How To Install Roller Shades Properly Requirements
If you think installing roller shades is easy, then you’re right! Roller shades are among the easiest window treatments to install, taking just 30 minutes of your time. However, you need to know how to install roller shades properly so they will be securely attached and liven your décor as you want. In this guide, you will learn everything about how to hang blinds, even if it is your first attempt at it.
Some of the tools that you will need:
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Step stool or ladder
- Pencil
- Drill
How to Install Blinds
Now that you have the right tools for the job let’s get started without any further ado.
Step 1: Verify your user manual and instruction
The first thing to do is to unpack your new blinds or shades and then read the user manual. Many people tend to bypass this step, but you don’t want to do that for two reasons. First, the user manual details all the parts you need to install the blinds. Consulting the user manual will help you familiarize yourself with the box's contents. Second, all blinds are not exactly the same, so there’s the possibility that the user manual contains extra information you may find helpful during the installation process.
Step 2: Bracket installation
- Carefully measure the location of your brackets as slight errors can make the blinds uneven or difficult to adjust.
- Place the brackets at least ¼“ away from the window so the shade can move freely up and down. Leave at least ¼” from the top of the window frame so the shade will have enough room when rolled all the way up.
- Mark the locations for the bracket with a pencil. Lift each bracket into position and mark two level dots where the screws will attach the bracket to the frame.
- Once you’re sure of the placement, it’s time to mount the brackets. Using your hand drill, drill two holes where you marked the two pencil dots.
- Insert the included fasteners in the screw holes on the brackets and tighten them with a screwdriver to secure the brackets. Ensure the brackets are tightly screwed enough to prevent the blind from falling.
Step 3: Shade mounting
The procedure for mounting the shade inside and outside differs so we will cover the steps for both mount types.
Inside mounting
- Provide ¼” space between the top of the frame and the fully rolled up shade so it will be easy to lift the shade into the slotted bracket.
- Depending on how you installed the bracket, you will insert the pin into the hole to lock the blind off. If the bracket faces out, insert the pin into the smaller hole of the right bracket first but if it’s facing down, insert the pin into the outer hole of the right bracket.
- Next, push the bracket to compress the spring and then fit the metal tab on the left side of the shade into the hole of the left bracket. Everything should click into place, and you should be able to move the shade up and down.
Outside mounting
- Find the side of your shade with a round pin end and insert it into the bracket.
- Line up the other end to match the slot in the bracket for a perfect fit.
- Once the shade is in place, roll it up and down to ensure it is working properly.
Step 4: Operating the shade and control
Operating the shade with cord control is easy. Pull the cord gently in one direction to roll the shade up, and pull it in the other direction to roll it down. In most instances, the front cord drops the shade, especially if the fabric rolls against the window. But if your shade rolls toward the room, use the rear cord to raise it up.
Alternatively, you can install motorized roller shades so you never have to get up close to the shades again. This type of shade comes with a robust and easy-to-use app which you can use to control the shade.
Where to Buy the Best Roller Shades
Installing a roller blind is super easy, and you can do it on your own without any fancy tool (even though an extra pair of hands can make things faster.) What’s important is to ensure that you follow the guide above. If you are looking to order high-quality roller shades for your home, visit Go Smart Blinds to explore our full range of blinds. Our customer support staff are ready to help you with any information you need. You can also click here to find out more about other services that we offer.