DIY : Window Blind Installation 101 – EJ – Medium
Window Blind Installation 101
Window blind installation is tricky business. It’s a job that looks deceptively simple — a few minutes of work and you’ll have your new blinds in place. Yet when it comes to actually getting the job done, it takes at least 30 minutes (usually an hour) and a lot of curse words are said in the process. That said, today I want to share a quick window blind installation 101 in an attempt to make your next window blind installation project go a little more smoothly.
Window Blind Installation 101
Measuring for Your Blinds
The first thing you need to do when starting your window blind installation project is to measure for your blinds.
Assuming that you are purchasing inside-mounted horizontal blinds, you need to measure the EXACT window width from molding to molding at the top of the window, the middle of the window, and the bottom of the window. Of these measurements, take note of the narrowest width measurement. Next, you want to measure the EXACT height at the left, middle, and right side of the window. Take note of the tallest height. Write these measurements down and use them to select your new blinds. Use your height as the minimum length of your blinds.
Just remember, when you are measuring for your blinds you always want to go with the EXACT measurements of your window. Don’t add any extra space for the headrail of the blind and don’t subtract anything from your measurements either.
Preparing to Install Your Blinds
Before you get to installing window blinds, you will need to get your leveler and your drill out.
Take one of the end brackets for the blind mount and using a pencil, mark the screw holes. Do the same on the opposite side of the window.
Now take your tape measure and make sure that the screw hole marks are level and even.
When you are sure that the marks are even, take out your drill and drill holes for your screws making sure that they are a little smaller than the screws.
Window Blind Installation
With your screw holes ready, you’re ready to mount your blinds!
Screw the end brackets in place.
When both end brackets are secured, install the headrail for your blinds.
If your blinds hang too low, review the instructions that came with them for instructions on how to remove additional slats.
Ideally, you purchased blinds that were close to your window height so that you don’t wind up with too much overhang, but if you went overboard, don’t panic, most blinds will come with instructions on how to shorten them when needed!
Once you have your blinds in place, the last step is to install the valance. Although most people think of a ballooned piece of material when they think of the word valence, it can also refer to the slat that covers the front of the headrail of the blinds. Most of these valences just snap into place easily, but double check for installation instructions on your blinds to be sure that you don’t damage anything while installing the valance.
With the valance in place, all that’s left to do is attach the wand for turning the blind slats and you’re finished!
Problems with Window Blind Installation
If you have trouble with window blind installation, don’t panic. Plenty of people experience difficulties with window blind installation. The most common problem that people run into is an aversion to heights. When you’re afraid of heights, just getting on a stepladder to install window blinds can be terrifying. If you’re afraid of heights and just can’t bring yourself to stand on a stepladder, don’t panic too much, there are professional window blind installation companies out there who can help. (If you’re in Southwest Florida, I recommend Gulf Coast Installs.)
If you’re running into problems with window blind installation because you can’t seem to get the blinds straight, you may also want to consider calling in a professional to help. Prices are reasonable and the frustration it’ll save you will be worth it.
If you’re having problems with installing your window blinds because you mismeasured for your blinds, then give it another shot! Get your measuring tape out, measure one more time and then measure again just to be sure this time. Now if things don’t go to plan the second time around? It’s probably time to throw in the towel and leave it to the professionals!
