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How to install bistro blinds

A clear bistro blind hanging from the beam of a pergola

Overview

Bistro blinds are a good way to extend your outdoor areas. They also protect you and your furniture from the harsh elements. We'll show you how to install them on a pergola.

Steps

1

Measure and mark the centre of the crossbeam

Make sure you install your blinds to a solid structure. We're installing these blinds on a pergola. The first step is to find the centre of the crossbeam for your opening. Measure with your tape measure and mark with your pencil.

A person measuring the beam of a pergola

2

Measure and mark the centre of the beam

Now take your tape measure and pencil, and mark up the centre of the blind.
A person measuring the beam of a pergola

3

Screw the blind to your crossbeam

Line up the two centre points and put a screw in. We're using a baton screw to get a nice solid fixing. Check the blind is level and attach a baton screw at either end.

A person attaching the top of a bistro blind to the beam of a pergola

4

Pre-drill the wall anchors and attach the blinds

Pre-drill the wall anchors as per the instructions supplied with your kit. Insert the roped edge of the blind into the wall anchor. This is the channel that the roped edge of the blind can slide into.
A person inserting the edge of a bistro blind into a wall anchor strip

5

Screw anchors to the wall

Zip up the blind and screw the anchor to the post. We have a black blind with black railing so we are using black screws. Make sure you have the right length screws to secure it down properly.  
A person attaching the side of a bistro blind to the post of a pergola

6

Install the base anchor plates

Install the base anchor plates to the bottom of the posts or into the ground. If you're going to keep your blind down, make sure it's anchored tightly to the base anchor to stop any damage from the wind.
A person adjusting an anchor belt with a plastic clip

7

Install the cleat out of reach of children

Screw the cleat to the post on the side with the cord at a reasonable height to keep it out of reach of children. It'll take a few days to get all the wrinkles out of the blind, but after that it'll drop.
A close-up of a blind cord wrapped around a cleat on a post
Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.