Another name for roller blinds is fabric blinds, and indeed, the principle of operation and functionality of this type of curtain is in many ways similar to standard horizontal blinds. At the same time, this option looks much more natural in a home interior, and thanks to the large selection of color options, you can choose curtains to suit any room decor style. Another advantage over blinds is the ability to combine with other types of curtains, drapes and drapes.
Rolled
The structure of the roller blind mechanism
The main structural elements are a rectangular fabric panel with a weighting agent, a chain and a shaft with a diameter of 16 mm to 32 mm, on which it is wound when folded. The presence of other elements (protective box, guides and others) depends on the specific curtain model.
When purchasing a finished product, it is not necessary to select the sizes with particular scrupulousness; you can purchase the version you like in a larger size. You can adjust the width of the blinds within 10-15 minutes using a hacksaw, a stationery knife, a metal ruler and emery.
Depending on the design features, fabric blinds are divided into several types:
Rolled with open mechanism.
A simple and inexpensive option. The mechanism consists of an open shaft of 25 mm, equipped with a lock, and a control unit with a chain. To prevent sagging of the fabric, side guides are used.
A simple fastener is a magnet installed on the bottom of the frame and an attracting metal weight located on the fabric. Cassette fabric blinds. The shaft is protected from dust, dirt or moisture by a decorative box. In addition, the folded fabric is not exposed to ultraviolet radiation and does not fade.
In addition to protecting the fabric and shaft, the box also performs an aesthetic function - boxes are produced in various shapes (round, beveled) and colors (including those imitating natural wood). Mini curtains. The mechanism is similar to the standard version, but you can attach roller blinds to plastic windows not only using self-tapping screws or self-adhesive tape, which allows you to install blinds on plastic windows without drilling, but also specially shaped brackets. Roller blinds on plastic windows, designed for installation on windows of non-standard configuration or located at an angle. Systems are produced with the ability to be installed at the bottom of the window or decorated with an aluminum lid, as well as many other options that ensure reliable fixation of the fabric.
Mini curtains
A feature of fabric blinds that distinguishes them from other types of curtains is the ability to attach roller blinds to plastic windows both indoors and outdoors.
For installation outside, models specially designed for this purpose are selected: the fabric must be treated with compounds that protect against moisture and other natural influences, and the box must be protected from precipitation.
Installation instructions
As an example, consider one of the options for installing the Uni system.
- After carefully unpacking, check the completeness of the product. The control chain is released. By slightly lowering the fabric, remove the side covers from the control unit located on the cornice.
- The product is applied to the window to check (on both sides) the symmetry of the gap between the canvas and the window bead. Use a pencil or awl to mark the locations of the fasteners.
- Using self-tapping screws, secure the cornice to the vertical glazing beads of the window.
- Place the covers on the control unit and check the functionality of the product.
- The places where the side guides will be glued are degreased with acetone or solvent.
- Remove the protective film from the side guide, insert its upper edge under the side cover of the control unit and, pressing, evenly glue the guide.
- Do the same with the other guide.
- Using a control chain, the panel is lowered until it touches the rubber seal of the window bead. Install a control chain limiter.
- Install the control chain retainer using self-tapping screws. Place the lid on it and snap it on.
Mini curtain design
Mini roller blinds are designed for installation on small windows or on each sash of a regular window.
Installation is carried out on the upper profile of each sash separately, while the curtains do not interfere with the opening of the window. The mechanism is similar to conventional types of fabric blinds, the peculiarity is the smaller diameter of the shaft (16-19 mm) and the mandatory installation of side guides that fix the fabric and prevent it from getting between the sash and the frame when closing the window. Guides are made of aluminum or fishing line, less often of plastic.
Roller blinds are attached to plastic windows using double-sided tape, a special type of glue, self-tapping screws or special brackets.
Brackets are the best mounting option, but can only be used for tilt-and-turn sashes. The bracket is a U-shaped structure, one part of which is attached with self-tapping screws to the back side of the cornice, and the second covers the upper edge of the window and clamps the seal without damaging it. Such fastening of roller blinds damages the glass unit coating and allows you to move the curtain to another sash in a matter of minutes.
