Your Questions Answered and Some Window Terms Defined

Q: What payment methods do you accept?
A: Personal Checks are greatly appreciated. This is largely a choice for containing costs to our customers in an effort to bring a natural product to market at or below the cost of conventional counterparts. All payments must be received and cleared in full before any order will be shipped.

Q: I am not very confident in online-shopping for custom goods.
A: Not to worry, at Earthshade we believe in personal contact. We want to hear and get to know our customers. We use technology as a tool to save paper. Most orders are taken the old fashioned natural way via the phone. A contract is then drawn and sent via fax or email for a final review and signature before we will proceed with your order. For ten years this process has nearly eliminated issues and/or errors related to order communication.

Q: Can I change or alter my order?
A: Quite simply, no. Once the order is placed it is immediately sent into production. This enables us to get your hand crafted shades to you in a timely fashion. Our patient and experienced professional staff are happy to assist in any way necessary to insure a confident and accurate measuring and ordering experience.

Q: Is measuring and installing shades difficult?
A: No. We have designed our instructions on the website to be followed step by step. As always, your questions and or concerns will be met with patience and understanding. All we ask is that you take the time to communicate questions or uncertainties. Our staff has been successfully coaching customers of all ages via phone for more than 11 years.

Q: Why should I buy these instead of others that look very similar?
A: Many other manufacturers use substances in their finishes that may be unsafe for your health. Researchers are finding more and more additives and chemicals that are often mandated in common dyes, glues, or finishes having an adverse affect on health and/or the environment. Our shades are hand made from natural materials that can grow as quickly as they are consumed. There is nothing like the real thing! Please click on Why Earthshade or call for additional details.

Q: If I am not sure of color or texture on my computer what should I do?
A: Provided that your computer is set for optimal appearance, color and texture, the photos are exceptionally accurate. The natural grasses, reeds, and bamboos are going to vary in their natural appearance. This is a quality inherent to the materials. If you are trying to get a closer match; we do ask that you narrow your choices down to three patterns, measure your windows, and call for pricing and swatch sampling options.

Q: What about allergies or chemical sensitivities?
A: We have not had any complaints of allergy problems with our natural materials. These materials are bathed in natural hydrogen peroxide to kill most allergens. They are then sun-dried to further eliminate the potential of allergic reactions. Though we strive to control every last detail regarding shade production, some patterns may not be suitable for our friends with chemical sensitivities and or allergies. Please click on Chemically Sensitive? or call for additional details.

Q: What should I do if my shades come damaged or I need warranty work?
A: The world is an imperfect place full of well meaning people attempting to do great things. Our staff and vendors are perfect in there imperfections! As with any question or concern, please do not hesitate to e-mail or call. While challenges may arise, we have the experience and drive to meet any challenge. With patience, we always strive for excellence in everything that we do for you.

CORD LOCK - The mechanism that acts as a brake securing a shade at a desired height.

HEAD RAIL - The "frame" at the top of the shade which supports the shades and houses the operating mechanism.

INSIDE MOUNT - See Easy Window Measuring for description and pictures.

MULLION - A vertical strip of wood that separates the panes of glass in a window.

OUTSIDE MOUNT - See Easy Window Measuring for description and pictures.

ROMAN SHADE - A style of shade, that when raised, forms a series of softly tailored folds.

ROLL-UP SHADE - A style of shade, that when raised, accumulates on a "roll". The roll ascends to the top of the shade.

VALANCE - The finishing touch that runs across the top of a window or window treatment often serving to mask the operating mechanisms.

© 1999 C William Swanson
Site designed by: Craig Swanson
Site administered and hosted by: Point In Space