How To Measure and Install Blinds like a Pro
How do I measure for Blinds to ensure that they fit great?
Its easy if you will follow a few general guidelines, take your time, and use a quality 1" wide Tape measure.
We build to the nearest 1/8" so the better you measure, the better your blinds will look.
Inside Window Case Mounts (Inside Mount)
1. Measure the width inside the window opening in 3 locations - at the top, middle and bottom. The top measurement is critical because the headrail must fit and you will want the Valance to fully cover the mounting brackets! Record the actual dimension of the shortest width to the nearest one eighth of an inch.
Tip... If the window doesn't taper in more than 3/8", you can simply provide the width where you intend to mount the support brackets.
2. Measure the height inside the window opening at left, right and center. Record the actual dimension of the longest height to the nearest one eighth of an inch.
3. The ordered width should ensure a precise fit for the headrail and allow proper operation of the shade. If widths in the window vary more than 3/8", please email the details so we can determine the best size for your windows.
The factory makes standard reductions on inside case mounts to ensure the blind fits inside the brackets, the Valance fits snugly and ensures that the blinds will raise and lower properly.
4. The ordered height should be the longest of your height measurements to ensure the bottom rail sits on the window stool as well as provide maximum privacy and light control.
5. Be sure the window opening is deep enough to install the mounting bracket.
Our Brackets are 2-3/8" deep by 2-1/8" tall.
If you still want 2" blinds but dont have deep window cases, please email your specifics and we can determine the appropriate method for shallow mounts with partial valance returns.
Support@MybeautifulBlinds.com
Outside Case Mounts (Wall or Door Mounts)
1. Measure the desired width and height.
To minimize light leakage, the window blinds should overlap the window opening at least 1" on each side, the top and bottom, except where a window stool is present.
We will build the blinds to the exact size you provide.
The most custom look is to leave the same reveal on your trim molding all the way around.
You will need to allow room on the sides or above the window for mounting the brackets.
We will include a wrap around valance on outside case mount blinds.
This piece will be wider than the blind since it wraps the brackets.
2. When measuring the height, take into account the requirements for mounting the brackets.
Horizontal Blind Installation Instructions
Do I Need to Buy Hardware or Screws?
All hardware is provided with the possible exception of screws. This is due to the fact that different screws are needed in differing applications. In most applications #6 x 1 1/2" screws are appropriate and we include those. However, the exact length and type of screw will vary depending on whether you are mounting your Blinds into drywall, wood, concrete or metal.
As a rule of thumb you can assume two screws per bracket and 2 to 3 brackets per window blind.
Having installed Thousands of blinds, I prefer 1-5/8" Course Thread Drywall screws.
The sharp screw point allows for easy starting and the course threads allow for faster fastening.
Additionally, a sleeved screw holder for your cordless drill will save you much time and prevent considerable frustration from dropped screws.
Before Starting Do Not use a Razor Blade or Knife to open the blinds You may cut the support ladders. Thats a $20 repair + Shipping fees...and not a good start to your project.
Unwrap the blinds, but leave all cords tied.
To determine placement of blind, hold up to the window frame, either an outside mount or an inside mount will be desired. THE HEADRAIL SHOULD BE LEVEL OR THE BLINDS WILL LOOK TERRIBLE! Once it is positioned properly, pencil a reference mark at each end of the headrail. This placement determines where and how the mounting brackets will be attached.
1. Bracket Installation
Right and Left mounting brackets are supplied with each blind. These brackets are used for all types of mounting (outside, inside, ceiling) Bracket doors must face inside the room.
Depending on blind placement, it may be necessary to use plugs or anchors before using screws. Center support brackets may also be included to provide additional support on wider blinds. Center support brackets should be spread evenly along width of the blind. Most 2" blinds with steel headrails should be supported when overall width exceeds 60".
For very wide units, brackets should be placed every 30" and secured to the headrail with a " sheet metal screw.
Look at the blind first... If there is a support ladder in the exact center, you will need to install the center bracket over to the side about 1".. These brackets should not interfere with the cords or ladders. Be sure all brackets are level and secure.
A.
Inside Mount
Mount brackets at reference points that are even in dept and level with the window frame, and mark the screw holes with a pencil.
When possible, I like to set the brackets about 5/8" deep into the window case.
This puts the valance flush to the wall and offers a clean professional look.
Before you mark the holes or insert the screws, select diagonal (right top-left bottom) holes to assure a secure installation, and use at least 2 screws per bracket.
If center support brackets are needed, place evenly along width of blind.
Position each bracket and mark holes with a pencil. Insert and tighten screws through all brackets, making sure all brackets are straight and level.
B. Outside Mount
With blind open, hold up to wall in the position you want it to hang. Make sure the blind is centered and level.
