How do I hang blinds from aluminum window frames?

Question

My new apartment had floor to ceiling aluminium framed windows. Obviously, at the moment it is a little like living in a "fishbowl"! I would like to hang some verticle blinds from the aluminium frames. How do I fix the blinds to the frames? Do I need to drill the frame and put plugs in? If so, what plugs and screws would you recommend?
Thanks in advance..

The windows are recessed. I am the owner of the apartment and my lease says that I have to put some kind of drapes / blinds up. They just didn't give me any advice as to what and how! Thanks for the answers so far.

Answer 1

You will need to use a small self tapping screw. The size I would recommend is a 1/2 inch size #6 Phillips Pan Head Screw. These can be found at any hardware store or home center. You don't want to use a much longer screw than that because you run the risk of going too deep and possibly either breaking a seal or hitting the edge of the glass. A 3/4" long screw would be the maximum.

You do not need to pre-drill the holes or use any type of plug. This would only compromise the integrity of the fastener.

Note: You will need to use a drill with a (preferably magnetic) phillips head shaft to mount with these screws.

Answer 2

How To Hang Blinds

Answer 3

Are the windows flush with the interior walls? Or are they inset as most are in a dwelling?

Before doing any alterations to a rental unit you should probably alert the management/owner.

As answer # 1 states, self tapping screws through the carriage that will hold the blind will work. I'd probably drill a small pilot hole first, especially after determining how much of the glass extends how far into the frame.

Steven Wolf

Answer 4

With aluminum frames I would use "Self Tapping Screws"