How to Install Shades

This guide explains how to install Hippo Shades roller shades and zebra shades. Both styles use the same basic bracket installation process, so these instructions can be used for either shade type.

Before starting, carefully unpack your shade and make sure all included parts are present. Each order may include the shade, mounting brackets, screws, charging cable, remote or control accessories if ordered, and product instructions.

Tools You May Need

• Pencil
• Measuring tape
• Level
• Power drill
• Screwdriver
• Step ladder, if needed

If you are installing into drywall, plaster, concrete, brick, tile, or another surface that does not hold screws securely on its own, use anchors or fasteners that are appropriate for that surface.

Step 1: Check the Parts Before Installation

Before drilling any holes, confirm that you received the correct shade and that the brackets and screws are included. Check the shade width, fabric, motor side, and mounting style before beginning.

If anything appears missing, damaged, or incorrect, stop the installation and contact Hippo Shades before continuing.

Step 2: Choose Inside Mount or Outside Mount

Inside Mount

An inside mount places the shade inside the window opening for a clean, built-in look. Before choosing inside mount, make sure the window opening has enough depth for the shade and brackets. The top mounting surface should be flat, level, and strong enough to hold the shade.

Also check for handles, locks, trim, or other obstructions that may prevent the shade from moving freely.

Outside Mount

An outside mount places the shade on the wall, trim, or surface above the window opening. This is a good choice when the window frame is shallow, uneven, or when you want more coverage around the window edges.

For outside mount, make sure there is enough flat space above the window for the brackets and that the shade will be centered over the window opening.

Step 3: Mark the Bracket Locations

Hold the shade near the installation area and decide where the brackets should sit. For most installations, the brackets should be positioned near the left and right ends of the shade, while leaving enough room for the shade cassette to lock into the brackets properly.

Place the brackets in position and mark the screw holes with a pencil. Use a level to make sure both brackets are aligned. If the brackets are not level, the shade may sit crooked or may not operate smoothly.

For wide shades, it is helpful to have a second person hold the shade while you mark the bracket locations.

Step 4: Drill Pilot Holes and Attach the Brackets

Drill pilot holes at the marked screw locations. Pilot holes help the screws go in straight and reduce the chance of damaging the mounting surface.

Place each bracket over the pilot holes and fasten it with the screws. Tighten the screws until the brackets are secure, but do not over-tighten them. Over-tightening can bend the bracket or damage the wall, trim, or window frame.

Once both brackets are installed, check again that they are level and firmly attached.

Step 5: Clip the Shade Into the Brackets

The images below show the shade being locked into the brackets. Follow the sequence carefully and do not force the shade if it does not line up smoothly.

5A: Review the bracket position

Make sure both brackets are installed evenly and facing the correct direction. The bracket hooks and locking tabs should be clear so the shade cassette can slide and snap into place.

5B: Bring the shade up to the brackets

Hold the shade with both hands and lift it toward the brackets. Keep the shade level as you bring it into position. For wider shades, have one person support each side.

5C: Align the shade cassette

Align the top edge of the shade cassette with the bracket hooks. Before pressing the shade into place, confirm that both ends are lined up evenly.

5D: Push the shade into the brackets

Gently push the shade upward and inward so the cassette begins to engage with the bracket tabs. If the shade does not move into position easily, lower it slightly, realign it, and try again.

5E: Lock the shade in place

Continue pressing until the shade is fully seated in the brackets. You may feel or hear the shade lock into place. Check both brackets to make sure the shade is supported on both sides.

5F: Confirm the shade is secure

Once the shade is installed, gently pull forward and downward on the cassette to confirm it is secure. The shade should not shift, tilt, or come loose.

Step 6: Test the Shade

After the shade is mounted, test it before leaving the installation area.

• Raise and lower the shade slowly.
• Make sure the fabric moves evenly.
• Check that the shade does not rub against the window frame, trim, handles, or wall.
• Confirm that the shade remains level while operating.

For motorized shades, make sure the motor has enough charge before testing. If your shade was ordered with a remote, use the remote to move the shade up and down. If the shade does not respond, refer to the product instructions for pairing or limit-setting steps.

Step 7: Make Final Adjustments

If the shade is not level or does not operate smoothly, remove it from the brackets and recheck the bracket placement.

Common issues include:

• One bracket is installed higher than the other.
• The brackets are not aligned with each other.
• The shade is not centered in the window opening.
• The mounting screws are loose.
• The shade is touching trim, handles, locks, or another obstruction.

Once the shade is level, secure, and moving smoothly, the installation is complete.

Safety Notes

• Install the brackets only into a strong, secure mounting surface.
• Use proper anchors or fasteners when mounting into drywall, plaster, concrete, brick, tile, or metal.
• Use a stable ladder when working above shoulder height.
• For large or wide shades, use two people during installation.
• Do not operate the shade if it is loose, tilted, or not fully locked into the brackets.

If you are unsure whether your wall, ceiling, trim, or window frame can support the shade, we recommend contacting a professional installer.

Need Help?

If you have questions during installation, contact Hippo Shades support before drilling additional holes or forcing the shade into place.