Complete Guide To Outdoor Blinds Archives | Custom Blinds Shutters & Awnings | Official
Custom Blinds, Shutters & Awnings Installation Guides
Custom Blinds, Shutters & Awnings Installation Guides

Thank you for your purchase! Here are the easy-to-follow installation guides for your new products.

Your DIY Guide to Perfect Window Treatments

  • Detailed installation instructions for your custom **Roller Blinds**.
  • Step-by-step video tutorial for fitting **Venetian Blinds** with ease.
  • A complete guide to securely installing your new **Outdoor Blinds**.

Complete Guide to Roller Blind Installation

This guide offers a comprehensive approach to installing **roller blinds**, detailing the necessary tools and a step-by-step procedure for mounting and fitting. It highlights crucial considerations such as selecting mounting positions (**Inside Recess** or **Outside Facefix**), accurately marking and drilling **bracket locations**, and properly fitting the blind.

Tools and Materials for Installation

To successfully install your **roller blinds**, you will need the following tools and materials:

  • **Drill**: Essential for creating holes.
    • Hammer function for masonry.
    • 5.5mm drill bit.
    • Masonry drill bit (for brick).
    • Wood drill bit or HSS drill bit (for wood pilot hole).
  • **Screwdriver** (phillips head recommended).
  • **Measuring tape** (metal tape measure recommended).
  • **Marker** (pencil).
  • **Ruler** (recommended).
  • **Step ladder**.
  • **Spirit level** (recommended for ensuring the blind is level).
  • **Hammer** (not strictly required but ideal for wall plugs).
  • **Vacuum** (to clean dust from drilling).
  • **Wall plugs** (specifically 6 mm, and appropriate for the surface type, e.g., for brick).
  • **Screws** (specifically 8 x 50 mm, and suitable for your wall or window type).

Step-by-Step Roller Blind Installation

Follow these detailed steps to install your **roller blinds** effectively:

  1. Decide on Mounting Position
    • Before you begin, choose between an **Inside (Recess)** or **Outside (Facefix)** installation. This decision determines the blind's final position.
    • If opting for **Inside (Recess)**, ensure there are no obstructions such as window handles or burglar bars that could impede the blind's operation. The installation process is similar whether fitting inside the recess, outside the recess, into the ceiling, or into the wall.
  2. Prepare for Installation and Determine Control Side
    • Lay out all your tools to ensure easy access.
    • If your blind includes a chain controller, decide which side you prefer it to be on.
    • The **Tab bracket** (control end) should be installed on the left if you ordered a left-hand controller, or on the right for a right-hand controller.
    • The bracket with the cross is typically the control end, while the one with the circle is the idle end.
    • Two persons are recommended for mounting the **Tab bracket**, especially for larger blinds over 2.5 meters.
  3. Mark Bracket Positions
    • Begin by marking the position for the **control end bracket**.
    • Mount the roller (the side with the chain controller) to this **Tab bracket**, ensuring the blind is rolled up from the back as per illustration.
    • Hold the blind and bracket in the desired position and mark it with a marker (pencil).
    • Next, hold the roller in the already mounted control end bracket. Fit the **pin bracket** (idle end) onto the other end of the roller pin, making sure the pin is sufficiently secured.
    • Position the **pin bracket**, critically ensuring the blind is level for even rolling. Mark the position of the **pin bracket**.
    • If your window is on a flat wall, center the brackets on the window before drilling.
    • You can mark the idle end bracket first, placing it against the window frame to ensure it's level, then mark around the edge and the drilling holes.
    • From the outer edge of this first bracket, measure the width of your blind to mark the position for the second bracket, ensuring a level line across.
    • For a recess fit, the brackets will be in the top corners inside your frame. For a face fit, if you have a window frame, the brackets will be on the top corners outside your frame. If you have a window with no window frame and are installing a face fit, the brackets should be at least 35mm out from each side of your window and 70mm above the top.
  4. Drill Holes and Secure Brackets
    • After marking, remove the roller.
    • Drill your holes at the marked positions, using an appropriate drill bit for the surface (e.g., **masonry drill bit** for brick, **wood drill bit** or **HSS drill bit** for wood pilot holes). If drilling into plaster, you can use ram set 10mm hollow wall anchors. For concrete, stone, brick, or tile, use a masonry drill with appropriate plugs, anchors, and screws.
    • If provided, use suitable fixings and **wall plugs** (such as 6 mm) that are appropriate for your type of wall or window. If in doubt about the suitable screws (such as 8 x 50 mm) and plugs for your wall type, consult a professional.
    • Push **wall plugs** into the drilled holes; a hammer might be needed to encourage them.
    • Then, screw the brackets into place. The brackets should sit perfectly over the holes if marked correctly.
  5. Fit the Roller Blind
    • Before mounting, ensure the fabric is rolled up tightly and the chain stopper is in the closest up position as per illustration.
    • Slip the bottom bar back into the bottom of the blind fabric.
    • Choose which side you would like the chain to be fitted and slot this into place, ensuring the chain guard is positioned at the top for correct operation. Ensure the chain is on the same side as your chain bracket. Check the hood over the chain is at 12 o'clock and the logo is at 6 o'clock.
    • There are a few ways to fit the roller into the brackets:
      • Mount the **pin (idle end)** into the pin bracket, ensuring it's secure. Then, by applying some pressure on the roller into the pin side, mount the roller into the **tab bracket (control end)**.
      • Fit the **pivot end** first (which has a spring) by pushing it into place, then finish with the control mechanism end.
      • On the control end of the blind, you'll see a small hook. Put this into the control end bracket and slide it in, giving it a push down until it clicks into place. On the idle end, there's a button on a spring; push that in to slide the blind into the bracket and it clicks into place.
    • You can adjust where you want your blind to roll down to by grabbing a **ball stopper** and clicking it onto the very top of the chain, which will stop it rolling any further.

