Alexei Volkov
Installing window plastic with blinds can be a tricky task. The process involves a few steps, including preparing the window by cleaning it and removing any debris, as well as measuring the window to ensure the correct size of the film. The film should be handled carefully as it is thin and prone to damage. The application of the film requires the use of tape, either double-sided or wide clear mailing tape, and the creation of a snug fit. For blinds with pull cords, it is important to ensure child safety by keeping cords out of reach. Additionally, blinds can be mounted inside or outside the window frame, each method having its own advantages and considerations.
Characteristics and Values Table for Installing Window Plastic with Blinds
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Blind Type | Pull-down blinds, mini blinds, roller shades, faux wood blinds, cellular shades, vertical blinds |
| Mount Type | Inside mount, outside mount |
| Tools | Metal tape measure, power drill, screwdriver, hammer, nails, vacuum, plastic brush, scissors, Exacto knife, hairdryer |
| Materials | Window insulation film, double-sided tape, mounting brackets, screws, valance, valance clips, headrail, wand, plastic stems, vanes/slats, gloves |
| Steps | Measure window, mark bracket locations, drill pilot holes, attach brackets, attach headrail, attach vanes/slats, install valance, clean window and frame, apply tape, cut film to size, apply film, create openings for blinds |
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What You'll Learn
Clean the window and frame thoroughly
It is important to note that you should not unroll the film before cleaning the window and frame, as the inside surfaces of the film will immediately start to attract dust and moisture. Instead, leave the film in its bundle and only unfold it when you are ready to apply it to the window. This will help ensure a proper seal and maximize the effectiveness of the window plastic with blinds.
If you are working with inside-mount blinds, you may need to remove the blinds temporarily to access the window and frame for cleaning. This will ensure that you can reach all areas and thoroughly clean the entire surface. Once you have cleaned and dried the window and frame, you can proceed to reinstall the blinds before applying the window plastic.
By taking the time to thoroughly clean the window and frame, you can ensure that the window plastic with blinds will be properly installed and function as intended. This step may take some time and effort, but it is crucial to the overall success of your project and will help improve the energy efficiency of your home.
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Measure the window and mark the screw holes
Measuring your window accurately is key to ensuring your blinds fit perfectly. First, decide whether you want an inside mount or an outside mount setup. Inside mounts are installed inside the window frame or casing, providing a sleek, clean look, while outside mounts are installed to cover the window frame or attach to the wall.
For inside mounts, measure the depth of your window frame to ensure it meets the minimum depth requirement for an inside mount. Then, measure the inside of the window frame in three places for width: across the top, middle, and bottom. Circle the narrowest of these three measurements, as this will be the width you submit. Next, measure the height of the window in three places: the left, middle, and right. Record the longest length of these three measurements.
For outside mounts, measure the width of the window or door. For maximum light control, add 4 inches to each side, resulting in a total of 8 inches added to the entire width. Mark the location where you'll install the window blind headrail, usually recommended at least 3 inches above the window or door opening. Measure the height from the headrail location to the sill at the left, middle, and right sides of the frame. Use the smallest measurement. If the blinds will hang to the floor, deduct 1/2 inch from the height to allow for operating clearance.
Once you have your measurements, use a metal or steel tape measure to mark the location of the headrail brackets. Make two marks 4 inches in from each end of the headrail. These marks indicate where you will drill the pilot holes and secure the brackets with screws.
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Attach the brackets to the wall
Attaching the brackets to the wall is a crucial step in ensuring your window blinds are securely installed. Here is a detailed guide on how to do this:
Prepare the Brackets
Before attaching the brackets to the wall, you need to ensure they are positioned correctly and aligned with the top of the window frame. Place the headrail at the desired height, following the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended distance from the window. Mark this location with a pencil. Make two additional marks, 4 inches from each end of the headrail, to indicate where the brackets will go.
Drill Pilot Holes
Use a power drill to create pilot holes at the marked locations. Pilot holes are small holes drilled into the wall to guide the screws and prevent the wood from splitting. This step is especially important if you are installing blinds on a window with a wooden frame.
