The Installer’s Network for Window Treatment Professionals

When I created Trading Up Consulting, one of my goals was to provide education and networking opportunities for everyone I come across in the industry.

Of all the inquiries I receive, one of the questions I get asked regularly is: “Where do I find good installers?”

While I am currently developing quality training for those interested in bringing their companies to the next level, I took the first step toward answering this question by putting together a comprehensive window treatment installer database across the US and Canada.

This project is in its initial phase and will be constantly updated to reflect new providers.

The Unique Dynamics of the Window Treatment Industry

Our industry shares some very unique features. One of those features is the fact that you can actually work for your competition.

Let me explain: some businesses are set up as installation-only companies, while others are window treatment dealers (or fabricators) only.

There is also a third group: businesses that operate as both installers and dealers at the same time.

I personally started Shades In Place Inc. as an installation-only company at the very beginning. After a couple of years, I decided to add products to my offerings.

I still offer installation services to retail clients as well as to trade professionals. I know it sounds strange to compete against someone on one project and work for them on another.

However, installers with high integrity and moral values will never cross that line by stealing a client.

Building Trust Between Dealers and Independent Installers

Unfortunately, like in every industry, there are bad apples.

Not every dealer feels comfortable sending the competition to their job sites—especially if the installer is driving a company vehicle that does not reflect the dealer’s name.

It is a valid point. If you are ever denied a job for that reason, don’t take it personally. It is highly likely that the dealer had bad experiences in the past.

Trust is something that money cannot buy, and it takes time to build.

For that reason, the database I’ve put together is broken down by state and explicitly reflects whether the installation companies are installation-only or if they also sell products.

I am fully in favor of full disclosure and providing as much information as possible so the dealer can make the best educated decision for their business.

Guidelines for Dealers, Designers, and Workrooms

Please note that I cannot vet any of the companies listed in this directory. It will be your responsibility to interview them, as only you know what values are important to represent your business.

I am simply giving you a list of potential installers to jumpstart your search.

When vetting a candidate, you should ask targeted questions, including:

What is their dress code or professional attire?

What kind of vehicle do they drive?

Are they willing to add your business as an additional insured on their commercial insurance policy?

If you don’t like what you hear, simply move to the next candidate on the list.

Opportunities for Professional Installers

For the installers reading this: my job is to provide you with as many opportunities as possible to make your business more profitable.

I believe that this installer database will help you achieve that, as your company will be listed for free to potential new accounts in the areas you already service.

Please take the time to complete the form as thoroughly as possible, including all relevant training and certifications.

Use this link to submit your business info: [Insert Your Link Here]

Connecting the Industry

In closing, the internet operates like a giant warehouse with millions of products and pieces of information.

My job here is to organize the inventory for your shopping convenience (providing a clean list) and deliver it right to your door (your inbox).

Roger Magalhães
Founder, Shades In Place & Trading Up Consulting
Host, No Strings Attached Podcast