Installation of Shutters, Shades and Blinds

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Blinds installation is not as difficult as you may think. But it may also depend on who you ask. Before we get into the nitty gritty of installation, let's first talk about the importance of your window measurements. If you're comfortable measuring the windows yourself, there are a few things to keep in mind for a successful installation. We've put together a DIY tips page to help homeowners enthusiastic about supplying their own window treatment measurements to us. If you're not comfortable measuring your own windows, that's ok. We find that most homeowners want their windows professionally measured to ensure proper fit of their new window treatments.

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A blinds installation requires a few essential tools, all of which your installer will provide. You can expect your installation crew to consist of one or more people, depending on the product being installed, the number of windows you have, and the height of those windows.

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Do you have blinds that need to be removed?

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Do old blinds need to be removed before new window treatments can be installed? Was this discussed at the time your order was placed? Most window treatment companies charge for take down and/or hauling away old blinds. Be sure you're on the same page with your supplier so there's not a snag when the installer arrives to hang your new window treatments. You don't want to be hit with a surprise charge, and the installer doesn't want to run late to his next installation. While the responsibility of asking the right questions is on the shoulders of the design associate, it's best to get this part in writing. 

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How long does a typical installation take?

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We get this question on almost every order. When budgeting time for a blinds installation, assuming the windows are "normal" height and size, our experienced installers can install most shades and blinds in about 15-20 minutes per window. This timeframe can extend however, depending on the type of accessories purchased. As an example, if you purchased a separate fascia or valance, this is a secondary installation and will add time to the overall job. If your blinds or shades are motorized, there's an additional couple of steps to sync the blinds and shades to the remote control. It's best to allow plenty of time for the installation. Work with the installer to get an accurate estimate of how long the installation is expected to take.

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If shutters are being installed, the process takes considerably longer and it's typical for two installers to tackle the job together; if for no other reason than to stay on top of unboxing and removing the packaging. Our shutter suppliers take great care to transport their shutters damage free. While having shutters arrive undamaged is the goal, the process requires a truckload of packaging materials (of which we do our part to recycle as much as possible). Shutters are best installed by a certified installer. Each manufacturer has their own criteria for becoming certified and it generally includes as much as 120 hours of shutter specific training. We highly recommend using a manufacturer certified installer to install your shutters. 

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What goes into the installation?

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There's a lot that happens behind the scenes. When a shutter order arrives, it's almost always shipped via common carrier. The shutters arrive in a crate. Inside the crate are the boxed shutters. Inside the boxes are shutters wrapped in a variety of packaging materials to support a safe transport. Keep in mind the crates are loaded and unloaded several times using a forklift. It's not uncommon for a typical shutter order to weigh in excess of 1200-1500 lbs. The individual boxes are stored in a warehouse until ready to install. Once the installation day arrives, the shutters are loaded onto a truck at the warehouse, and unloaded at your home. This is where the fun begins for most homeowners. The wait is finally over and you can see the highly anticipated arrival of your shutters. As one installer begins unboxing and unwrapping your shutters, the other will organize the required tools. When the first shutter is ready to install, the frame has to first be put together.  The frame doesn't arrive assembled for damage reasons. It would be too large and awkward to be packaged properly. As the frame is assembled, it's mounted into the window opening using screws. It's at this point the first shutter panel door can be attached to the frame. Once all the panels are attached to the frame, the installer will check to make sure the shutter panel door opens and closes with ease and that the magnet catches properly to secure each panel door. This process is repeated until all the shutters are installed. The installer can caulk around the shutters upon request. This is usually an upcharge and can depend on the type and color of your shutters.