How to Buy Vinyl Mini Blinds
Vinyl mini-blinds are an affordable, attractive window covering for homeowners wanting the look of metal blinds without the price. They can be installed as either a standalone product or in conjunction with drapes or curtains. Lighter than metal, vinyl mini-blinds are easy to maintain. Added features include dust repellent and stain-resistance. With the wide variety of colors, sizes, and options, you can see why many people are opting to buy mini-blinds for their homes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Metal retractable measuring tape
- Pen or pencil
- Paper to write on
- Adult helper
Instructions
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How to Buy Vinyl Mini-Blinds
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Become better informed about the different types of mini-blinds products. Think about what you want: Light-filtering or blackout blinds? What color? How much privacy? What about temperature control? How about powered blinds? Will it be an inside or outside mount? Will there be curtains? Peruse the choices online or locally to get an idea of what features you would like. Also check to see if you need to make any "allowances" in your measuring or if the factory does it for you.
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Decide where to install the vinyl mini-blinds. With the measuring tape and another adult helper, take measurements of each individual window as directed below to find the width and length for each mini-blind that will be installed. Note the dimensions for each window along with any colors or special features.
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For inside (flush) mounted mini-blinds: Take three vertical measurements, left, right, and center. Use the longest measurement for the length. Next measure horizontally at the top, middle, and bottom. For the width, use the shortest dimension. Then measure the depth of the window where the mounting brackets will be---usually from the front of the pane (or window track) to the flat edge of the trim---to ensure it will accommodate the installed product.
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For outside mounted mini-blinds: For the width, take three horizontal measurements, top, middle, and bottom. Make sure there is at least 1½" overlap on either side. For the length, take three vertical measurements, left, right, center and account for any overlap and the size of the valance. Use the longest dimension for both measurements.
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Once all windows have been measured, you can then order your vinyl mini-blinds locally or online. Pricing can start as low as $7 for a standard, off-the-shelf, 35" x 75" white, light filtering vinyl mini-blind. Colored, powered, and custom blinds will cost more. "Measuring Insurance" can protect you in case of a mismeasured item.
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Tips & Warnings
Always measure twice. Ask for swatches and/or colors samples. Ask about measuring and installation services. Look for cut-to-order options for hard-to-fit windows.
Child and pet-proof your blinds after installation.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Me!bourne Mermaid
