How To Install Blinds & Shades

Although no special tools are usually required when installing window treatments, it is suggested that you use a battery operated screwdriver or drill to make the job easier. First, un-package your treatment carefully and do NOT use a razor blade or knife to open the boxes. It is very easy to cut a string or the blind by doing this. Take care when removing the treatment from the box that it was shipped in; some treatments are more delicate than others. Remove all of the packing that was used in shipping, again taking care to do so. Place the treatment at the window that it will be installed; this helps if there are several treatments for different windows as not to get them mixed up. Then place all mounting hardware at the windows that are having treatments installed on them. Make sure you have the proper tools for the job, as screws and hardware will vary. 

Horizontals: For inside mount: Install brackets making sure you use the proper bracket for the proper side (some have left and right brackets, and some do not). After the bracket is installed, open the brackets by lifting the bracket doors. Put blind in the brackets and close doors, making sure both sides are securely closed. If blind has a valance place valance clips on head rail before putting blind in brackets. Attach valance to blind headrail. Lower blind using the lift cord, and then rotate the blind in both directions to insure that it operates correctly. For outside mount: If you are installing the blind over a French door, you must add the proper amount for the size you want. 

Shades: Install shade brackets. Snap shade into place. (Because shades and brackets vary, refer to installation instructions that came with your shades). Lower the shade by pulling on the shade lift cord. This is usually done by pulling the shade lift cord to the left to release it, and to the right to lock it.

Verticals: For inside mount verticals mount the valance first. (Some valances may require trimming first). Mount brackets under valance in the proper position to allow slats to move without interfering with valance. Snap track into place. Hang the slats and make sure they all snap securely in place. Attach cord tension pulley to the wall and adjust tension so that it is secure but not tight.

 
For outside mount verticals:
Measure to the spot you measured for the bracket to be, and make a mark. Using the top screw hole of the bracket, fasten a screw in the top hole where you made your mark. Place another screw in bottom hole. Center track over window and snap it into place, making sure that it is properly secure. Attach slats, making sure that each one is properly attached. Snap the valance brackets onto head rail if they do not have them built into the brackets. Center valance over the vertical track and place into valance holder. (Some valances may require a slight tap with the butt of your palm to secure). Mount the tension pulley to the wall and adjust the tension so it is secure but not tight. Draw blinds back and forth, and rotate them to assure that they are functioning properly. 

 

Shutters: If you have not installed shutters before, we recommend that you hire a professional for this. Shutters can be very complicated and should not be attempted by a novice.




 


Again, these can be very complicated and we do not recommend that you install these unless you have done it before. A professional installer can usually be found by looking in your phone book under "blind installations" or "blind installers".

Care and maintenance: Please refer to the care and maintenance card that came with your treatments for the proper care and maintenance of your new treatments, as this will vary depending on product type, style and material.