BlindzMart

Custom Blinds, Shades and Shutters

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Sat, 20 Nov 2010 14:25:46 -0800

Need blinds, shades or shutters in the metro-Phoenix area of Arizona?

BlindzMart offers a large selection of wood blinds, faux wood blinds, cellular shades, honeycomb shades, pleated shades, roman shades, roller shades, woven woods, vertical blinds, mini blinds, plantation shutters, and so much more. We offer a 110% best price guarantee, free in-home estimates and free installation on all blinds orders. For the best price on window treatments in the Metro Phoenix area, call BlindzMart today and schedule your free in-home consultation.

110% Best Price Guarantee

Free In-Home Consultations

Free Installation

Over 26 Years Experience

Name Brand Window Treatments

http://www.blindzmart.com

480-883-6278

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

My Articles

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 13:53:12 -0800

I have written many articles on a variety of different subjects and they are published on many different websites like : http://contributor.yahoo.com/user/926630/mike_wasdin

Mike Wasdin has been in the window coverings industry for 24 years now and also knows a thing or two about running retail establishments. For the first 13 years he owned several retail stores and shop at home operations and eventually shifted with the market to doing business online with a e-commerce website.

Mike Wasdin has been involved with every aspect of the Window Treatment industry from sales, management, installation, manufacturing, repair and website development.

Other areas of knowledge include computer and Internet related areas such as website creation, SEO and advertising, software, web hosting and more.

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Why You Should Look at This New Search Engine

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Tue, 02 Nov 2010 17:18:20 -0700

Koodays is launching a new search engine, why should you care? Let me give you 5 reasons why!

Keyword Ownership

Do other search engines such as Yahoo, Google and Bing allow you to own keywords? No they do not, but Koodays search does! Ownership of keywords means money to you!

Advertising

When you advertise with Google Adwords and other search engine advertisers do they let you pay after you see the results? Of course not, but Koodays does!

Income

Do other search engines pay a residual income to their members, most do not, but Koodays does! Get free profit-share credits when you are a member.

Referral Commission

Do other search engines pay you a commission just for referring others to them? When keywords are purchased or websites are linked, you get paid!

Bonus

Owners of popular keywords are paid a bonus for owning them. When you think of a great keyword, make sure you own it, they really pay! www.koodays.info

Enough said, if you ever wanted to participate in something very unique, then Koodays is a must join. Join now for free! www.koodays.info

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Blindzmart

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Sun, 24 Oct 2010 14:05:08 -0700

BlindzMart offers a large selection of wood blinds, faux wood blinds, cellular shades, honeycomb shades, pleated shades, roman shades, roller shades, woven woods, vertical blinds, mini blinds, plantation shutters, and so much more. We offer a 110% best price guarantee and free installation on all blinds orders. For the best price on window treatments in the Metro Phoenix area, it's BlindzMart.

Why Shop at
BlindzMart?

110% Best Price Guarantee

Free In-Home Consultations

Free Installation

Over 26 Years Experience

Name Brand Window Treatments

The owners of BlindzMart have over 24 years in the custom window treatment business. We are experts in all areas of window blinds including, sales, measuring, ordering, installation, manufacturing and repair of custom window treatments. With years of experience in both local retail and Internet sales the professionals at BlindzMart promise to give you the best in customer service, quality of products and price.

http://www.blindzmart.com

480-883-6278

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Twitter

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 14:18:08 -0700

Looking for more followers on Twitter, my page looks a little lonely. I will follow back anyone that follows me.

http://twitter.com/BlindzMart

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Need Website Traffic?

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Sat, 09 Oct 2010 16:17:47 -0700

Website traffic is very important for anyone that has a website and wants more customers to visit their website.

Did you know that you can use ViralSearchTraffic.com to get your website displayed on the first line of search engine results in less than 60 seconds? I'm using it right now. It's absolutely revolutionary. Check it out and grab a free account here: Viral Search Traffic

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Plantation Shutters

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Wed, 06 Oct 2010 13:08:44 -0700

Plantation shutters are interior shutters consisting of large louvered panels that are hinged to a frame and installed on a window as a window treatment. Plantation shutters differ from traditional window blinds and window shades in that they are more like furniture than they are blinds or shades and unlike cafe shutters which have smaller louvers.

Plantation shutters range in size from 2 1/2 inch to 4 1/2 inch louvers and are usually constructed of real wood like bass or ramin, but can also be made of non-wood products like faux wood or vinyl. Wood plantation shutters can be finished in painted or stained finishes and are available in many color choices.

As well as color choices there are many other options available with plantation shutters such as hinge style including hidden hinges, tilt bar style that also include a hidden tilt bar style, frame styles and more. Plantation shutters can be custom made to fit most any shape window including arch and eyebrow style.

