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.

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.