How to Install Blackout Blinds | 247 Blog

When you receive your new blackout blinds, you'll get all of the mounting brackets and safety devices you need to install them. Alongside this, we also recommend having:

• Screws and rawl plugs suitable for the surface your blind will be fixed to
• A drill and appropriate drill bit
• A metal tape measure
• A Phillips (or cross) head screwdriver
• A pencil

Before you order your blinds, you'l need to measure your windows to ensure a perfect, light-omitting fit!

Blackout blinds are best fitted inside the recess for optimum light control, the 'recess' referring to the inside space of the window frame. If you have a recess depth of less than 6cm, or your windows open inwards, you may benefit from an outside the recess fitting.

For fitting inside the recess measure the wall-to-wall width and drop of the recess. To guarantee a snug fit, take three measurements across the width and drop, one at each end and another in the middle. Opt for the smallest of these measurements for both dimensions to ensure a perfect fit.

For fitting outside the recess, measure the width and drop of where you would like the blind to start and finish. We recommend adding at least 35mm on to either side to ensure your window is completely covered and minimal light can escape at the sides!

Which Way Should a Blackout Blind Face?

A blackout blind should have the fabric of the roller hanging down at the back of the blind, or the side closest to the window. This positioning minimises light leakage and ensures a snug fit against the window frame, ensuring you get the most out of your blackout blind. 

If you've bought a blind from us, it should be clear which way your blind will face, as the main control chain will be fitted on the side you requested. When selecting which side to have the chain on, the key factor is ease of access. Consider any potential obstructions that might make the chain hard to reach. If there are none, the general rule is to align the chain with your dominant hand - right for right-handers and left for left-handers!

Step 1 - Position the Brackets

The first step of fitting your blackout roller blind is to get the brackets in place - these are what will attach your blinds to your chosen surface.

There are two options when it comes to fitting brackets for a roller blind. 'Face-fixing' means the brackets are fixed horizontally onto the 'face' of the wall, this works best for blinds fitted outside the recess, or when you're anchoring them to a wooden window frame. Alternatively, 'top-fixing' means the brackets are screwed in from above, allowing you to tuck your blinds inside the recess by fastening them to the upper surface. 

Before you start, make sure you know which bracket is whice. One is designed for the control end of your blind, and the other will house the 'pin-end'. Make sure you're attaching your brackets so that the control is positioned on the side you selected when ordering. Don't forgetm we're orienting the roller in front of the blind fabric to keep out as much light as possible.

When deciding to where to place your brackets, you should aim to find the perfect balance between a position that won't get in the way of your blinds movement, whilst also sitting as far back in the recess as possible to minimise light bleed. For example, if your window has large handles, mount your brackets a centimetre infront of this obstrution for a smooth blind drop every time. 

Step 2- Install the Brackets

Measure and carefully mark the bracket positions, keeping them level to avoid a wonky installation. Use a pencil for precise marks. Once you've decided on the exact spots, drill pilot holes at the marked points. Insert rawl plugs into the drilled holes so that they sit flush with the wall. This is where your screws will go to secure the brackets in place.

Using a screwdriver, attach the brackets with the screws, starting by screwing them in loosely. This gives you a bit of wiggle room to make any adjustments. Once you're happy with their position, tighten the screws to secure the brackets. Now the blind is ready to be mounted!

Step 3 - Fit the Blinds

Start with your blind rolled up, and place the pin-end into its bracket. Take the control end and guide it into the cross-shaped nooks. Firmly push it in and you'll hear a satisfying click once it's secure! Give the blind a gentle pull downwards to make sure everything is looking and working just right. Using a spirit level here can be useful to check your blind is level in the bracket.

Step 4 - Fit the Safety Device

Start with your blind rolled up, and place the pin-end into its bracket. Take the control end and guide it into the cross-shaped nooks. Firmly push it in and you'll hear a satisfying click once it's secure! Give the blind a gentle pull downwards to make sure everything is looking and working just right. Using a spirit level here can be useful to check your blind is level in the bracket.

You're now ready to fit your blackout blinds! With these steps, you can enhance your room's aesthetic and also gain control over light and privacy. Enjoy your room's stylish new look as well as deeper sleeps!