How do I install cellular shades on a vinyl bay window?

by Rachel

Answered

I would like to install cellular shades on the three windows that make up my bay window. However, the window frame is vinyl. Also, the window frame extends all the way up to the ceiling. I think my only option for installing the bracket is to the ceiling, and I would prefer not to do that. I have done some research, and I do not believe fastening through vinyl is an option.
Does anyone have any other suggestions or advice?

how do i install cellular shades on a vinyl bay window

5 answers

B. Enne on Aug 25, 2016
Can you use tension rods inside the window (I can't see the depth), or use heavy duty 3M Command hooks, 2-sided heavy-duty tape or velcro? I know in my case drilling into the vinyl voids the window warranty.

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- Rachel on Aug 25, 2016
  There is 3/4" depth in the large center window, but no depth in the two side windows. In another post, someone suggested adding a piece of wood trim at the head of the windows (attaching it to the vinyl with an adhesive tape) and then fastening the brackets of the shades to the wood header with regular wood screws. That seems like a good idea, but I am not sure that I am handy enough to pull that off and have it look nice. Do you know if fastening into the ceiling is acceptable or not?
  
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- B. Enne on Aug 26, 2016
  It is funny because I thought of the wood trim too, but wasn't sure if it wood work, so I didn't say it. I can't see why you couldn't use the ceiling, but you'll have gaps on the sides of your blinds. You'll probably have to use some anchors too. I had vertical blinds in my bay window, and I didn't like how people could see in around the sides, since they were right by my door. That may not be an issue for you. Good luck! p.s. I'm assuming you already have the blinds...if not have them istalled professionally...it will cost a bit more, but they will know what to do to maximize function and privacy.
  
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- B. Enne on Aug 26, 2016
  These links may help for ceiling installations: http://www.blinddistributors.com/page-install... https://www.thisoldhouse.com/how-to/how-to-install-window-shades http://blog.blinds.com/art-bay-window/
  
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Jeris Chitwood on Aug 26, 2016
Get the kind that run up and down in a channel, using 3M double sided tape to attach to sides.

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Barbara on Aug 27, 2016
There are temporary cellular shades you can find on Amazon. They come in two different widths and you can cut them to the width you need. The price is very reasonable.

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Cec10739081 on Sep 04, 2016
how did u solve the problem? I have same

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- Rachel on Sep 06, 2016
  Hello. I ordered my cellular shades, and I am waiting for them to ship. They should get to me hopefully within another week. I had to order custom sizes, so they take a little longer to make. I will post some pictures when I am finished installing them and let you know how it went. I am going to use the 3M double sided tape and just tape the header bar to my window frame. I had to go with an outside mount (rather than an inside mount) install because of the size and depth of my frame.
  
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- Rachel on Oct 04, 2016
  The 3M tape did not work for me. It was not strong enough to support the weight of the shades. I am going to call a professional to see if they have any recommendations. I am very frustrated.... I have to return all of my custom shades. :(
  
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Deedee on Sep 22, 2016
Never tried with the cellular shades. But I do have roman shades in the brand new vinyl windows which was installed a month ago by the doors and windows contractors Clera Windows ( https://www.clerawindows.com/windows ) in Toronto . Roman shades are decorative and a bit nuisance to open and close. Usually, I close them every night but have to fuss with the folds every morning when pulling them up. @Rachel...where did you buy those cellular shades from? How much does it cost? And what's your feedback on it? Plz do share with me so I can too buy for my home.

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- Rachel on Oct 04, 2016
  I bought the cellular shades through Menards and JCPenny. Bali is the brand. I was not able to install them using 3M tape. So, I need to call in a professional for help.
  
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- Lori on Jul 15, 2017
  
  What did you end up doing? I'm having the same issue.
  
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