Mark with a pencil a small mark below the headrail at each end, also mark 1/4" past the end of each headrail. Place end brackets inside pencil marks and mark screw hole positions in rear of bracket in a diagonal pattern. If center support brackets are used, place evenly along width of area blind is to be mounted and mark screw holes. Insert and tighten screw through all brackets, making sure all brackets are straight and level.
Use at least 2 screws in each bracket.
Tip... If you are mounting blinds to a door with a protruding trim molding around the glass, you may want to use spacer blocks behind the mounting brackets.
These are the little, clear, grid-like rectangular items.
If you don't need them, the kids can use them to make tiny Ice Cubes.
2. Valance Clip Installation
All blinds will receive valances and are installed with valance clips.
Attach enclosed valance clips to the face of the headrail. (Spread evenly across the headrail, 2 for blinds up to 36" wide. About every 24" for wider blinds.) This is all that is done until headrails is in place.
Tip... Make sure to put these on prior to installing blind or you will be taking the blinds down later to install the clips and you will not be very happy then.
Trust me...
3. Mount The Blind
With bracket door latches open on each side, slide the headrail into the mounting brackets and center supports (if center support brackets were used, make sure you didnt line the bracket up with one of the cord ladders or you may damage it and the blind will not operate properly). Close down bracket door latches until they snap in place.
Some times a screw driver is needed to lift the bottom of the bracket while you close the door other times you may need to bend down the clasp area to make certain the door latches securely.
***Check Point***
If the blind has too much free play between the brackets, open the bracket doors, remove the headrail, and bend out the spacer tab on the end.
Re-install as before.
Once you are happy with the fit, unwind the cords and gently lower the blind by pulling the right side cords over toward the left to release the locking catch.
For better operation and extended blind life, Use your free hand to lift the bottom rail while releasing the catch.
4. Install The Valance
Place valance against the clips at the desired position on the headrail.
Apply top portion in to the top part of valance clip first, than lightly push down, snapping the Valance into place.
For outside mount installation, valances will be mitered on each end and will include returns.
The valance and returns will be slotted and attached at with 1" angle brackets.
And My Tip of the Day, for a cleaner look, take a trip to your local Home Center and buy some Heavy Duty self adhesive Velcro.
Apply to the valance in several spots then line up the valance evenly and level.
Firmly apply
to the headrail Just like that, no plastic valance clips and you can still pull the valance off when you repaint the room.
5. Cord Leveling
If cords on your blinds are not at a desired length.
they can be shortened.
Slide the tassel up exposing the knot, untie the knot, pull cords to desired level, retie knot.. and make sure its a good knot and slide the tassel back down to cover the knot. Cut off excess cord if desired. Also, read the little tags and take a moment to explain to the kids that the cords are not to be tied to anything Not even G.I.
Joe and especially not to themselves, pets, friends or family.
6. Hold down Brackets (used primarily on doors)
If hold down brackets were requested they can be installed after blind has been hung. These brackets are used to keep the bottom of the blind from swaying when mounted on doors or exposed to the wind.
Lower the blind to its full length applying a little downward pressure for a tighter hold.
Insert the pins into the brackets, mark the location of the screw holes on the mounting surface.
This is the time you will wish you had a third hand growing out of your forehead... If you don't, you may want to get some help from someone else... Ideally someone you don't yell at when you are frustrated.
Install the brackets, lower blinds fully and snap the pins in to the brackets.
The above advice not only constitutes a tip; it qualifies as marital counseling.
7. Operating Instructions
To tilt the slats, pull the shorter cord on the Left side of the blinds.
To raise the blind, pull cord downward and to the right. Blind will lock in desired height. To lower blind, gently pull cord toward left of blind until lock releases.
Slowly let cord slip through fingers until blind reaches desired height. Move cord back toward right of blind and release. Blind will lock automatically. Important: Keep slats tilted open while raising and lowering.
For Great Graphics and less colorful commentary, our friends at Hunter Douglas offer instructions at the following link
http://www.hunterdouglas.com/servlet/getasset?assetid=13326
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Latter-day Saints Mobilize 4000 Volunteers in Chainsaw Brigade?s First Wave
Atlanta, Ga (ContentDesk) September 17, 2005 --
"We have not had such help since we were liberated by the Americans after World War II."
So concluded a retired Hungarian couple finally able to enjoy a respite from the overwhelming task of digging out from the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.
They had been trying for some time to chop up the seven uprooted trees that littered their yard, using a Boy Scout hatchet, when volunteers from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, moving through the area with ladders and chainsaws, stopped and offered help.
Within a couple of hours, the yard was cleared of debris.
In a weekend that saw a massive mobilization of Latter-day Saint volunteers from throughout the Southeast, the Georgia crew of five was part of a force of 4000 who took the buzz of chainsaws to hurricane-stricken areas throughout Louisiana and Mississippi.
