Are you looking for a window treatment that offers privacy, is easy to operate and provides extra insulation in the cold Indianapolis winter? Blinds are a great choice!
Some Indianapolis homeowners may believe you can’t use blinds for crank windows because the handle used to open and close the window gets in the way. However, this is not the case. Blinds and shades are compatible with your new or replacement casement windows — but you must install them differently.
Many reasons exist for considering blinds and shades for your casement windows.
Follow the tips below to help ensure proper fit and function when adding blinds to your Andersen casement windows.
The correct installation style when putting blinds on casement windows is called an “outside mount.” Essentially, this means you install the blinds outside the window frame rather than between the two sides of the window frame.
With an outside mount, the blinds hang down further in front of the window so the crank does not interfere with them. Other benefits of this approach include the illusion of larger windows and less sunlight penetration — perfect for sleeping in on your day off!
The brackets can fasten directly to the wall, provided you have at least two inches of level clearance above the upper window trim. Another option is to mount projection brackets directly to the upper molding. Never mount blind or shade brackets directly to your window frame.
Before installing your blinds, you must find some that are compatible with the casement windows you selected for your home.
Thick, vertical wood blinds lend a classic and streamlined look while bringing a touch of nature to your decor. Incorporating organic materials can reduce stress, positively impacting your mental and physical health. Their design also works well since the vertical panels are easy to push to the side, giving you access to the crank.
If you love horizontal blinds, you can install this style, too. Remember that you’ll either need to reach behind them or lift them to access the crank if you ever want to open or close the window. Ones that easily lift up and down typically offer the most convenient window operation.
Go for a style that you can push or pull straight up and down rather than using a string. Blinds that operate on a cord are not the best choice with casement windows since they can be difficult to manipulate when you need to access the crank. Plus, cordless blinds are safer for homes with children and pets — they help prevent injuries and accidental strangulation.
Regardless of your choice of blinds or shades for casement windows, you will likely need to buy a top treatment — a hanging element you mount just above the window and hang your outside-mount blinds from. The top treatment allows the blind to protrude from the window enough to create space for the crank, eliminating an unappealing bulge and supporting quick and easy operation.
Order the correct treatment size for your windows by accurately capturing the dimensions. Outside-mount options are typically 1.5 inches or wider than the window opening on both sides. Measure the distance between these points to the nearest eighth of an inch. Do the same for the height. Begin at least two inches above the window to allow clearance for the top treatment, and measure to the point below the window where you want the shade or blind to end.
Once you have chosen the perfect blinds for your crank windows, it’s time to hang them. Most blinds come with installation instructions requiring a few standard hand tools. In general, you’ll need the following to complete the project:
Start by measuring the exact width of your blinds. Then, use your tape measure to measure this same distance horizontally above your window, marking both ends of the line. Install a bracket at each point, and use the bracket to hang the top treatment.
Once the top treatment is in place, you can position the blinds inside it. Most blinds will hook into the top treatment — often just toward its inside. When the window treatments are properly in place, you can pull down your horizontal blinds or spread out your vertical blinds to get your desired look.
With your new blinds in place, you’ll enjoy some relief from the sunshine, a little more privacy and an extra layer of insulation between you and the outdoors.
If your casement windows are looking a bit worse for wear or have become drafty, get in touch with Renewal by Andersen by calling us today at 866-609-5033. We proudly serve the greater Indianapolis area with free in-home consultations and market-leading window warranties and can easily replace your casement windows so they look as attractive as your new blinds!
