There are a couple of things that one needs to know when it comes to installing roller shades, which can make for an excellent window shades option and light blocker. These shades are a form of window blind and can go a long way towards bringing a bit of style and class to just about any window in the home. One can choose from among a range of styles and colors when it comes to these versatile shades.

For the purposes of this feature, there are usually three different kinds of roller shades; the suntone, the suntier and the laminated roller shades. Each shares similarities with the other though a suntone — with four plies of vinyl being its basic component — is considered the least expensive of the trio. The custom-made window shades of the three is the laminated roller. A good midrange model is the suntier.

Regardless, installing any one of the three is pretty much the same. There are a few tools that are needed, but all are readily available from any hardware store or home improvement store. Assemble them before beginning the project. The first tool needed is a tape measure. Along with a tape measure, grab a pencil and a flat head and Philips head screwdriver, carpenter's level and a quarter inch hex head.

After the tools have been assembled and made ready, the time will have come to take a look at the hardware that has been provided with each shade and then tried to get an idea of how it will all be fitted together to hang the shade. Common parts for most shades include a clutch, brackets, some sort of cord and the fabric for the shade. Not all shades will have all of the same parts, though.

Keep in mind that the screws that have been provided for the mounting brackets may not be appropriate for the material that the frame is composed of. For instance, if it's a metal frame you're going to need sheet metal screws and if it's made of some sort of stone or concrete you'll need to use a carbide drill in order to make the mounting holes. Additionally, you'll need an anchor kit.

The first decision that will need to be made is whether the shade is going to be mounted inside the frame or outside of the frame (these two mounts are usually referred to as "inside mounts" or "outside mounts"). If the shade is going inside the frame ensure the roller doesn't contact the frame top. Mount the brackets inside the frame and make sure they are properly aligned with each other and level.

When doing mounting on the outside of the frame make sure that the shade will not make contact when raised or lowered with the top of the frame. Again, make sure that the mounting brackets are properly installed and aligned and are at a level height across from one another. If done properly, the shade will move freely. Make sure to allow an eighth of an inch between the brackets so that the roller can rotate freely.

Once the mounting hardware has been installed the only thing that will be left to do is to install the shades themselves. Make sure to go over the instructions for the shades and follow them closely, taking care to avoid over-tightening the rollers when attaching the clutch mechanisms and then mounting everything into the brackets. The window shades can quickly bring some style to just about any window.

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