Unlike traditional blinds like wood blinds and faux wood blinds, plantation shutters are considered a higher end product and will cost more money than other traditional window coverings. Production time is usually longer as well with most plantation shutters requiring 4 to 6 weeks from the time of placing an order to having the shutters installed.

When considering plantation shutters for your home, you should always have an expert in the window treatment industry come to your home and measure as well as install your new plantation shutters as they can be more tricky than blinds, shades and other window treatments. There are many things to consider such as window depth, clearance, types of frames and mounting options that someone not trained in this area of expertise may not know about. Plantation shutters are custom made and cannot be returned once made, so a mistake could be very costly, always use a professional.

If you would like to know more about plantation shutters or would like a free in-home consultation call BlindzMart today and speak to one of our friendly and knowledgeable window treatment professionals. BlindzMart will schedule a free consultation and bring the showroom to your home and help you select the right styles and options as well as professionally measure and install your custom plantation shutters. This is a free service offered by BlindzMart so that you will be satisfied with your purchase of plantation shutters.

Call BlindzMart today at 480-883-6278 or visit us online at www.blindzmart.com and email us at sales@blindzmart.com

BlindzMart, the window treatment professionals...blinds right...blinds smart...BlindzMart!

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Totally Eliminate Your Grocery Bill

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:45:43 -0700

Would you spend $200 one time out-of-pocket to TOTALLY ELIMINATE your grocery bill?

The Product - NAME-BRAND GROCERIES!

Our product is used by everyone...

Everyone is already using them. The money to buy it is already part of their budget -- and a very large part of their budget. Families average from $500 - $800 a month on groceries.

Find out more here: http://www.mympb.net

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Kooday

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 16:05:12 -0700

Koodays is launching a new search engine...why should you care?

Kooday

* Do other search engines allow you to actually own keywords? No they don't, but Kooday does! This means money for you.

* Do other search engines allow you to pay after you see results when you advertise with them? No they don't, but Kooday does! Try that with Google.

* Do other search engines pay a residual income to their members? No they don't, but Kooday does! Get free profit sharing with Kooday.

* Do other search engines pay you a commission for referring other people to them? No they don't, but Kooday does! This is unique to Kooday.

* Do other search engines pay you when someone purchases keywords or links their website? No they don't, but Kooday does! Imagine the possibilities...how many words are out there?

* Do other search engines pay you for owning popular keywords? No they don't, but Kooday does! When you think of a great keyword, make sure you on it..it pays!

Okay enough said! If you ever wanted to participate in something very unique, then Kooday is a must join!

How much does it cost to join Kooday? Zero, zip, nada!

Click here to go to Kooday

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Merchant Circle

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 16:04:37 -0700

Please visit our page on Merchant Circle: BlindzMart

Welcome to BlindzMart, home of the 110% best blinds Price Guarantee! If you are looking for window blinds, shades, shutters in the Metro-Phoenix area, BlindzMart is your window treatment store. BlindzMart will beat any price on any identical window treatment from any blinds company in Phoenix, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert and all of the greater Phoenix area. We carry quality blinds from Hunter Douglas Blinds, Comfortex Blinds, Century Blinds, Royal Windows, Graber, and many other window blind manufacturers. BlindzMart offers a large selection of wood blinds, faux wood blinds, cellular shades, honeycomb shades, pleated shades, roman shades, roller shades, woven woods, vertical blinds, mini blinds plantation shutters, and so much more. For the best price on window treatments in Arizona, call BlindzMart.

MerchantCircle is the largest online network of local business owners, combining social networking features with customizable web listings that allow local merchants to attract new customers. We are a small, growing company dedicated to connecting neighbors and merchants online to help build real relationships between local business owners and their customers. To date, well over 1,000,000 local businesses have joined MerchantCircle to get their business more exposure on the Internet, simply and inexpensively.

How Merchant Circle Can Help Your Business

As the internet has gained in popularity, traditional advertising channels like the Yellow Pages or the print newspaper have become ineffective and too costly. Most internet marketing solutions are just too expensive and cumbersome for busy local business owners. So we set out to find the simplest way to bring Local Businesses real results that are cost effective.

To help Local Businesses get more customers online, we’ve developed local business social network where business owners can promote their business by uploading pictures, writing blogs, publicizing events, creating coupons and newsletters, and connecting with other merchants, all for free.

In addition to our free services, we offer a portfolio of online marketing services including Search Engine Marketing, Website Directory Submission, Instant Websites, Lead Generation and Business Verification Services.

Need a free Merchant Circle account? Click here: Merchant Circle

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

110% Best Price Guarantee

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Wed, 29 Sep 2010 15:20:21 -0700

Blindzmart has the best price on custom window treatments in the Metro-Phoenix area of Arizona. We are so confidnet of our low prices that we offer a 110% Best Price Guarantee. If you do happen to find a lower price on any type of window treatments including, blinds, shades and shutters Blindzmart will match that price plus an extra discount of 10% of the difference in price. This is the Blindzmart 110% best price guarantee.

