How to fix or replace blinds with ceiling mount?

chumchurrum

Hello,

We have a glass sliding door as pictured where each panel is about 1m wide. There are three blinds corresponding to each panel, however the middle one has come loose. Now the one on the right is also falling off, as the short screws it was installed with cannot hold its weight.

1. We have tried to put in longer screws, but discovered the ceiling panel is hollow and only about 3cm thick. So this didn't work.
2. We have some toggle anchor screws, but the screw holes are too close together (about 1cm) to accommodate the larger holes they would require.

Any advice on what to do would be appreciated. We are open to any other suggestions to replace the current blinds with something else or changing how it is mounted somehow. The only solution that wouldn't work for us is standard curtains that pull to each side as it would block off the part of the window next to the desk.

Thank you!

MitchellMc

Hi @chumchurrum,

It's a little difficult to tell from your photos whether you're fixing into plasterboard or a 30mm-thick timber section. If the screws are actually pulling out of timber, it's possible the original pilot holes were drilled a little too large. In that case, you could try increasing the screw gauge, for example from a 6G to an 8G screw, which should give the threads more timber to bite into and improve the holding strength.

If it is plasterboard, one option you could try is using https://www.bunnings.com.au/ramset-nylon-wallmate-plasterboard-anchor-with-screws-10-pack_p0643325 .

These will provide a stronger fixing than a standard screw into plasterboard, although they're generally intended for light-duty applications. Blinds are ideally secured into solid timber framing or masonry wherever possible.

If the WallMates don't provide enough holding strength, I'd consider enlarging one of the existing fixing holes and using a spring toggle instead. A single spring toggle is generally much stronger than two screws in plasterboard because it grips the rear of the plasterboard rather than relying on the face material alone. If you are only using one spring toggle, there would likely be enough room left to add a screw for the purpose of stopping the bracket from twisting.

Here's a guide that you might find useful: How to repair and install a curtain rail.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell