Installation Instructions for Mounting Metal Blinds

About Metal Window Blinds

• Metal blinds are made of aluminum, a lightweight and flexible metal that functions well for window treatments. Metal blinds are designated by gauge, which indicates the thickness of the slat material, such as 6 gauge, 8 gauge and 9 gauge. Aluminum blinds are available in a variety of slat widths, from the ½-inch micro size to the 2 full size, according to the BlindsGalore website. Metal blinds come in a number of standard widths and lengths to fit the most common window sizes and can also be made into custom sizes for particular windows.

Installing Metal Blinds

• Installing blinds is not a difficult task, but it requires the right tools and a bit of preparation. A measuring tape, a pencil carpenter’s level, electric drill with screwdriver and a Philips screwdriver drill bit are needed for the installation. You must determine whether you want the blinds installed inside or outside the window frame. Many blind kits enclose different brackets for either option.

Mounting Inside the Window Frame

• Leave the cords tied to the blind and place the blind in the desired position within the window frame, 2 to 6 inches from the edge of the frame. Ensure the blinds will be centered and level in the position. Mark the desired position of the brackets within the frame with a pencil. Drill the holes for the brackets at the penciled marks inside the window frame. Screw in the brackets on either side of the window using the screws enclosed with the kit. Snap the headrail of the metal blind into the bracket securely.

Mounting Outside the Window Frame

• Similarly for the outside installation, hold the blind to the top outside edge of the window frame and mark the position of the brackets and the holes for screws, ensuring that the headrail will be level and even. Drill the holes for the brackets. Screw the bracket to the window frame securely. Snap the headrail of the metal blind into the brackets. Hold-down brackets may also be included in your installation kit to keep the metal blinds from swaying in breeze or when installed on doors. These are installed like the mounting brackets, which holds the bottom rail in place with a pin-type mechanism, according to the Levelor website.

Shortening Blind Length

• To remove excess slats at the bottom for shorter blinds, first determine which slat you want to be the last one. Then unscrew the button on the bottom rail and remove the excess slats. Rescrew the button onto the bottom rail.