How to Install Window Blinds

Many homeowners opt for window blinds when choosing a window treatment for their replacement windows, and with good reason. Window blinds come with several aesthetic and practical benefits. They give you full control over privacy and the amount of natural light coming into your home, with the option to draw them up or down whenever you please. 

If you are planning to purchase window blinds off the rack and handle the installation by yourself, this blog is for you. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install window blinds like a pro. Let’s get started!

1. Measure Your Windows

Before shopping for window blinds, make sure you have an accurate measurement of your window frames first. To do this, you will need to use a measuring tape to get the length of the window casement from top to bottom. If you have a window sill, you also need to include it in your measurement.

It’s also important to decide whether you want to mount your window blinds on the inside or outside of your window casing. Hanging it on the outside can create the illusion that you have a larger window. On the other hand, installing your window blinds on the inside of your casing can make your window look smaller and runs the risk of letting light pass through the edges of the window blinds. 

2. Start Shopping for Your Window Blinds

You’ve taken accurate measurements of your window frame, sill and casement, now it’s time to shop! There are countless styles to choose from when shopping for window blinds for your home. They come in various colours, finishes, and materials. Window blinds can be made from vinyl, PVC, aluminum, real wood, or faux wood. It’s all a matter of personal preference and whether they would be an excellent fit for the specific aesthetic that you have in mind. Go for a clean, simple look with a style that can easily adapt in case you decide to update your interiors from time to time.

If you are reading this blog to learn how to install window blinds for your child’s nursery or bedroom, we highly recommend taking the extra precaution and looking for options that are certified lead-free. It may also be safer to choose cordless window blinds, which may be a choking hazard for children.

3. Mark the Spot Where You Are Mounting the Blinds

When you open the window blinds from their original packaging, take stock that you have all the parts. Read the instruction manual on how to install window blinds that comes with the product and follow it carefully. You most likely will need a drill or a screwdriver within reach.

Using a pencil, mark the spot where you plan to drill the bracket holes. If you are installing an outside mount, hold the top part of the blind or the head rail high up so that it is in the center and perfectly leveled to your window casing. Mark the part under the head rail on each side and at a quarter of an inch from the end of each head rail. For an inside mount, put the head rail inside the casing, and mark below the head rail on each end.

4. Attach the Brackets

• Open the bracket doors and hold them in place inside the spots you marked with a pencil. There are two open sides to the bracket. The door should face you or the inside of the room. If you are having difficulty opening it with your bare hands, you can use a screwdriver.
• Mark the spot where you will drill your two pilot holes. For an outside mount, these should be placed outside the window casing on both sides of the window. If mounting inside, the brackets should be in the top corner of each side.
• Drill the pilot holes and secure the brackets with screws. Use an appropriate drill bit depending on the type of material you are drilling into.

5.  Secure the Valance Clips in Place

The valance clips are what attaches the head rail to the valance, which is the decorative cover. They should be attached over the front lip of the head rail before inserting into the bracket. If you purchased ladder-type blinds, attach the valance clips on top of each ladder, instead of on top.

6. Install the Head Rails into the Brackets

Open the bracket doors and insert the head rails into the brackets. Once set up, snap the bracket doors shut. You should hear an audible click.

7. Put the Valance into the Head Rail

Set up the valance along the head rail by placing it on top of the valance clips. Once in position, press the valance down gently until the valance clips snap onto it securely. 

8. Attach the Wand for Your Window Blinds

Complete the installation of your window blinds by securing the wand for opening and closing them. All you need to do is push the plastic sleeve of the hook up, insert the wand into the hook, and slide the sleeve back down.

Professional Window Installation

You can’t go wrong with window blinds. They are a worthy investment that look polished and beautiful paired with all exterior windows styles. While reading this quick tutorial on how to install window blinds can definitely assist you with doing a good job, professional window installation is always an alternative.

When it comes to replacement windows, it’s important to choose a reputable company with years of proven success in manufacturing premium-quality products, a team of Window-Wise certified installers, and a true lifetime warranty to boot. 
To help you find the best provider, check out our list of qualified window companies in Ontario.