The size allows you to attach roller blinds to a plastic window on a profile (in this case, the fabric is placed on top of the plane of the window) or to glazing beads (the guides are attached to the side glazing beads, and the mechanism is attached to the top, additional elements protect the fabric from sticking to the glass). To perform the first fastening option, purchase models of the Uni-1 type, the second - Uni-2.
WATCH VIDEO INSTRUCTIONS
We fasten the curtains with self-tapping screws
Before attaching the roller blinds to the screws, you must carefully measure the position of each hole. First of all, you need to accurately measure the width. If the brackets are placed on the frame itself, then add 20–30 mm to the frame width as a margin. If you plan to attach the brackets to the window opening, subtract 20-50 mm from the measured width.
Before starting work, you should prepare the tool and check its serviceability:
- For measuring and marking - a pencil, tape measure, level (a bubble-type construction tool is suitable). If you have a laser level, marking will become easier, but you can do without this device.
- For drilling holes - an electric drill.
- To tighten the self-tapping screws, use a Phillips-head screwdriver or a screwdriver.
- To trim components, if necessary, use a construction knife.
Self-tapping screws and all other fasteners are usually included in the kit.
Instructions for fixing roller blinds with self-tapping screws:
- First of all, the exact position of each hole is determined. To do this, the assembled system is applied to the mounting location, marking each hole with a pencil. To hang the roller blind strictly horizontally, check its position by level. At the marking stage, you will need an assistant to hold the assembled curtain. But if you have to carry out the installation alone, double-sided tape will help (they temporarily secure the brackets).
- Measure the required length of the guide line. It is threaded into place, the excess is cut off with a construction knife.
- Drill holes for all screws.
- Screw the brackets into place. If you plan to fix them directly on the frame, then the screws are selected so as not to damage the glass unit.
- The roll is attached to the brackets screwed into place.
- Magnetic clamps are attached to the bottom of the frame to tension the canvas.
All that remains is to check all parts of the mechanism to make sure that the curtain closes normally and does not interfere with opening the window. If everything is in order, all that remains is to put the decorative elements in place (bracket covers, roll box, etc.).
If the curtain is attached not to the frame, but to the ceiling or walls, special clamps will be needed. This type of fastening is used for heavy closed structures (Classic models). The algorithm changes slightly: first, the clamps are fastened into place, and then the roller blind is attached to them.
It is better to take aluminum clamps: they are more reliable than plastic ones.
Installation of roller blinds: step-by-step instructions
Anyone can attach curtains to plastic windows; this does not require any special skills or professional tools. Roller blinds are attached to the ceiling, wall or window profile; at the same time, these fastening methods do not have any fundamental differences in installation. For example, attaching mini curtains to a swing-out shutter using brackets is done in the following sequence:
- Carefully unpack the packaging; it is not advisable to use sharp objects, they can damage the fabric or other parts. Considering that fasteners for plastic windows are fixed to the window using double-sided tape, you should prepare the surface for fastening by clearing it of dirt and wiping it with a degreaser. Structural elements are assembled : the brackets are attached to the holders, and a lifting mechanism is installed on the selected side of the shaft (the mechanism can be installed on both the right and left sides). Preliminary fitting is carried out - the brackets of the assembled cornice are placed on the upper part of the open sash, the shaft is applied, aligned in width and make marks with a pencil. Remove the protective layer from the double-sided tape and place the brackets with holders on the sash. A lifting mechanism and a roller with fabric are attached to the holders.
The use of brackets allows you to attach roller blinds without drilling the window frame, without violating its tightness.
Roller blinds are gradually replacing curtains and heavy drapes from the market.
This is due to their practicality and stylish design. There are a large number of filters available. They take up very little space and can complement almost any interior.
When purchasing roller blinds, users are interested in how the roller blind is attached to plastic windows.
This is a simple process that you can do yourself. There are several options for carrying out this process. The functionality and appearance of the curtains will depend on the type of installation chosen.
Methods for attaching roller curtains
The variety of roller blinds has led to the creation of many fastening mechanisms, the main ones are described below.
Installation of a mini roller blind on an opening window sash
To understand how to install roller blinds on plastic windows from the “mini” series, you should prepare not only standard tools and devices, but also additionally take double-sided tape, and then follow the following steps:
- Degrease the surface of the window frame.
