How to Install Brackets for Faux Wood Blinds

By Christopher Capelle

Overview

If you're watching your pennies, then faux wood blinds should be considered as a line item for your home decorating budget. They're inexpensive, look great, and the best perk of all, they're easy to install, so an expensive, skilled craftsman is not required. The hardest part, which isn't hard at all, is properly installing the brackets that hold them to the window frame. Home improvement stores that sell faux wood blinds have the ability and equipment to cut them, so a custom look is all but guaranteed.

Notice that there are multiple sets of holes on each bracket.

Step 1

Remove all previous window treatments. By getting rid of any remnants, you won't impede yourself from cleanly installing the brackets for your faux wood blinds. Use this opportunity to clean and/or paint around the installation area, as it's much harder to do this once you've installed the brackets.

Faux wood blinds.
Step 2

Unpack the blinds from the package, and remove the brackets from the box. Depending on the type of windows and frame you have, determine exactly the best way to mount them. Most brackets have multiple holes that allow a number of different options to mount them, including top, back and sides. If you're attaching the bracket to the top of the frame, some window frames require you to insert a small strip of wood in order to keep the bracket level and flush.

Left-hand bracket. Install it so that the latch swings up.

Step 3

Note that there is a definite right and left bracket. When attached, the latch should swing upwards. Find the right hand bracket, hold it in to place, and use a pencil to mark the spot where you need to drill the holes for the screws. Repeat the process for the left bracket.

Measure carefully!
Step 4

Drill the holes in the spots where you marked. If you're installing blinds on multiple windows, the most efficient way to work is to mark the holes on all the windows, drill the holes on all the windows, and finally screw the brackets on to every window.

The brackets hold the blinds to the window frame.
Step 5

Attach the brackets, using your electric screwdriver. Here, having a long screwdriver bit will make things much easier. Make sure there is no sagging or tilting, and that they're attached extremely securely. Although faux wood blinds are not particularly heavy, you don't want it coming loose if anybody happens to pull on it. It's imperative that bracket be straight, and that both brackets on every window be installed uniformly.

You'll need an electric drill and a Phillips screwdriver bit.
Step 6

Finish the process by inserting the blinds into the brackets, closing them, clipping on the valance and hanging the wand.

Always wear safety goggles!