How to install cordless vinyl blinds - outside mount

Choosing Blinds

While aesthetics and appearance is important to accent your decor, it can’t be at the cost of functional values. Insulation, light filtration, light blockage, privacy protection, UV protection, durability, affordability etc. are few of the many concerns that homeowners are confronted with. Once you have sorted out your needs it is time to determine the material of your blinds. If fabric lures you with their softness and gracefulness you can very well go with them but for that you need to choose the right color, material, texture, design and pattern. If you are not too keen on choosing fabric for your windows you are posed with a greater challenge. Which material to select for your windows: wood, faux wood, vinyl or aluminium? Every material is different and comes with their own set of pros and cons. Real wood blinds are the epitome of elegance. They lend a soft warm glow to your surroundings that is unparalleled in their beauty. But fabric and wood are not as durable and when exposed to moisture and heat for a prolonged period of time, they warp and peel off. Wood is also an expensive choice of window treatment.

Why Choose Vinyl Blinds?

If you are looking for durable, affordable, moisture resistant and smart choice of window covering for your homes you can choose from faux wood, aluminium/mini or vinyl blinds. Faux wood is artificial wood which re-creates the magic of wood at a cheaper price and is more durable. Mini blinds are made of aluminium and they are a great choice for your kitchens and bathrooms and smaller windows as they come in small slat sizes and are water resistant. Vinyl is plastic which is treated to create a very sturdy and durable material that is used in many industries. They are cheap, affordable and long-lasting. Blinds made of vinyl have become very popular over the years. They are smart and simple, great for your contemporary homes. Easy to clean and maintain, vinyl is a preferred choice for bathrooms and kitchens. They can last for years with little maintenance and hence an economical choice for your homes. They are also available in a range of colors and lift options to suit the needs of consumers. Vinyl blinds are also lightweight which making installation and mounting easy.

Most blinds have got their cordless variants to cater to families with pets and children as corded blinds run the risk of strangulation. Vinyl blinds are now available in cordless versions which lend the windows a clutter-free and neat appearance.

Mounting Cordless Vinyl As Outside Mounts

Blinds can be either outside mount or inside mount. Inside mounting is possible if windows have sufficient depth. These blinds are installed inside the window frame which shows off the mount beautifully. Blinds have to be of perfect width and length to be able to fit inside the windows. If windows lack depth, if windows are ugly or mounting is uneven, outside mounting of blinds is a great way to hide the discrepancies. They are mounted on the wall above the windows or near the ceiling. Likewise vinyl blinds too can be mounted inside or outside the windows frame.

We will see how to mount horizontal cordless blinds outside the window frame. It is easy, simple and hassle-free. If you are installing the blinds into anything other than wood you will need appropriate screws and anchors.

Disclaimer: Please follow these instructions at your own risk. ZebraBlinds takes no liability for any issues or damaged caused through following DIY methods. Since all blinds and shades are different, we always recommend checking with your blind manufacturer or retailer first before making any modifications to your blinds. As well, if you are uncomfortable on your own, look for the help of a professional.

1. Hold the blind above the windows where you want to mount it. Centre the blinds and with a pencil mark the corner of each end of the head rail.
2. Take the mounting brackets and hold them up against the marks you have made with pencil.
3. Mark the screw locations and then use your drilling machine to drill holes for the screws with 1/16 inch drill bit. Screw the brackets securely into place. Repeat this step for the other end of the head rail.
4. Attach the valance clips and slide the head rail into the brackets. Close the bracket doors till you hear them snap into place.
5. Centre and install the valance on the head rail. Bend the material for the returns Velcro strips provided.
6. Press the button located at the bottom rail to raise and lower the blinds. Always raise and lower the blinds with slats in open position.

You have successfully mounted your cordless vinyl blinds outside the window frame and they are now ready for use.

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