How to put up a blind

Blinds are an easy upgrade: privacy, light control and a tidier window than curtains. Fitting one takes under an hour if you are organised.

Steps

1. Measure and choose. Decide whether the blind sits inside the window recess or outside on the wall. Measure width and drop at three points and use the smallest for a recess fit. Roller, Venetian and vertical blinds all mount the same way.
2. Get the tools together. Drill, the screws and plugs supplied, a screwdriver, pencil, spirit level and tape measure. Check what is behind the wall before drilling near sockets or switches.
3. Clear the window. Take down old blinds or curtain poles and wipe the frame or wall where the brackets will go.
4. Fit the brackets. Hold the first bracket in place, mark the holes, drill and fix. Use the level to mark the second bracket in line, then fix that. Metal window frames and UPVC need self-tapping screws rather than wall plugs.
5. Clip in the headrail. Most blinds snap or slide into the brackets. Check the mechanism is on the side you want before you clip it in.
6. Test and adjust. Raise, lower and tilt. If it sticks or sits crooked, loosen a bracket and nudge it rather than forcing the blind.

Fit the child-safety cleat or chain tensioner that comes in the box. It is a legal requirement for new blinds and takes two minutes.