How to Install Faux Wood Blinds: A Step-by-Step Guide for 2023

Looking for an affordable option to add a touch of elegance to your home? Look no further than faux wood blinds! Not only do they offer a stylish and timeless look, but they also provide excellent light control and privacy. Unlike real wood blinds or bamboo blinds, faux wood is incredibly durable and resistant to moisture, making them perfect for high-humidity areas like bathrooms and kitchens.

What's more, installing faux wood blinds is a breeze, and you don't need to be a DIY expert to do it. With just a few basic tools like a pencil, leveler, and drill or screwdriver, you can easily hang them up in no time. And if you're worried about the height of your windows, a stepladder can help you reach even the highest spots.

So why settle for boring curtains or flimsy shades when you can add the sophistication of real wood blinds at a fraction of the cost? Give your home an upgrade with beautiful and easy-to-install faux wood blinds today!

Tools and Supplies Needed for Installing Faux Wood Blinds

Before starting the installation process of your new faux wood window blinds, make sure that you have all the necessary tools and supplies. This will ensure that the installation process goes smoothly and without any hiccups. Here are some of the essential tools and supplies that you'll need:

• Faux Wood Window Blinds - Of course, you'll need the blinds themselves. Make sure to purchase the correct size for your windows.
• Cloth Tapes - Cloth tapes are optional but recommended. They are used to cover the holes on the headrail where the cords go through, giving your blinds a more finished look.
• Drill Bit - You'll need a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screws that came with your blinds. This will make it easier to drill the holes and prevent the wood from splitting.
• Power Drill - While a screwdriver will work, a power drill will make the installation process much quicker and more comfortable.
• Pencil - Use a pencil to mark where you need to drill the holes for the brackets.
• Level - A level will help ensure that your blinds are installed straight and even.
• Step Ladder - In case your windows are tall, and you need to reach the top of the window frame. 

With these tools and supplies in hand, you'll be ready to install your faux wood blinds in no time at all.

Measuring and Preparing for Installation

Measuring and preparing for installation is a crucial step when it comes to installing your faux wood blinds. Taking the time to measure your windows correctly and preparing the mounting surface will ensure a seamless installation process and a professional-looking finished product. Here's how to do it:

1. Measure the Window Frame - Use a measuring tape to measure the width and height of the inside of your window frame. Measure in three places - the top, middle, and bottom - to ensure accuracy.
2. Choose Your Installation Location - Decide whether you want to mount your faux wood blinds inside or outside of the window frame. Inside mounting provides a cleaner look, while outside mounting provides better light control.
3. Prepare the Mounting Surface - If you're mounting your blinds inside the window frame, use a level to ensure that the frame is even. If you're mounting your blinds outside the frame, use a starter hole to drill a pilot hole into the mounting surface.
4. Mark the Mounting Surface - Use a pencil to mark where you'll be drilling holes for the brackets. Make sure the marks are level and evenly spaced.
5. Double-Check Your Measurements - Before drilling any holes, double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy. Measure twice, cut once - this old adage applies to measuring for your faux wood blinds too.
6. Pre-Drill the Holes - Use a drill bit slightly smaller than the screws provided to pre-drill the holes for the brackets. This will help prevent the natural wood from splitting.

Remember to take your time and be precise in your measurements and preparation. With a little effort and attention to detail, your new blinds for windows will look and function beautifully for years to come.

Mounting the Brackets

Now that you have measured and prepared your window for installation, it's time to mount the brackets. Proper installation of the brackets is crucial for a secure and functional installation of your faux wood blinds. Here's how to get it done:

1. Determine Bracket Placement - Hold the bracket up to the marking you made earlier and make sure it is level. If you're installing a wider blind, you may need to install a center support bracket. For larger blinds, additional support brackets may be needed.
2. Attach the Brackets - Once you have determined the placement of the brackets, use the screws provided to attach them to the mounting surface. Make sure to tighten the screws securely.
3. Check for Level - Use a level to ensure that the brackets are level. If they are not, adjust them until they are.
4. Repeat for Each Bracket - Repeat this process for each bracket, making sure to double-check the level of each one.
5. If the Window Frame is Not Suitable - If your window frame is not suitable for mounting brackets, you can mount the brackets outside the frame or use an alternative installation method such as ceiling or wall mounting. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper installation.

Take your time, be precise with your measurements and installation, and use the necessary support brackets for larger blinds. If you encounter any issues during the installation process, don't hesitate to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek assistance from a professional. 

Attaching the Headrail

With the brackets securely mounted, it's time to attach the headrail of your faux wood blinds. This is the long piece of the blind that holds the slats and connects to the brackets. Here's how to properly attach the headrail:

1. Align the Headrail - Hold the headrail over the brackets and align the box bracket on the headrail with the box bracket on the mounting surface. Make sure the outer edge of the headrail is level with the outer edge of the brackets.
2. Snap in the Valance Clips - If applicable, snap the loose plastic valance clips into place on the headrail. Make sure they are evenly spaced and properly aligned. (This is usually for vertical blinds, however.)
3. Attach the Headrail to the Brackets - Once the valance clips are attached, insert the headrail into the brackets. Make sure it is securely seated in the box brackets. Most brackets are snap-in – meaning you simply push the headrail back and roll it downward – but if the brackets are spring-loaded, use a flat head screwdriver to pry them open. 
4. Check for Proper Alignment - Double-check the alignment of the headrail and make any necessary adjustments. Once you are satisfied with the alignment, tighten the screws on the box brackets to ensure a secure installation.

