How to Fit Venetian Blinds
Follow a clear, structured installation process to ensure correct alignment, safe operation, and long-term performance. This guide covers each stage of fitting, plus how to choose the right fixing method for your window — for a secure fit, smooth operation, and compliance with safety requirements.
Measuring for the Best Fit
- For inside recess fittings, allow approximately 10 mm clearance for a neat fit.
- For outside recess fittings, add around 120 mm to the overall width to help minimise light gaps.
Before You Start Fitting
Decide the fixing method before your blind is manufactured. Blinds can be fixed to the wall, ceiling, or window frame — but avoid fixing into plastic or aluminium frames, as drilled holes can't be repaired. Fitting inside the recess generally gives the best light control and insulation; fit outside the recess if handles or obstructions get in the way.
Important Installation Note
Brackets should be positioned approximately 110 mm in from each end of the headrail. Additional brackets can be spaced evenly across the width of the blind as required to provide adequate support.
Installing the Brackets
- Position the brackets on the underside of the lintel where the blind will be installed. Use a spirit level to ensure they are perfectly level.
- Hold the brackets in place and mark the fixing hole positions with a pencil.
- Check that the bracket holes align with your markings, then insert the screw and begin drilling carefully.
- Drive the first screw approximately two-thirds of the way into the wall.
- If the bracket has moved, re-align it so the second fixing hole lines up with the second marking.
- Secure the second screw fully into the wall, then tighten the first screw completely.
- Once the first bracket is firmly fixed, repeat the process for the remaining brackets.
Fitting the Venetian Blind
- With the blind fully raised, lift the headrail into position and align it with the installed brackets.
- Push the headrail firmly upwards until it clips securely into place on the brackets. You should hear or feel a click when it is correctly engaged.
- Check that the blind is securely fixed by gently pulling down on the headrail.
- Lower and raise the blind to ensure smooth operation and correct installation.
Safety First
Before considering the installation complete, check the safety of your blind. The cords, chains, and tapes used to operate Venetian blinds can pose a risk of entanglement or strangulation to children and pets. This risk is significantly reduced by fitting the supplied cord safety device (cleat).
Fitting the Safety Device
- Once the blind is fully installed, measure at least 1.5 metres from the floor on the control side — the recommended position for the safety device.
- Hold the cleat against the wall and mark the screw positions through the fixing holes.
- Align the cleat with the markings and secure it to the wall using screws.
- Wrap the operating cords neatly around the cleat to keep them taut and safely out of reach.
