and PVC) are installed inside the home, general cleaning and maintenance is required.

Moisture is a natural enemy of timber plantation shutters; timber exposed to moisture will expand. This expansion leads to cracking paint. Even once shutters are dried, the visible damage from moisture exposure will still be visible. Should shutters ever become wet, they need to be thoroughly dried immediately. Moisture from condensation can also be damaging. Ensure there is sufficient ventilation around frames and panels for rooms with high humidity or poor ventilation.

Blades should only be rotated with care, by hand. Never rotate blades by gripping the top or bottom blade in a stack of blades, doing this will put excess pressure on the rotation link screw and can lead to damaging the blade. It is advised to rotate blades using a blade in the middle of a stack and in instances for more than 10 blades, two hand operation is advised. No warranty applies to blades damaged due to misuse.

Cleaning and maintaining Plantation Shutter blades, stiles and frames:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Dust should be removed by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting or a hand-held duster
• Should excess surface dust remain, remove with a clean, damp microfibre cloth. It is very important to clean blades, stiles & frames with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Never clean with solvent based cleaners
• Never use excess force or hard scrubbing motion as this will damage paint finish
• Always check that ventilation issues are not beginning (evidence of moisture on glass behind shutters or on window sills will be an indicator of this)

Cleaning and maintaining sliding or bi-fold shutters:

This process should occur at least once in your applicable Maintenance Interval.

• Clean track external surfaces with a clean, damp microfibre cloth to remove loose dust and debris. It is very important to clean lades, stiles & frames with a clean microfibre cloth that is completely free of debris
• Use a dry soft brush (non-abrasive) to brush away build up from track internals
• Dust and dirt should be removed from bottom tracks by vacuum cleaner on a very low setting
• Apply ‘food grade’ Silicon Spray (such as Helmar® H4000 Silicon Spray) onto the track internals. Do this by simply using the applicator to spray a light coverage into the groove that retains the shutter top rollers and bottom runners. A light coverage of silicon spray should also be applied to shutter top rollers and bottom runners
• ONLY SILICON SPRAY should be used as the lubricant. Other oil-based lubricants (such and WD-40® and RP7®) will attract dust and grime, creating more friction and voiding the warranty
• Silicon Spray can be purchased from Country Blinds and other hardware stores

FAQ: My plantation shutters don’t seem to shut in a way that is perfectly even – is this normal?
A: Plantation shutters are designed to shut in the ‘blade up’ position, and being a natural product some variation in blade width and thickness may lead to varied light bleeding in with some variation. This is completely normal and is to be expected. Plantation shutters will never block out 100 percent of light.

FAQ: Upon very close inspection my shutters appear to have marks or slight imperfections, is this normal?
A: Plantation shutters are made using a natural product and because of this, there can be imperfections in the timber. Please note only marks that can be noticed over 1.5 metres away will be assessed, as per our quotation.

FAQ: Is it OK for my plantation shutter to get wet?
A: Plantation shutters (timber or PVC) can take exposure to water splashes momentarily without adverse effects of wiped dry immediately. However, if left wet for prolonged periods of time the shutter will absorb moisture and can suffer paint damage. This will often be evident through hairline cracks, usually at the base of the shutter or sub-frame. This damage is NOT covered under warranty. We suggest immediately drying any water splashes, making sure the bathrooms and wet areas are well ventilated and that windows are left open.

FAQ: How can I clean my outdoor blinds & awnings?
A: Different cleaners are used for different fabrics.

