Extreme heat and the careless lifting of blinds cause the most wear and tear on this kind of window covering. Consider a light color and additional glass treatments on windows that may be exposed to extreme heat. For corded faux wood blinds: when lifting your blinds, you can reduce pressure on the system by leveling the slats, assisting the bottom rail up with one hand, and raising the blind slowly with the other. For cordless faux wood blinds: the slats need to be opened before pulling the bottom rail to lower the blinds. When raising the blinds, gently tilt the slats towards you at 45 degrees before lifting the bottom rail up.