A Journey of Fun and Function: How to Install your Home Blinds
A Handyman's Guide on how to Bring Style and Privacy to your Home
Are you keen on becoming a DIY ninja and conquering another home project? Or maybe you're hunting for new ways to improve your home and save some cash in the process. Whichever boat you're sailing in, one thing is clear - you're here to learn to install your home blinds. So let's kick-start this and transform you into a home blinds-installation maverick!
Round up Your Tools
First thing’s first; you should roll up your sleeves and gather some tools. The success of installing your home blinds hangs on how well you're equipped, literally. Here's a list of the hardware you’ll need:
- A drill
- A pencil
- A measuring tape
- A spirit level
- Screws (usually comes with the blinds)
- Ladder
Measure Twice, Cut Once
Let's start with an old carpenter’s rule: ‘Measure twice, cut once.’ The blinds can either be inside mounted (within the window frame) or outside mounted (above the window level). The most common way is the inside mounting, providing a cleaner and more professional look. However, make sure your window depth is sufficient enough to hold the whole hardware.
Measure the width and length of the window accurately for an inside mount, or decide on how much you want your blinds to overhang for an outside mount. And to make sure no discrepancies pop up in your measurements, it's wise to measure and re-measure. Those few minutes you spend double checking just might save you a headache later!
Pencil Points - Let’s Get Marking!
Once the measurements are nailed down, it's time to mark the exact spots where you'll drill holes. Hold the blind brackets up to your marks (for inside mounts, the brackets will go inside either corner of the top window sill) and mark the spots where the screw will go; these points are typically pre-determined on the brackets. If you're using inside mounts, don’t forget to ensure these are flush with the front of the window casing.
Perforate & Position
Now it's time to drill pilot holes at the spots you marked. Ensure the holes are wide enough for the screws that come with your blinds to pass smoothly.
After drilling, let the brackets take their respective places, ensuring they are correctly oriented. You can then drive the screws through the brackets into your pilot holes.
Slip in the Blinds
With the brackets hosted well, your blinds are up next. This step makes things start looking like you're actually on to something. Slide the headrail of your blinds into the brackets and close the brackets to lock the blinds in place.
Secrets from a Handyman: Getting it Straight
Here's a tip that makes me look like a blind installation pro even when I'm in my pajamas. Before wrapping things up, lower the blinds entirely and check for alignment. Use your spirit level to confirm they hang straight. If not, loosen the bracket screws and manipulate the brackets until they align properly.
Start Pulling Strings
Almost home! Attach the wand (the thing you twirl to adjust the blinds), if present. It typically just clicks into place on the corner of the top bar of the blinds. Then, ensuring your strings are untangled, and give them a test run to verify your blinds move without obstruction.
The Sun Has Set on our Blinds Adventure
And there you go, you've installed your home blinds! Take a step back and admire the charm and privacy your new blinds bring to your space.
With this guide, you've not only learned how to install your home blinds, but you've also unlocked a new level of DIY. You're now the go-to handyperson to all your friends, family, and maybe even a few envious neighbours. The best part of being your own handyman is the fun involved and the satisfaction you get from seeing the job well done. So, embrace the journey and get ready for your next DIY challenge. Watch this space for more insider tips and tricks!
After all, as a fun-loving repairman, I’ll always say, "Why hire someone to do something when you can have all the fun of doing it yourself, plus the bragging rights?"