How to Order and Hang Blinds For Windows and French Doors

Blinds are a fantastic addition to any home, offering a stylish way to control light, enhance privacy, and improve energy efficiency. If you are in the UK and looking to order and hang blinds in your home, it is essential to understand the different types available, how to measure your windows and French doors correctly, and the process for installation. This guide covers everything you need to know to make the process as simple and straightforward as possible.

Types of Blinds for Windows and French Doors

Before we explore this guide on how to order and hang blinds, first you need to decide which time of blinds are best for your home. When choosing blinds, it’s essential to know the different types available to you. Each has its advantages depending on your style, needs, and the functionality you desire. Below are some of the most popular blinds for both windows and French doors:

1. Roller Blinds
   Roller blinds are one of the most common and versatile window coverings. Available in a variety of fabrics and colours, they are ideal for both modern and traditional homes. These blinds roll up and down, providing excellent control over light and privacy.
2. Vertical Blinds
   Vertical blinds are typically used for larger windows or patio doors, such as French doors. The long, vertical slats offer flexibility in controlling the amount of light entering the room while maintaining privacy. They are also easy to clean and maintain.
3. Venetian Blinds
   Venetian blinds consist of horizontal slats, often made of wood, aluminium, or plastic, that can be adjusted to control the light. They are an excellent option for most windows and are known for their sleek appearance.
4. Roman Blinds
   Roman blinds are made from soft fabric and create a stylish, sophisticated look. These blinds can be raised and lowered, folding up neatly when drawn. They are perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in living rooms and bedrooms.
5. Pleated Blinds
   Pleated blinds are similar to Venetian blinds, but instead of horizontal slats, the fabric folds up in pleats. They are ideal for use in conservatories, where a more compact blind is required.
6. Shutters
   For a more high-end look, shutters can be an elegant addition to your home. Available in a range of styles, they provide excellent privacy and light control while offering a timeless aesthetic.

Choosing Blinds for French Doors

French doors are a beautiful feature in any home, but they come with unique challenges when it comes to window treatments. Since they are often taller than regular windows and may have an extended area of glass, it’s important to select blinds that suit the door’s function and appearance.

Some of the best options for French doors include:

• Vertical Blinds: Vertical blinds are often a go-to choice for French doors because they are easy to adjust and can cover large areas effectively.
• Roller Blinds: Roller blinds can be a great option for French doors, particularly when you prefer a more minimalist look. They can be installed on each door separately or as one large blind to cover both doors at once.
• Shutters: For a more sophisticated look, shutters are an excellent choice for French doors, offering classic beauty and durability.

How to Measure Windows and French Doors for Blinds

Accurate measurements are crucial when ordering blinds for your windows and French doors. Whether you’re ordering online or through a store, following the correct procedure ensures that your blinds will fit perfectly and operate efficiently.

Here’s how to measure your windows and French doors:

1. Decide on the Blind Fitting Type

Before you begin measuring, decide if you want your blinds to fit inside or outside the window recess. The method for measuring will differ depending on your choice:

• Inside Mount: This means the blinds will be installed inside the window recess. This type of fit gives a clean and minimalist look, with the blinds sitting neatly within the frame.
• Outside Mount: The blinds will be mounted outside the window recess, covering the entire window area. This option is often chosen for a more dramatic appearance or when the window recess isn’t deep enough to accommodate the blinds.

2. Measuring for an Inside Mount

For windows or French doors where you want an inside mount, follow these steps:

• Width: Measure the width of the recess at three points (top, middle, and bottom) and record the smallest measurement. This ensures the blinds will fit snugly inside the recess.
• Height: Measure the height of the recess at three points (left, middle, and right) and again use the smallest measurement. This ensures that the blinds will cover the full window height.

3. Measuring for an Outside Mount

For an outside mount, follow these steps:

• Width: Measure the width of the area where you want the blinds to cover (i.e., the window frame or the wall area surrounding the window). Add a few extra inches on each side to ensure maximum light control and privacy.
• Height: Measure the height from where the blind will hang to the desired point below the window. This could be just below the sill or as high as the ceiling, depending on the look you want to achieve.

4. French Door Measurements

When measuring for blinds for French doors, you need to be mindful of both doors. Here’s how to get the right measurements:

• Width: Measure each door separately, ensuring that you have the width of the door from top to bottom. Again, measure at three points (top, middle, and bottom), and use the smallest measurement.
• Height: Measure the height of each door, from top to bottom, ensuring accuracy.

If you opt for a single large blind to cover both doors, you will measure the width from one side of both doors and the height from the top of the frame to your desired endpoint.

How to Order Blinds for Your Home

Once you’ve measured your windows and French doors, it’s time to order your blinds. Many online retailers and UK-based stores offer custom-made blinds that fit your measurements perfectly. Here’s how to order blinds:

1. Choose Your Style: Determine which type of blinds you want for each window or door in your home. Consider the material, colour, and functionality.
2. Select the Correct Size: Ensure that you order the correct size based on your measurements. Double-check all your measurements to avoid mistakes.
3. Check for Additional Features: Some blinds come with additional features, such as motorization or blackout fabrics. Consider what you need based on the room’s function.
4. Order Online or In-Store: Many companies offer both online ordering and in-store assistance for those who want to see samples before making a purchase. If ordering online, be sure to check return policies in case the blinds don’t fit perfectly.

How to Hang Blinds at Home

Once you’ve received your blinds, it’s time to install them. Depending on the type of blind, the installation process will vary, but here’s a general guide:

1. Tools You’ll Need: Most blind kits come with installation hardware, but you will need a tape measure, drill, screws, and a screwdriver.
2. Mark Your Mounting Holes: Using a pencil, mark where the brackets for the blinds will be installed, ensuring they are level.
3. Drill Holes for the Brackets: Use a drill to create holes for the screws, then secure the brackets into place.
4. Install the Blinds: Once the brackets are in place, carefully hang the blinds and secure them into the brackets according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Ordering and hanging blinds in your home is a simple yet rewarding process. By understanding the different types of blinds available, knowing how to measure accurately, and following the proper steps for installation, you can achieve a beautiful and functional window treatment that enhances the look and feel of your living space. Whether you’re fitting blinds on your windows or French doors, the right blinds can offer a perfect balance of style, privacy, and light control for your home.

We hope you enjoyed this post on how to order and hang blinds. For a similar post, see How to Hang New Doors in Your Home.