Window blinds are a fantastic alternative to traditional curtains and drapes. They offer privacy, light control, and a sleek aesthetic. However, hiring a professional company to measure and fit them can cost a small fortune.
The good news? You can save significant cash by doing it yourself. It is a surprisingly practical and straightforward weekend project. We will walk you through the entire process of installing blinds, from nailing the measurements to snapping that final valance into place.
Key Takeaways
- DIY Friendly: Installing blinds yourself is a simple way to save money on labor costs.
- Mounting Options: Choose inside mounts for a clean look or outside mounts for better light blocking.
- Precision Matters: Measure width at three points (top, middle, bottom) to ensure a perfect fit.
- Tools Needed: A drill, level, and measuring tape are your best friends for this project.
Is It Easy to Install Blinds Yourself?
Installing blinds is incredibly easy, provided you have the right tools and a little patience. You definitely don’t need to pay vast sums for a professional installer. If you can use a tape measure and a drill, you can handle this project in an afternoon. Simply follow the steps below to transform your windows.
Inside vs. Outside Mount: Which Is Best?
Before you buy anything, you need to decide where the blinds will sit. You can mount the brackets inside the window frame (against the jamb) or outside on the wall (above the window). This choice depends on your window depth and the look you want.
Inside Mounts
Inside mounts sit snugly within the window recess. This is the most popular choice because it looks clean, neat, and built-in.
The main advantage here is aesthetic; the blinds don’t protrude into the room. Plus, you generally drill into the inside of the window frame, meaning any holes are concealed if you ever decide to remove the blinds later.
Outside Mounts
Outside mounts are attached to the wall above the window casing or directly onto the trim. This is the best option if your window recess is too shallow to hold a bracket.
Outside mounts are also excellent for blocking light, as they cover the entire window opening with no side gaps. If you have unsightly window frames you want to hide, or if the frames are made of material you cannot drill into (like metal or plastic), this is your go-to method.
How to Install Window Blinds
Fitting window blinds is straightforward. Gathering the correct tools beforehand makes the process smoother and helps prevent mistakes. Remember, drilling into walls leaves permanent holes, so measuring twice is non-negotiable.
What You’ll Need
- Power drill.
- Crosshead screwdriver.
- Drill bits (various sizes).
- Wall anchors (if mounting into drywall).
- Pencil.
- Spirit level.
- Tape measure (metal is best for accuracy).
- Step ladder.
Step 1: Measuring for the Perfect Fit
Do not skip this step or rush it. The success of your installation depends entirely on accurate numbers.
Measuring for an Outside Mount
Measure the width of the window area you want to cover. Ideally, you want the blind to extend 1.5 to 3 inches past the window frame on each side to ensure privacy and light control.
Next, measure the height. Start from where you plan to place the headrail (usually 2 to 3 inches above the frame) down to the windowsill or the bottom of the casing.
Measuring for an Inside Mount
Place your tape measure inside the window recess. You need to measure the width at three different points: the top, the middle, and the bottom.
Crucial Tip: Windows are rarely perfectly square. Use the narrowest of the three measurements as your final width. This ensures the blind won’t get stuck halfway down.
For height, measure top-to-bottom on the left, center, and right. Use the longest measurement to ensure the blind covers the full glass area.
Step 2: Marking and Drilling Brackets
Once your blinds arrive, unbox them and locate the mounting brackets. The process differs slightly depending on your mount style.
1. Position the Brackets
For Outside Mounts: Hold the blind up to the wall (a helper is useful here) so it is centered and level. Use your pencil to mark the ends of the headrail. Then, place the brackets about 0.25 inches inside those marks.
For Inside Mounts: Place the brackets in the top corners of the window recess. Ensure the front edge of the bracket is flush with the wall surface so the blind doesn’t stick out.
2. Mark the Holes
Hold the bracket firmly in place. Use your pencil to mark the screw locations through the holes in the bracket. Repeat this for the other side.
3. Drill Pilot Holes
Set the brackets aside. Use a drill bit slightly smaller than your screws to drill pilot holes into your marks.
Note: If you are drilling into drywall for an outside mount, you may need a larger bit to insert wall anchors first. If drilling into wood, the pilot hole prevents the wood from splitting.
4. Screw in the Brackets
Line the brackets up with your new holes. Use your drill or a screwdriver to secure them tightly. Give them a wiggle to make sure they are solid.
Step 3: Mounting the Headrail
1. Attach Valance Clips
If your blinds came with a decorative valance (the piece that hides the mechanism), attach the plastic clips to the front of the headrail before you mount the blind. It is much harder to put them on later.
2. Snap It In
Slide the headrail into the box brackets. Close the “door” on the bracket until you hear a satisfying snap. If your brackets are the spring-loaded clip style, tilt the headrail back and snap the front into place.
3. Add the Finishing Touches
Slide the valance into the clips you attached earlier. If your blind has a wand for tilting the slats, hook it onto the mechanism now. Test the blinds by raising and lowering them to ensure everything operates smoothly.
Different Types of Window Blinds
The type of blind you choose impacts the installation slightly, but mostly it changes the vibe of the room. Here are a few popular options.
Venetian and Mini Blinds
These are the classic horizontal slat blinds. “Mini” simply refers to blinds with narrower slats (usually 1 inch or less). They are typically made of aluminum or vinyl. They are affordable, moisture-resistant, and great for bathrooms or kitchens.
Faux Wood Blinds
These mimic the look of real wood but are made of a composite PVC material. They are heavier than mini blinds, so you need to ensure your wall anchors are strong. They offer a high-end look without the risk of warping in humid environments.
Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
Cellular blinds are made from fabric cells that trap air, making them excellent insulators against heat and cold. They are lightweight and often cordless, making them a safe choice for nurseries and homes with pets.
Roman Shades
Roman blinds are made of fabric that folds into neat pleats when raised. They add softness to a room and are excellent for blocking out sunlight. Installation is similar to other blinds, but you usually mount them on the outside to show off the fabric.
FAQs
Is It Cheaper to Install Your Own Blinds?
Yes, it is significantly cheaper. Professional installation services often charge high labor fees per window. By doing it yourself, you only pay for the cost of the blinds and basic tools.
Do You Need a Drill to Install Blinds?
Yes, a drill is highly recommended to create pilot holes. While you technically could force screws into soft wood with a screwdriver, it requires immense effort and risks splitting the window frame.
How Much Space Is Needed for Inside Mount Blinds?
You typically need a recess depth of at least 2.5 to 3 inches to fully recess the blind so it is flush with the wall. However, some slim models can fit in spaces as shallow as 1 inch, though they will protrude slightly.
Can I Use Command Strips to Hang Blinds?
Technically, yes, but only for very lightweight, temporary paper or fabric shades. Standard wood or vinyl blinds are too heavy for adhesive strips and could fall, causing damage or injury. Always use screws for a secure fit.
Which Blinds Are Safest for Children?
Cordless blinds are the safest option for homes with children and pets. Traditional cords pose a strangulation hazard. Many modern cellular and roller shades now come standard with cordless lift systems.
Can I Cut Stock Blinds to Fit My Window?
Yes, many vinyl and aluminum stock blinds can be cut to size. Some home improvement stores offer this service for free in-store. If you are doing it at home, you will need a specialized saw or a hacksaw for the headrail and strong shears for the slats.
The Last Word
Installing your own window blinds is a satisfying project that creates an immediate visual impact. It’s a fairly quick process that you can easily knock out in a weekend.
Whether you choose a sleek inside mount or a blackout outside mount, taking the time to measure correctly is the secret to success. Grab your drill, take your time, and enjoy the privacy and style of your new window treatments.