Setting aside their weekday routines as bankers, accountants, contractors,...
Ladders > Latter-day Saints Mobilize 4000 Volunteers in Chainsaw Brigade?s First Wave
Create Your Own Garage Storage Design with Storage Systems Solutions From Slide-Lok Garage Storage Cabinets. Get Organized Today in Texas, New York, and All Across the United States and Canada.
The Slide-Lok Garage Storage Cabinet Dealer Network, continues to expand in New York and Texas as well as across the U.S. and Canada.
"This is a direct result of increased sales," says President, Gary Smith, "and, since we make house calls, expansion is necessary to insure the perfect storage system for your home regardless of the configuration of your garage."
Smith asks the question, "Where do you put all the stuff that accumulates in the garage?"
"We have designed so many garage storage solutions that we remember to ask the questions that custom garage cabinet makers forget to ask.
This means the Slide-Lok Garage Storage Cabinet Systems that we design include all the things that the custom cabinets guys forget to include.""And what do the custom cabinets guys forget?"Clean Up Your Garage First - This means decide what you want to keep, and keep only what you use.
That which you do not use is just taking up space.Develope a Plan or Garage...
Ladders > Create Your Own Garage Storage Design with Storage Systems Solutions From Slide-Lok Garage Storage Cabinets. Get Organized Today in Texas, New York, and All Across the United States and Canada.
Shopping for a swimming pool
When the summer rolls around and the air heats up, we all dream of having pools in our own backyard. However, before shopping for pools, it is important to be aware of safety issues. Make sure you are willing to take on the responsibility before you buy.
Do you have a lot of kids in your neighborhood? Pools are magnets for children! Be aware that if the pool is on your property, you may be liable for any accident that may occur. For safety reasons, the American Academy of Pediatrics does not recommend installing pools until your children are at least 5 years old. While they are certainly a lot of fun, pools can also be hazardous if the owners don't take proper precautions.
Fences should be placed around pools to prevent accidental falls as well as uninvited guests.
The fences should be at least 4 feet high and gated. Ideally, there should be latches and locks for when the pools are not in use. Ladders from above-ground pools should be removed when...
Shopping for a swimming pool
Ladders > Shopping for a swimming pool
Graphic Designers Save Time Using Digital Camera and New Measuring Tool
LA MESA, CA (ContentDesk) July 17, 2006 -- Emerge Industries announces that graphic designers and sign makers report savings of up to an hour on every sign job using The Amazing Sticky Yard" Digital Measuring System.
For about the price of a tank of gas, sign makers and graphic designers can easily take measurements of any size object in a snap with a digital camera, a computer and the Sticky Yard software.
Luckily, a wide variety of preconstructed and build-it-yourself utility sheds can meet our storage and avocational needs. From giant plastic Rubbermaid sheds to beautifully designed wooden structures mimicking home designs to assemble-it-yourself kits, these sheds offer many... Need Storage or Work Space? Consider a Utility Shed.
Ladders > Need Storage or Work Space? Consider a Utility Shed.
The Art Of Gutter Cleaning
Many homeowners clean their own gutters or hire someone each season to properly maintain their homes. What you may not realize is that most gutter systems should be cleaned 3-4 times a year with each season. You may be wondering why should I clean out my gutters so often? The reason is each season trees go through various cycles that can clog up your gutters. In spring, most trees drop seedlings and dead twigs. Spring is also the best time to inspect your gutters for any damages that may have occurred during the winter snow.
In summer, trees lose leaves from heavy storms and high winds. In early fall, you should remove leaves that have fallen early to keep your gutters flowing freely. At the end of fall or early winter, you want to make sure everything has been properly cleared from the gutter system to help prevent ice dams or buildup of ice in your gutters. The extra weight of frozen water in your gutters can easily cause them to pull away from the fascia and in many cases,...
The Art Of Gutter Cleaning
Ladders > The Art Of Gutter Cleaning
Library Ladders
Libraries contain huge stock of books, periodicals and information that needs to be accessed by a great number of its members. To be able to reach items efficiently, a library ladder is a must. Library ladder help retrieve books, periodicals and magazines that would otherwise be out of reach.
Traditionally, library ladders were straight, portable ladders that could be kept and moved anywhere. Simple hook ladders were also an option for better grip.
Even stepladders were common in libraries. But nowadays, special rolling track library ladders are available. Rolling track library ladders have a steel rod installed above the library racks. The grab bars at the top of the rung are inserted into steel rods. Thus, the ladder moves along the rod and the shelves without toppling over.
At the bottom of the ladder, wheels are fixed to move the ladder from one place to another smoothly. Double track rolling library ladders are available for very narrow aisles. They have...
Library Ladders
Ladders > Library Ladders
Ladders
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