How to Specify Custom Printed Window Treatments: An Architect's Technical Guide
Technical Specification Guide for Custom Printed Roller Shades
Specifying custom printed window treatments requires understanding both the aesthetic possibilities and the technical performance requirements. This guide provides architects with the information needed to confidently include custom printed roller shades in project specifications, from CSI MasterFormat classification through performance criteria and coordination requirements.
CSI MasterFormat Classification
Custom printed roller shades are specified under:
- Section 12 24 00: Window Shading (primary)
- Section 12 24 13: Roller Window Shades
- Related sections: 26 09 00 (Motorized shade controls), 28 31 00 (Building automation integration)
Performance Specifications
Fabric Performance
- Solar optical properties: Specify openness factor (0% for blackout, 1-14% for solar screen), visible light transmittance, solar reflectance, and solar absorptance values. Reference ASHRAE methodology.
- Fire resistance: NFPA 701 Test Method 1 (small-scale) or Test Method 2 (large-scale) as required by local code and occupancy type
- Fabric weight: Typically 8-16 oz/sq yd depending on composition. Specify minimum for structural shade performance.
- Colorfastness: AATCC 16.3 Option 3: Grade 4 minimum (1000 hours xenon arc exposure)
- Dimensional stability: Maximum 1% shrinkage after laundering per AATCC 135
Print Performance
- Print method: UV-cured digital inkjet printing. Specify UV-cured inks for superior lightfastness and zero VOC emissions.
- Resolution: Minimum 150 DPI at output scale; 300 DPI recommended for photographic content
- Color matching: Specify Pantone, RAL, or custom CMYK color values. Require physical proof sample approval before production.
- Print durability: Ink adhesion per ASTM D3359 cross-cut tape test: 4B minimum rating
Hardware Performance
- Tube diameter: Based on shade width and drop. Minimum 1.5" for shades under 72" wide; 2" for 72-144" wide; 3" for wider applications
- Clutch mechanism: Specify continuous-loop chain or spring-assist for manual operation. Cordless options for child safety compliance.
- Motorization: Specify torque rating based on shade weight. Include smart integration protocol requirements (Lutron, Crestron, etc.)
- Brackets and mounting: Specify inside or outside mount. Provide minimum depth requirements for inside-mount applications.
Coordination Requirements
Custom printed roller shades require coordination with:
- Electrical: Motor power and control wiring locations for motorized installations
- Structural: Blocking requirements for shade bracket mounting, especially for large/heavy shades
- Glazing: Window dimensions, frame depth, and any obstructions within the glazing pocket
- Controls: Building management system integration for automated shade operation
- Interior design: Finish selections, color approvals, and artwork coordination
Submittal Requirements
Require the following submittals from the shade manufacturer:
- Product data sheets for specified fabric(s) including solar optical properties
- Fire test reports (NFPA 701) for each fabric type
- Printed fabric samples (minimum 12"×12") on specified material for color approval
- Shop drawings showing shade dimensions, mounting details, and motor locations
- Motorization specifications including power requirements and control protocol
- Warranty documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
What lead time should I allow for custom printed shades in a construction schedule?
Allow 6-8 weeks from artwork approval to delivery for most projects. Motorized installations with building system integration may require additional coordination time. We recommend initiating the shade specification and artwork development process during design development to avoid schedule impacts during construction.
Can custom printed shades meet LEED credit requirements?
Yes. Custom shades can contribute to LEED credits in several categories: EQ Credit (Daylight and Views), EA Credit (energy performance through solar heat gain reduction), and MR Credit (our zero-VOC UV printing process and made-to-order waste reduction). We provide documentation supporting LEED submittal requirements.
What is the maximum size for a single printed roller shade?
Our standard maximum is 126" wide × 240" drop for a single shade unit. Larger openings are addressed with coupled or ganged shade systems where multiple units align to appear as a single installation. We provide custom engineering for oversized applications.
Do you provide BIM objects for your shade systems?
Yes. We provide Revit families and IFC files for our standard roller shade systems, including motorized variants. Custom BIM content can be developed for project-specific configurations upon request.
Related Resources
Explore more about custom printed solutions:
- For Architects: Specifying Custom Printed Shades in Your Next Project
- Daylighting Strategies: How Custom Printed Shades Support Architectural Intent
- Custom Printed Window Shades
- Roller Shade Options
Ready to get started? Request a free quote today.
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