Why Buy From BlindzMart?

Experience- With decades of knowledge in the

window treatment industry from sales & service

to manufacturing, repair and installation you can

trust the professionals at BlindzMart.

Quality- BlindMart sells only high quality blinds

from well known window treatment manufacturers

with product warranties.

Service- BlindzMart is always committed to 100%

customer satisfaction…ask around your neighbor

most likely bought from us.

Reliability- All our products come with a full

manufacturers warranty against defects in materials

and workmanship.

Presence- The window treatment professionals

at Blindzmart have over 24 years experience in the

window treatment Industry so you can be assured

we will be here in the future when you need us.

Price- Blindzmart has a 110% best price guarantee

and we will not be undersold. No one sells custom

window treatments for less!

Free Estimates- BlindzMart offers free estimates

and consultations. We bring the showroom to your

home with our free shop at home service.

Free Installation- BlindzMart will install your

entire order free of charge when you purchase

your new blinds from us.

Need Blinds? Blindzmart services all of Metro-Phoenix including: Blinds Phoenix, Blinds Chandler, Blinds Scottsdale, Blinds Tempe, Blinds Mesa, Blinds Fountain Hills, Blinds Paradise Valley, Blinds Queen Creek, Blinds Gilbert, Blinds Sun City, Blinds Glendale, Blinds Peoria, Blinds Surprise, Blinds Avondale, Blinds Apache Junction, Blinds Buckeye, Blinds Casa Grande, Blinds El Mirage, Blinds Goodyear, Blinds Maricopa, Blinds Guadalupe, Blinds Litchfield Park, Blinds Tolleson, Blinds Cave Creek, Blinds Carefree, Blinds Anthem, Blinds Sun Lakes, Blinds San Tan, Blinds Arizona.

blinds, window treatments, window blinds, venetian blinds, wood blinds, faux wood blinds, mini blinds, vertical blinds, blinds and shades, shutters, shades, window shades, pleated shades, roman shades, bamboo shades, silhouettes, graber, hunter douglas, levolor, bali, window shadings, interior designer, interior decorator, blindzmart, blindsmart, free installation, free estimates, guaranteed, custom blinds, blindz

http://www.blindzmart.com

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Where the window treatment industry went wrong

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 14:44:00 -0700

Being in the window treatment industry for the past 24 years I have seen a lot of changes. The window treatment business of today is nothing like it was when I began in the early eighties and then through the boom of the nineties.

When I first started out in the business it was a more personal business, with more attention given to things like customer service, consulting, installation and service of the product. In the 90’s there was a large boom in the industry as the real estate market experienced unprecedented home sales while banks made a record number (some that should not have been made) of loans to first time home owners.

In the late nineties a shift in the window treatment industry took place that I feel caused damage to the industry. The industry shifted from in-home service to Internet based sales.

This shift changed the way custom window treatments were sold and installed, moving away from the professional custom window treatment dealer and creating a self service type of industry. No more was attention paid to things like customer service, professional estimates, in-home consultations and experienced installation.

As a result the industry was sold out while competitors quickly took their business online in an attempt to see who could sell their product for less. Since less attention was paid to service, quality and customer interaction, what resulted was an industry being devalued as consumers were under the false assumption that a professional was not needed and that they could do these things themselves and save money.

The window treatment industry like any other professional industry does require the help of a skilled professional. The consumer in most cases does not understand the many facets related to measuring, ordering and installing custom window treatments. When problems arise (and they always do) they are shocked to find out that since they are the ones that measured their windows, they are the ones ultimately responsible for any problems such as wrong measurements, color, installation and repair. This can be easily demonstrated by going to most any Internet blinds dealer and reading their reviews.

When doing so use a reliable site like e-opinions to get e real review, not the reviews listed on the company website as these are often fake reviews submitted by friends and relatives. If the reviews are overly positive, in most cases they are not real reviews.

http://www.epinions.com/content_156778860164

http://www1.epinions.com/content_474154569348

http://www1.epinions.com/content_518633262724

The reviews I selected were totally random and in no way am I singling out these companies. In all fairness all online blinds companies have these issues and it’s not always their fault. Some may actually provide bad customer service but in most cases the problem is with the consumer. Yes that’s right I said it, the customer is not always right and when they are wrong they very rarely will own up to their mistakes. I know this from personal experience because I too tried my hand at online sales for a very short time before realizing that this was not the way to run a window treatment company.

The problem is most consumers do not know how to measure, order and install custom window treatments and even when given detailed instructions cannot do so. In all fairness this is not their fault as they are not window treatment professionals so why should they be able too? Just as I would not attempt to service my own air conditioner because I am not an air conditioning specialist, people should not assume they are a window treatment professional.

