Roman shades are an elegant and functional window treatment that can add a touch of sophistication to any room. Unlike traditional blinds, Roman shades are made of fabric and fold up into neat, horizontal pleats when raised. Installing Roman shades can seem daunting at first, but with the right tools and a little bit of know-how, it’s a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few hours.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you get started, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Tools:
- Tape measure
- Drill
- Screwdriver
- Pencil
- Level
Materials:
- Roman shades
- Mounting brackets
- Screws
- Wall anchors (if necessary)
- Header board (if necessary)
When purchasing your Roman shades, be sure to measure your window carefully to ensure that you get the correct size. You’ll also want to choose a style and color that complements your decor.
Once you have everything you need, it’s time to start measuring for your Roman shades.
Measuring for the Roman Shades
Measuring for Roman shades can be a little tricky, but it’s essential to get it right to ensure that your shades fit your window properly. Here’s how to do it:
- Measure the width of your window frame. Be sure to measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame, since windows are often slightly wider at the bottom than they are at the top.
- Choose whether you want your shades to hang inside or outside the frame. If you’re hanging them inside the frame, subtract 1/4 inch from your width measurement. If you’re hanging them outside the frame, add 1 1/2 inches to your width measurement.
- Measure the height of your window frame. If you’re hanging your shades inside the frame, measure from the top of the frame to the sill. If you’re hanging them outside the frame, measure from the top of the frame to where you want the bottom of the shade to hang. Add 1 1/2 inches to your height measurement for outside-mounted shades.
With these measurements in hand, you can order your Roman shades or cut them to size if you’re making them yourself.
Mounting the Brackets
Once you’ve measured your window and cut your shades to size, it’s time to mount the brackets. There are two types of brackets you can use: inside mount brackets and outside mount brackets. Inside mount brackets are installed inside the window frame, while outside mount brackets are installed on the wall above or outside the frame.
Types of Brackets
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Inside mount brackets: These brackets are installed inside the window frame and are a great option if you want a clean, streamlined look. They’re also a good choice if you have decorative molding around your window that you want to showcase. Inside mount brackets are typically installed with screws or clips that attach to the top of the window frame.
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Outside mount brackets: These brackets are installed on the wall above or outside the window frame. They’re a good option if you want to cover up an unattractive window frame or if your window doesn’t have enough depth to accommodate inside mount brackets. Outside mount brackets are typically installed with screws that attach to the wall.
Steps for Mounting the Brackets
- Hold the bracket up to the desired location and use a level to ensure that it’s straight.
- Mark the holes for the screws with a pencil.
- Use a drill to create pilot holes for the screws.
- Insert wall anchors if necessary.
- Place the bracket back into position and secure it with screws.
- Repeat the process for the other side of the window.
It’s important to ensure that the brackets are level and securely attached to the wall or window frame to prevent the shades from falling or sagging. Once the brackets are installed, it’s time to attach the shades.
Attaching the Shade to the Brackets
With your Roman shades cut to size and your brackets mounted, it’s time to attach the shade to the brackets. Here’s how to do it:
- Insert the headrail of the shade into the front groove of the bracket.
- Push the back of the headrail up into the back groove of the bracket until it snaps into place.
- Repeat this process for each bracket.
Once your shade is attached, test it to make sure it’s level and working correctly. If it’s not, you may need to adjust the brackets slightly to ensure that the shade hangs evenly.
Conclusion
Installing Roman shades is a simple process that can add a touch of elegance to any room. Here’s a quick recap of the steps:
- Gather your tools and materials.
- Measure your window carefully.
- Install your mounting brackets.
- Attach your header board (if necessary).
- Attach your shade to the brackets.
- Adjust the shade as needed.
To keep your Roman shades looking their best, be sure to clean them regularly with a soft brush or vacuum attachment. Avoid using harsh chemicals or soaking them in water, as this can damage the fabric. With proper care, your Roman shades will provide years of beauty and function.