How to Fit a Roller Blind

Written by Kim Jackson
Kim Jackson
Writer
I have a bachelor's degree in Journalism, which I studied in both the UK and USA. I've been a freelance writer for over eight years and have experience working with many large brands. My experience in writing is over a wide range of different niches, and I've specifically worked in the DIY and trades section for nearly two years. My favourite thing about freelance writing is working wherever I want as I love travelling and discovering new places and cultures.
4th December, 2025
How we get our data
We gather our data from real quotes given by UK tradespeople to UK homeowners on the MyJobQuote platform.

Do you want to know how to put up roller blinds? Well, we've created this easy-to-follow guide, which includes simple instructions and images, as well as lists of tools and safety equipment you'll need. So, check it out below!

How to Fit roller blinds

What Tools Do I Need to Fit a Roller Blind?

Below is a list of the tools that you will need for installing blinds:

  • Step ladder
  • Tape measure
  • Pencil
  • Straight edge
  • Wallpaper scissors
  • Hacksaw
  • Drill
  • Bradawl
  • Pipe and wire detector
  • Screwdriver

What Safety Equipment Do I Need to Fit a Roller Blind?

Below is a list of the safety equipment that you will need for a roller blind fitting:

  • Dust mask
  • Safety goggles

What Materials Do I Need to Install a Roller Blind?

Below is a list of materials that you will need when fitting a new roller blind:

  • Roller blind
  • Brackets
  • Screws
  • Rawl plugs

How to Prepare for a Roller Blind Installation

When preparing for blind installation, the first step is purchasing a suitable roller blind for the size of the window. If the blind is too large, you may need to cut it down to size, and likewise one that's too small won't fully do the job and will result in letting sunlight into the room.

If you're hiring someone to do the job for you, then ensure they have enough room to work - if you're taking down old blinds or curtains, it may be a good time to also clean the windows.

How to Fit a Roller Blind Yourself

Below is a step by step guide on how to fit a roller blind to the inside of the recess of your window:

Step 1

Measure the inside of the recess so that you know how much you will need to cut off your blind. Don't forget to leave a little bit of room on each side so that the blind can move up and down freely without touching any of the sides of the recess.

how to fit roller blinds step 1

Step 2

Take the end bead off the bottom of the blind and then roll the blind out onto a flat, clean surface with the back of the blind facing up.

how to fit roller blinds step 2

Step 3

Put a mark on the back of the blind using a pencil at the point where it needs to be cut. Put intermittent marks all the way up the blind so that you know exactly where it needs to be cut all the way along.

how to fit roller blinds step 3

Place a final mark on the roller itself. Now, use a straight edge to join up your pencil marks and create a straight line where you need to cut.

Step 4

Use scissors to carefully cut along the pencil line on the roller blind fabric. Once you have cut the fabric, you will then need to cut the roller using a hacksaw. Then, cut the same amount off the bottom bead using your hacksaw.

how to fit roller blinds step 4

Step 5

You now need to decide from which side you would like to control your blind. Locate the pull cord and the bracket that fits to it. The bracket that fits into the pull cord is the one that should be fitted to the side where you would like your blind control to be.

how to fit roller blinds step 5

Step 6

Mark the positions for your brackets on the wall or window frame. Make sure to leave enough space above so the blind can be fully rolled up. Once you're happy with the placement, mark points at both the top and bottom where you'll need to drill holes. This will help ensure your brackets are positioned accurately before moving on to the next step.

how to fit roller blinds step 6

Step 7

Use a drill to attach the bracket to the wall with screws, aligning it with the markings you made in the previous step. Then, repeat the process for the bracket on the other side of the window.

how to fit roller blinds step 7

Step 8

Next, fit the end caps onto the blind, then lift it into position by resting each end on the brackets until they slot into place. Depending on the design, you may need to secure the blind further, as per the manufacturer’s guidelines. Once it’s secure, your blind is now fully in place.

how to fit roller blinds step 8

Step 9

By UK law, all newly fitted blinds with cords must have a safety device securely installed to prevent strangulation hazards, especially in homes with young children. Before finishing, attach the pull cord to the wall using the safety fitting provided with your blind.

how to fit roller blinds step 9

Step 10

Hold your safety bracket in place on the wall and mark the screw holes. Before you screw into the wall, check for wires and pipes using a pipe and cable detector.

how to fit roller blinds step 10

Step 11

Finally, drill the holes for your safety bracket fitting. Then, push the wall plugs into the holes. You can then screw in the bracket and feed your roller blind chain through it.

how to fit roller blinds step 11

How to Remove a Roller Blind

Below is a simple step by step guide on how to remove a roller blind:

  1. Roll the blind all the way up and then remove the screw from the lower chain safety clip.
  2. Locate the safety clamp on one side of the roller and open up the clamp.
  3. Lift the roller out of both brackets.
  4. Use a screwdriver to take out the screws that hold the brackets in place and then remove the brackets.

FAQs

Do Roller Blinds Help Keep the Heat In?

Yes, roller blinds do help to keep heat in. They fit snugly against your window so they can block out cold air, reduce draughts, and stop heat from escaping.

Which Way Should Roller Blinds Face?

Roller blinds usually roll down towards the glass. However, the direction of the roll is up to you based on your personal preference.

Can Roller Blinds Be Fitted Outside the Recess?

Yes, depending on your personal preference, you can install roller blinds inside or outside the recess.

How Do I Measure for a Roller Blind Outside the Recess?

Measure the full width and height of the window you want the blind to cover, plus any overlap beyond the frame (around 5–10cm on each side and top/bottom is recommended). Remember to measure the area on the wall where the blind will sit over the window, not just the window frame itself.
Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year