Is there anything more satisfying than standing back to survey your freshly hung blinds, perfectly measured and expertly installed by no one else but yourself? Perhaps you’re wondering, can I do it? What if I’m not a DIY aficionado? Don’t panic! We’re here today to guide you through exactly how to measure and install your home blinds – a task that is quite often intimidatingly shrouded in mystery.
Before we delve into the intricacies of measuring up for your blinds and fitting them with professional-grade precision, let’s take a moment to ask ourselves a simple question – why do we care? Why does it matter if our blinds are an inch too long or too short? Beyond the aesthetic implications, precise measurements are critical for both privacy and light control. So, without further ado, let’s reveal the blinds’ secret of success, by breaking down the process into manageable, digestible tasks.
In this blog post, we will guide you step-by-step through the process of measuring for new blinds, choosing the correct ones for your space, and their fitting.
Table of Contents
Why Perfect Measurement Is Key
An accurate measurement is the cornerstone of successful blind installation. A blind that’s off by just an inch can completely disrupt the balance of your window frame, affecting not just the aesthetics but also the functionality. Too wide, and your blinds won’t fit your window at all. Too narrow, light will leak through, compromising your privacy and control over illumination. Remember, the aim of a blind is not only to beautify but to serve practical purposes, such as controlling light and maintaining privacy.
Selecting the Right Blinds for Your Space
When it comes to choosing blinds, design, and functionality are the two driving forces. Consider the purpose of the room and the amount of light control required. Blackout blinds might be ideal for bedrooms, but a softer light-diffusing option could be more suitable for the living area. Additionally, the material of the blind should reflect the style of your room. Wood, aluminum, faux wood, and fabric are some of the options available to select from.
The Measuring Process
Once you’ve decided on the style and functionality of your blinds, it’s time to measure up. Generally, two measurements are crucial here: the width and the drop. It’s vital to use a metal tape measure for its precision and consistency. Typically, it’s advisable to take measurements in three separate places for both width and drop to ensure your blinds fit perfectly even if your window isn’t perfectly square.
The Installation Process
Now that you’ve got your measurements and your chosen blinds, let’s get to the installation. Often, mounting brackets will be included with your blinds. Determine whether you want an inside mount (inside the window frame) or an outside mount (on the wall above the window). Drill holes, screw in the brackets, and then firmly slide in your blinds – and voila!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake during blind installation is not marking the drilling points correctly which leads to unequal leveling of blinds. Another frequent error is neglecting the stacking height – the height to which the blinds fully retract to. Ignoring it can cause the blind to block the view or obstruct natural light.
Professional vs DIY Installation
While the installation process might seem straightforward, it can become complex with large, heavy blinds or hard-to-reach windows. Considering a professional installer might help to prevent issues down the line. However, if you fancy yourself a DIY enthusiast, with the right tools and our step-by-step guidance, you could also fit your blinds to perfection!
Conclusion:
So, there we have it. Measuring and installing blinds is no longer a daunting task shrouded in mystery but a task you can confidently tackle with the right tools and instructions. Remember, accuracy is key when it comes to measurement, and a blind’s purpose goes beyond beautification. It provides practical benefits like light control and privacy. Installation needs careful planning and avoiding common mistakes like neglecting drill markings and stack height. Don’t forget, with DIY, the satisfaction of a job well done is as delightful as freshly installed perfect blinds for your home.
