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Metal Blinds

How to Install Window Blinds

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How to Install Blinds

Selecting new blinds for your home is a fun and exciting process. Installing blinds, however, can be tricky, but we’ve got some expert tips to help you learn how to install different types of blinds and add a professional look and feel to your home decor.

To make sure your new blinds look great and work perfectly, we’ve created this step-by-step guide for how to install blinds. Follow these instructions to get the perfect fit for your new window blinds installation. 

Blinds Installation Tools 

Before starting the installation process, make sure you have the right tools and resources to make blinds installation as simple as possible. Here’s a list of the items you should have before you start to install your blinds:

  • Drill
  • Phillip’s Head Screwdriver or Bit
  • Flathead Screwdriver
  • Metal Tape Measure

As you can see from this materials list, you should be pretty familiar with drills and basic tools. If that’s not the case, you may want to enlist a professional to help you install your blinds. At The Shade Store, we offer professional installation services for all of our window treatments. 

Before You Start Window Blinds Installation

In addition to having the right tools, it’s important to understand what parts and pieces you will need to complete the installation. Open your blinds package to familiarize yourself with the necessary pieces and instructions. This may seem like a small step, but it can help you be more organized when you’re ready to start the process.

The Blinds Installation Process

While different types of blinds may have varied, specific, instructions, this guide will help you understand the process to install common types of window blinds. Always make sure to check the installation guide that comes with your blinds to determine if there are any additional steps or special considerations.

Step 1: Unwrap the Blinds and Estimate Fit

The first step of blinds installation is simple: take the blinds out of their packaging and hold them against the window to determine proper fit. Depending on the location of the blinds, they will be installed inside the window casing (inside mount) or outside the window casing or wall (outside mount). How the blinds fit on the window will determine where and how to install the brackets.

How to Install Blinds Inside Mount 

When installing blinds on an inside mount window, it’s important to make sure that the headrail of the blinds is level and clear of obstructions inside the frame. Once aligned, make pencil marks ⅛” below the headrail on each end. This is where you will place the bottom of the installation brackets.

 How to Install Blinds Outside Mount 

To install outside mount blinds, hold the blind level against the window frame or wall. Where the blind lies depends on the length of the blinds so that they cover the full window. Mark the wall ⅛” beyond the ends of the headrail, which is where the brackets will be placed.

Step 2: Install the Mounting Brackets

After estimating and marking the fit of the blinds, it’s time to install the mounting brackets. Mounting brackets require two screws, located outside of the window frame or wall (for outside mount blinds), or inside the window jamb (for inside mount) blinds.

To install the brackets, hold each bracket against the mounting surface and align it with the pencil marks. Mark the location of the two diagonal holes for the mounting screws. Hold the brackets in place and drill a pilot hole into the marks.

Once you have your pilot holes, it’s time to confirm the placement of the brackets and drill the screws to firmly install the brackets.

Quick Tip on Auxiliary Support Brackets: If an auxiliary support bracket is included with your blinds, it should be placed in line with the installation brackets. The auxiliary support should not be in line vertically with the blind’s cord or ladder, as it may interfere with the blind’s lifting and tilting mechanism. 

Step 3: Install the Headrail

Once the brackets are installed, you will need to install the headrail into the mounting brackets. Most headrails should lock into place into the brackets, but if it doesn’t fit, remove the headrail and check the ends for any pieces that need to be removed or opened.

Step 4: Install the Valance

Now it’s time to install the valance. With many types of blinds, magnets come screwed into the valance, so you’ll simply stick the magnetic valance to the headrail. If you ordered outside mount blinds, the valance will be supplied. Clips are also a popular way to attach valances to the headrail.

Step 5: Attach the Wand

The final step in the blinds installation process is to attach the wand that manipulates the blinds. Once the headrail is installed, the wand should be easy to attach to the hook. Attach the wand and confirm that it’s firmly in place. Once installed, test the blinds by turning the wand and confirming that the slats are changing angles.

If you have cordless blinds, you can skip this step. Cordless blinds do not have wand attachments.

2 Inch Metal Blinds, Color: Champagne

Save the Hassle and Schedule Your Blinds Installation Today!

Want to leave your blinds installation to the pros? The Shade Store offers professional installation services nationwide. We can help you transform your home and install your new blinds. Sign up to get started with a free measurement. 

