Window Treatments for the DIY-handicapped – Measuring and Installing

                                                                                         

It seems that very few people are aware of the fact that you can actually use the cost savings of online shopping to purchase window blinds, shades, shutters, etc. Even though shopping online has become fairly commonplace for many people. I think that it doesn’t cross their mind that this also applies to such an abstract and infrequent purchase such as blinds and shades.

It is also my experience that the average person views choosing, measuring for and installing blinds somehow outside the realm of their abilities – it isn’t. I personally believe the most difficult part of this cycle is simply deciding what you want. Measuring your windows and installing your blinds is very straightforward. The only caveat to that statement would be: a.) you are physically incapable or b.) you will be installing blinds or shades in high, or otherwise hard to reach locations such as skylights or windows that are up high.

Why should you be willing to do this yourself? Because, by not having to hire someone to measure and install, you will save hundreds of dollars

Before, you decide you can’t, allow me to illustrate the simple steps. Before you order your blinds, you will need to measure your windows. By the way, you will have to do this if you buy custom blinds or something off-the-shelf. Custom blinds are better because there’s a much larger selection, they are generally better quality and they fit better. Anyways, what you will need to get started is: a pencil, paper and a steel measuring tape. Pretty simple so far? You will need to decide whether or not you will be mounting the blind or shade on the inside of the window casing or above the window (outside-mounted). Side note: most blinds, i.e. mini blinds and wood blinds get mounted on the inside, whereas shades can be mounted either way.

Measuring for inside mounted blinds or shades:
For accuracy, you will need to measure the width and height in three places. For the width, measure the top, middle and bottom. For the height measure the left, middle and right. Write down all three measurements for the width and height. For roller shades and solar screens use the top width and the longest height. Don’t take any deductions as the manufacturer will do this for you so that your blinds operate properly. Please note that the finished product will be at ½ inch, or less, narrower (width) then your measurements. If you are ordering for multiple windows, make sure to measure them all, even if they look the same. For horizontal blinds (vertical blinds), the only difference from measuring from roller and solar shades is that when measuring the height, you will use the shortest length.

Measuring for outside mounted blinds or shades:
Measure the width and height in 3 places each. For the width measure the top, middle and bottom. For the height measure the left (from top to bottom of the window casing), middle and right. Write down all three measurements from the width and height, rounding to the nearest 1/8 inch. Use the longest width and height measurements then add the desired overlap, again usually up to about 2 inches. If you want your blinds and or shades to reach the floor, make sure to deduct at least ½ inch from the length so your blinds and shades don’t go all the way to the ground.

When you receive your blinds, here are the steps to install them:
For this project you will a pencil, screwdriver and a drill. Open all your boxes and make sure that all the mounting hardware is present. Then familiarize yourself with the instructions that come with your blinds. Next, decide on the position of the mounting brackets and mark each screw hole with a pencil. Then take your electric drill and drill starter holes at each of your pencil marks. Align the brackets over the holes and drive the screws in until tight. Don’t over-tighten. With the shades in the fully raised position snap the head rail into the brackets and then test the operation of your blind or shade.

About the author:
That’s all there is to it. Measuring and installing blinds or shades is really that simple and will save you lot’s of dough. If you need help with window treatment ideas, I would suggest using the internet and look for window coverings images. - David Brooks


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