HOW TO FIT A ROLLER BLIND WITH HEADBOX OUTSIDE A RECESS
Fitting a roller blind with a headbox outside a window recess allows the complete unit to sit neatly above the opening, with the blind lowering in front of the window.
Your roller blind arrives already assembled within the headbox, so you're fitting the complete unit rather than fitting the blind separately.
This guide takes you through the process step by step, from positioning and securing the headbox through to fitting the chain safety device and checking everything operates correctly.
BEFORE YOU START
Before you start, decide exactly where the headbox is going to sit above the window and identify what you'll be fixing into. This could be timber, plasterboard, brick, concrete or another material, and the correct drill bit and fixings will depend on what you're drilling into.
Check that the headbox will sit centrally above the recess and that the blind will lower in the correct position, giving you the required coverage on each side of the window.
Offer the complete headbox up before drilling anything. Check your measurements, make sure it is level and ensure the blind will have a clear path down without catching handles, frames or anything else around the window.
POSITION & MARK THE HEADBOX
Carefully lift the complete headbox into position above the window recess.
Make sure it is centred over the opening and correctly aligned. Use a spirit level to check that the headbox is straight and check that the blind will lower in the correct position with the required overlap on each side.
Once you're happy with where everything will sit, hold the headbox firmly in place and use a pencil to clearly mark the fixing points.
Take your time here. Getting the headbox level and correctly positioned at this stage makes everything else much easier.
DRILL THE FIXING HOLES
Remove the headbox and drill the marked fixing holes using the appropriate drill bit for what you're drilling into.
The correct fixings will depend on the installation. Timber, plasterboard, brick and concrete can all require different fixings, so make sure you're using something suitable for the surface.
Before moving on, offer the headbox back into position and check that the fixing points line up correctly.
If you're unsure which fixings you need, it's always better to check before drilling.
FIT & SECURE THE HEADBOX
Lift the complete headbox back into position and line it up with the fixing holes you've prepared.
Securely fix the headbox in place using suitable screws and fixings. Before letting go, make sure it is firmly secured, level and sitting centrally above the window recess.
The roller blind is already contained within the headbox, so once the complete unit is securely fitted, gently lower the blind a short distance and check that it is hanging correctly over the opening.
Don't continue until you're happy that the headbox is completely secure.
FIT THE CHAIN SAFETY DEVICE
With the headbox and blind securely fitted, check that the operating chain hangs correctly without twisting or catching.
Position the supplied chain safety device so that the chain is held correctly and can still run freely, then securely fix it in place using suitable fixings.
Raise and lower the blind slightly to check that the chain operates smoothly through the safety device.
The supplied chain safety device should always be fitted.
CHECK THE BLIND
Finally, slowly raise and lower the blind several times using the chain.
Check that the blind runs smoothly into and out of the headbox, hangs straight and covers the window recess correctly. Make sure it isn't catching the window frame, handles or anything else as it travels.
Check that the headbox remains securely fixed and that the chain moves freely through the safety device.
If everything is secure and operating smoothly, that's it — your headbox blind is fitted and ready to use.
NEED A HAND?
If you're unsure, just give us a call.
Every window is different, so if you're unsure about the bracket position, fitting your blind or anything else along the way, call us on 0141 336 5566.
We'd much rather talk you through it than have you guessing.
Ready to put your brand in the window?
Get an instant estimate in minutes. We'll check your measurements and provide a free visual before manufacturing.