How to Measure for Blinds

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2" Wood Blind Material / Color 2" Laminated / Cherry

Choosing new blinds for a home doesn’t have to be a lengthy or difficult process. One of the first things you must do is measure your windows to determine what size blinds you need, and which mount will work best. Getting an accurate window measurement is one of the most important steps in the process, as an incorrect measurement could lead to ill-fitting blinds or the hassle of returns.

To help you measure your windows for custom fit blinds, we created this easy-to-follow blinds measuring guide, with detailed instructions on how to measure for a variety of different blind types, including inside mount and outside mount styles.

Read on to learn how to properly measure your windows for blinds.

What You Need to Measure for Blinds

Before you begin the process of measuring for blinds, make sure you have the right tools and resources on hand. We recommend that you have the following items to help you measure your windows for blinds:

  • Steel measuring tape
  • A ladder or step stool
  • Paper and pencil

How to Measure for Inside Mount Blinds

2" Wood Blind Material / Color 2" Matte Edged / Ivory Smoke

As their name implies, inside mount blinds are mounted on the inside of the window frame. Inside mount blinds are very popular because of their aesthetic: they offer a clean look because they fit inside the frame, allowing the woodwork of the window frame to remain exposed.

When it comes to inside mount blinds, measurements must be precise and there’s little room for error. In addition, there is limited space inside the actual window frame, so the measurements must be taken properly. Here are the exact steps to help you with depth measurement for inside mount blinds:

Step 1: Measure the Width of the Window

inside mount width measurement

Since all windows are different and imperfect, people should measure their windows in three places: the top, middle, and bottom. You really only need to measure the inside of the window frame when measuring for inside mount blinds – other blind types don’t require this measurement since the blinds hang outside of the frame.

To make your measurements as precise as possible, round the narrowest of the three measurements down to the nearest ⅛”. This will be the final width measurement for the blinds.

Rule of thumb: Inside mount measurement should never be rounded up, as that will cause them to not fit in the window.

Step 2: Measure the Height of the Window

inside mount height measurement

The height of the window also needs to be measured in three different places: left, center, and right. These measurements should also only be taken of the inside of the frame for inside mount blinds.

Like the width, the height measurement should also be rounded to the nearest ⅛” inch. However, it’s the largest measurement that should be used for a blind length measurement.

Step 3: Measure the Depth of the Window Frame

Measuring the depth of the window frame is an extremely important step because many blind styles come with minimum depth requirements, so it’s essential to get an accurate measurement. If the windows are too narrow and don’t meet minimum requirements, an outside mount blind is the only option.

To clarify, with inside mounts, depth measurement is the depth between the glass and the end of the window frame. When measuring for depth, it’s important to consider any obstructions, such as cranks or tracks that can interfere with the installation.

How to Measure for Outside Mount Blinds

2" Wood Blind Material / Color 2" High Gloss / Zebrano

When measuring for outside mount blinds, the process is similar to measuring for inside mount blinds, but has some key differences. Outside mounted blinds, which are mounted outside the window frame may be a great choice if any of the following apply:

  • Your windows are uniquely shaped – Since outside mounted blinds are installed to the wall around the window, they can work for almost any window type.
  • You’re looking to make an impact with design – Outside mounted blinds provide a taller, more dramatic appearance.
  • Your windows are very shallow – Outside mount blinds are great for windows with small frame depths, such as doors.

Outside mount blinds are easier to measure; since outside mount blinds go around the window, minimum depth is not a required measurement.

Below, we’ll go over the two-step process for measuring for outside mount blinds.

Step 1: Measure the Width of the Area to Be Covered

outside mount width measurement

Outside mount blinds have more flexibility than inside mount blinds, you can choose to have the width of your blinds stop right at the edge of your window, or expand to create the illusion of bigger windows. It’s up to you to decide how much space you would like your blinds to cover!

While you can choose your perfect width from your measurements, we recommend adding at least 2-3” (1-1 ½” per side) to the measurement to help eliminate light and provide more privacy. At the end of the day, you want your blinds to effectively block light, so adding just a few extra inches of wiggle room on either side will ensure that’s not an issue with your finished blinds.

Step 2: Measure the Height of the Area to Be Covered

outside mount height measurementSimilarly to the width measurement, the height can be chosen based on how much space needs to be covered. If the window has a prominent sill, the measurement should end at the top of the sill. If there is no sill, the measurement can be set to where the blind should end, and that length is up to you!

