INSTALLATION GUIDE

How to Install Your Window Treatments

Follow our step-by-step instructions and your beautiful new shades will soon be enhancing your home for many years to come.

8 min read Updated April 2026

Before You Begin

Installing custom window treatments is a straightforward DIY project that most homeowners can complete in under 30 minutes per window. We've designed our mounting systems to be intuitive, and every order ships with all the hardware you need.

Before you start, read through the full instructions for your product type. We recommend having a helper for shades wider than 60 inches.

Carefully unbox and verify all parts against the packing list
Read through all instructions for your specific product before starting
Confirm your mount type: inside mount or outside mount
Clear the window area and have a step stool or ladder ready
Have a helper available for shades wider than 60 inches

Tools & Materials You'll Need

Drill with 1/8" bit
Phillips Screwdriver
Metal Tape Measure
Level
Pencil
Step Stool

All necessary mounting hardware — screws, brackets, and tension devices — is included with your order. If your screws do not hit wood studs, use appropriate wall anchors from your local hardware store.

Know Your Parts

Before you start, familiarize yourself with these components. Every order includes the hardware you need.

Screw holes (pre-drill first) Mounting lip

Bracket

L-shaped mounting piece that attaches to your wall or window frame and holds the shade in place.

Top bar spans full width

Headrail

The top mounting bar that spans the width of your shade and clicks into the brackets.

Hooks Gear Bead chain

Clutch Mechanism

The gear mechanism on roller shades that the bead chain wraps around to raise and lower the shade.

Spring-loaded metal rod End of roller tube

Pin

A spring-loaded metal rod on one end of roller shades that pushes into a round hole in the bracket.

Wall Chain passes through

Tension Device

A child-safety device that mounts to the wall and keeps the bead chain taut so it can't form a loop.

Decorative cover Hides headrail

Valance

A decorative cover that snaps onto clips to hide the headrail and give your blinds a finished look.

Step-by-Step Installation

Select your product type below for detailed installation instructions. Each window treatment has a unique bracket system and mounting method.

Step 1: Install the Brackets

Your roller shade includes two universal brackets. Choose the method that fits your window:

Inside Mount:

  1. Hold one bracket against the top of the window frame, about 2 inches from the left edge. The bracket can face upward (screws into the header) or straight on (screws into the back of the frame).
  2. Use a pencil to mark both screw holes through the bracket.
  3. Pre-drill pilot holes with a 1/8" bit to prevent the wood from splitting.
  4. Drive the included screws and repeat for the right bracket.
  5. Use a level across both brackets to confirm they are even.

Outside Mount:

  1. Hold the shade up and center it over the window — have a helper for this step.
  2. Mark the wall at the edge of one bracket.
  3. Remove the shade, attach the first bracket, then re-hang the shade and level it to mark the second bracket. This ensures perfect alignment.

Step 2: Hang the Shade

  1. Find the end of the roller tube with the spring-loaded metal rod (pin) — it sticks out about 1/4 inch.
  2. Push the pin into the round hole on the left bracket.
  3. With the pin seated, angle the other end toward the right bracket. Line up the two metal hooks on the gear mechanism (clutch) with the two slots in the bracket.
  4. Push the hooks straight into the slots, then gently pull down on the gear mechanism until you hear a click. The chain should hang straight down.
  5. Test it: Pull the chain to raise the shade a few inches, then let it stop. If it holds position, you’re good.

Note: Roller shades are not meant to be lowered past their ordered length. Metal ball stops on the chain prevent the shade from going past its limits.

Step 3: Install the Chain Tensioner (Tension Device)

  1. Decide where to mount the chain tensioner (tension device) — on the window frame or wall, at the bottom of the chain loop.
  2. Press and hold the back spring on the pre-installed device at the top of the chain loop, then slide it down to the desired position.
  3. Hold the device against the wall and mark the two screw holes.
  4. Pre-drill and secure with the two included screws.
  5. Check: The bead chain loop should pass freely through the device — taut but not stretched tight.

