To Prepare – 

• Decide if you will be doing some or all of the work yourself. It’s not rocket science but there is a lot to know.
• Research available products before talking to any sales people. Ask friends and family for recommendations for products and retailers
• Check reviews for products and retailers.

Do You Need a Designer or Decorator? 

• If color and other style choices are not your strong suit maybe you do – but you will pay for it.
• Many sales people will be able to help here if you only need a little guidance.
• Seeing samples in your home is the best bet for matching color and style.

Sales Consultation – 

• Ask MANY questions! A competent professional will be able to answer most of them and will honestly acknowledge those they can’t. 
• All treatments have pros & cons in terms of light control, functionality & aesthetics. Ask to see photos and product hand samples. 
• Will your windows accommodate the treatments in question?

Measurement – 

• You can do this yourself but with most retail outlets, if your measurements are off, it’s your problem. 
• If you request a professional measure:
  • Know what product(s) you are considering before the measurements are taken. Different product types can require particular information.
  • Record the appointment information on your phone’s calendar app with a reminder set.
  • Make sure to note the MEASURER’s phone number in case you have a last minute conflict. Calling a box store to cancel or reschedule is a VERY iffy proposition.
  • Be on site when the measurements are taken to answer any questions that arise.
  • Tell the pro how to designate each room. You might have 2 bedrooms with similar layouts and window sizes but completely different product choices. Agreeing on room names will cut away much confusion.
  • Allow the pro to measure without distraction.

The Sale – 

• You should receive a detailed confirmation showing: 
  • Room name (tag)
  • Product Type
  • Color
  • Style options
  • Control system
  • Quantity
  • A total of all treatments ordered.
• It is YOUR responsibility to verify this information. Now is the time to catch errors. Believe it or not, no one – not customer, retailer, manufacturer or installer – enjoys mistakes.
• Make sure you understand the installation arrangements:
  • Who will be taking down old treatments? 
  • Will the installers be hauling away trash and old products?

Installation –

• Some outlets will have product shipped directly to the consumer. If this is the case, review everything you receive. Check the packing slip. Count the boxes. Make sure the count of individual coverings matches the number you ordered (don’t discard that confirm). Once you are comfortable that everything has arrived, call to arrange your installation. Installation companies can be cranky when they arrive at a job to find only part of the order has arrived. Record the installation info and contractor’s phone as you did for the measure.
• This should be obvious but, sadly, is not. Make sure there is a clear path to each window and enough space to foot a ladder. Remove furniture and fragile items. This is NOT the responsibility of the installer. If you are unable to move heavy furniture, discuss this with your salesperson.
• Finally, verify that each product is as ordered, free of defects and is functioning correctly.
• Alert the installer if all is not well and ask for some acknowledgement of the situation. Usually, there will be a waiver to sign. Make sure any problems are listed. If no copy is offered, take a clean photo with your phone.

Problems – Yes, they happen because we are all human.

• Don’t be abusive to anyone – it’s rude and, ultimately, doesn’t further your cause.
• Be courteous but persistently demanding.