Save Time and Sign Up for Your Free Measurement Today

Whether you choose inside mount or outside mount blinds, an accurate measurement is the most important step before you order window treatment materials. If your home’s windows are unique (such as bay windows, transoms, or cutouts), or if you’re not confident performing measurements, you can have one of our skilled professionals come to your home and measure your windows for blinds. The Shade Store offers free professional measurements nationwide. Sign up for free measurement services for your windows, today!

Blind Styles: The Guide to Different Types of Blinds

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At first glance, most blinds may look similar. The reality is, however, there are many different types of blinds to choose from to enhance the look and feel of your home. Window blind options include: wood blinds, panel track blinds, XL vertical blinds, and metal blinds.

Each style has its own unique features and benefits. Understanding the different styles and features will help you choose the best window treatments for your home and your personal preference. Once you’ve decided which types of blinds are right for your home, you can order material samples or request a free measurement to get the perfect fit. Let’s dive in.

Wood Blinds

Wood blinds offer a classic look and are a highly functional choice for any home. Wood blinds typically feature slats (which can come in a number of widths) that tilt to control light and privacy. Wood blinds can even be motorized to make them simple, sleek and efficient.

Other primary features of wood blinds include:

  • Bold, rich colors
  • Defined by natural, man-made, or faux wood materials
  • Popular materials and finishes include: basic basswood, high-gloss basswood, exotic basswood, bamboo, and faux wood
  • Ideal for family rooms, bedrooms, as well as bathrooms due to their moisture-resistant materials

Many customers end up choosing wood blinds over shutters, since they offer a similar look combined with the flexibility of tilting vanes. Wood blinds can also be raised and lowered, whereas shutters permanently cover large parts of the window.

At The Shade Store, our large collection of wood blinds offer a design solution for any style. Our wood blinds are made from a variety of materials and finishes. If budget is a concern, faux wood blinds offer the classic look and feel of wood blinds at an affordable price.

Our wood blinds are made from eco-friendly materials and blend well in any area of the home. Wood blinds add an especially warm, rich touch to family rooms and bedrooms.

Vertical Blinds

Panel Track Blinds. Material: Prince, Color: Metal

Panel Track Blinds. Material: Prince, Color: Metal

Vertical blinds add a touch of style and function to large windows and sliding glass doors. As the name suggests, vertical blinds hang vertically, and are great to cover wide windows and open areas.

Other features of vertical blinds include:

  • Easy to operate
  • Modern and simple look and feel
  • Versatile material, great for light and privacy control
  • Great for rooms with large windows, such as sunrooms or living rooms.

At The Shade Store, we offer vertical blinds in a variety of fabrics and materials. Choose from light-filtering patterns, naturals (like textured bamboo), basic solar, and even UV-protectant Chilewich fabric.

We offer two distinct types of vertical blinds: panel track blinds and XL vertical blinds.

Panel Track Blinds

With their wide, sweeping coverage, panel track blinds offer a sleek, modern drapery alternative for homeowners. Thanks to their seamless design, panel track blinds are easy to open and close, and glide effortlessly along the pre-installed track.

Primary features of panel track blinds include:

  • Wide, sliding panels
  • Glides effortlessly along track
  • Panels can be left open to let light in, or easily attached

At The Shade Store, we have panel track blinds in many different colors, from crisp light grey shades to more striking dark colors, all available in our classic vertical blinds materials. No matter what kind of aesthetic you want to create, panel track blinds are the perfect everyday use blind to complement your style and add a finishing touch to your home or office.

XL Vertical Blinds

Xl Vertical Blinds. Material: Park, Color: Grey

Xl Vertical Blinds. Material: Park, Color: Grey

With their innovative design and classic look and feel, our signature XL vertical blinds can easily become a focal point of any room. With a wide range of material and color options, it’s easy to find the perfect match for any room that needs redecorating.

Primary features of XL vertical blinds include:

  • Great for large windows (residential or corporate spaces)
  • Extra wide 9 3/4″ vanes that rotate fully
  • Easy to use with excellent functionality

Metal Blinds

2 Inch Metal Blinds, Color: Champagne

2 Inch Metal Blinds, Color: Champagne

Metal blinds are one of the most versatile types of window blinds. Metal blinds have become highly sought after as a way to make a statement and upgrade the design of any room in your house.

