Blinds are a versatile and functional addition to any window, and by measuring and installing them yourself, you can save money and gain a sense of accomplishment. Not only will you be able to choose from a wider range of options and styles, but you’ll also be able to customise the fit to your specific window size and shape. This guide will walk you through the process of measuring and installing blinds, providing tips, and troubleshooting advice along the way.

Measuring and Installing Blinds Yourself

Measuring and installing blinds yourself allows you to have more control over the final product and can save you money on professional installation. Additionally, you can ensure a perfect fit for your specific window size and shape by doing it yourself. You can also save time, as you can do it at your own convenience.

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a measuring tape, a level, a screwdriver, a drill, and the mounting hardware and brackets that come with your blinds. You’ll also need the blinds and any additional hardware or accessories, such as a valance.

Measuring and installing blinds yourself is a great way to save money and customise the fit to your specific window. With the right tools and materials, you can achieve a professional-looking installation by following the steps outlined in this guide.

Measuring for Blinds

Properly measuring your blinds is crucial in ensuring a perfect fit and seamless installation. This section will cover the different types of mounts, the proper way to measure for width and height, and tips for measuring sloped windows.

Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount

The first step in measuring blinds is determining whether you will do an inside or an outside mount. An inside mount refers to installing the blinds within the window frame, while an outside mount refers to installing them outside and covering the entire window.

Measuring for Width

When measuring the width of the blinds, it’s important to measure them in three different places: the window’s top, middle, and bottom. Record the smallest measurement and use that as the width for your blinds.

Measuring for Blinds

Measuring for Height

Measuring the height of the blinds is like measuring the width. Measure the left, middle, and right of the window at the top, middle, and bottom. Record the smallest measurement and use that as the height for your blinds.

Measuring for Sloped Windows

Measuring for sloped windows can be trickier. When measuring for width, make sure to measure the longest point on the window. For the height, measure from the top of the window to the point where you want the blinds to end.

Tips for Accurate Measurements

  • Measure in inches and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
  • Measure multiple times to confirm your measurements.
  • Use a metal tape measure for more accurate measurements.

Measuring your blinds is important in ensuring a perfect fit and seamless installation. Be sure to take accurate measurements and consider both inside and outside mount options. By following these tips, you can have confidence in your measurements and move on to the next step in the installation process.

Preparing the Window

Preparing the Window

Properly preparing the window is an important step in ensuring a smooth and successful installation of your blinds. In this section, we will go over the steps of removing old blinds or window coverings, cleaning and preparing the window surface, and installing the mounting hardware.

Removing Old Blinds or Window Coverings

If you are replacing existing blinds or window coverings, it’s important to remove them before installing your new blinds. Carefully remove any hardware and brackets, taking note of how they were installed so you can use them as a guide for your new blinds.

Cleaning and Preparing the Window Surface

Before installing new blinds, it’s important to clean and prepare the window surface. Use a damp cloth to remove any dirt, dust, or debris. If the previous window covering leaves holes or marks, fill them with wood filler and sand them smooth.

Installing Mounting Hardware

The mounting hardware is the bracket that attaches to the window frame and holds the blinds in place. The type of mounting hardware will vary depending on the type of blinds you are installing. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and use the appropriate hardware for your specific blinds.

When installing the mounting hardware, use a level to ensure it is straight and secure. Make sure the hardware is securely attached to the window frame, and the bracket is level before moving on to the next step.

Preparing the window is an important step in ensuring the successful installation of your blinds. Remove any old blinds or window coverings, clean and prepare the window surface, and install the mounting hardware securely and level. By preparing the window properly, you can have confidence that your new blinds will be installed correctly.

Installing the Blinds

Installing the blinds is the final step in measuring and installing blinds yourself. In this section, we will go over the steps of unpacking and preparing the blinds, installing the brackets, hanging the blinds, attaching the valance, and adjusting the blinds.

Unpacking and Preparing the Blinds

Before installing the blinds, it’s important to unpack them and check for any damage or missing parts. Carefully read the manufacturer’s instructions and lay out the blinds in the order in which they will be installed.

Installing the Brackets

The brackets are what hold the blinds in place on the window frame. Carefully slide the blinds into the brackets, ensuring they are securely in place.

Installing the Blinds

Hanging the Blinds

With the brackets securely in place, it’s time to hang the blinds. Carefully lift the blinds into position, ensuring they are level and straight.

