Can You Buy Window Blinds Without Installation? (Supply Only Blinds)
Apr 21, 2026
7 min read
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Want to handle installation yourself or work with your own contractor? Then, supply-only sounds like a practical option. More and more owners are choosing this route, and not just to save money. But here’s the main question: is it the right choice for you?
In this guide, we’ll break down the main pros and cons of supply-only blinds, walk you through how to order blinds online, and help you decide whether going full DIY mode is a smart move.
Wonder how much your blinds will cost? Check out this free quote calculation.
What “Supply Only” Blinds Really Means
Although some people think “supply only” means custom-made blinds, in reality, it refers to delivery without installation. Basically, a do-it-yourself option. Blinds can be either custom-made or standard, but since the suppliers don’t visit the site, the customer is responsible for installation and accurate measurements.
Supply-only blinds are available in every style we offer, including roller blinds, zebra blinds, cellular shades, blackout blinds, roman shades, and more. A lot of homeowners choose this route when they want to order zebra blinds online or custom-order vertical blinds and prefer to hang them DIY.
Why Homeowners Love the Supply-Only Options (and Why They Don’t)
You don’t have to be a dedicated DIYer to consider installing blinds yourself. After all, it doesn’t sound that hard: measure your window, direct order blinds, receive, and install them. Sure, it’s hardly rocket science, but it can be trickier than it seems at first glance.
Pros:
- Lower cost. No installation fees to worry about.
- Faster delivery. As soon as the blinds arrive, you’re good to go. No need to wait around for someone’s schedule to line up with yours.
- New DIY project. Many people just enjoy home renovation projects.
- Full control. After you order blinds online and receive them, it’s you who calls the shots on when, how, and at what pace your DIY project moves.
Cons:
- Responsibility. Measurements are on you, and those need to be precise. A few inches off, and the blinds are too big (or too small) and don’t fit your window.
- Installation. You’ll need time and tools (borrowing or buying them incurs additional costs to consider) to complete the project.
- No expert. If something feels off during the installation, you’ll have no professional guidance to help you fix it on the spot. One wrong move, and your blinds are a bit crooked.
Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide whether the pros outweigh the cons.
How to Order Blinds as Supply Only
It’s pretty straightforward. Here’s how to order blinds:
- Measure your window carefully. Precision is key here. Even a few inches off can make your blinds look wonky, so double-check those.
- Choose your style (zebra, roller, cellular, etc.), fabric, colour, and operation (cordless, corded, motorized). Pick what matches your room’s vibe.
- Request a quote to confirm pricing. It’s a quick way to avoid any surprises at checkout. It also helps you plan your budget in advance.
- Place the order and select the “supply only” option during checkout. This is where you skip professional installation and opt for DIY mode.
- We manufacture your custom blinds or ship standard sizes straight to you. Custom blinds take longer, though the timeline depends on seasonal demand and prior scheduling.
For more info on the best window blinds in Canada and how to choose them, check out this guide.
Supply Only vs. Professional Installation: Quick Comparison
Still not sure whether you should direct order blinds with installation or choose the supply-only option? Here’s a quick side-by-side that might help you decide which choice is better for you:
| Feature | Supply Only Blinds | Blinds with Pro Installation |
| Timeline | Faster delivery | Requires scheduling |
| Responsibility | Personal | Labour Warranty |
| Cost | Lower (blinds only) | Higher (blinds + labour) |
| Best for | DIYers, budget-conscious customers | Homeowners who prefer pro installation |
Either way, you’ll get the same blinds. What’s not the same are the additional expenses and the level of effort on your side. Keep in mind that if you go for the DIY route and don’t have the necessary tools and materials, you’ll either have to borrow or buy some of them, so factor that into the overall cost.
How to Take Accurate Measurements
Precision is the most important part of any supply-only order. This means your measurements must be accurate to the inch. Here are the quick basics you should stick to:
- Use a steel tape measure and stick to one unit (either millimetres or centimetres; don’t mix both).
- Decide between inside mount (for a cleaner, sleeker look) or outside mount (for better light blocking).
- Walls and window frames may look perfectly straight, but they rarely are. That’s why you should measure in three different spots: for width, measure at the top, middle, and bottom; for height, on the right, in the centre, and on the left.
- Double-check every measurement. If unsure, recheck again. If really unsure, call the specialists.
- Fitting the blind inside the recess? Use the smallest measurement for a neat fit; even a tiny narrowing can cause problems.
- Before measuring, check for things like handles, vents, or wall details. This may affect how your blinds fit.
If you’re not a skilled DIYer and unsure about measurements, it’s best to delegate this task to professionals.
Wrapping Up
Ultimately, you can order custom blinds or standard options without paying for installation if you don’t need it. You receive the same premium product; the difference is that you (or your contractor) take full control over the process, timeline, and measurements.
If you’re completely sure you can handle the installation yourself, go for the supply-only option. If you’re not sure that you can take precise measurements and install the blinds, then leaving this to professionals is a smart move.
Want blinds without the hassle? Check out our direct order blinds products or place your supply-only order online today. We’re here to help you every step of the way. First stop? Check out the blinds options.
Can I order any type of blind as a supply only?
Yes. Almost all styles (such as roller, zebra, cellular, and blackout) are available as supply-only. If you’re working with your own contractor or prefer DIY, you don’t need to order the installation, too.
How accurate do my measurements need to be?
Very, very precise, because even the smallest errors can affect both the fit and light control (especially when considering blackout options). Too small and you’re risking gaps; too big and the blinds might not fit at all.
Do you ship supply-only orders across Canada?
Of course. We ship nationwide; delivery is usually pretty quick once production is complete. Custom options take longer to produce, though this depends on seasonal demand and scheduling.
What if I order supply only, but later decide I want professional installation?
No problem. Our team can still come and install the blinds for you, just book an appointment.
Are motorized blinds available as a supply only?
Yes, you can order motorized blinds without installation. It’s a good choice if you like dealing with gadgets and doing things yourself.
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