Understanding Irvine Shade Replacement Parts: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to RV and trailer shades, Irvine has built a reputation for quality with a limited but effective selection of products. With just four types of shades on the market, customers can easily identify what they need, whether it's for replacement or new installation. In this blog post, we’ll break down the types of Irvine shades, how to identify them, and what to do when something goes wrong.

Irvine has consistently manufactured four primary types of shades, each serving a specific purpose and market need:

1. Slow-Rise Roller Shades: The original product that set the standard for quality and functionality.
2. Valu-Line 1” Roller Shades: A cost-effective option that doesn't skimp on performance.
3. Valu-Line ¾” Roller Shades: Similar to the 1” variant but tailored for different mounting applications.
4. ‘Import’ Roller Shades: These are the most budget-friendly option and are sourced from China. They are often found in new RVs and trailers due to their low cost, but they come with limitations in terms of repairability.

Understanding your shade model is crucial for ordering the right replacement parts. Both Valu-Line and Slow-Rise shades feature a six-digit model number located on the top rail. The format is simple:

• Example: 50.3621
  • 50: Width of the shade in inches.
  • 36: Drop-down length in inches.
  • 21: Year of manufacture.
  • Valu-Line or Slow-Rise will be stamped onto the pull down rail on the shade. 

Import shades, however, have a different labeling system and typically cannot be repaired.

When a roller shade fails to work properly, the first step is to ask the right questions to diagnose the problem effectively. Here are some common issues and their solutions:

1. Shade Not Staying Down or Fails to Retract
   If the shade won’t stay down or retract properly, the issue usually lies with the spring. The internal pin may be dislodged or broken, necessitating a complete spring replacement.
2. Recently Serviced Shades
   If a customer has recently disassembled their shade, it’s important to check if the spring is tensioned properly. To tension the spring, they should turn the knob on the spring side clockwise until the correct tension is achieved.
3. Shade Fails to Stop at the Top
   If the shade doesn’t stop at the top when fully retracted, the auto stop mechanism needs replacement.
4. Measuring for Replacement Parts
   To ensure the right parts are ordered, measure the mounting rail and the outer diameter of the tube (e.g., ¾”). Additionally, confirm the width of the shade (e.g., 75” wide). If multiple shades are being ordered, double-check the tube size for each shade, as different installations may require different sizes.
5. Mounting Bracket is Broken
   There are a total of 9 different mounting brackets/clip options. You will need to verify what type of bracket/clip you need (L-shape, flat bracket, mounting clip for valances, etc.) and what size you need. Replacement options #'s 1 through 5 are for the Slow-Rise shades which have larger rails. While the metal bracket is the same size as replacement options #'s 6 through 10, the mounting clip differs by 1/2".  The Valu-Line shades have a smaller rail which require the smaller mounting bracket. Compare your measurements thoroughly to what is shown on our website. 

• Import Shades: These cannot be repaired and must be replaced entirely. If replacement is necessary, consider the Valu-Line shades for a cost-effective option or the Slow-Rise shades for superior quality.
• Original Slow Rise Shades (2013 - Mid-2017): If you’re replacing springs for these models, be aware that the replacement springs will require slight sanding in one spot to fit correctly.

Replacement springs are available in Extra Small, Small, Medium and Large lengths and in 3 different tube diameters: 3/4", 1" or 1-1/4" diameters. You will first need to determine what the diameter size of your roller shades tube is. Then you will need to measure the width of your shade and order according to the charts below. 

The Auto Stops (a.k.a. position fixers) are available for 3 different tube diameters: 3/4", 1" or 1-1/4" diameters. 

The "mounting clip" comes in 2 sizes: 1-1/2" and 2". It is available by itself for ceiling mount applications for smaller shades, or it comes riveted to a flat bracket (for ceiling mount applications) or an L-shaped bracket (for wall mount applications).

For Valu-Line mounting brackets with 1-1/2" clips click here. For Slow-Rise mounting brackets with 2" clips click here.

Navigating the world of shade replacements doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding the types of shades Irvine offers and knowing how to diagnose common issues, you can ensure that you receive the right products and solutions. Whether it’s a simple spring replacement or a new set of shades, having the right information at hand can make all the difference.

We are always here to help! Any questions can be answered by emailed us at support@dyersonline.com or giving us a call during business hours at 623-266-3022.