- Degrease the bracket and stick double-sided tape on its inside.
- Connect the brackets to the holders.
- The lifting mechanism with a chain is put on one side of the roller.
- Place the brackets on the frame, onto which hang the roller with the curtain and the chain device.
- Check the operation of the structure.
“Mini” on a blind window sash
Those who want to know how to attach roller blinds to plastic windows with a fixed sash should know that hook-brackets, which are often used in this area, will not be needed. Here you need to stock up on plates and side brackets and pay attention to the points below:
- Degrease the plates with grooves and glue double-sided tape to them.
- Place the side brackets into the grooves.
- Insert the brackets into the roller and put on the chain.
- Attach the entire mechanism to the degreased frame using tape.
- Check the operation of the entire structure by unfolding and folding the curtains.
Attaching roller blinds with Velcro
The cassette of fabric blinds is treated with Velcro and factory-issued security paper. How to attach roller blinds to plastic windows using Velcro? This is the simplest solution for installing roller curtains. Installation steps:
- Connect the shaft to the brackets.
- Degrease the area where future curtains will be located.
- Remove the framing paper and press the curtain shaft tightly against the frame. Ready.
Installation of cassette roller blinds
The set of cassette blinds includes guides that already have double-sided tape attached. The steps below will tell you in detail how to hang roller blinds on plastic cassette windows:
- This type of curtain is installed with self-tapping screws, which means the frame will have to be drilled. So, we drill holes for self-tapping screws with a diameter of 2 mm on the frame and make the same ones on the cassette right through.
- We attach the cassette to the frame and screw in the screws with the entire structure.
- The side guides can be placed on tape, because they do not have to bear much weight. Before fastening, be sure to degrease the surface of the frame.
Mix system: bottom mount
This non-standard system involves the location of the drive shaft not from above, as we are accustomed to, but from below. Yes, and in general, the mechanism can be mounted on any window sash. Such decoration is usually hung in rooms on the first floors in order to hide from the gaze of passers-by by pulling the curtain halfway up from the bottom, and, at the same time, not to rid yourself of sunlight.
You should prepare a level; such curtains cannot be installed without it. Attaching roller blinds to plastic windows on the bottom of the frame:
- Take measurements along the outer edges of the window beads.
- The standard kit includes a fishing line, which should be completely unwound and cut into two equal parts.
- You need to insert the cut fishing line onto the plastic part of the lower fastening into one of the two available holes, as if folding it in half. Tie with a regular double knot. Do the same with the second part of the lower fastening and the second part of the fishing line.
- The finished part with fishing line is connected to the bead in the corner of the window on the right using self-tapping screws and a screwdriver, and the other part is connected to the left.
- Installation of the upper fasteners occurs in the corners of the upper beads.
- Insert the fishing line into the curtain shaft from one side and the other.
- The free edges of the fishing line are connected to the upper fasteners and the lock is not tightened too tightly (4 turns).
- The system is ready for use.
Design Features
Existing types of roller blinds for plastic windows have a common design. The fabric is wound onto the shaft. Most often, dense cotton material is used for these purposes.
There are a huge number of canvas design options. The bottom edge of the material has a weighting agent. It does not allow the fabric to deform during the process of winding and unwinding.
Today there are many design options for roller blinds on sale.
They are divided into two large groups. The first category includes open-type roller blinds. The second group includes closed, or cassette, roller blinds for plastic windows.
Open roller blinds can be mounted above the window or in the opening itself. They, in turn, are also divided into several types.
Closed structures have a special box into which the shaft and the material wound on it are placed. This type of roller blinds is most often used for plastic windows. However, they can also be installed on aluminum or wooden frames.
Open roller blinds
Before you learn how to install roller blinds on plastic windows, you need to consider their varieties. Open roller blinds can be fixed both above the window opening and directly inside it. This opens up many options for interior design.
If you need to install a separate light filter for each double-glazed window, mini blinds are used.
They are selected according to the glass size of each window sash. If the curtain is mounted on the entire window, a type of “standard” roller blind should be installed above the window opening. If the windows have a complex configuration, “attic” curtains are suitable.
The curtain is controlled by a special chain or a spring mechanism. There are several options for attaching curtains to the window.