Most consumers are not aware of things like, there will be a ½ inch deduction taken on the width of all inside mount ordered blinds. Most consumers will deduct form the width when ordering then when they get their blinds; the blinds are too narrow because of the factory deduction taken. The consumer will immediately put the blame on the company they ordered from even though they checked a box on the website stating that they understand that this is a custom order and cannot be returned if a mistake was made by the consumer. The customer is upset because they paid money for custom blinds that are not custom because they do not fit, and the company cannot be responsible for measurements which they did not take, so this creates problems that turn into reviews like the ones above.

So what is the answer? Obviously it is to have a professional come to your home, show you samples of what you will being purchasing, give you advice, measure your windows and then return at a later date and install them. If service is ever needed a professional will come to your home and service your blinds. If there is a problem with any part of the process the company is responsible as they are the ones that measured, ordered and installed the window treatments. This takes all responsibility off the consumer and limits the possibility of bad customer/business relations.

By returning to customer service and a hands on approach the window treatment industry the result will be a satisfied customer as well as a profitable and successful business, resulting in a win-win for all!

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Need a Website for your window treatment business?

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Sun, 19 Sep 2010 12:04:12 -0700

Any window treatment companies in need of a website for your business? You can have one like mine in just a few days complete with shopping cart.

There are many reasons why you may not have an e-commerce website for your window blinds business-

Price- One of the biggest reasons for not having an Internet website for your window treatment business would have to be cost. Window Treatment websites can cost anywhere from $40,000 for a basic website up to several hundred thousand dollars and more depending on how comprehensive the website is.

Time- You do not have the time to spend building a website or explaining to someone else what you would like and need to have in a website, you are busy just running your business.

Products- How will I get my products in front of my customers?

Website Knowledge- How can I run my own website, I do not know anything about websites or how to update and run one?

These are all very important considerations. There are many companies that can build a website for your window treatment business, but at a cost that does not fit into most people’s budget. Most of these companies also do not know and understand your business like someone in the window treatment industry would.

You need a website for your business to stay ahead of your competition and it needs to be an e-commerce website. An e-commerce website is very different from a basic static website. Unlike a static (information only) website, with an e-commerce website you will be able to sell your products online which will create an entire new market for you. Instead of just being able to sell in your local area, you will expand your market on a National level and even worldwide if that is what you want.

With an E-commerce website you will be able to showcase your products to millions of people and those people will be able to buy from you no matter where they are. By offering the convenience of a shopping cart on your website you will multiply your sales overnight.

The problem is where can you find someone that knows your business as well as you and can build an e-commerce website for you at an affordable price that allows you to add your own products and have you online fast? Blinds Commerce can accomplish all this and at a price that anyone can afford.

You can have your own manageable e-commerce website complete with shopping cart from only $1199 complete. At this price there is no reason for you not to get your blinds, shutter or window treatment business online today!

http://www.blindscommerce.com

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Sweeva

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:30:21 -0700

Here is a cool site that can be addicting as well. You can advertise whatever business you like here and have others rate it. If you just want more traffic to your website or have something you would like to share with others, this is a pretty fun place to do it:

Sweeva

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Direct Matches

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Fri, 17 Sep 2010 15:17:14 -0700

Looking for more leads? Here is another good networking group that I belong to; Direct Matches

Busy Professional with no time to network? Post a professional photo profile at Direct Matches

and let people come to you!

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Types of Window Treatments

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 22:24:13 -0700

A Venetian blind has horizontal slats, one slat above another. They are suspended by strips of cloth called tapes or by cords which are able to tip them each at the same time up to 180 degrees.

Window blind is a window covering composed of long strips of fabric or rigid material. Examples include shutters, Venetian blinds, roller shades and curtain-like track blinds. In Britain awnings are also considered blinds. A blind limits observation and thus "blinds" the observer to the view. The main types are slat blinds which can be opened in two ways and solid blinds.

Slat blinds have long strips called slats. These can be rotated to open the blind while it is still covering the window. In track blinds the slats hang vertically from one end. In Venetian blinds and mini blinds the slats are suspended horizontally on cords. A slat blind can also be opened so it is no longer covering the window.

Solid blinds can only be raised or lowered and are often called shades. In some such as Holland blinds and woven-wood blinds there are small spaces between the slats. In others such as pleated shades there are no spaces because the slats are sewn inside fabric.

Window blinds reduce the heat from sunlight. Ancient Egyptian pharaohs had blinds made of reeds. The most inexpensive blinds in the 1800's were home-made roller shades, made of cloth.

Window blinds can be manually drawn or automated through motorization, controlled from a wall switch or keypad, remote control, or a personal computer, thus eliminating the hazard of dangling cords.

