How to Fit Blinds? Inside Recess, Outside Recess and No-Drill Fitting Explained Step by Step
Fitting new blinds can transform your London home, but the installation is key for a professional look. Whether you have a Victorian bay window or a modern apartment, we have created this guide to help. From measuring for an inside recess to no-drill solutions, here is how you approach fitting blinds with confidence.
Understanding Your Options for Inside vs Outside Recess
You must decide where your blinds will sit before you start drilling. In our experience working across London—from compact Canary Wharf flats to grand terraces in Kensington—this choice defines both the room’s aesthetic and its thermal performance.
| Feature | Inside recess mount | Outside recess mount |
| Position | Sits within the window frame | Fixed to the wall above the opening |
| Appearance | Sleek, “built-in” look | Overlaps edges to make windows look larger |
| Performance | High energy efficiency | Superior light control and privacy |
| Best for | Modern, clean aesthetics | Windows with obstacles like handles or sensors |
Essential Tools and Materials for a Seamless Installation
Achieving a bespoke finish requires a specific set of precision tools and high-quality materials. Using a soft tailor’s tape is a common pitfall that leads to inaccurate measurements; for a made-to-measure result, accuracy to the nearest 1/8 of an inch is non-negotiable.
The professional’s toolkit includes:
- Power drill (with hammer action for masonry)
- Spirit level or laser level (crucial for a straight hang)
- Steel tape measure
- Pencil for marking
- Step ladder and screwdriver (Phillips or square head)
The secret to a durable installation lies in matching your screws and plugs to your wall type. Heavy Roman or wooden blinds require more robust support than lightweight rollers.
| Wall Material | Recommended Fixing | Pro Tip |
| Wood / window frame | Wood screws | Always drill pilot holes to prevent splitting the timber. |
| Drywall / plasterboard | Plastic plugs or toggle bolts | Use toggle bolts for heavy wooden blinds to prevent them pulling out. |
| Masonry / brick | Wall anchors (rawlplugs) | Use a carbide-tipped masonry bit for drilling into London brick. |
How to Fit Blinds Inside the Window Recess
Fitting blinds inside the window recess provides a clean, contemporary finish but requires the most precise measurements. You must first check that your window recess is deep enough—typically between 1.75 and 2.5 inches—to accommodate the specific blind type and its mounting hardware.
To ensure a perfect fit, follow these measurement and installation steps:
- Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom, then use the smallest measurement.
- Measure height at the left, center, and right, using the largest measurement.
- Mark your bracket positions approximately 2 to 3 inches from the side edges.
- Ensure brackets are perfectly horizontal with your spirit level before securing.
- Clip the headrail into place and test the operating mechanism.
In older London properties, window recesses are rarely perfectly square. If the surface is uneven, use the “shimming” technique by placing thin spacers behind the brackets to ensure the headrail sits level.
How to Fit Blinds Outside the Window Recess
An outside mount is the ideal choice for making small windows appear larger or blocking out maximum light in bedrooms. This method involves mounting the blind on the wall or the architrave above the window opening. We recommend adding 2 to 3 inches to both the width and height measurements to ensure the fabric fully covers the frame.
The process for mounting outside the recess involves several key stages:
- Mark the center point of your window and the center of your blind for symmetry.
- Hold the headrail at the desired height—at least 2 inches above the window is standard.
- Use a spirit level to mark the bracket positions on the wall or architrave.
- Drill into a solid lintel or use heavy-duty toggle bolts for heavier made-to-measure timber blinds.
If the blind “telescopes” to one side after mounting, it usually indicates that the brackets are not perfectly level.
No-Drill Solutions for Renters and uPVC Frames
No-drill systems allow for a hassle-free installation without making permanent holes in your window frames or walls. These mechanisms use high-tension or adhesive technology to lock the blind securely in place. They are a perfect fit for modern London apartments where drilling into uPVC or aluminium frames is often restricted.
Common no-drill installation methods include:
- Click2Fit systems using a high-tension mechanism that expands within the recess.
- Adhesive-backed side tracks that provide a secure hold without screws.
- Clip-on systems designed specifically for uPVC window frames.
These provide a perfect fit and can be removed in seconds, leaving the window frame in pristine condition.
Child Safety Standards for Every Home
Child safety is the most critical aspect of any window covering installation because loose operating cords are a significant household hazard. Every installation must meet strict safety standards to protect children and pets from accidental entanglement. At Kelly’s Blinds, we treat this as our highest priority for every London home we visit.
Safety Warning
- Cord Cleats: Always install a cord cleat at least 36 inches (91 cm) from the floor.
- The Figure-Eight: Wrap any excess cord around the cleat in a figure-eight motion after every use.
- Furniture Placement: Move cots, beds, and playpens away from windows with cords.
- Cordless Options: Whenever possible, choose cordless or motorised systems to eliminate risk entirely.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Fitting Blinds
Even seasoned DIY enthusiasts can make simple errors when fitting blinds that lead to crooked hangs or damaged walls. Avoiding these common pitfalls will ensure your window treatments look professional and function correctly for years to come.
Watch out for these frequent installation errors:
- Swapping the width and height measurements when recording dimensions.
- Ignoring the “projection” of window handles which can obstruct the blind.
- Drilling without checking for hidden pipes or wires using a digital detector.
- Using a soft tailor’s tape instead of a high-quality steel tape measure.
In Victorian homes, wiring can be unpredictable, so using a digital detector is a vital step for your safety.
Ready to upgrade your home? Book a free in-home measurement today and let our London-based experts handle the precision for you.
Unsure which blinds are the perfect fit for your space? Consult a specialist to receive expert advice, tailored recommendations, and personalized solutions that meet your style and functional needs, including roof blinds for unique spaces and more.
FAQ about Fitting Blinds?
How does fitting blinds differ between inside and outside the recess?
Inside recess means the blind sits within the window frame for a built-in look and better insulation. Outside recess involves mounting the blind on the wall above the window, which is better for blocking light and making windows appear larger.
What is the best method for a modern look?
It depends on your window architecture, but an inside recess generally offers a sleeker, more contemporary finish. For Victorian homes with decorative frames, an outside mount often provides more grand and functional coverage.
How do you install a blind without drilling into uPVC?
You can use tension-based systems like Click2Fit or adhesive-backed tracks that lock into the recess without screws. These methods provide a secure hold without damaging the frame, making them ideal for renters.
What tools are required for a professional result?
You will need a power drill, a spirit level, a steel tape measure, a pencil, and a screwdriver. Using the correct wall plugs for your specific wall type—such as toggle bolts for drywall—is essential for a durable installation.
Is it worth fitting blinds yourself?
A standard installation takes about 20 to 45 minutes per window and can save on costs. However, hiring a professional ensures a perfect fit for tricky shapes and guarantees that all child safety standards are strictly followed.
