How to Install Cordless Plain Fold Roman Shades - Video Guide

Inside mount provides a built-in look and shows off your trim; you’ll need enough recess depth and should expect small side gaps. Outside mount adds overlap to reduce light gaps and can help cover out-of-square openings or obstructions.

Typically: drill/driver, level, tape measure, pencil, appropriate drill bits (wood/masonry/metal), Phillips screwdriver, and included brackets/screws. For drywall without wood backing, use suitable anchors. Always pilot drill and keep brackets level.

Measure width at top/middle/bottom and height at left/center/right. For inside mount, order the narrowest width and tallest height and verify recess depth. For outside mount, add width and height for overlap (typically 1½–3? per side and 2–4? on top/bottom depending on light control needs).

Mark bracket centers level and square to the window. Place end brackets a few inches in from each end of the headrail, making sure the location will not interfere with any mechanisms inside the headrail; use any center support for wider shades per the instructions. Keep brackets aligned on the same horizontal line to prevent shade skew.

Most Romans use snap-in or hook-and-lock brackets. Seat the back lip first, rotate the headrail up, then click the front tab closed. Tug gently to confirm it’s secure before operating the lift system.

First, confirm brackets are level. Raise and lower the shade fully a few times to reset the cords/tapes. If one side lifts faster, add a small shim behind the lower side bracket or adjust cord wraps (on adjustable systems). Ensure fabric clears any handles or trim.

For inside mount, verify the headrail clears handles and tilt hardware; consider a shallow headrail or outside mount if clearance is tight. On tile or masonry, use appropriate bits and anchors. For decorative trim, outside mount with added overlap often looks and performs best.

Cordless: Same brackets; ensure smooth, level travel by operating from the center of the bottom rail. Continuous loop: Mount and secure the chain tensioner at the proper height. Motorized: Install the headrail, then pair and set limits per the motor instructions before final testing.

Bracket alignment is critical so both rails travel evenly. After mounting, run several full cycles to equalize cords or guide tapes. Keep hands centered when operating cordless versions to prevent racking.

With the shade lowered, hold the tensioner straight and mark the base. Screw it to the wall or trim so the cord/chain is taut and cannot form a loop. Re-check after a few cycles and periodically over time.

Wood: Use wood screws into studs or solid trim. Drywall: Use rated anchors if no wood backing is available. Masonry/tile: Use masonry bits and anchors appropriate for the substrate. Always pilot drill and check for hidden wiring/plumbing before drilling.

Outside mount with added side/top overlap reduces glow. For inside mounts, mount as close to the glass as possible and consider side trim or drapery panels if you want a darker room.

Install each shade on its own brackets, keeping headrails aligned on the same level line. Leave a small, even gap between units so fabrics don’t rub. For bays, mark each face separately and keep brackets square to their respective surfaces.

Pair the remote, set upper/lower limits, and save a favorite position if supported. Run a few full cycles to verify smooth, even stacking and confirm the fabric clears the brackets and trim along the entire travel path.

Operate from the center of the bottom rail on cordless styles, dust periodically, and avoid pulling from one side. For loop or motorized lifts, occasionally run full up/down cycles to keep stacks even and hardware seated.