Fit a roller blind outside the window recess on a solid brick or block wall

Fit external brackets and hang a roller blind above a brick or block window recess, checking for cables and pipes first.

RB-01Check the kit and measure the recessUnpack the blind and check you have two brackets, the roller tube and fixing screws. Measure the width of the window opening and mark bracket positions roughly 50mm out from each side and 50mm above the top of the recess, so the blind clears the frame and blocks light at the edges. Mark these points lightly in pencil.

1 each · Roller blind kit

Buy:ScrewfixB&QToolstationAmazon

RB-02Check for cables, pipes and your stopcockRun a cable and pipe detector over both marked points before you drill anything. Even with a clear reading, treat the wall as if something could still be there — detectors miss deep or shielded cables. Find your stopcock (usually under the kitchen sink) and check it turns freely, so you can shut the water off fast if you hit a pipe. If you have any doubt, isolate the relevant circuit at the consumer unit before drilling.

RB-03Level and finalise the fixing pointsHold a spirit level across the two marked points and adjust one until both are dead level. Mark the exact drilling point at each end with a pencil dot. Double-check the spacing matches the distance between the holes on your brackets.

RB-04Drill into the brick, block or lintelCheck whether each point falls on brick, block or the concrete or steel lintel above the window — the lintel needs a slower, harder-wearing approach. Use a masonry bit sized to your wall plug (typically 6mm) and drill to about 45mm depth, keeping the drill square to the wall. Clear dust from the hole with a puff of air or a small brush before fitting the plug.

1 each · Masonry drill bit 6mm

Buy:ScrewfixB&QToolstationAmazon

RB-05Plug the holes and fit the bracketsPush a wall plug into each hole until it sits flush with the surface — tap gently with the handle of the screwdriver if needed. Hold the bracket in place and drive the screw in until snug, but don't overtighten and crack the plug. Repeat for the second bracket, checking it's still level.

4 each · Wall plugs (red, masonry)

Buy:ScrewfixB&QToolstationAmazon

4 each · Screws 40mm

Buy:ScrewfixB&QToolstationAmazon

RB-06Hang the blind and test itClick the roller tube into the brackets — most kits have a sprung end that pushes in and locks. Pull the chain or cord to raise and lower the blind fully, checking it runs smoothly and sits level across the recess. Adjust the chain tension or bracket alignment if it drops to one side.

RB-07Clear away and clean upVacuum or brush away brick dust from the sill and floor. Remove any masking tape and pencil marks with a damp cloth. Flatten the packaging and bin any offcuts of fixings you don't need.

Some links may earn us a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Save this as a project

Back to all guides