How to Install Venetian Blinds?
Installing Venetian blinds can be a daunting task. There are so many steps and so many things that can go wrong. But don’t worry, we’re here to help! In this blog post, we will give you step-by-step instructions on how to install Venetian blinds for both an inside mount and an outside mount.
Please note that we are assuming that the blind is ready to fit – so it is the correct size and does not require any cutting.
Let’s get started!
What are the Tools Needed while Installing Venetian Blinds?
- A drill
- A screwdriver
- A level
- Measuring tape
- Pencil or pen
- Venetian blinds
- Step ladder
How To Install A Venetian Blind – Step By Step
There are two options for installation – inside mount (this is inside the window recess) or outside mount (this is on the outside of the window recess).
We will go over how to install both options but before we do, let’s discuss the benefits of both inside and outside mounted Venetian blinds, so you can make the excellent choice for your home.
Benefits of An Inside Mount:
- Cleaner, streamlined look since no brackets are visible
- Better light control since the blinds sit closer to the window
- More energy efficient since there are only small gaps around the blinds
- Inside-mounted blinds allow you to add an additional layer of curtains on the outside of the frame. This will both soften the edges of the window and double up as more insulation.
Benefits of An Outside Mount:
- Can be used if your window is damaged or oddly shaped
- Creates the illusion of a bigger window
- Provides better blackout and privacy since the blinds sit away from the window
- Good for if you have a very shallow window recess or bulky window handles. Also, some people use window sills to display items. An outside-mounted blind will stop you from having to remove these items.
How To Install Venetian Blinds Inside The Window Recess (Inside Mount)
- Align the brackets on each side of the window frame. Use the level to ensure that both brackets are straight. If your Venetian blinds are large (normally over 120 cm side) you will likely have a center bracket as well so ensure that this is in the center of the window frame.
- Make sure you position the brackets at an appropriate depth on the window frame to ensure the blinds will clear any window handles or anything else that could stop the blinds from falling cleanly.
- Make a small pencil mark for the screw holes and then drill pilot holes where the screws will hold the bracket. Be careful not to drill the holes too deep.
- Affix the brackets to the underside of the window frame. Make sure they are level!
- Slide the blind into each side of the bracket and ensure the brackets are secure enough to hold the weight of the blind.
- Close the bracket clips and snap them shut
- Lower the slats. If the pile of slats is too large, you will need to remove the blind and adjust the length of the blind.
- Next, you need to install the child safety clip. This is a very important step, DO NOT SKIP IT. Make sure you have the correct side for the cords that lower the blind (this is most commonly on the right) and measure no less than 160 cm from the ground.
- Mark where the screw will be and drill the pilot hole.
- Secure the child safety clip using a screw and wind the pull cord around the clip. Ensure that this is high enough to be out of reach of children and pets.
And that’s it! You’ve successfully installed inside mounted Venetian blinds.
How To Install Venetian Blinds Outside The Window Recess (Outside Mount)
- From the apex left corner of the window frame use, you measure to mark a line 2 to 4 inches above the window. This depends on how high you want the blinds to be.
- Repeat this step for the apex right corner
- Measure the width of your blind and add the additional inches to the points you have marked on both sides of the window.
For example, if your window is 140 inches wide and your blinds are 144 you would need to add two inches to both the left and the right side to ensure the brackets will be in the correct place.
You can hold up your blind and check that the brackets will be in the correct place before drilling any holes.
- Mark the screw holes with the bracket held in place and then drill pilot holes.
- Screw the brackets in place using the screws
- Slide the headrail into the brackets and snap the hinges into place and ensure they are fully closed
- For outside mounted blinds, you will again need to install a child safety clip. DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP. Make sure you have the correct side that the cord is positioned, (this is most commonly found on the right side) and measure no less than 160 cm from the ground up the wall.
- Mark where the screw will be and drill the pilot hole.
- Secure the child safety clip using a screw and wind the pull cord around the clip, ensuring that it is high enough to be out of reach of children and pets.
- That’s it! You’ve just successfully installed an outside-mounted Venetian blind.
Common Problems When Installing Venetian Blinds
- When drilling into the window recess, you hit a metal plinth. This can happen and normally you will need a stronger dill bit and some extra force to get through it. If you simply can’t get through, you could try mounting the brackets on each side wall of the window recess instead.
- The brackets are not level. This can happen and it’s an easy fix, simply unscrew the bracket and readjust it until it is in the correct position and then screw it back into place. You may need to drill a new hole if you are too far out.
- One of the slats is damaged or bent. It’s important that all slats lay flat when fully lowered as this ensures they will all close correctly when you raise the blinds again. If there is a damaged or bent slat, it will need to be replaced. You can order replacement slats from the place of purchase or take one from the bottom of the pile and move it to the apex.
- The cord is too long. This can happen, especially with outside-mounted blinds. It’s an easy fix, simply unwind the cord from the child safety clip and cut off any excess using a pair of scissors. Be sure not to make the cord too short as you still need to be able to lower and raise the blinds with ease.
Tips To Stay Safe When Installing Venetian Blinds
- Wear safety goggles when using power tools
- Keep children and pets away from the area
- Ensure step ladders are flat on the floor and ask someone to help support you
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to avoid injury or damage to your blinds or window frame.
