How do I replace the blinds in my house? What tools do I need?
Question:Also, what are the latest designs/ trends in blinds?
Answers:
You didn't mention what type of blinds you are replacing. Most are held in place with 2 to 4 brackets on the top rail of the blind. The rail will clip into the brackets. Just pop the rail out of the clips and take the old blind down. Use a screw driver to remove the brackets.
When you measure the windows, measure inside the window frame. Top to bottom and side to side. Record the measurements and be sure to indicate height and width. Take the measurements to the store with you. The measurements you will have, will be for an "inside mount", meaning the entire blind will be inside the window frame and can easily be covered by curtains. The sales people will be able to add to these measurements for an outside mount if you choose.
Most stores only stock blinds in white, off-white and faux wood finishes. Colors will need to e special ordered. To install the new blinds you will need a tape measure, level, phillips and flat tip screw driver and a drill and bits. Use the tape measure and level to mark where the new mounting brackets will go, drill pilot holes for the screws, and install the brackets. Then hang the blinds.
If ou feel like being spoiled, call around, many specialty shops will come to your house with samples. They'll do all the measuring, order what you need and install them for you.
Simple tools like the screwdriver (Philips and Flathead) hammer, and maybe a pair of pliers. If you're going to the hardware store [wear something nice, it helps] pick up a cordless drill. I have used mine on almost every job I do. You could avoid all this tool getting if you just pick up the phone and call someone, a guy with tools maybe. Buy a six pack of beer and have a pizza delivered. There installation problems, zero.
You will want to go shopping for your blinds. If you think shopping for shoes is fun shopping for window blinds is that times ten. You can go to one of the large warehouse stores like Home Depot or Lowes and look through a large selection of ready made or get help from one of the specialists with a special order. However the real fun is sitting down at one of the specialty window blind shops. A place that only does blinds or blinds and windows, you know. . . window treatments and, shades and blinds and curtains and draperies and such. Right this way madame, can I get you a Cappuccino? Would you like a foot massage while you consider these bamboo blinds? The bamboo is from the banks of the great, gray, green, greasy, Limpopo river all set about with fever-trees. They were carried out of the jungle on the backs of the sultan's pachyderms.
You can either replace them yourself or have somebody replace them. Either way you'll need to measure the windows before you go to buy them. When you measure, measure top to bottom and from side to side. Take three readings from the sides and middle of the window and then keep the shortest measurement (now all windows are a true square). Are you going to do an inside or outside window sill mount? Once you have your measurements and mount in hand you can go shopping. A popular type of blind is a faux wood, but there is a wide variety to choose. Both a big box store and specialty shops can help you order blinds and get them installed. If you choose to install them yourself, you may need a drill/driver with a drill bit and phillips attachment.
All good answers. However, when it comes time to install the brackets, you can go mad, trying to get them into proper position and holding them there while you insert a screw into the bit and steer it to the proper hole.
I solved that problem by putting two faced tape onto the back of the bracket and sticking the bracket in place. That way, it'll stay put until I get the screws in.
Good luck.
buy a couple of cases of beer and invite your friends. I am Glad I am not a friend. I hate the job. rather work all day.
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