Cordless Roller Shades

  1. Insert the top mounting bar (headrail) into the front lip of each bracket.
  2. Rotate the shade backward until it snaps into the back of the bracket.
  3. No chain tensioner is needed for cordless models.

Adjusting spring tension: If your cordless shade springs up too fast or won’t stay up, find the small adjustment screw on the top mounting bar (headrail). Turn clockwise to increase tension, counter-clockwise to decrease.

Step 1: Check Your Window Depth

  1. Measure the depth of your window frame from front to back.
  2. Inside mount requires at least 3/4 inch of depth for a secure fit.
  3. If your frame is shallower than 3/4 inch, use an outside mount instead.

Step 2: Install the Brackets

Inside Mount:

  1. Mark bracket positions at the top of the window frame. The top mounting bar (headrail) on Roman shades is wider, so place brackets where the bar can sit flush.
  2. Pre-drill pilot holes with a 1/8" bit.
  3. Secure brackets with the included screws.

Outside Mount:

  1. Position brackets at least 2 inches above the window frame to leave clearance for the top mounting bar (headrail).
  2. Place outer brackets no more than 2 inches from each end of the bar.
  3. For wider shades, add extra brackets spaced evenly across the span.

Step 3: Mount the Headrail

  1. Rest the front panel of the top mounting bar (headrail) on the top lip of all brackets.
  2. Push the bottom front of the bar firmly backward and toward the window.
  3. You should hear a snap when the rear lip engages the bracket.
  4. Gently tug forward to confirm it is locked in place.

Step 4: Check Cord Routing

  1. Look at the back of the shade and locate the lift cords running through small guides.
  2. Verify each cord runs straight through its guide without tangling or crossing another cord.
  3. If any cords are crossed, gently untangle them before operating — tangled cords cause uneven lifting and can damage the fabric.

Step 5: Train the Folds

  1. Raise and lower the shade 5 to 6 times in a row.
  2. This trains the fabric to fold in clean, consistent pleats.
  3. The folds will continue to improve over the first week of regular use — this is completely normal.

Step 6: Install the Chain Tensioner (Tension Device)

  1. For corded Roman shades, install the chain tensioner (tension device) following the same process as roller shades (see Step 3 above).
  2. The chain should be taut but not stretched tight.
  3. The device must be securely anchored to the wall or frame for child safety compliance.

Step 1: Install the Brackets

  1. For inside mount, position brackets at the top of the window frame, approximately 2 inches from each end.
  2. For outside mount, position brackets on the wall or trim above the frame.
  3. Pre-drill pilot holes with a 1/8" bit.
  4. Drive the included screws into each bracket.
  5. Check level: Use a level across both brackets — uneven brackets cause the blinds to hang crooked and can interfere with the tilt mechanism.

Step 2: Hang the Headrail

  1. Hold the top mounting bar (headrail) up to the mounted brackets.
  2. Push the bar up and toward the window until you hear a positive click.
  3. If your model has a locking tab on the bracket, flip it closed now.
  4. Tug gently to confirm the bar is secure.

Step 3: Attach the Valance

  1. Find the decorative cover (valance) and the small clips included in your hardware bag.
  2. Snap the clips onto the front edge of the top mounting bar (headrail) — they clip on without screws.
  3. Press the decorative cover into the clips until it clicks securely.
  4. Always install the decorative cover after the blinds are fully hung and tested.

Step 4: Set Your Tilt Wand Position

  1. Decide which side of the window is most accessible for daily use.
  2. Position the tilt wand on that side — most blinds allow left or right placement during installation.

Step 5: Test Operation

  1. Raise the blinds fully, then lower them to full length.
  2. Rotate the tilt wand to angle the slats open, then closed. Check that all slats tilt evenly.
  3. Repeat 2 to 3 times to confirm smooth, consistent operation.

Slat Direction Tips

For maximum privacy: Angle slats upward with the convex (rounded) side facing outward. This blocks the line of sight from outside, especially for ground-floor windows.

For better light and view: Angle slats downward. This directs light toward the ceiling for softer, more diffused illumination while preserving your view.

