Selecting and installing window blinds can change the entire look of a room for a very reasonable price. Cheap blinds offer several advantages over more expensive options, since they can easily be replaced if damaged or to suit your room’s changing décor; cheap mini blinds can even give a custom look to over sized or odd-sized windows. In all these cases, however, installation is the key to a successful project. Improper installation can make expensive blinds look shabby; when properly installed, even cheap window blinds can look sensational.

When installing window blinds, accurate and complete measurements are essential. Proper measurement ensures that window blinds fit correctly and hang straight. A mistake in this area may cause blinds to sag, droop, or simply not fit into their brackets at all, necessitating that the entire process be undone and then repeated.

After taking accurate measurements of the window’s width and height and purchasing correctly-sized blinds, the first step is to mark exactly where on the wall the mounting brackets should be attached. Typically, the mounting brackets are affixed either inside the top of the window frame, or just above it; the size of the blinds usually determines where the mounting brackets should go. One of the easiest ways to determine proper placement for the brackets is to slide the blind into the brackets, and hold it up to the window, using a pencil to carefully mark each bracket’s position on the wall. This ensures that the shade will fit into the brackets once they are permanently attached and can prevent improper installation and consequent damage to walls or brackets.

Once the positions have been clearly marked, remove the shade from the brackets and, using a small-bore drill, carefully drill starter holes through the precut holes in the brackets into the wall. Place the provided screws into the holes; it’s usually best to start them with a hand screwdriver, and finish screwing them in with a power screwdriver. Once both brackets are securely attached to the wall, slide the blind into the brackets. It should fit snugly into the brackets on both sides; if not, it may be necessary to reposition one or both of the brackets. Assuming that it fits snugly, slide the front covers onto the brackets, enclosing the ends of the blind completely. The blind should be functional and ready to go.

Installing cheap window blinds, whether they are cheap mini blinds or high-end wood or aluminum varieties, can give a lift to any room. Interior decorators on a budget will enjoy the custom look cheap blinds can provide for their decor, and easy installation makes this a project anyone can successfully undertake.