Metal blinds are available in 1’’ and 2’’ options and a number of colors, including the very unique ”Silver” and “Champagne” options in our 2’’ blinds.

Primary features of metal blinds include:

  • 1’’ and 2’’ inch designs for horizontal blinds
  • Slats made of sleek aluminum
  • Simple and economical for homeowners
  • Highly durable

Browse our full collection of custom metal blinds.

Other Types of Window Treatments

With so many customization options, blinds are an excellent window treatment to add the finishing touch to your home. If you’re looking for something different, however, you can also check out other types of window treatments, including drapes and shades.

Like blinds, shades come in a variety of styles and types, from roller shades to Roman shades and more! Learn more about different types of shades.

If you’re looking for a more formal window treatment option, drapes may be the perfect fit. With drapes, you can even customize the types of pleats. Learn more about drape styles and find inspiration to decorate your home and your windows.

Different Types of Window Treatments: Drapes vs. Curtains vs. Blinds and More

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Whether you are moving into a new home, remodeling, or just looking for a way to spruce up an existing room, the right window treatment can make all the difference. Not only are window treatments a relatively simple way to update the aesthetic of a room, but there are so many different kinds of window treatments to choose from that can help you create the right look and feel for your home.

Keep reading to learn about several different types of window treatments and which one may be best to create the right atmosphere.

Drapes vs. Curtains

Traditionally, curtains are made with unlined, lighter fabric which makes them ideal for decorative window treatments. Drapes on the other hand, are made of heavier, lined fabric which makes them more effective to block out light, cold, and heat. Essentially, drapes are considered more functional than curtains.

Here at The Shade Store, we use the term “drapery’ on our website and in our showrooms to describe this versatile type of window treatment that can be used for both decorative and functional purposes.

Here are some drapery features and specifications to help you choose the best window treatment for your space.

Drapery Features:

  • Can be used in functional and/or decorative applications (depending on the style)
  • Use as a standalone product or for layering
  • Effective for insulation and/or privacy
  • Functional and easy to operate
  • Various styles to suit a wide range of aesthetics (ripple fold, inverted pleat, goblet, tailored pleat)

Should You Choose Drapes or Curtains?

If you’re looking for the best solution to block out light (as well as sound, and even retain heat or cold air), then drapes are the way to go! The Shade Store offers drapery in a variety of styles and fabrics, with customization options for shorter length and lighter materials.

Curtains vs. Blinds

While curtains and drapes may often be confused due to their similar appearance, comparing blinds vs. curtains is a much easier task. Curtains and drapery use fabric that hangs vertically to provide a decorative touch and some degree of light-blocking function. Blinds are made from solid material such as wood, metal, vinyl, or plastic that can easily be raised and lowered to effectively block out light.

Curtains and Drapery:

  • Defining quality is fabric hanging from a rod above a window – length and fabric type varies
  • Vertically oriented
  • Moderately effective at blocking out light
  • Many different options for color, fabric, and style

Blinds:

  • Defining quality is a series of slats that can be raised or lowered, tilted open or closed, and otherwise manipulated to let in varying degrees of light
  • Usually horizontally oriented, though The Shade Store does offer vertical blinds
  • Very effective at blocking out light

Visually, curtains and blinds look very different. Curtains and drapery are made from fabric, while blinds are composed of slats (or louvers) that can be manipulated to let in more or less light. Overall, blinds are more effective at blocking out light, unless you choose blackout drapery options.

It’s quite common to pair blinds with a set of curtains or drapes to soften the visual effect and add a splash of color and design.

Should you Choose Blinds, Curtains or Both?

If you’re trying to decide between blinds or curtains, the best answer may be: “both!”. If you are looking to create a certain visual aesthetic, blinds lend themselves perfectly for a minimalist look (think crisp, white vertical blinds) or a rustic feel (wood or faux-wood horizontal blinds).For additional functionality or to achieve a layered look, pairing blinds with drapery is the way to go.

Blinds vs. Shades

Blinds and shades look completely different from one another, but each serve a purpose. Blinds are made up of many individual slats, while shades are made up of one large fabric panel that can be raised or lowered for full or partial window coverage.

Blinds:

  • Made of slats (or louvers) that can be raised or lowered, tilted open or closed, and otherwise manipulated to let in varying degrees of light
  • Available in metal and a variety of wood materials and finishes.