If the headrail is too long for the window, you may need to order a new headrail or use an extension bracket. We offer custom-made window treatments at Factory Direct Blinds that will perfectly suit the size of your windows. 

Installing the Slats

Installing the slats of your faux wood window blinds is easy and straightforward. Here's how to do it:

1. Thread the Slats through the Cord Ladders - Starting from one end, thread the slats through the cord ladders on the headrail. Make sure the curved side of each slat is facing you.
2. Attach the Bottom Rail - Once all the slats are in place, attach the bottom rail to the locking tab on the bottom of the last slat. Gently snap the locking tab into place to secure the bottom rail.
3. Check for Proper Alignment - Double-check the alignment of the slats and the bottom rail. Make sure the slats are evenly spaced and level. If they're not, adjust them as necessary.
4. Test the Blind Operation - Test the blind operation by pulling the lift cord or tilting the slats. Make sure the slats move smoothly and stay in place when tilted. If there are any issues, check the alignment of the slats and bottom rail.
5. Adjust the Slats if Necessary - If the slats are too wide or too narrow for the window, you can adjust them by cutting them with a saw. (You won't need to do this with shades from Factory Direct Blinds, as we ensure accuracy across all of our custom products).

Is your window too short for the number of slats? Simply untie the knots in the bottom rail, remove some of the slats, trim the cords, and re-tie them. This is the perfect solution for windows of non-standard sizes.

Testing and Adjusting the Blinds

Congratulations, you've successfully installed your faux wood blinds! But before you start enjoying your new window treatments, there are a few final steps you'll need to take to ensure that they work properly and look their best.

1. Test the Cord Mechanism: Once the slats are installed, test the cord mechanism to make sure it operates smoothly. Pull the blind cord up and down several times to check for any snags or tangles. If the cord doesn't operate smoothly, adjust the slats so that they're straight and level.
2. Adjust the Blind Cord: If you're using blinds with a cord, you can adjust the length of the cord to your liking. Simply tie a knot in the cord at the desired length and trim any excess. Be sure to leave enough cord to operate the blinds smoothly.
3. Consider Cordless Blinds: If you're concerned about child safety or just prefer a cleaner look, consider cordless faux wood blinds. These blinds operate using a simple push or pull mechanism, making them both easy to use and safe for kids.
4. Check for Proper Alignment: Make sure that the blinds are level and hang straight. If necessary, adjust the brackets or slats to achieve proper alignment.
5. Final Touches: Lastly, make any final adjustments to the blinds and clean them as needed. Dust the slats and wipe them down with a damp cloth or use a specialized cleaner for wooden blinds.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your new faux wood blinds are properly installed, adjusted, and maintained for optimal performance and longevity. Enjoy your stylish and functional window treatments!

Get the Best Faux Wood Blinds from Factory Direct Blinds

You have successfully installed your new faux wood blinds – and now you can enjoy the benefits of light control, privacy, and a stylish window treatment that adds value to your home.

At Factory Direct Blinds, we are proud to offer a wide range of options for affordable prices – from mini blinds to cellular shades and more. Our faux wood blinds are available in a range of colours, giving you the freedom to choose the perfect option for your home's decor. We also offer cordless blinds for the ultimate safety and convenience.

Thank you for choosing Factory Direct Blinds for your window covering needs. We hope that this guide has been helpful in making the installation process as easy and stress-free as possible. Enjoy your new blinds! Don't forget to check out our guides on how to clean blinds, how to install specific treatments and more. 

FAQs

Is it easy to install faux wood blinds?

Yes, it is relatively easy to install faux wood blinds. With minimal tools and a bit of training, most people can hang up their own faux wood blinds. Factory Direct Blinds offers detailed installation guides and instructional videos to help you through the process.

Are faux wood blinds worth it?

Absolutely! Faux wood blinds offer the beauty of real wood blinds without the high cost. They are a budget blinds option that is durable, easy to clean, and can withstand harsh weather conditions. Faux wood blinds are also an eco-friendly option as they do not contribute to deforestation. At Factory Direct Blinds, we offer a wide range of affordable options that fit any budget.

Do faux wood blinds block the sun?

Yes, faux wood blinds can block the sun. They are an excellent option for light control and privacy. With the ability to adjust the slats, you can easily control the amount of sunlight entering your room while still enjoying a beautiful view. If you want complete light control, blackout shades may be a better option.

Can you install blinds yourself?

Yes, you can install blinds yourself. It is relatively easy to install most blinds, and many people do it themselves to save money on installation costs. However, if you have larger windows or are not comfortable with installing them yourself, it may be best to seek the assistance of a professional installer. At Factory Direct Blinds, we offer detailed installation guides and instructional videos to make the process as easy as possible.