Clear/tinted PVC should be first rinsed with clean water then cleaned with ‘Vuplex’ (available from Country and most auto care stores) and a soft clean cloth
Mesh fabric should be cleaned with warm soapy water (dish detergent is fine) on a soft cloth or soft broom then rinsed with clean water
Canvas fabric should be cleaned with warm soapy water (dish detergent is fine) on a soft cloth then rinsed with clean water. Once dry, the canvas should be treated with fabric water proofer (available from most camping and hardware stores)

FAQ: When I pull down my outdoor blinds there are ripples in the material – will these go away?
A: Depending on materials, some ripples will ‘drop out’ faster than others. Due to the nature of the woven fabrics, these develop a slight ripple when rolled up. However, when lowered this ripple will drop out given exposure to some warmth. It’s a process that can take between 15 minutes and several hours depending on the temperature of the day. Simply lower the outdoor blind evenly, give it some time and the ripples will fade

Rippling in clear or tinted PVC will reduce, but will never completely disappear. As the consultant advised, this condition does not constitute a product defect.

FAQ:How do I raise my new outdoor blinds or awnings?
A: In most cases this is very simple. Either un-clip the outdoor blind from either side, or from the middle using the centre lock (if fitted) then raise the blind from the centre. Some may feature a crank handle, and using this is simple – fit the handle to the crank, and then wind it in an appropriate direction. Traditional window awnings require you to push the bottom bar down and towards the wall thus ‘unlocking’ them. With this done, keeping the bar pushed towards the wall means the window awning will remain free to travel up and down to the desired position.

FAQ: The operation ‘feel’ of my outdoor blinds varies slightly from one another – is this ok?
A: Yes, outdoor blinds of varying sizes and fitting will feel different to operate, due to their difference in weight. From time to time, the squareness of various support posts can affect the operation of the blinds. Even similar size blinds can feel different from one another, but these differences lessen over time as the blinds ‘bed in’

FAQ: When operating my Ziptrak blinds, from time to time when using the centre lock I have trouble releasing the locks – why is this?
A: The Ziptrak centre lock system is designed to operate when downward pressure is placed on the bottom bar before lifting the lock handle. The Ziptrak lock handle should be used to release the locks. Ziptrak blinds should never be raised or lowered using the centre lock handle. Hook the handle into the rail itself (rather than the small plastic handle) when pulling down.

FAQ: Can my outdoor blinds or awnings be used in strong winds?
A: No. We strongly recommend raising all outdoor blinds, and window awnings, pleated awnings and folding arm awnings during times when strong winds are present. All Country outdoor products are not warranted against storm damage.

FAQ: Sometimes when I raise my window awnings one side does not sit against the top stop – is this a problem?
A: No, this is due to the ‘splines’ on the window awning rolling on top of one another which is perfectly normal. To straighten your awning, gently pull the bottom bar down from the side that is high, then raise again, this time ensuring that when you lift the awning bar you are pushing up from the side that was sitting lower. This process may need to be repeated a few times to help level the bottom bar. Rest assured that it will level, and that the condition won’t affect the awning while it is not level. Note that the action of the spline can also sometimes cause the awning to appear ‘fatter’ in the middle, which can occasionally cause the awning to sag slightly when rolled up.

FAQ: My outdoor blinds look baggy when they are wound halfway down, is this normal?
A: Yes, most outdoor blinds have side splines or hems for strength on the edge. All outdoor blinds are designed to look their best once fully lowered.

FAQ:My outdoor blind doesn’t seem level at the top or bottom – there are gaps. Why
A: All Country outdoor blinds are installed level. Often we find customers’ floors, deck, pavers or concrete can be out of level, due to fall for drainage or even sunken pavers. Sometimes the top fascia can be on a slope due to posts dropping or due to movement in the soil. Because we need to fit our outdoor blinds level, this prevents us from following the sloping ground or sloping top lines. If the gap is severe we will let you know and possibly add a flap or top flashing at a subsidised cost to help conceal the issue

FAQ: The motor in my blinds has stopped responding to the remote control
A: When this situation arises, it is often found the remote control has a flat battery. In this case, simply visit a hardware store or battery retailer to purchase a replacement battery. Be sure to take the old battery with you for reference to ensure you purchase the correct battery replacement. Having replaced the battery and the motor is still not responding to the remote control, please call us on 1300 957 640 for advice.