The first involves using tape. In hot weather, the adhesive base may melt. The curtain may fall off.
If the window sash is capable of opening, you can use special hooks. This option is not suitable for blind sashes. Installing roller blinds on plastic windows with drilling holes and fastening with self-tapping screws is considered the best option.
Closed roller blinds
Cassette roller blinds are installed quite often on plastic windows today.
This is due to their aesthetic appearance. Previously it was believed that this type of roller blinds was suitable exclusively for plastic windows. Today they are used for frames made of any materials.
The system has a decorative box. It covers the shaft, giving the structure an aesthetic appearance. Systems vary in size.
Small varieties are easy to install on a frame. They will not interfere with the opening and closing of the doors. However, large roller blinds require the installation of a durable shaft and a dimensional box.
Sometimes it is impossible to install such a structure above the opening. In this case, the system is installed directly on the ceiling.
Guides are not used in this case. This may cause the canvas to deform in the future. Therefore, when choosing such types of roller blinds, it is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the space near the window.
Installation in a window opening
Tools
- Drill or hammer drill (depending on the base material).
- A set of drills or drills for concrete, bits (depending on the base material).
- Screwdriver.
- Screwdriver Set.
- Dowels.
- Level.
- Pencil.
When installing a roller blind into an opening, using a spirit level is mandatory! Seemingly straight walls may turn out to be crooked, causing the curtains to become skewed, causing problems and looking unsightly.
Roller blinds installed inside the opening look aesthetically pleasing
Operating procedure
- Remove the curtain and accessories from the packaging.
- Assemble the roll: insert the chain mechanism into the shaft with fabric at one end and the plug at the other; Attach the brackets to the shaft.
- Attach the roller blind to the mounting location and level it horizontally.
- Using a pencil, mark the drilling points through the mounting holes in the brackets.
- Remove the brackets from the shaft.
- Drill holes, drive in dowels, screw the brackets.
- If the model has a guide line, thread the ends of the line into the special holes in the brackets, tie with a double knot, and cut in the middle.
- Insert the roll into the brackets with the canvas facing the window.
- Pull the free ends of the fishing line through the loops at the ends of the plumb line.
- Screw the fasteners for the guide line to the side walls of the opening, insert the free ends of the line into the special holes, and tighten them with the adjusting screw.
- Insert the shaft clamps.
- Attach the stops to the chain at the extreme positions of the blade.
Mini system
When studying how roller blinds are attached to plastic windows, it is necessary to consider the features of the main types of roller blinds. The “mini” type is distinguished by its compact shaft dimensions.
They are installed on each sash. Installation in this case does not require drilling the frame. Anyone can handle this setup.
To prevent the filter material from sagging, the bottom guide is made of metal. A magnetic holder is glued to the bottom frame.
When opening the window for ventilation, the fabric will tightly cover the entire surface of the glass. In this case, sagging can be avoided. This is one of the most popular types of roller shutters.
These curtains cannot provide complete darkness in the room. There is still a small strip of light on the sides. If you want to completely prevent sunlight from entering the room, it is better to give preference to roller blinds that cover the entire window and part of the wall.
What mistakes are made during installation?
Important: be careful about installation methods. If you need to install a frame on the wall, and you were supplied with brackets for the window sash, you have thrown “money down the drain”: the curtain will not install, the size will not fit.
Before we look at the different installation methods in detail, let's immediately eliminate possible errors that are repeated, despite the fact that the design is quite simple:
- When choosing roller shutters, keep in mind that the distance from the edge of one connection to the edge of the second is the total width, and the width of the leaf is a separate characteristic (see photo);
- So that after installation it does not turn out that the canvas prevents the frame from opening, or interferes with the operation of the handle, after choosing the position of how the structure will stand, twist these same handles in all directions, open and close the window sash several times;
- Take into account the full length of the canvases so that after installation the top does not turn out to be raised so high that it does not cover the window below and opens a view into the house and lets in the sun's rays unhindered;
- If you choose the installation option with adhesive tape, then before installation, do not neglect the rule of thoroughly washing and degreasing both surfaces. Otherwise, your structure may fall on your head at the most inopportune moment.
Please note: do not overestimate your eye. Uneven fastening occurs due to neglect of the level. It will be a shame and a shame to have to redo everything later.
