Before ordering Roman shades, ask for enough detail to identify exactly what will be made, how it will fit and who handles each part of the work. A written configuration prevents “custom,”“blackout” or “installation included” from meaning different things to buyer and seller.
Browse the Roman collection, then use the questions below to prepare a reviewable order brief before production begins.
What does this window need to do?
Describe the room's privacy, daylight, glare and darkness needs. Note who will operate the shade and whether the window is difficult to reach. Ask the adviser to explain why the proposed configuration suits those needs.
For style, compare the flat, hobbled and relaxed options and ask which are actually available for the selected fabric and size. Request the raised stack dimensions as well as the lowered appearance.
For a desk or screen, the Roman office guide helps make glare a specific discussion rather than a general UV-protection claim.
Can I evaluate the fabric and lining together?
Ask how samples are supplied and whether you can assess the proposed combination with light behind it. Confirm the fabric name, code, composition, color and any lining in the quote.
Compare the room-darkening Roman option and blackout Roman option around the room's actual requirement. Ask which claim concerns the fabric and which result depends on installation gaps. A blackout fabric does not guarantee a completely dark room by itself.
The lining guide helps prepare questions about opacity, appearance and care. For humidity or splashes, ask about that exact material and exposure rather than relying on the family name.
Who measures, and what happens if a dimension is wrong?
Establish whether you provide dimensions or a measuring service is included. Ask which dimension the order uses—opening size, finished shade size or another convention—and who makes any deduction.
Use the Roman measuring guide to record width, height, depth, handles and mounting constraints. Get the error and remake policy in writing before submitting a custom order.
For a bay window, ask about corner collisions and neighboring rails. For a large-window layout, confirm panel divisions, size limits and raised stack.
Which lift, power and controls are included?
Ask for the actual operating system and available options for the selected size. Can the intended user reach it comfortably? What accessible cords remain in the finished design?
For motorization, identify the motor, power source, controller and any hub or network requirement. Ask where battery service or charging happens and what setup is included. The motorized Roman guide helps separate local remote control from supported app and voice functions.
Do not judge hardware only by whether it is metal or plastic. Ask whether the complete system is specified and supported for the fabric and size.
What does the complete quote include?
| Item to establish | Useful written answer |
|---|---|
| Product | Fabric, lining, fold, size convention and lift |
| Measuring | Who measures and accepts the dimensions |
| Delivery | Shipping charges, current estimate and damage-report process |
| Installation | Mounting, access, old-covering removal and final checks |
| Motor setup | Pairing, limits, groups and handover where applicable |
| Payment | Amounts, due dates and when changes or cancellations stop |
| Support | Product/workmanship terms and contact for a fault |
Use the Roman cost guide to understand the quote factors. Ask for the current lead time and what triggers production; do not assume a standard deposit or universal delivery window.
Who installs and supports the finished shade?
Confirm whether installation is included, optional or arranged independently. Use the DIY/professional comparison to define access, substrate and fitting complexity.
Ask who handles a product defect, a mounting problem or an incorrect measurement. Read warranty exclusions, service costs and responsibility for removal/reinstallation. A product warranty and workmanship support can cover different issues.
Also ask what happens if you dislike the approved color or fabric after it is made. Custom return and change terms need to be understood before purchase, not inferred from another retailer's policy.
Review the final brief once more
Check the room labels, measurements, fabric codes, opacity, lift, control side where applicable, mount and complete price. Save the approved quote and instructions with the order.
A useful seller can answer specific questions or obtain the needed product detail. Once those answers are clear, choose the Roman shade whose configuration and service fit the window rather than relying on broad promises.
