January 20, 2022

A Step-by-Step Guide: How to Change Your Window Blinds

Quality window treatments can last for many years. Even so, you may end up switching your style eventually. Whether you’re interested in swapping for room-darkening shades, upgrading to a more durable material or simply desire a different colour to match your new décor, there are ways to make the entire process as convenient and fun as possible.

Follow our step-by-step guide to changing your window blinds yourself. We’ll explain how to replace blinds and which tools you need to get the job done. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll be ready to DIY.

Step 1: Measure Your Windows

Before you begin shopping for new window blinds, you’ll need to measure your windows. Custom window blinds will give you the best look and fit while helping to protect your room from bright sunlight, blinding glare and harsh temperatures. If you wish to mount your blinds inside your window, the process is pretty simple.

Using a measuring tape, carefully record the width of the top, middle, and bottom portions of your window. The narrowest width of all three measurements will be used to create your blinds or shades. Next, record your window height. If you prefer an outside mount, you’ll need to add one to two inches to the height and width.

Step 2: Buy New Blinds

Now that you have your numbers, it’s time to find the right replacements. Decide on the materials, colours and features for each window. Some of the most popular styles of window coverings include wood blinds, Roman shades and roller shades. Stylish neutral colours such as white, grey or cream match both traditional and modern décor. You are also free to choose from a spectrum of bold colours like pink, red or dark green.

Room darkening and blackout blinds are perfect for bedrooms and baby nurseries, while faux wood blinds offer an Earthy feel and textured look. Other popular features include convenient top down bottom up blinds and cordless shades since styles without cords are safer for kids and pets.

Step 3: Remove Your Old Window Coverings

Once your window coverings arrive at your door, it’s time to take off your old shades or blinds. Start by pushing your blinds all the way up, so each of the slats is gathered at the top. Next, grab a step ladder and climb to the top of the window.

You’ll need to remove valances first in order to get to the hardware. Once you’re done taking off extra pieces, you can locate the brackets on your window hardware. Open the brackets and remove the blinds. You may have to take off a few additional screws to fully remove the hardware from your window. When every piece is off, clean your window frame and get ready to install your new shades.

Step 4: Install Your Brand New Blinds

Before you install your new blinds, we recommend reading our how-to-install guide. It includes step-by-step instructions for every type of window covering, including mini blinds, Venetian blinds, vertical blinds, cellular shades, horizontal blinds, and roller shades. No matter which type of shades you have, you’ll need basic supplies. These include a measuring tape, screws, a level and a drill.

First, attach the brackets to the inside or outside of the window frame using your drill. Next, install the headrail into the brackets. If you have a valance, now is the time to attach it to the headrail.

Note: Want to do it without a drill? Here’s a handy guide for drill-free DIY replacement.

Those who have a wand on their blinds will need to secure it to the top of the window covering. Once you’re done with your installation, test the blinds to see if they work properly. They should move up and down smoothly, open and close with ease and feel secure within the window. If they seem loose, check the screws within the headrail.

Knowing When to Fix and When to Replace Your Blinds

As much as we'd like to believe our blinds will last forever, they do have a shelf life. They suffer from damage and discolouration over time; the slats bend, the cords wear away, and the material deteriorates. Not to mention, you may change the style of your home or office and want something more suited to the new look.

So, how do you know when it's time to replace your blinds and when it is best to try and fix them? Look for these telling signs.

Slats Have Begun To Break

Regardless of whether your slats are made of wood or plastic, they will all become susceptible to breakage after a certain number of years hanging from the window. The slats may crack, chip away or even break in half. If this happens, it is best to replace your window blinds altogether rather than just the damaged slats; broken slats can make for an unappealing look.

Mechanisms Are Faulty

Blinds are fitted with certain mechanisms to help them function optimally – like the cord system or the tilt mechanism. Over time, these mechanisms will wear down and become faulty or even broken. You'll need to replace the blinds if they can no longer be opened and closed or angled with ease.

Mould Has Made Itself At Home

A certain amount of mould is cleanable. Once it takes over to the point where it is visible and can no longer be removed, however, your best bet would be to replace the blinds. Not only does mould on window blinds look unsightly, but it can also cause a health hazard if left untreated.

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Cords Are Fraying

Corded blinds pose a choking hazard to pets and young children at the best of times. If those cords become frayed, they can become even more dangerous. If you notice the cords are becoming weak and worn in some areas, it is best to replace your blinds with a cordless option.

Mounting Is Coming Loose

Never leave your blinds up if they are at risk of falling. While they may never actually fall, it would be devastating if your blinds were to fall and cause property damage or physical harm. Keep an eye on the mounting and if it is coming loose, replace the blinds.

It will be fairly obvious when it's time to replace your window blinds; there will be no mistaking the signs. If you're not sure, reach out to us, and we'll help you determine whether you should fix or replace your blinds

Bonus: How To Choose Your New Blinds

Now that you know when and how to change your window blinds, you’re probably wondering what type of blinds to replace them with. Window blinds come in a range of materials and styles, so there are plenty of options to choose from. Here’s how to choose the right ones for your space:

1. Determine what type of window blinds you need.

Of course, this will depend on the room you're in, the type of window it is, and what you're looking for in terms of privacy and light control. For example, if it's a bedroom or living room, you'll probably want something that offers both privacy and light control; if it’s a bathroom, you'll want a water-resistant blind; if it’s a kitchen, you might want something that is easy to lift up and down.

Venetian blinds are an excellent choice for bathrooms since they offer good light control without sacrificing privacy. They’re also easy to clean and maintain. If it's a bedroom you're outfitting, why not try a blackout roller blind? These offer complete privacy and block out all light.

2. Choose the right material and colour.

Window blinds come in a variety of materials and colours, so you’ll want to take some time to decide what works best for your space. For example, if you're looking for something budget-friendly, faux wood blinds are an excellent option since they offer the look of real wood at a fraction of the cost. If you like the sleek look of metal or plastic Venetian blinds, those are also great options.

When it comes to colours, you can go with something subtle like white or grey if you want a clean look, or choose a bolder hue if you’re looking for more of an impact. No matter what colour and material you decide on, make sure that it complements the rest of your decor.

3. Make sure you get the right size and fit.

Measuring for blinds is easy, but it’s important to make sure you get the right size and fit for your window. At Factory Direct Blinds, we're experts in measuring and fitting custom blinds to suit any window size!

How to Replace Blinds FAQs

Can you change blinds yourself?

Yes. With the right instructions, you can change the blinds yourself and avoid the cost of installation. However, there's no shame in leaving it to the professionals if you're not comfortable with the task.

Are blinds easy to replace?

Yes and no. Replacing blinds isn't as difficult as it may seem, but it does require some preparation to ensure that you do the job correctly. Read through the steps before you begin any blinds removal project to make sure you have all the materials and tools you'll need.

How do you remove and replace blind slats?

The process for removing and replacing blind slats is relatively simple. The first step is to remove the existing slats from the brackets by sliding them out one at a time. Then, install the new slats in place of the old ones by sliding them into the brackets.

Can you remove blinds from the brackets?

Yes. You just need to know whether they are mounted with screws or clips. If they are mounted with screws, use a screwdriver to remove them. If they are mounted with clips, you can easily pop them off the brackets by hand.

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Trade Your Old Shades for High-Quality Custom Blinds

Here at Factory Direct Blinds, we know that replacing your window blinds can be a daunting task. That's why we're here to help you through every step of the process. We offer both ready-made and custom blinds, so you can find the perfect style for your home or office. Plus, with our free samples, it's easy to find the right colour and texture for any room in your house.