One task that many DIYers will come across and need to complete at least once in their lifetimes is to fit a roller blind. The process itself isn’t particularly complicated, nor does it require a load of specialist tools and such like, but the job can be a little tricky.
In this guide, we guide you through the process of fitting roller blinds to your windows.
Before you start
Even before you go out and buy your roller blinds, it is best to grab a tape measure, go up to your window and measure the width of your window. Then when you go into the shop to make your purchase, try to get a blind that will more or less measure the same width as your window.
Sometimes you might get lucky and find a roller blind that will be a perfect fit for your window, but if not, then at least you won’t have loads of waste blind that you need to dispose of!
Now that we have got that out of the way, the next step is to gather the tools needed for the job. The last thing you want to do is start fitting the roller blind only to find that you are missing a vital tool!
The tools you will need for the job are:
- Roller blind (obviously!)
- Screws and wall plugs, if they aren’t supplied
- A stepladder
- Measuring tape
- Pencil
- Drill
- Spirit level
- Screwdriver
- Small hacksaw and sharp scissors (for cutting the blind to fit, if required)
Blind placement
Roller blinds can be fitted in a number of ways, but it depends on the type of window you have. You can fit your roller blinds directly onto a wooden frame, sash window or on the top or side of the window recess for metal or plastic frames.
The other question you will need to think about is which side of the window you would like your roller blind cord to hang from. And bear in mind that the cord needs to be accessible, so it would be pointless fitting your roller blind with the cord hiding behind a tall wardrobe or shelves for example.
Measuring up
Using the instructions that were provided with your new roller blinds, you need to mark the position of the screw holes of one of the brackets in the desired position at the top of the recess.
Next, offer up the roller blind to the window in the required position to make sure there is enough clearance for windows to open smoothly (if you can’t open your windows easily, consider repositioning the roller blind).
Fitting the first bracket
Mark the screw holes of the first bracket; and make sure you put the pin or the roller blind cord end on your chosen side. Very carefully drill the holes in the marked position. Once you have done that, pop your wall plugs in the holes and then screw the first bracket on.
Fitting the second bracket
You will need to check that the blind is level by measuring the position of the first bracket and transferring the measurements to the other side (the last thing you want is a wonky roller blind). Drill and fit the second bracket the same way that you fitted the first one.
Cutting the blind to fit
If the roller blind you bought fits perfectly then you can ignore this step.
You need to measure the distance between each bracket that you’ve fitted, and then deduct the amount stated on the instructions supplied with your roller blind.
The next step is to unroll the roller blind and mark & cut the roller (at the top) and the lath (the strip of wood at the bottom) using your hacksaw.
This last bit can be really tricky if you haven’t got a steady hand! Using your pencil, mark the line you need to cut, and then cut it using some sharp scissors or a craft knife.
Finally, push the end plug and side control into the ends of the roller, and make sure that they are on the correct sides! Once you’ve done that, slot the roller blind back into the brackets. Job done!
