Tricks of the Trade

A master installer shares two affordable tools that make window fashion installations easier

BY ROGER MAGALHAES

This is my first article after my “Tricks of the Trade” class at the International Window Coverings Expo in March. The feedback was great and I was able to share some great tips accumulated in my 13 years installing window treatments. My goal for this article is to show two tools that make my life as an installer a lot easier.

Gorilla Step Stool (Under $50)

Made of aluminum, this ladder is super lightweight and easy to maneuver around the house. It has large steps to accommodate your feet comfortably. It also has a top tray with holes to place tools, and small pockets that allow you to sort screws and brackets

without making a mess.

I installed a “Z” bracket on the side of my ladder. I use it as a tape measure holder. When I am on the ladder with one hand holding the treatment, that bracket mounted vertically works perfectly to hold my tape. I slide the belt clip onto it to hold it in place.

Another great feature is the ability to combine two of these step stools and an expandable plank to create a working platform (see above). It works perfectly when I am installing alone and need an extra hand. Having the ability to hold the treatment while walking across the window is priceless.

Last but not least, this ladder does not have those braces across the legs. Because it is an inverted “V” instead of an “A” frame, I can easily place my ladder over obstacles such as a toilet or radiators without much trouble.

The only caution is to check the weight limitation to make sure it is safe for you to work on. As a small guy, I have no problem working on the step stool, but it may not work for some of my bigger friends.

Collapsible or Rolling Scaffolding (Under $100)

I first learned about this from my good friend and fellow installer Angelo Karpetas from A&M Designs in Connecticut. He insisted that I buy one. After three months, he gave up asking me to buy one and bought one and shipped it to my shop. I had no choice but to try it. The only regret I have is not buying it sooner. Once you start using it, your installations will be much easier.

I used to make several trips from my van to my spot in the house, where I would gather my tools and treatments. After getting my rolling scaffolding, I am able to stack several boxes, plus my ladder, tools and supplies, with my shades. Everything goes in one trip, and I don’t look like a malabares trying to juggle several things in my arms.

This tool takes almost no space in your van, as it fully collapses. All four casters spin 360 degrees, which allow you to make sharp turns. It is lightweight and holds up to 500 pounds. It also comes with two adjustable shelves, which give you the flexibility to customize your needs for each job.

I hope you take advantage of these two low-investment tools to help you work smarter. Happy installing. z

ShadesInPlace.com Facebook: ShadesInPlace Twitter: Shades_In_Place Houzz: Shades-In-Place Roger Magalhaes is certified as a Professional Installer by The Custom Home Furnishing Academy, Lutron, Hunter Douglas, Somfy and Norman Shutters. He is also an active member of WCAA, founder of the Facebook group Free Speech Window Covering Pros, and founder and owner of Shades IN Place, Inc., Franklin, MA, established in 2006.