Common Questions and Troubleshooting

  • **Chain stopper prevents the roller from going up or down:**
    • Solution 1: Pull the chain till the blind rolls up and it reaches the stopper.
    • Solution 2: Remove the roller from the brackets and then manually roll the blind to the desired up position, ensuring the chain stopper is then in the closest position as per illustration.

How to Install Your Custom Venetian Blinds

A Simple, Step-by-Step Guide for Home Installation

Thank you for ordering your Venetian blinds from Custom Blinds Shutters & Awnings®. This guide will help you install them with ease, whether you've chosen an inside or outside mount. No guesswork. Just clear support to get the job done right.

1. Decide Where to Mount Your Blinds as per order

Inside Mount (Recess Fit)

  • Sits inside the window frame
  • Creates a sleek, built-in appearance
  • Requires a minimum depth of 7.5 cm

Outside Mount (Face Fix)

  • Fitted on the wall or frame above or beside the window
  • Covers the entire opening for greater light block and privacy
  • Ideal for shallow recesses, window handles, or inward-opening windows

2. What You Will Need

  • Drill with appropriate drill bits (6 mm)
  • Screwdriver
  • Screws (8 x 50 mm) and 6 mm wall plugs (rawlplugs)
  • Spirit level
  • Pencil
  • Metal measuring tape
  • Step ladder
  • Optional: masking tape, safety glasses, small vacuum for dust

Make sure your blinds kit includes brackets, screws, wall plugs and control attachments before starting.

3. How to Install Your Blinds

  1. Step 1: Mark the Bracket Positions
    • Inside Mount: Hold the brackets inside the recess, spaced evenly and set back 10–15 mm from the edge. Mark the screw holes with a pencil.
    • Outside Mount: Hold the blind where it will be installed. Mark the outer edges, then position the brackets just inside those marks. Use a spirit level to ensure everything is straight.
  2. Step 2: Drill the Holes
    • Use a drill and the correct bit for your wall or frame surface
    • Drill pilot holes where marked
    • Insert wall plugs (for plaster, brick or concrete)
  3. Step 3: Fix the Brackets
    • Screw the brackets into place securely
    • If the blind is wide, use the centre support bracket included
  4. Step 4: Attach the Blind
    • Lift the headrail into the brackets, angling it slightly upward
    • Clip or slide it into place according to your instructions
    • Secure using any swing arms or levers provided
  5. Step 5: Connect the Controls
    • Attach the tilt wand or cord
    • Test that the slats tilt easily and the blind raises and lowers smoothly

4. Safety Information

Your blinds include child safety features. Please install the cord cleat provided:

  • Fix it to the wall at least 1.5 metres above the floor
  • Wrap the cords around it in a figure of eight when not in use
  • Ensure no cord loops are left dangling

5. Common Issues and Solutions

Problem
Likely Cause
Solution
Blind does not tilt
Tilt wand not secured
Reattach wand or check gear
Blind hangs unevenly
Brackets not aligned
Check level and adjust
Blind will not stay up
Cord not locking
Adjust angle when raising
Slats making noise
Dust or friction
Clean slats and use silicone spray (not oil)

6. Cleaning and Care

  • Dust regularly with a microfibre cloth or vacuum using a soft brush attachment
  • For deeper cleaning, use a damp cloth and mild soap (PVC and aluminium blinds only)
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners or sponges
  • Lubricate tilt mechanisms with silicone spray every few months

8. When to Ask for Help

  • You are unsure how to drill into tile, metal or brick
  • You are working with very wide or heavy blinds

We install across the Garden Route and offer nationwide support online and via WhatsApp.