SLAT

The most common window blinds are slat blinds, which consist of many horizontal slats, usually of metal or vinyl, connected with string in a way that they can be rotated to allow light to pass between the slats, rotated up to about 170 degrees to hide the light, or pulled up so that the entire window is clear. Vertical blinds consist of slats of stiffened fabric, plastic, or metal hanging by one end from a track; like the horizontal versions, the slats can be rotated 90 degrees to allow light to pass through or to fold up on one side of a door or window. Vertical blinds are very good at controlling how much natural or exterior light comes into a room, due to the ability of the slats to close tightly.

Venetian A Venetian blind has horizontal slats, one slat above another. They are suspended by strips of cloth called tapes or by cords which are able to tip them each at the same time up to 180 degrees. Their setting can be changed from overlapping with one side facing inward through not overlapping at all to overlapping with the other side facing inward. There are also lift cords passing through holes in each slat. When these cords are pulled, the bottom of the blind moves upward causing slats to rest on each other as the blind is raised. Venetian blinds are basic slatted blinds made of metal or plastic; wooden slats are sometimes used but these are usually referred to as wood blinds or bamboo blinds. Venetian blinds were patented by Edward Beran in London on 11th December 1769. Slat width can be between 16-120 mm - a common width is 50 mm.

Others

Other variety of window blinds include Mini Blinds (venetian blinds with very narrow slats 1"(usually 25 mm wide), micro blinds 1/2"(usually 12 mm wide), Louvers (vertical blinds), Jalousies, Brise Solei, Holland Blinds, Pleated Blinds, honeycomb blinds (similar to pleated shades except that there are two or more layers joined at the pleats to form compartments that trap air, providing insulation), Roman Shades, and Roller Shades

Materials

A window blind is a means of screening a window, achieving similar results to those obtained by fitting curtains. Blinds are typically the same width and height as the window itself or slightly wider and taller - depending on whether they are fixed inside or outside the window's reveal (i.e. the wall recess within which the window itself is fixed).

Window blinds have varying thermal effects: they can block unwanted heat of the summer sun and they can keep in heat in cold weather. But in both of these applications, they also reduce light to varying degrees, depending on the design. Many kinds of blinds attempt varying balances of privacy and shade. Blinds can be made of a number of different materials and manufactured in a number of different ways. This usually determines the name by which the blind is commonly known.

Fabric

Blinds made of fabric can either roll up around a metal batten (roller blinds), fold up thanks to a thin cord and small horizontal slats (Roman blind), folding blinds with no horizontal slats create a less structured look (Austrian blinds).

Wood

Wooden blinds are generally known as Venetian blinds. A number of horizontal wooden slats are joined together by corded pulleys which can either gather all the slats at the top of the window to reveal the view or simply angle the slats while allowing some light to travel through the blind yet retaining some level of privacy. Wooden blinds come in a number of finishes (determined by the type of wood used, which ranges from painted to most types of solid oak varieties) and sizes (determined by the width of each slat which is usually available in one of three widths - 25mm, 35mm or 50mm). Wooden Venetian blinds are also available as vertical blinds. These are usually made up of wider slats and operate in virtually the same way as their horizontal counterparts (i.e. instead of being drawn upwards to reveal the window, the draw to one side gathering in a vertical bunch).

Pinoleum blinds are made up of small wooden twigs laid horizontally which are joined together by vertical threading. The resulting weave is, as a result, only flexible vertically and can be drawn upwards once manufactured as a roller blind or in a similar fashion to a Venetian blind. Conservatory blinds are often made with Pinoleum. Drawings in ancient Egyptian tombs of reed blinds have been reported and a common window blind during the 1800's is said to have been the home-made roller shade.

Other materials

Venetial blinds, both horizontal and vertical, are available in a number of man-made materials (either resembling wood or metal or simply plastic). These are better suite to areas where moisture or direct contact with water is likely to cause a problem, such as bathrooms and kitchens. These blinds are often available with micro slats (as small as 16mm or less). The result of smaller slats is that more have to be used to obscure the window completely. Conservatory blinds (i.e. ceiling fixed via a number of horizontal pulleys) are often made of man-made materials.

For more on Venetian blinds and other types of window treatments visit Blindzmart at:

BlindzMart

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Bamboo Blinds

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 22:13:32 -0700

Bamboo Blinds (also known as Woven Woods or Bamboo Shades) are a great choice for creating a tropical theme. Bamboo, Grasscloth, Matchstick, and unique Reeds in a multitude of colors, styles and textures can transform any room into a tropical paradise.

Bamboo Blinds are as versatile as traditional Blinds and shades. Custom Bamboo blinds and shades have many options that can be added to them. Choose from Top Down/ Bottom Up or add a Privacy or Blackout Liner to your Bamboo Blinds. Add an accent with a color coordinated cloth Binding or a custom Hem. Bamboo Blinds are available in all price ranges to fit any budget. Choose a ready made Bamboo Blind if you are on a budget or a custom made bamboo blind and have it sized to fit your window with the colors and options you select.