Inside vs. Outside Mount

Inside Mount

Brackets attach inside the window frame. This method gives a clean, built-in look and works best when your window frame is at least ¾" deep for a secure mount.

Position brackets at the top of the frame, ensuring equal distance from each side. Pre-drill pilot holes to prevent wood splitting. A 1/16" gap on each side is normal and allows smooth operation.

For roller and solar shades, brackets can be installed facing upward or straight on — choose whichever is best for your window depth.

Outside Mount

Brackets mount on the wall or trim above the window. This is the more forgiving option — it works with any window depth and creates the illusion of larger windows.

Position brackets at least 2" above the frame and extend 2–3" beyond each side for full light coverage. First mount one bracket, then hold the shade level to mark the second bracket position.

Use wall anchors if not drilling into studs. Outside mount is ideal for windows with shallow frames or when you want maximum coverage.

Care & Maintenance

Dusting: Use a soft, clean cloth or feather duster regularly to keep your shades looking fresh. For cellular and Roman shades, a quick pass once a week prevents dust buildup in folds and pleats.

Vacuuming: Use a handheld vacuum on the lowest suction setting with a brush attachment. Gently run it across the surface of the shade from top to bottom.

Spot cleaning: For small stains, use a damp cloth with mild soap. Blot — don't rub — and let the shade air dry fully before raising it. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

Operation: Operate your shades gently and consistently. Avoid yanking cords or pulling shades down past their intended length. Smooth, steady movements extend the life of all mechanical components.

Pro Tips for a Perfect Install

Use the Mounting Template

Most window treatments include a paper template for bracket placement. Tape it to the wall or frame and drill right through the marked holes — it eliminates all guesswork and ensures perfect bracket spacing.

Check Level Twice

Verify your bracket marks are level before drilling and again after mounting the first bracket. It’s much easier to adjust pencil marks than to fill and re-drill holes.

Get a Helper for Wide Shades

Shades wider than 60 inches are significantly easier to install with two people — one to hold the headrail level while the other snaps it into the brackets.

Save Your Hardware

Keep extra screws, brackets, and the mounting template in a labeled bag. You’ll be grateful if you ever need to re-mount or move the shade to a different window.

Always Use Wall Anchors on Drywall

If your screws don’t hit a wood stud, never rely on drywall alone. Use toggle bolts or heavy-duty wall anchors — a falling shade can damage both the treatment and your window frame.

Troubleshooting

My shade won’t stay up or slowly drops down

Cordless shades: The internal spring needs more tension. Find the small adjustment screw on the top mounting bar (headrail) and turn it clockwise in small increments until the shade holds position.

Chain-operated shades: Make sure the chain is properly seated in the gear mechanism (clutch). Pull the chain to raise the shade a few inches and release. If it still slips, the clutch may need to be re-seated — remove the shade, push the clutch hooks firmly into the bracket slots, and pull down until they click.

The shade hangs crooked or is uneven

This almost always means the brackets are not level. Place a level across both brackets. If they are off, remove the lower bracket, fill the old holes with wood putty, let it dry, then re-drill at the correct height. Even a 1/16” difference can be visible on wide shades.

I hear clicking or grinding when I operate the shade

Check that the bead chain or lift cord is running cleanly through all guides and is not caught or twisted. For roller shades, verify that the gear mechanism (clutch) hooks are fully locked into the bracket slots — partial engagement causes grinding. Remove the shade, re-seat the hooks, and pull down firmly until you hear a click.

My brackets don’t reach a wall stud

Never rely on drywall screws alone — the shade will eventually pull free. Use toggle bolts (best for heavy shades) or heavy-duty wall anchors rated for at least 50 lbs. You can find both at any hardware store. Follow the anchor manufacturer’s instructions for hole size and installation.

The shade is too wide or too narrow for my window

Double-check your original measurement against the order confirmation. Custom shades are made to exact specifications, so a mismatch usually means the opening was measured differently than the order. If the shade truly does not match what you ordered, contact our customer service team — we will make it right.

Need Professional Installation?

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