Final Check

Once installed, your blinds should:

  • Tilt, raise and lower smoothly
  • Sit level with no slats catching
  • Feel secure in the brackets
  • Have all cords safely tied and out of reach

If you need any help at all, reach out. We are here to support you at every step.

Custom Blinds Shutters & Awnings®

Beautiful, made-to-measure blinds. Delivered with care.

Outdoor Blinds – Frequently Asked Questions

Custom Blinds Shutters & Awnings® | Made for South African Conditions

1. What types of outdoor blinds do you offer?

We specialise in **three types of custom-made outdoor blinds**:

  • **Sheerweave (Screen) Blinds:** Filter glare and UV without blocking airflow. Excellent for shade and visibility.
  • **PVC Blinds (Clear or Tinted):** Provide protection from wind and rain while enclosing a patio or outdoor area.
  • **Canvas Blinds:** Durable and stylish. Ideal for larger spans or when full privacy and weather shielding are required.

All blinds are custom-manufactured to fit your space and your climate.

2. Are your outdoor blinds windproof?

No outdoor blind is completely windproof. Ours are **wind resistant**, meaning they can handle typical South African conditions when properly installed and anchored.

For high-wind areas, we recommend:

  • **PVC or Canvas blinds** for stronger wind buffering
  • **Sheerweave blinds** for airflow and reduced wind pressure
  • **Floor saddles, anchor straps, or side channels** to secure the blinds at the base and prevent flapping

Blinds should always be rolled up in extreme wind.

3. Can I install them myself?

Yes. Our blinds are supplied with installation instructions and correct fixing specifications. DIY installation is suitable for most homeowners with a drill, ladder, and basic tools. We also offer personal WhatsApp support if you need assistance during the process.

4. What fixings do I need to install the blinds?

  • **Face Fix (Wall or Beam):**
    • 10 mm x 60 mm coach screws
    • 8 mm nylon wall plugs
    • 10 mm masonry drill bit
    • Use 4 screws and plugs per blind
  • **Side or Inside Fix (Recess or Post):**
    • Same fixings as above
    • Use 8 screws and plugs per blind
  • **Floor Saddles or Bottom Anchors:**
    • 8 mm x 60 mm coach screws
    • 6 mm masonry drill bit
    • Use 2 screws per blind

Always drill into solid material. If you're mounting into tile, steel or unusual substrates, consult us first.

5. Do I need permission to enclose a patio?

In most areas, **no formal permission is required** if the blinds are not permanent and can be rolled up. However, you should check with your **body corporate or local council** if you are in a sectional title property, heritage zone, or conservancy area.

6. Can I use the blinds year-round?

Yes. Our PVC, Sheerweave, and canvas blinds are all **designed for year-round use**. However, for long-term performance:

  • Avoid leaving blinds down in severe wind
  • Never roll up PVC blinds when wet
  • Regularly check fastenings and brackets
  • Clean blinds seasonally to maintain clarity and tension

7. What is the difference between Sheerweave and PVC blinds?

FeatureSheerweave BlindsPVC Blinds
AirflowHighNone
Rain protectionLowHigh
VisibilityFiltered viewClear or tinted view
UV and glare controlExcellentModerate
Best forShade and breezeWeather enclosure

8. How do I clean the blinds?

  • **PVC Blinds:** Use mild soapy water, a soft cloth or sponge, and rinse thoroughly. Allow to dry completely before rolling.
  • **Sheerweave and Canvas Blinds:** Brush off dust, then wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid strong chemicals or scrubbing.

**Tip:** Always clean in the shade, never in full sun, to avoid streaking or heat damage.

9. Do you offer installation?

Yes. We offer professional installation throughout the **Garden Route** — including Knysna, George, Plettenberg Bay and surrounds. If you're based elsewhere, we supply nationwide and support DIY clients with real-time help and clear instructions.

10. Are your blinds made in South Africa?

Yes. Every blind is **locally manufactured** using materials suited to South African weather. We do not use offshore kits or standardised imports. Your blind is made for your exact measurements, from scratch.

Custom Blinds Shutters & Awnings®

Professionally made. Personally supported. Precision in every detail.

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