When shopping for bamboo blinds please be aware that bamboo is a natural product and that colors and hues can vary from one dye lot to another. The same pattern of bamboo can vary from a green tint to a brown tint. This is not considered a defect, and if it's a custom bamboo blind it cannot be returned or exchanged as this is considered to be the nature of the product. If you are purchasing bamboo blinds for more than one window make sure you purchase all the shades at the same time to avoid the shades being a different dye lot.

Bamboo Blinds should only be used indoors and never in areas where they will be exposed to water or high moisture areas as the slats may warp. Bamboo Blinds fit well into any style decor and liven up any room. Add Tropical plants and bamboo accents to complete your tropical theme. Bamboo Blinds will bring the look of the Orient into your home and give you beauty as well as privacy and protection from the sun.

BlindzMart

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Employee Scheduling Software

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 16:24:01 -0700

Anyone in need of good employee scheduling software?

I use WorkTimePro and it's fantastic:

Manage your employees with Online Scheduling. You can view and make edits from anywhere. Plus...

1. Set staff work periods
2. Approve or deny Time Off requests
3. Block out vacation periods
4. Allow staff the ability to swap or pick up shifts
5. And a whole lot more

Management and Staff can access schedules via Desktops, Laptops, iPhones, Smart Phones & Tablet PC's.

If anyone would like to know more, here is a link to the website:

WorkTimePro

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Anyone Need Web Hosting?

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:34:08 -0700

Anyone looking for a good web hosting company? I use Just Host.

Just Host is a first class hosting provider that offers a free domain for life, unlimited disk space, unlimited bandwidth, unlimited email accounts and the ability to host unlimited domains from just one hosting account.

They are dedicated to providing excellent customer service with the most reliable web hosting service possible. Just Host give every customer an anytime money back guarantee as well as a 99.9% uptime guarantee.

When you host with Just Host, you can expect to receive unlimited MYSQL databases, unlimited data transfer, unlimited disk space, and the ability to host as many domains as you want with your Just Host account.

Just Host also offers the best website builder, marketing vouchers for leading advertising networks, free setup (which takes place instantly), and free domain name registration for life!

All for just $3.45 per month!

You receive all the necessary tools to create your own website from scratch and allows 1-click installs of blogs, and discussion boards, plus hosting images. Just Host use cPanel control panel which makes hosting your website with Just Host the obvious choice.

http://www.just-host.net

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

About BlindzMart

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Thu, 16 Sep 2010 15:23:37 -0700

Hello, I would like to introduce myself and my business to you. My name is Mike Wasdin, owner of BlindzMart. I am a Chandler resident and have been in the window treatment industry for more than 23 years.

During that time, I have worked hard to build my reputation as an authority in the window treatment industry and have provided blinds, shades and shutters to the greater Phoenix Area since 2002. Before that I owned several blinds stores and Internet sites in Florida as well.

Building on the values that I learned growing up, such as quality, trust and reliability, I have built a business that is committed to 100% customer satisfaction.

I have recently opened BlindzMart to serve the Phoenix Metro area of Arizona. With a focus on both residential & commercial sales and installation, I would like to introduce my business as well as my services to you.

If you or your clients are in need of anything related to window treatments from blinds, shades, shutters and more, BlindzMart can help. With over 23 years of experience in sales, installation, manufacturing and repair of window treatments, you can trust all of your window treatment needs to BlindzMart.

We offer a 110% best price guarantee and will beat any estimate on window treatments in the Metro-Phoenix area as well as provide free installation on all orders.

Please feel free to contact us at 480-883-MART (6278) or visit our website www.Blindzmart.com if we can be of service to you.

We would appreciate the opportunity to exceed even your highest expectations.

Thank you for your consideration,

Mike Wasdin
Blindsmart

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Brand New Search Engine

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 22:09:00 -0700

If you've been working online, or on Facebook lately you've probably seen a lot of talk about this site and wondered "what is Kooday?"
I was just like you so I decided to check it out.

What I found is that it is a brand new search engine, like Google, Bing or Yahoo that allows users to purchase and own keywords. They also allow the owner of a keyword to link their website to the keyword for Free.

Because Kooday is a search engine like Google, you have the opportunity to own a piece of it. Can you imagine if you had been given the opportunity to own part of Google. Very cool. Well with Kooday, there is no PPC advertising. Instead, users can buy keywords and link their site to that keyword. The keyword can also be purchased from them, but it is my understanding that your link stays with that keyword. That is a cool feature in and of itself. Here are a few other reason why you should consider joining Kooday - oh, and its free to join!

1. You get to purchase and OWN keywords.
2. You can advertise, see your results and THEN pay for that advertising.
3. Earn free Profit-Share credits, simply by using Kooday. Get paid weekly on the profit shares you own.
4. Tell others about Kooday and earn for referring.
5. Owners of popular keywords are paid a bonus. It pays to own keywords.

