How to Install Window Treatment Hardware
There are many types of window treatment hardware but most fit into one of two categories: Inside mounting hardware is mounted inside the window casing, and outside mounting hardware is hung outside the casing on the trim or walls close to the window. The most important detail to remember when mounting drapery hardware is to secure it to underlying studs so that the hardware can carry heavy drapery loads. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Ladder
- Inside mounting hardware
- Outside mounting hardware
- Stud finder
- Tape measure
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Wall anchors
- Level
- L brackets
Instructions
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Examine your window frame to determine if you can mount your drapery or blind inside the window casing. Windows with a recess usually have room. Windows that are flush with interior window trim usually do not have room. Select the inside or outside mounting hardware best suited for your window style.
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2
Mount blinds and drapery hardware to the underside of the window frame casing. Predrill pilot holes from the holes in the mounting brackets, and install screws through the brackets directly into the framing.
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Measure 4 inches above and to each side of the window trim work to mount outside mounting drapery rods. Some blinds are designed to mount to the face of the trim work, but this is often less attractive than other choices. Move a stud finder near your marks above and to the side of the window looking for studs. Predrill pilot holes and screw brackets directly into studs with long screws. If no stud is available, install a wall anchor recommended for your wall type before installing your brackets. Use a level to make sure your rod and brackets are level.
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Install L brackets above curtain rods when installing cornice treatments. Locate studs in the wall above the window and above the curtain rod height, and screw the L brackets directly into the studs with long screws. The cornice is screwed to the L bracket from the underside with short screws.
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Snap most blinds into the brackets by hooking them in the front and rotating the back side of the blind toward the window. Some blinds have sliding plastic doors on the brackets; the blinds slide into the bracket, and the door traps them inside. Some blinds require installing a cleat for cording one-third of the way down the side of the window. Use a screwdriver for this type of installation. Traverse rods use a tension pulley that is mounted to the wall on the cord side above the bottom of the drapery.
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Tips & Warnings
Read the instructions that come with your hardware package before starting your project. Check to see you have all the pieces, and replace insufficient pieces with correct pieces as necessary. Don't try to force-fit pieces. If the hardware doesn't fit, then reread the instructions to see if it was installed backward or incorrectly.