Window measurement for mini roller blinds
To properly install roller blinds, you need to learn the technique of how to measure roller blinds for plastic windows. There are several things to consider during this process.
The fastenings of the mechanism should not interfere with the window when it is opened to its maximum. The window handle should not be an obstacle when lowering the fabric. The dimensions of the fabric material should be slightly larger than glass.
The measurement is carried out using a metal tape measure.
You need to determine the length of the glass. Another 30 mm is added to the result obtained. This size allows you to completely cover the window sash with material.
Then the height is measured. To the result obtained you need to add 120 mm.
This curtain length will be enough to completely cover the double-glazed window. The mechanism control must be located on the hinge side. The length of the chain should not be more than 2/3 of the window.
Measurement for roller blinds inside the opening
Particularly careful measurements require installation inside the opening into which the roller blind is installed on plastic windows.
In this case, the measurement instructions will help you perform all the steps correctly. Every millimeter will have to be taken into account. Otherwise, the curtain simply will not fit into the window opening.
When taking measurements, you should take into account the unevenness of the walls.
The dimensions of the opening are determined at three points. To carry out calculations, you must select the minimum value. This principle is applicable when measuring the length and height of an opening.
After taking measurements, you must subtract 1 cm from the minimum width result. The canvas with fastening should have this size.
The fabric itself should be even smaller by 1.5 cm. The length is measured using a similar technology. Another 1 cm is subtracted from the result.
Installation of roller blinds on plastic windows can be done in front of the opening.
In this case, it will be easier to choose the correct dimensions of the roller blind. In this case, the canvas can cover only the outline of the opening or a small part of the wall. This installation allows you to completely isolate the room from sunlight.
To choose the correct size of curtains, you need to measure the width of the opening and add 10 cm to it. Add another 15 cm to the length obtained. The height of the curtain should be measured from the attachment point to the plane of the window sill or even lower (if the design allows).
The mechanism control cord can be located on either side. For windows of non-standard shape, it is recommended to seek the help of a professional measurer. This will avoid mistakes.
Useful tips
Professionals shared practical tips for installing roller blinds. Study them carefully:
- the same curtain will be of different lengths depending on the chosen attachment option.
- When attached to the ceiling, it is easier to model curtains. It’s okay to make a mistake of 1-2 cm, since the fabric will cover the window opening. Take the roller shutter fabric 10 cm wider than the window frame, and as long as you need;
- when mounting to the wall, take into account the box size of about 5 cm;
- when installing in a window frame, the material should be 4 cm narrower than the window niche;
- The width of the fabric for roller blinds with PVC guides should be equal to the width of the glass. In this case, the guides are attached to the glazing beads;
- for Mini roller blinds, canvas = glass width + 3 cm: one for the glazing bead at the window handle, two on the hinge side;
- if the roller blind has a guide string, then the width of the material should be equal to the width of the glass plus 3 cm so that there are no gaps;
- Before installation, measure the length of the bracket. It should be sufficient so that the shaft does not touch the wall;
- with any type of fastening, the uncovered section of the chain mechanism must be directed downward. If you place it incorrectly, the roller blind will not work;
Now you know how roller blinds are attached. Installation is simple and does not require professional skills or special tools. Use the recommendations of experts from our article, and attaching the curtains will not be a problem.
Recommendations for choosing the type of fixation
Knowing how roller blinds are attached to plastic windows, it will be easier to choose the best option for roller blinds for a particular room.
Experts recommend decorating deep, wide window openings with closed-type systems. They are mounted on the frame. In this case, the window sill can be used for decorative purposes.
If the window size is small, it is better to mount the roller blinds above the opening. This option is also preferable for a window with a small window sill. The cornice in this case can be quite long.
It is better to choose the canvas in the color of the walls. This will visually increase the space of the room. Contrasting tones of the material are suitable for the “mini” variety.
If the canvas has a dense, loose structure, it is better to take the brackets to the maximum length. They will be able to accommodate the entire canvas on the shaft.
The mechanism should work quietly and smoothly. If you purchase a non-standard mechanism for moving the web (for example, the material moves in two directions), it is better to turn to professionals. In this case, the measurement will be as accurate as possible.
