Future-Proof Your Building Design: Adapting to Cordless Shades Standards

The new Window Covering Manufacturers Association (WCMA) standard for window covering products took effect on June 1, 2024. This new regulation (WCMA-100 standard) aims to phase out corded shades, significantly transforming the design and safety standards in commercial spaces. The primary driver for this change is child safety.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly half of the incidents involving children and corded window coverings resulted in fatalities. On average, about nine children under the age of five die each year due to strangulation caused by window shades, shades and other coverings with cords. Thus, the transition to cordless shades isn’t just a regulatory shift but a critical step toward ensuring safer residential and commercial environments for children.

As the industry leader in designing and installing window treatments, Contexture has the expertise to provide designers and business leaders with solutions that align with the new cordless shades standard. When you work with our team, you can rest assured that we’re 100% focused on your project from start to finish, and we’ll uphold superior quality standards throughout the process.

Understanding WCMA-100

The WCMA-100 represents a new cordless window covering standard designed to eliminate free-hanging cords that could lead to accidents and injuries, especially among young children. The new standard requires most window coverings sold in the United States to either be cordless or have short, inaccessible or permanently anchored cords and chains. The updated standard includes stock and made-to-order window coverings, including vertical, pleated, cellular, Roman and solar.

The updated regulation is a pivotal move toward improving safety in window covering design by mandating the new window coverings be cordless or have inaccessible cords so they don’t pose a significant hazard. The WCMA-100 standard encourages the development and adoption of alternatives to corded products, such as wand-operated, spring-assisted or motorized shades designed to be easy to use without exposed cords.

While manufacturers are increasingly developing cordless options that are easy to operate by simply pulling down or pushing up on the hem bar, these solutions aren’t always practical for all users. For example, commercial buildings often have taller shades, making it challenging for shorter or disabled individuals to use these products. In these cases, motorized solutions may offer a viable option by ensuring ease of use and compliance with the new standards.

Cordless Shade Options and Their Limitations

Various types of cordless shades already exist, but each has a unique set of advantages and drawbacks. Spring-assisted shades that can be raised and lowered manually are popular due to their simplicity. Wand-operated shades utilize a wand mechanism to raise and lower the shades and eliminate the dangling loop. One great example of these is the Altex Newton shade.

However, both of these options come with certain constraints. For example, material and size limitations can impact the functionality and aesthetics of cordless shades. While spring-assisted and wand-operated shades work well for smaller windows, they may not be suitable for larger windows or those in commercial spaces with high ceilings.

Fixed shades with louvers offer another alternative but also have pros and cons. On the plus side, they tend to be more durable than other options and less prone to wear and tear. They also typically require less maintenance compared to other shades and offer consistent privacy and light control. On the downside, these cordless shades can’t be raised or lowered, resulting in limited adjustability, and are challenging to install, especially in large windows. Their permanently fixed state also may not aesthetically appeal to everyone.

Impact on Commercial Building Design

The shift to cordless shades significantly impacts commercial building design and presents various challenges for architects and designers. Unlike residential windows, commercial spaces utilize much larger windows, and the ceiling heights are usually taller. Both of these issues make manually operated cordless shades more challenging in a commercial setting.

When manual options aren’t feasible, motorized solutions may become necessary. Motorized shades offer increased convenience but at a much higher price. They also have moving parts that require more maintenance. The motors in some products may be prone to failure, causing further budgetary concerns due to replacement costs and impacting sustainability practices.

Other budget considerations also play a crucial role. Retrofitting existing buildings to comply with the new standard can be costly, particularly if designs and installations need to be adjusted post-construction. Additionally, ensuring that all shades meet safety and sustainability standards adds another layer of complexity to the planning process.

An additional issue for architects and designers that might crop up involves jobs they’ve previously bid on but haven’t installed yet. With the new standards coming into play, they could be required to go back to clients and explain why they must now switch window coverings. The change will likely increase the cost initially quoted.

Strategies for Integration

Selecting the right type of cordless shades is crucial. Durability and maintenance are crucial factors to consider when comparing options because commercial spaces require shades that can withstand daily wear and tear. To ensure occupant comfort, window coverings must have insulating properties to minimize heat transfer and the ability to filter sunlight without completely blocking natural light.

Architects and designers must adopt strategic approaches to successfully integrate the new cordless shades standards into commercial building designs. One innovative solution is coupling shades together so a single chain can operate multiple shade bands. This approach reduces the number of chains and ensures smooth operation through the use of spring-assisted devices within the tube.

Planning and installation best practices are equally important. Ensuring compliance from manufacturers by having tensioning devices installed within the loop at the factory helps mitigate risks. It's also essential to consider the practical aspects of installation, such as verifying locations and ensuring the shades are easy to operate for all users.

Benefits of Compliance

Complying with the WCMA-100 standard offers numerous benefits, both immediate and long term. Enhancing safety is the most obvious advantage, significantly reducing the risk of child strangulation and creating safer environments for all occupants. Additionally, cordless shades contribute to a cleaner, more modern aesthetic, aligning with contemporary design trends.

From a building performance perspective, the new cordless shades standard also includes enhanced performance requirements. Thus, new window coverings may improve energy efficiency and allow better control over natural light and heat gain. These improvements could lead to reduced energy costs and a smaller environmental footprint.

Adhering to the new standard could also positively impact your brand’s reputation. By demonstrating a commitment to safety and sustainability, commercial building owners can enhance client trust while reducing their liability risks.

The End of Corded Shades

The adoption of the WCMA-100 marks a significant shift in the window coverings field, emphasizing the importance of child safety. As manufacturers continue developing and releasing more cordless options, it’s essential for architects, designers and building planners to stay informed and adapt their practices to be in compliance and maintain high safety standards.

Contexture's Design-Assist can help you navigate these changes, offering expert advice and comprehensive solutions that align with the new standards. Our Design-Assist team focuses on identifying and designing a customized system of shades, shades, acoustical and lighting systems, and automated solutions for commercial buildings. Contact us today to learn how we can support your projects, enhance risk mitigation and help you navigate these new standards to stay ahead of the curve.