To find out more go here: Kooday

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Americans Do It Five Billion Times a Day

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 16:48:12 -0700

No, it's not Breathing - It’s Text Messaging

Who is the most important person to promote and brand in today's economy? YOU! Personal branding on Facebook. Personal branding on Twitter. Personal branding on countless social networks.

But how do you personally brand and make your mark in the mobile revolution? By securing your name on the world's most famous mobile media short-code: 90210

Text messaging is the world’s most used communications tool and it is growing faster than cell phone and internet use. Traditional media, such as newspapers and radio, are losing customers at double digit rates and rising each year. Where should business go to advertise? iZiggs.

iZigg allows businesses to communicate with their customers any time, any place and on any phone.

Of the Five Billion Messages Sent Today, How Many Were About Your Company?

iZigg has 60 Million Cell Phone Users waiting to hear from you.

Go where the eyes are: http://www.iziggs.com

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

Blind Cleaning Basics

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:53:45 -0700

Cleaning venetian blinds does not have to be difficult if you follow this advice-

When I was a kid I remember watching my Grandmother put her Venetian Blinds in the bathtub and scrub them. When she was done she would hang them over the cloths line to dry. Oh the good ole days!

Window Treatments have come a long way from the days of the old fashioned Venetian Blind. Today’s window treatments are a lot more complex. The old Venetian Blinds were made primarily of Aluminum and had wide Vinyl tapes instead of cloth tapes or ladder cords. Because the blinds did not have Cloth tapes to get mildew or watermarks on them or Wood slats to warp this was an acceptable way to clean these blinds.

This would not be a recommended form of cleaning today. Even if the Head rail of the blind is made of aluminum, the blinds components can be steel, which can rust when exposed to moisture or they may have cloth tapes that will stain from watermarks. If it’s a wood blind and you submerse it, you will have ruined it. So what is the proper way to clean window treatments? This will vary by type of window blind and the material it is made of.

Aluminum blinds and Vinyl Blinds- The best way to clean Micro Blinds, Mini Blinds and Venetian Blinds and other vinyl or metal blinds is with regular feather dusting. If this is done on a regular basis, heavy cleaning should never be necessary. Turn the slats downward at an angle and starting from the top and using a feather duster (a soft vacuum attachment can also be used) work your way down. Dust them briskly, but not so hard as to damage the slats. If the blinds have not been cleaned in a long time you will need to use a mild detergent and warm (NOT hot) water to clean them. There is a tool that can be purchased that you can run between the slats, however I have never had much luck with these. They usually just redistribute the dust and dirt and bend or damage the slats. These blinds can usually be Ultrasonically cleaned as well. You should be able to find a company that will clean them with an Ultrasonic cleaner in your phone book if they are really dirty or greasy. If the blinds are new and you dust them regularly you should never need to have them professionally cleaned.

Wood blinds- Extreme caution must be used when cleaning real wood blinds. NEVER use water or water based cleaning products on wooden blinds. Water or even excessive moisture can permanently damage the wood slats. The best way to clean wood blinds is with a feather duster or soft head vacuum attachment. If a cleaning product is used, make sure it is something you would use on your fine furniture as well, something that is made for cleaning wood (no water based products) like a furniture polish. Normally cleaning products will never be required if the blinds are cleaned on a regular basis. NEVER submerse wood blinds in anything.

Fabric Shades- These shades require very little cleaning, a light dusting with a duster or vacuum attachment will usually be fine. Some fabrics can be sponge blotted if they have stains on them (check your product care and maintenance card for details). Most Pleated shades and Cellular shades can be cleaned Ultrasonically as well (always check to be sure) but this will not be required if the are dusted on a regular basis.

Vertical Blinds- Vertical Blinds are the easiest blind to care for. Since the slats are vertical as opposed to horizontal, they will not collect dust like a horizontal blind. Light dusting is usually all that is required. If they are a vinyl they can be cleaned with a mild cleaner such as 409 or Fantastic. Vinyl slats can also be Ultrasonically cleaned if needed.

The trick is frequent cleaning. If you purchase your blinds new and clean them on a regular basis they will give you years of service with very little maintenance. Always refer to the care and maintenance instructions before cleaning your blinds, as blinds will vary by manufacturer.

Mike Wasdin

BlindzMart

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

How To Install Window Treatments Like A Pro

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:51:21 -0700

Tools needed: a battery operated screwdriver, screwdriver bits (Phillips and standard), hex head driver, tape measure, and scissors.

Although no special tools are usually required when installing window treatments, it is suggested that you use a battery operated screwdriver or drill to make the job easier. First, un-package your treatment carefully and do NOT use a razor blade or knife to open the boxes. It is very easy to cut a string or the blind by doing this. Take care when removing the treatment from the box that it was shipped in; some treatments are more delicate than others. Remove all of the packing that was used in shipping, again taking care to do so. Place the treatment at the window that it will be installed; this helps if there are several treatments for different windows as not to get them mixed up. Then place all mounting hardware at the windows that are having treatments installed on them. Make sure you have the proper tools for the job, as screws and hardware will vary.

