Installing Bamboo Vertical Blinds -- It's Easier Than You Think!
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Many people would love to have a set of bamboo vertical blinds in their home, but they think that will never be possible due to the added expense of having a professional come in to do the job of putting them up. But did you realize that it is possible for most average homeowners to install a set of bamboo vertical blinds themselves? This article is all about providing you with some general information and tips to help you to prepare to do this job properly --
Step One: Take Accurate Measurements
The most crucial aspect of installing bamboo vertical blinds has nothing to do with the actual installation. Rather, it revolves around the accuracy of your measurements. It is absolutely important to the success of your project that you measure your window openings carefully -- your local do-it-yourself center or bamboo vertical blinds supplier will tell you exactly what measurements they need.
Buy a good quality tape measure and very slowly and meticulously take your measurements and write down the results. If you are unsure of yourself, it wouldn't hurt to double check your measurements by having another family member take a separate set of measurements -- then compare them.
Step Two: Get Your Materials and Tools Together
Once you have taken your measurements, and have completely disassembled your old blinds, the next step is to make sure that you have all of your materials and tools BEFORE you begin work. If you are purchasing your bamboo vertical blinds as a kit, all the necessary hardware should already be included -- but it won't hurt to actually open your package and compare the actual supplied materials with the parts list given in your installation instructions. Sometimes manufacturers inadvertently leave a crucial piece of hardware out -- if that happens go back to the store where you purchased the kit and get a replacement.
As far as tools are concerned, one nice thing about installing bamboo vertical blinds is that you don't need a lot of different tools. Typically, you will need a screwdriver (I prefer to use a power screwdriver -- saves wear and tear on my wrist), a hand drill, push drill or electric drill with the proper size drill bits, your metal tape measure, a level, a nut driver, and any other tools specified in your bamboo vertical blinds kit directions.
Step Three: Installation of the outside Wall Mounting Brackets
Following your manufacturers instructions, use your tape measure and a pencil to locate and center locations for your L brackets evenly along the length of your headrail. Carefully install the necessary brackets and mounting clips (manufacturers of different types of bamboo vertical blinds may have different procedures to follow for the installation of their hardware, so again, follow their directions -- to the letter.)
Step Four: Installation of the Valance
Now you are ready to attach the valance for your bamboo vertical blinds. This is done by inserting the ends of the valance in to the valance corner unit, and then attaching the valance corners to the end of the valance sections. You will then need to attach your valance clips, keeping them evenly spaced on your headrail section. Then you can simply slide the various assembled valance sections into their respective clips.
Step Five: Install Your Cords and Louvers
Again, following your particular bamboo vertical blinds manufacturer instructions, you will now need to install the pull cords and hang the vertical bamboo louvers. Be careful to handle the louvers carefully as you hang them, and check to make sure that there is enough clearance at the bottom (floor) to make sure that they will turn freely without catching on your carpeting or scratch your hardwood floor. Voila! You're done! Didn't I tell you it was easier than you thought?
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