How to install outdoor blinds?

[atrodd]

I'm looking to install some outdoor blinds on the window on my west facing balcony. I've done some research and the Coolaroo Crank Operated Outdoor Blind with premium pelmet looks like my best option. I was thinking a 2.4m and a 1.2m side by side which would cover the window perfectly.

My query is, there is only a limited amount of space above the window/sliding door where the blinds can be attached. I'd have to attach them to the timber trim above the window which looks to be attached to the cladding and I'm assuming some sort of framing behind that. I noticed that the screws that come with the blinds aren't partially long and would probably just go through the timber trim and partially into the cladding. Would that we strong enough to hold the blinds or do I need longer screws or some other way of securing the blinds?

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @atrodd,

Thank you for your question about installing the Coolaroo Crank Operated Outdoor Blinds.

I would definitely look to use some longer screws to be safe. While the weight wouldn't be excessive, if the blind is screwed exclusively to the architrave and the architrave is not installed well, over time, the weight could pull it off the wall. If you screw it through into the framing, you eliminate this risk.

I'd suggest using 50mm screws, such as these Zenith 10G x 50mm Galvanised Countersunk Head Timber Screws. You'll just want to double-check that their diameter is not too large to fit through the bracket. If they are, use a smaller diameter 50mm screw.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob