Installing the perfect shades or blinds will transform the look and feel of your home. While you may be eager to pick a beautiful set of Roman shades, roller shades or solar screens in your favorite color and style, it’s important to take the time to ensure you measure, purchase and install the treatments appropriately. Learn more about what to stay away from and what to consider when it’s time to select your coverings. A few helpful considerations will make the installation process stress-free while saving you time and money. Here are some common mistakes you can avoid with a little planning:
1. Picking the Wrong Size
Custom blinds and shades require careful measurement. If you order a style in the wrong height or width, they will look too large or small for your window. This often results in a wasted investment. Before you order your custom window treatments, grab the right supplies. You will need a hard measuring tape, a pen or pencil, a notepad and a highlighting pen or marker. The right way to measure for shades or blinds will depend on whether you want horizontal or vertical coverings.
Once you calculate your numbers appropriately with your hard measuring tape, jot them down with your writing utensil. Be sure to specify which window you are measuring and whether the calculation is for the width or height. If you must take multiple measurements, clarify the one you will give to the manufacturer by marking it with a highlighter. This information is needed whether you order in a store or online. Remember to take your time during this step. Incorrect data will likely cause you to have to order your blinds again.
2. Selecting the Wrong Mount
In addition to measuring for horizontal and vertical blinds, you will need to calculate your numbers based on inside or outside mount. Inside-mounted window treatments fit inside your window frame, while outside-mounted coverings are installed outside the opening’s border.
While the inside style provides a clean fit, many homeowners prefer adding their shades outside the window’s opening because it allows for more flexibility. An outside installation will ensure you can keep the treatments if you ever replace your windows. You can also swap them to other apertures, so long as they are a similar size. If you are installing vertical blinds for a sliding glass door, you will probably prefer an outside mount. This option will make it easier to access the door handle.
3. Ordering an Inappropriate Style
Appearance and function are both important considerations for any window. While you may like the look of blackout blinds in an online store or catalog, they may not let enough sunlight into your kitchen or family room. Selecting wood blinds or shades for a moisture-rich area like your sauna or bathroom will cause the treatments to warp. Consider the environment of each room, as well as the activities you engage in while you’re in the space.
It’s also helpful to think about the furniture and artwork where you’re installing your window coverings. If your dining room is traditional or classical, bamboo blinds may not fit the ambiance. If you desire a light, whimsical look, opulent, premium print Roman shades may be too heavy or sophisticated for the space.
4. Forgetting Your Exterior Look
When it’s time to think about installation, most homeowners are focused on the interior of their home. However, it’s essential to consider how your shades will look from the outside of your residence. Think about your community’s or condominium owners’ regulations. Do they allow rich colors like garnet red or bold stripes?
Imagine your home’s curb appeal once you install your window coverings. While vibrant hues and paisley patterns may seem appealing when you’re sitting in your nursey or bedroom, they may clash with the colors of your façade. Walk around the outside of your home and take note of its colors and style before you make the decision on your blind style. The more thought you put into this step, the less likely you will feel the need to replace your treatments in the near future.
5. Choosing the Wrong Hardware
While finding the ideal type of Zebra shades or mini blinds may take up all your attention, there is another installation element to consider. If you plan to keep the same hardware from your last set of treatments, some curtain rods and tracks may not hold up to heavier materials. Consult the manufacturer or a home improvement professional to determine if your current supplies will work with your new style. You may have to budget for additional items to securely keep your treatments in place. And even if your hardware is strong enough, it may not compliment the look of the covering. In this case, it’s helpful to consider different metals, accents and rod colors.
6. Misunderstanding the Steps to Installation
After you order your custom blinds from the manufacturer, you have different installation options. You may hang up the treatments yourself or hire a home improvement specialist of your choice. Doing it yourself will save money. However, if you aren’t willing to take the time to install your shades or blinds properly, they may fall or look inappropriate in the window. Before you set your budget, think about whether you are comfortable with DIY or if you need to call an expert.
Spending a few moments thinking about these details will help you prevent the most costly and inconvenient installation mistakes. Knowing what to expect ahead of time will help you decide the type of shades and blinds you can afford, as well as which style and color will best fit your home on both the inside and the outside. Now that you’re equipped with the most important information from window treatment manufacturers and installation professionals, you can focus on browsing for and selecting the most gorgeous and useful window treatments for you and your family.
Author Bio:
Kenneth Gordon serves as the Assistant VP of Factory Direct Blinds. Kenneth is responsible for overseeing the planning, development and execution of all Factory Direct Blinds marketing and advertising initiatives. Before joining Factory Direct Blinds, Kenneth served 6 years in the United States Air Force as a Military Police Officer. Kenneth enjoys spending time with his two sons and beautiful wife Brittany when he’s not working or writing.
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