Attach the Brackets
Now it's time to attach the brackets to the wall. Position the first bracket at the marked location, aligning it with the headrail. Use the supplied screws to fasten the bracket securely to the wall. Be sure to use a drill or a screwdriver to tighten the screws. Repeat this process for the second bracket, ensuring both brackets are level and securely attached to the wall.
Adjust and Secure the Headrail
Once the brackets are in place, you can adjust the headrail. Position the headrail in front of the brackets and hook the front of it into the brackets. Rotate the headrail back until it snaps into place, securely attached to the brackets.
Attaching the brackets to the wall is a straightforward process, but it is important to take your time and ensure that the brackets are securely fastened and level. This will provide a strong foundation for your window blinds.
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Cut the plastic film to size
When installing window plastic with blinds, cutting the plastic film to size is a crucial step. Here are some detailed instructions to help you through the process:
Firstly, unpack the film carefully. The film is thin and delicate, so avoid using sharp objects when unpacking to prevent damage. It's also statically charged, so keep it away from dirt and dust. If your package contains multiple sheets, only unpack one at a time. If you have one large sheet, consider how you want to position it on each window to minimise waste.
For individual window-sized sheets, the process is straightforward. However, if you have tall windows, you may need to leave narrow margins or extend the film with tape. If your windows are very tall, measure them first to ensure a precise fit. You can splice sheets with double-sided tape or extend them with wide clear mailing tape, although this may lift the paint. These adjustments are best hidden at the top of the window when applying the film from the bottom up.
When you're ready to apply the film, unfold about 12 inches (30.5 cm) along the entire width of the window, leaving the rest stuck together. The film can be tricky to separate due to static, so if necessary, moisten your thumbs and fingers and gently rub the folded edge until it separates.
Finally, when installing the film, pay attention to the trim and frame. Use an Exacto knife to trim the tape for a precise cut, and be careful not to touch the sticky side or the frame with your fingers, as this can reduce adhesion.
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Apply the adhesive tape to the window frame
When applying the adhesive tape to the window frame, it is important to work with clean hands, as the natural grease on your fingers can reduce adhesion. First, clean the window and frame, and allow them to dry. Then, apply the tape to the front of the moulding and on the sill right in front of the vertical mouldings. Place the tape just inside a ridge on the moulding, if there is one, to keep it straight and protected by the moulding edge. Before laying the tape down, cut it to the proper length with scissors. When you finish applying one piece, rub down the corner and peel the backing paper about an inch (a few centimetres) to overlap it with the next piece.
If you are using a window insulation kit, you will need to apply the double-sided tape around the entire window on the outer frame. You can use an Exacto knife to trim the tape to the correct length, which will give you a more precise cut than scissors. Once the tape is in place, slowly remove the liner from the tape.
If you are applying window insulation film, you will need to first unfold the film along the entire width of the window, leaving the remainder of the film stuck together. The film is tightly stuck together due to static, so it can be tricky to separate. If it won't separate easily, you can try moistening your thumb and fingers and gently rubbing the edge of the folded film until it separates. Once the film is unfolded, apply it to the window, starting from the bottom and working your way up.
If you have very tall windows, you may need to leave narrow margins or extend the film to reach the full length. You can splice sheets with the double-sided tape or extend them with wide clear mailing tape. Any excess tape and film can be used to cover any openings around the wand of the blinds.
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Frequently asked questions
First, clean the glass and the window frame. Then, unpack the film and cut it to the size of the window, leaving narrow margins. Apply double-sided tape around the entire window frame and slowly unroll the window insulation film over the window.
The film is thin and easily damaged, so it's best to use your fingers or scissors to cut it. Avoid using sharp objects as they can damage the film.
It is recommended to remove the blinds when cleaning the window to ensure it is fully cleaned. However, some people choose to leave the blinds in place to avoid compromising the integrity of the seal.
Inside mount blinds are installed on the inside of the window frame, sitting flush with the window. This is a good option if you want to block out light and have a shallow window. Outside mount blinds are installed on the outside of the window frame, providing more flexibility in the type of blinds you can use.
Shorten the blinds to raise the pull cords out of a child's reach. You can also use suction cups with hooks to keep the cords out of reach.