Horizontals: Install brackets making sure you use the proper bracket for the proper side (some have left and right brackets, and some do not). After the bracket is installed, open the brackets by lifting the bracket doors. Put blind in the brackets and close doors, making sure both sides are securely closed. If blind has a valance place valance clips on head rail before putting blind in brackets. Attach valance to blind headrail. Lower blind using the lift cord, and then rotate the blind in both directions to insure that it operates correctly.

Shades: Install shade brackets. Snap shade into place. (Because shades and brackets vary, refer to installation instructions that came with your shades). Lower the shade by pulling on the shade lift cord. This is usually done by pulling the shade lift cord to the left to release it, and to the right to lock it.

Verticals: For inside mount verticals mount the valance first. (Some valances may require trimming first). Mount brackets under valance in the proper position to allow slats to move without interfering with valance. Snap track into place. Hang the slats and make sure they all snap securely in place. Attach cord tension pulley to the wall and adjust tension so that it is secure but not tight.

For outside mount verticals: Measure to the spot you measured for the bracket to be, and make a mark. Using the top screw hole of the bracket, fasten a screw in the top hole where you made your mark. Place another screw in bottom hole. Center track over window and snap it into place, making sure that it is properly secure. Attach slats, making sure that each one is properly attached. Snap the valance brackets onto head rail if they do not have them built into the brackets. Center valance over the vertical track and place into valance holder. (Some valances may require a slight tap with the butt of your palm to secure). Mount the tension pulley to the wall and adjust the tension so it is secure but not tight. Draw blinds back and forth, and rotate them to assure that they are functioning properly.

Mike Wasdin

BlindzMart

Mike Wasdin

www.blindzmart.com

How To Measure For Window Treatments Like a Pro

Mike Wasdin (BlindzMart) — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 14:45:02 -0700

When measuring your windows, first decide what type of a mount you want to do. ‘Inside’ means that you will be installing the treatment inside the window opening. ‘Outside’ means that you will be installing the treatment outside the window opening. It usually looks better to install the treatment on the inside of the window, however, if your window is out of square, you may want to consider an outside mount to hide the windows imperfections. If you are mounting outside, make sure you have added the proper amount for hardware and over hang. If you are mounting inside, make sure you have enough room to mount the treatment.

If you will be installing horizontal blinds or window shades as an inside mount, measure the width in 3 places, top, middle and bottom. Mark down the narrowest width. Then measure the height in 3 different places, left, middle and right. Mark down the longest height. This will assure proper fit of your blind or shade. For an outside mount, measure exactly where you want the blind or shade to fit. Measure the window plus over-hang. For inside mount verticals measure across the top of the window for the width, and take the shortest measurement for the height. Do not add or deduct anything, order the exact size of the window.

For outside mount, measure window and add for over-hang and hardware. Windows with no inside dimension will need an outside mount. As a general rule you will measure the size of the window then add how much overhang you want. If the window is 62 inches wide, and you want the blind to extend 3 inches past on each side, you will need to order it 68 inches wide. If the window is 50 inches in height, and you want the blind to be the same length, your height will be 50 inches. If you want over-hang, add the proper amount of over-hang. If you want the blind to extend 3 inches beyond the height of the window, order the blind 53 inches in height.

For outside mounts you will also have to add for the height of the hardware. This is especially important for outside mount vertical blinds. For the width measure trim to trim (if no trim, measure from casing to casing) then add for how much over-hang you want. For the height measure from the floor to the top of the trim or casing, then add 2 inches for the mounting hardware. You will only add to the size for outside mount blinds NOT inside mount. Outside Mount applications (in most cases):

• Sliding glass doors, Anderson-style windows, and French doors.

• Shutters are generally easier to install as outside mounts.

• Remember the golden rule “measure twice, cut once”.

Tips & Warnings

When measuring for custom window treatments be sure to always use a steel tape measure, never use rulers, yardsticks or cloth tapes.

Always measure to the nearest eighth of an inch, never round up or down to the next whole inch.

A common mistake is to reverse the width and height when measuring a window. The industry standard is width X height, so always put the width first and the height last. Example given: 36 ¼ X 59 ½, 36 ¼ being the width and 59 ½ being the length.

Do not take your own deductions, the factory will take it’s own deductions for a proper fit. Measure the window opening for an inside mount if the treatment is being mounted inside the window opening. If it is an outside mount, make sure you have added for hardware and any over hang you may want.

Once your order is in production, it cannot be stopped. This is a custom made item and cannot be returned, so please take the time to measure your windows properly. You are responsible for your own measurements.
Things You’ll Need:
Metal tape measure

note pad

pencil or pen

Mike Wasdin

Blindzmart

Mike Wasdin