How to Install Wooden Blinds

Wooden blinds offer warmth while adding privacy to your home. If you have a few basic tools and an eye for detail, you can learn how to install wooden blinds.

Key Takeaways

• Inside, outside, and ceiling mounts create distinct looks and determine where blinds attach.
• Window measurements differ by mounting style, measuring inside frame or from mounting location to windowsill.
• Heavy wooden blinds require anchors matched to wall material to secure brackets and support weight.
• Support brackets prevent headrail sag on wider blinds, with placement adjusted for mechanics or hardware.
• Headrail snaps or hooks into mounted brackets, and a valance attaches to conceal mounting hardware.

Choose Your Mounting Style

There are three different mounting styles: inside mount, outside mount and ceiling mount. Each offers a different aesthetic. 

Inside mount blinds are installed inside the window frame, offering coverage of the window pane without extending into the room. This makes them ideal window treatments for homes with ornate window frames.

Both outside mount and ceiling mount blinds cover part of the window frame in addition to the window panes. This results in the blind slats extending into the room. An outside mount for wooden window blinds is usually placed just above the window frame on the wall. You would install ceiling mount blinds directly above the window on the room’s ceiling. 

Measure Your Windows

Once you have determined which mounting style you prefer, you’ll be able to measure your windows. If you have chosen an inside mount for your wooden window blinds, measure the width and height from the inside of the window frame. You’ll need to measure the height from the mounting location to the windowsill for the other mounting styles. You should take your width measurement from the outside edges of your window frame. 

Check for Parts

When your blinds arrive, inspect the packaging to ensure all installation materials are provided. Most manufacturers include instructions that list the required parts. Double-check you have everything you need before starting the installation process. 

Mark Installation Site

Installing wooden window blinds requires drilling holes for the mounting bracket. Avoid mistakes by measuring and marking out each drill location. Bracket mounts typically extend ¼ to ⅛ of an inch outside the headrail. Hold up your blind’s headrail to your markings to confirm the location is accurate and use a spirit level to guarantee an even installation. 

Insert Anchors

Wooden blinds are heavy. Mounting them can place strain on your walls or ceiling. Anchors secure your mounting brackets to the wall, providing extra support. You’ll need an anchor that matches your wall material. Use drywall anchors for plaster or drywall. Use masonry anchors for brick, concrete or stone. 

To install the anchor, drill a small hole in the place you marked for the mounting bracket screw. Then insert the anchor, ensuring it is flush with the wall; you may need to tap the anchor with a mallet to ensure a secure fit. If you are concerned about damaging your walls and want the look of wooden blinds without the weight, consider installing faux wood blinds instead. 

Source: DUO Studio/Shutterstock.com

Place Side Mount Brackets

The next step for wooden blind installation is to place your side mount brackets. These brackets have a hinged side and an open side. Place the open side facing toward the window and the hinged side facing the outside edge of the window frame. If you installed anchors, simply screw the bracket into place using the anchor holes. Hold the bracket flush against the wall and secure it in place with screws. 

Secure the Support Bracket

Not every set of wooden blinds needs a support bracket. Wider and heavier blinds include one or more support brackets to prevent the headrail from sagging. Measure between the side brackets to find the center point of your blinds. Mark and pre-drill holes to match the screw holes on the support bracket. Then screw the support bracket into place, making sure it is flush with the wall or window frame. 

You may need to adjust the position of the support bracket if it interferes with the blind mechanics or your window hardware. If blinds requiring a support bracket simply won’t work for your windows, consider checking out how to install faux wood blinds. 

Snap Headrail into Place

Once your brackets are securely installed, it’s time to insert the headrail of your blinds. Most headrails easily snap into place between the brackets. However, some models have a hook system to attach to the brackets. Leave your blinds closed to make hanging the headrail easier. 

Source: DUO Studio/Shutterstock.com

Add Your Valance

Cover your mounting brackets by attaching the valance to the front of the headrail. Some valances are magnetic while others snap into the side brackets. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for how to best attach the valance. 

Enjoy Your New Wooden Window Blinds

You’ve now completed all the steps to install your wooden window blinds. It’s a straightforward process that requires just a few tools and attention to detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What mounting styles are available for wooden blinds and how do they differ?

Wooden blinds can be installed as an inside mount, outside mount, or ceiling mount. Inside mount fits inside the window frame and covers the pane without extending into the room, while outside and ceiling mounts extend over the frame — outside mounts sit above the frame on the wall and ceiling mounts attach to the room’s ceiling.

How should I measure my windows for an inside or outside mount wooden blind?

For an inside mount, measure the width and height from the inside of the window frame; for outside or ceiling mounts, measure the height from the mounting location to the windowsill and the width from the outside edges of the window frame. For step-by-step measuring guidance, see the how to measure blinds and shades guide.

What anchors and support brackets do I need for wooden blind installation?

Because wooden blinds are heavy, use anchors that match your wall material — drywall anchors for plaster or drywall and masonry anchors for brick, concrete, or stone — and drill a pilot hole before inserting the anchor. Wider or heavier blinds may also require one or more support brackets placed at the center to prevent the headrail from sagging.

What are the final steps to secure wooden blinds after the brackets are installed?

After the brackets are secured, snap or hook the headrail into the brackets with the blinds closed to make hanging easier, then attach the valance (magnetic or snap-on) following the manufacturer’s instructions. Operate the blinds to confirm the headrail sits flush and that no window hardware interferes with the blind mechanics; for additional installation tips see our how to install blinds and shades guide.