How to Fit a Window Blind

How to Fit Window Blinds

Blinds are not only decorative additions to any window, but they can also be the best solution for blocking out light or making it harder to look through a window while still allowing light through.

There are dozens of window blind types on the market. The best for you depends on the look you’re going for, the type of window you’re dressing, and how you want to control the blinds.

While blind fitting services exist, you can save money fitting your own, and purchasing online.

You will need:

• Drill
• Wall plugs
• Screws
• Pencil
• Impact driver
• Blind brackets
• Blind bar
• P-clip

Always wear PPE when drilling and working with power tools. Eye protection, a dust mask, and gloves are all required for your personal safety and protection.

 

Types of Window Blind

• Venetian – horizontal slats which attach with string or cloth. Good for a minimal style
• Roller blinds – fabric blinds controlled by string beads. Ideal for adding colour and pattern
• Roman blinds – fabric, which folds up and down rather than rolling. Sophisticated and colourful
• Vertical – long slats opening to each side. Allows control of light. Ideal for patio doors
• Electric – controlled by remote. Comes in various sizes and styles, commonly roller blinds.

 

How to Measure Windows for Blinds

Where will the blind hang? If your window has a deep recess, you may wish to fit your blind inside this (top fix). If shallow, or the style suits, you may instead want to hang the blind outside the window recess (face fix).

In a recess, simply measure the width between the walls. Reduce the side measurements by 1cm to ensure the blind doesn’t scrape on the wall.

Outside of a recess, a blind should sit at least 2” on either side of the window, but ideally at 6” (15cm) on either side for optimal performance and to prevent light bleed.

For the length, measure from where you want the rail to be, to the bottom where you want the blind to end. Again, we recommend around 15cm top and bottom, below the windowsill.

Always measure twice. Readymade blinds can often be cut to size, so you can carefully follow instructions to ensure you get a perfect fit for any window.

 

How to Install Window Blinds

Fitting blinds outside the recess will require them to attach to the wall or a wooden batten. Inside, the blind rail should fit either to each side of the wall or the top of the recess, depending on the style and size of the rail.

Most brackets are adjustable and can switch the direction they face depending on the wall/fitting style.

Always follow the exact instructions on your chosen type of blinds when it comes to fitting.

 

Step 1: Mark the drill holes

Mark the sides where the blind bracket will sit, which should be around 15cm on each side of the window. If installing inside a recess, the sides of the wall should be the guide.

With a pencil, mark the drill holes. You will usually get two brackets and potentially also a centre bracket for longer bars.

 

Step 2: Drill the pilot holes

With your marks in place, drill the holes. In a masonry wall, you want to be using a hammer drill. The size of the holes should be relative to the screws supplied with the bracket.

Once the holes are drilled, insert the wall plugs and tap in snugly using a hammer. Never drill straight into the wall without a wall plug, especially when you need to add strength.

 

Step 3: Fit the brackets

Once the wall plugs are in, secure the brackets and use an impact driver to screw to the wall.

 

Step 4: Fit the blind bar

Once the brackets are fitted, you should be able to install the bar with the blinds on. Choose which side you want the chain and controls to be on, and if you are installing a roller blind, what way the blind will roll (inside or outside).

One side of the bar should be a spring or slot onto the bracket, so fit this first, and the other side is just pushed into place.

 

Step 5: Install a cord safety device

If you have children or pets, you may need a cord tensioning clip – or P-clip – which holds the cord in place. Clip the device to the blind cord and position it on the wall so the cord has continuous tension but can still run the blind.

Make a pencil mark where you need to drill the hole, drill, and fit the wall plug, then screw the clip to the wall. It should be at least 1.5m off the floor, so you may need to reduce the length of the cord.

 

NEED SOME MORE HOME DIY TIPS?

Fitting your own blinds is an easy way to transform your window space and even the look of your home. Plus, it can save you some professional installation fees.

If you’re also fitting curtains, read our blog on how to install a curtain pole. Our guide on how to drill into brick will give you some tips on drilling the correct holes for your blinds.

To hire the power tools you need online, open a Speedy account or use the app for delivery or collection.

Speedy has more than 200 local service centres across the nation, hire counters in selected B&Qs and nationwide 4-hour delivery. We are here when you need professional tool hire.

 

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