Shades:

  • Made of a fabric panel and raised or lowered to let light in or out
  • Many different fabric and color options
  • Can be simple (like a roller shade) or more elaborate (like tulip, cascade, or aventura shades)

It’s not uncommon to pair shades or blinds with drapery for a more aesthetically appealing touch.

Should You Choose Blinds or Shades?

While both options are highly effective at blocking out light, if you have a specific design ideal in mind and want the option to roll your window treatment out of sight for a clear view from your window or total coverage, shades are the right choice for you.

Different Styles of Window Treatments

While form and function are certainly important considerations for choosing between different types of window treatments, it should not be overlooked how different styles of window treatments can also affect the style and feel of a room — and your home as a whole.

Here’s a quick overview of the different kinds of window treatments and just a few of the styles that The Shade Store offers. If you need some help selecting the right window treatments for your home, or you want some inspiration for mixing and matching window treatments, look no further!

Blinds

Blinds are an excellent window treatment option for blocking out light and maintaining privacy in your home. Forget the idea that blinds have to be boring — we carry blinds in 9 different wood materials, including bamboo, mahogany, oak, and pine, as well as some modern, stylish metal blinds.

2" Wood Blinds - 2" Matte Edged - Ivory Smoke

2″ Wood Blinds – 2″ Matte Edged – Ivory Smoke

No matter what kind of design you’re looking for, we’ll work with you to create something perfect for your home. Schedule your free appointment with a blinds design consultant today. 

Drapery

Looking for a classic, rich window treatment for your home, that makes a striking visual impact? Then elegant puddled drapes may be your perfect solution.

Ripple Fold Drapery - Raw Silk - Grey Hardware - Custom Track - White

Ripple Fold Drapery – Raw Silk – Grey Hardware – Custom Track – White

Drapes work with almost any type of window. At The Shade Store, we have over 650 different fabrics for you to choose from to create the perfect draperies for your home. Sign up for a free measurement or order some swatches today! 

Shades

Our most popular window treatment (and our namesake), shades are perfect for making a stylish design impact, but also doing the heavy lifting of blocking out sunlight and preserving your privacy.

Solar Shades - Basic - 5% - Grey

Solar Shades – Basic – 5% – Grey

With shades, your options for customization are nearly endless! At The Shade Store, we offer roller shades, solar shades, Roman shades, woven wood shades, and more. Order a sample or make an appointment with a design consultant to find your perfect shades today. 

 

Choosing Wood, Metal or Faux Wood Blinds

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Blinds are a great option if you’re looking for beautiful, classic-looking window treatments that are also highly functional. However, once you decide that blinds are the best fit for you, there are still choices to be made! Here at The Shade Store, we offer a few different types of blinds, each available in its own selection of colors and finishes. When it comes to choosing a blind material, here are the things you should consider:

choosing a blind material wood blinds

2″ Wood Blinds in Bamboo Wenge

Wood Blinds

Our Wood Blinds come in over 60 eco-friendly materials. The large collection of color and finishes available can match any décor or design style. If you’re looking for some added interest, our Wood Blinds also come with the option to add Decorative Tapes. These 1 ½” cotton bands cover the holes in the blinds’ slats, lessening light seepage. They are available in 12 colors, each providing a beautiful, custom touch.

Our Wood Blinds offer multiple control types, including cord lift, cord tilt, cordless, and wand tilt. Additionally, we have a motorized tilt option. This allows you to control the openness of your blinds from your smartphone, tablet, or home automation system.

choosing a blind material faux wood blinds

Faux Wood Blinds in Teak

Faux Wood Blinds

Faux Wood Blinds are a nice alternative to regular Wood Blinds, especially if your window is in a high-moisture area, like a kitchen or bathroom. Made of eco-friendly foam wood, our Faux Wood Blinds are resistant to moisture and mildew. One of our least-expensive options, they are also available in eight stunning finishes, so you are guaranteed to find one that works well for your space and your budget!

Metal Blinds

Our Metal Blinds are a part of our EconoShades Collection. Starting at only $136, these blinds are the best choice for low-budget projects. They are both versatile and functional, and available in five different colors. Their sleek, aluminum design makes them easy-to-clean and very durable.

For help or design advice on which blinds are right for your space, give us a call, email us, or talk to a Design Consultant in one of our 55+ nationwide showrooms!

 

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