Installation Guide for Your New Horizontal Blinds



For those looking to revamp their house on a budget, self-installation of new horizontal blinds is not only possible; it’s also simple. Before beginning your DIY project, make sure you have a stepladder, tape measure, pencil, screws, screwdriver or drill, and a level on hand. Then, follow these simple steps:

Before Purchase:

  1. Decide whether you want to mount your new blinds on the inside or outside of the window frame. It’s a matter of personal preference; would you rather the blinds just cover the glass (inside), or extend to the outer edges of the window frame (outside)?
  2. Carefully measure your window/ window frame, depending on your answer to #1. For an outside mount, you should measure to the outside edges of the molding. For both mounts, you’ll want to measure the window both horizontally and vertically in order to determine the length of both the head rail and the blinds themselves. The store will then cut your blinds to size.

After Purchase:

  1. Mark the frame: The end brackets, which should be included in your blinds purchase, will anchor the head rail. Keep in mind that one of the two open-sides of the end brackets should be facing straight out, and the other should be facing toward the center. Mark these placements. Then, keeping in line with these end brackets, pencil in your support bracket placements. These should be evenly spaced along the head rail, and their number is dependent upon the length of your blinds. 
  2. Install the Brackets: Using the marks as your guide, use an electric drill to create holes for exactly where the screws will go. Generally speaking, using a drill bit slightly small than the screws will be most effective. Then, screw one bracket in at a time by hand. Note: it is absolutely essential that the brackets are aligned, or else the blinds will rise and fall unevenly. Use a level to ensure perfect installation.
  3. Install the Head Rail: Consult your individual manual to determine the best way to attach the blinds. In most cases, you will insert each side of the head rail into the end brackets and snap it into place.
  4. Attach the tilt wand and valence: If the blinds have an included decorative valence, attach the valence clips and slide the decorative valence into place. The tilt wand, which is responsible for opening and closing the blind slats, has tiny hooks on one end that will latch onto the head rail.
  5. Adjust the Blinds to Appropriate Length: If your blinds hang too low, it is possible to remove individual slats from the bottom. First, remove the plastic retaining tabs/ plugs from the bottom rail, and then slide out the piece and cut the strings to proper length. Remove the excess slats, and re-knot the cord.

Keep in mind that specific blinds may have installation steps beyond these general tips. Consult your product manual or Payless Décor’s window treatment installation guide for further information.