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 Number 227 | August 26, 2005
© 2005 Designer Blinds

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With Vertiglide
Part 1 - Outside Mount

A Video Summary Of How To Install 
Duette® Vertiglide Shades &
Applause® Vertiglide Shades


View ENTIRE VIDEO for Outside Mount Vertiglide 9:26  17.1 MB 
(Recommended for high-speed connections only.  Slower Speeds should view segments below.)


Hunter Douglas honeycomb shades on the Vertiglide track system have become one of the most popular choices for doors, room dividers and other large openings. For these openings, even the largest Vertiglide shades can be installed in a short time and with minimal effort.  Here's a look at how it's done for Outside Mount situations including video segments of every step.  

1. Installing the Headrail For Outside Mount

For outside mount Vertiglide shades, the best technique is to install the headrail first and then attach the fabric and the vertical rails.  Some installers prefer to assemble the shade entirely on the floor.  This technique may still be used if you prefer, but on larger shades you may need some help. By installing the headrail first as shown in this video, you'll find even the largest Vertiglide shade is easier to handle for one person.

Play Video             1:18  1.92 MB
Requires Windows Media Player

2. Prepare and Install Vertical Rails

This video shows how to insert the stationary rail bottom bracket before you start. It's a simple step that's easy to forget, which can add unnecessary time to the installation process.  It also shows the easy way to install the stationary rail, which is quite different from earlier versions of Vertiglide and looks confusing until you see how it works.  This segment also shows the attachment of fabric carriers which is slightly different depending on the size of the honeycomb fabric being used on the Vertiglide shade.

Note: This video shows attaching the moving rail bracket assembly and rollers at the top of the vertical rails.  Vertiglide shades made by Designer Blinds will come with this assembly already in place, making this step unnecessary during installation.

Play Video             2:25  4.46 MB
Requires Windows Media Player

3. Insert The Cord Tensioner and 
Install The Center Pull Plate For Split Stacks

In this segment you'll see how the tensioner fits into its channel on the Vertiglide headrail. For Split Stack Vertiglide shades only, the Center Pull Plate is attached at this time.

Play Video             1:00  1.73 MB
Requires Windows Media Player

4. Straighten And Install The Stationary Rail(s).

The stationary rail for Vertiglide needs to be attached to the floor or to the wall behind the shade.  This segment shows how it's done. It's a quick, but important step. 

Play Video             :38  1 MB
Requires Windows Media Player

5. Adjustments To Tensioner & Vertical Rails 

Here are the keys to making everything look right and operate well.  Adjusting the tension is about the same as it has always been for Vertiglide.  It's just a matter of pulling the tensioner to the right position.  Adjusting the moving vertical rails is much easier than previous versions of Vertiglide. 

Play Video             1:46  2.53 MB
Requires Windows Media Player

6. Attaching The Valance 

Vertiglide shades in the current design require a valance.  Without a valance the fabric carrier wheels and other functioning components are exposed.  There are two types of valances for Vertiglide, each with its own installation technique.  Both are shown in this clip. There's also a great tip in this segment that shows how to use the valance clips to ensure that the tension will not change from your settings under any circumstance.

Play Video             2:19  3.58 MB
Requires Windows Media Player

7. Final Adjustments 

At this point, you're just about done!  Just one last adjustment to align the moving vertical rail depth.  It's about as easy as the old hokey pokey dance!  You push your moving rail in.  You pull your moving rail out. Then push it in again, stopping at the desired position.  Now call your customer in and listen to her rave about how much she likes her new Vertiglide Shade. That's what it's all about!  

Play Video             :55  1.39 MB
Requires Windows Media Player



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