Attaching the Valance

A valance is a decorative piece that covers the top of the blinds. If your blinds come with valances, attach them according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Adjusting the Blinds

Once the blinds are installed, it’s time to adjust them to your desired position. Test the lift cord and tilt wand to ensure they are functioning properly. Make any necessary adjustments to the brackets or hardware to ensure the blinds are level and straight.

Installing the blinds is the final step in the process of measuring and installing blinds yourself. Unpack and prepare the blinds, install the brackets, hang the blinds, attach the valance and adjust the blinds to your desired position. You can achieve a professional-looking installation by following these steps and carefully reading the manufacturer’s instructions.

Tips and Troubleshooting

Tips and Troubleshooting

Installing blinds yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to update your window treatments, but it’s not without its challenges. This section will cover common mistakes to avoid, solutions for common problems, and tips for maintaining and caring for your new blinds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not measuring accurately: It’s important to measure multiple times to confirm your measurements and to round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
  • Not preparing the window properly: Clean and prepare the window surface before installing new blinds.
  • Not following the manufacturer’s instructions: Be sure to read the instructions for your specific blinds before installing.

Solutions for Common Problems

  • Blinds not level: Use a level to ensure the brackets and hardware are levels before hanging the blinds. If the blinds are not level after hanging, adjust the brackets or hardware as necessary.
  • Blinds not fitting properly: Double-check your measurements and ensure that you have chosen the correct mount (inside or outside) for your window.
  • Blinds not functioning properly: Check the lift cord and tilt wand to ensure they are functioning properly. Make sure the blinds are securely in place in the brackets.

Maintenance and Care for Blinds

  • Cleaning: Use a damp cloth to wipe down the blinds and a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust.
  • Adjusting: Check the lift cord and tilt wand regularly to ensure they function properly.
  • Protecting: Avoid placing furniture or other items in front of the blinds that could cause damage.

In conclusion, installing blinds yourself can be a great way to save money and customise the fit to your specific window. However, it’s important to be aware of common mistakes and problems that can arise during the installation process. By following the manufacturer’s instructions, preparing the window properly, and taking care of your blinds, you can achieve a professional-looking installation that will last for years to come.

Measuring and installing blinds yourself can be a cost-effective and rewarding way to update your window treatments. By following the steps outlined in this guide, from measuring and preparing the window to installing and maintaining the blinds, you can achieve a professional-looking installation that will last for years to come.

Summary of Key Points

  • Properly measuring your blinds is crucial in ensuring a perfect fit and seamless installation.
  • Preparing the window is an important step in ensuring a successful installation of your blinds.
  • Installing the blinds is the final step in the process, carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions and adjusting the blinds to your desired position.
  • Avoiding common mistakes, finding solutions to common problems, and maintaining and caring for your new blinds can ensure a long-lasting and professional installation.

Final Tips for a Successful Installation

  • Measure multiple times to confirm your measurements
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully
  • Use a level to ensure the brackets and hardware are level before hanging the blinds.
  • Clean and prepare the window surface before installing new blinds.

Additional Resources for Further Information

If you need more information or have further questions, you can always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or look up installation videos on the internet. Professional installers are also available if you need help or want to ensure the installation is done perfectly.

Measuring and installing blinds yourself can be a cost-effective and rewarding way to update your window treatments. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can achieve a professional-looking installation that will last for years to come. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions, prepare the window properly, and take care of your blinds to ensure a successful installation.

Buy direct from the factory at Blinds Deal

Installing blinds yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective way to update your window treatments, but it’s not without its challenges. This section will cover common mistakes to avoid, solutions for common problems, and tips for maintaining and caring for your new blinds.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Not measuring accurately: It’s important to measure multiple times to confirm your measurements and to round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
  • Not preparing the window properly: Clean and prepare the window surface before installing new blinds.
  • Not following the manufacturer’s instructions: Be sure to read the instructions for your specific blinds before installing.
Buy direct from the factory at Blinds Deal

Buy direct from the factory at Blinds Deal

Once you have all your measurements, contact us to buy direct from the factory or for a chat about your space so we can find the perfect blinds for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the blinds don’t fit properly?

Double-check your measurements and ensure you have chosen the correct mount (inside or outside) for your window. If the problem persists, contact the manufacturer for assistance.

How should I clean my new blinds?

Use a damp cloth to wipe the blinds and a brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to remove dust. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can damage the blinds.

How often should I adjust my blinds?

Check the lift cord and tilt wand regularly to ensure they function properly. Adjust them as needed to ensure they are level and straight.

What should I do if I have trouble installing my blinds?

If you have trouble installing your blinds, refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or look up installation videos on the internet. Professional installers are also available if you need help or want to ensure the installation is done perfectly.