Hunter Douglas makes changes to their lift systems regularly. One of the most recent adjustments comes to the UltraGlide controls. Whereas it used a cord and tassel system in the past, they have replaced this with a wand.
The reason for this is to allow for better control of the mechanism. Let’s see if I can explain this in writing. Sometimes the old system had difficulty when trying to click to the outside of the window. If the window was placed directly against a wall, there was no leverage to allow the mechanism to engage. So, you’d have to reach up to the top of the window and manipulate the lever manually. This kind of defeated the purpose of the having the cord at all.
Hunter Douglas made a choice which has consequences to the look of the shade. By using a wand UltraGlide control, they have improved the function of the Duette shades. But, they have added another architectural feature to the shade. When the UltraGlide wand hangs down, it is part of what you see. The old cord and tassel was much more invisible in my opinion. So, Hunter Douglas chose function over form in this lift system.
The Hunter Douglas UltraGlide wand can be ordered in a length that is appropriate for you and your windows. The suggestion is to order the bottom of the UltraGlide wand so it comes to your shoulder when in the retracted position.
If you are going to order any window coverings for your home, you need to know which lift system is best for you. The UltraGlide from Hunter Douglas is a good lift system, but maybe a different type is better. Consult with a window fashions expert to determine what is best for you.
About Us
Kempler Design is located in Reno NV and serves the northern Nevada and Lake Tahoe regions with a mobile design showroom. Paul Kempler, its founder is considered a window fashions expert. Kempler Design has been featured in many prestigious projects, including the HGTV dream home in Lake Tahoe. Kempler Design works with homeowners as well as interior design firms looking for a local contact in the Reno/Tahoe area or is available for travel.