Vertical blind, OK to hang on drywall?

[kawah]

I notice above my patio door, the header does not come out just behind the drywall, but a little (1-2") behind. So it is block-air/insulation-drywall.

I am planning to put fauxwood vertical blind on it. Those fauxwoods are a lot heavier than vinyl, and a LOT heavier than fabric. I am not sure how heavy exactly they are (anybody would like to give an estimate? 78"W x 97"H). I am guessing they are 60lb. This, together with the force when I pull to open or tilt, and when the blind is stacked to the side, could mean there may be perhaps 60-70 lb on the side bracket (guesstimate).

My question is, what is the best way to hang it? Using a drywall anchor, or use a really long screw. I am not sure how strong, realistically, those anchors are (reading the loading number on the box, I think it may be a little optimistic). If I use a long screw without an anchor, assuming I hit the block behind the wall, does that create pressure on the drywall, as there is only air (or insulation) between the two.

Any idea will be appreciated.

Regards,

Kawah

[Daniel Wachtel]

There have to be firring strips behind the drywall. Check around with a studfinder.

[johnam]

I've seen that situation before. You should find a stud at each end of the door. The other 1 or 2 brackets can be screwed in to molly bolts or toggle bolts. Dont use a long screw into the header since the pressure will collaspe the sheetrock. The control end of the blind is critical and you should be into a stud there. The others will support the weight.

[kawah]

Thanks for the info. I think they have a piece of wood approx 1" above the trim (this is as far as I can tell with a stud finder):

-------------------------------
Wood
-------------------------------
Trim
-------------------------------

I also found the curtain blocks at both ends. Again, I appreciate all the info thus far. Especially it has been suggested to me using a long screw to go in the block. Now with Johnam's reply, I don't think I would do that. Also did some "back of the envelope" calculation, from blind sample, that the total weight would be about 50lb, and each bracket will need to hold 50-60lb (assume 3 brackets, as the mounting bracket is a lever). That means each screw may need to hold 30-40lb. Would a molly bolt (or an anchor bolt) be enough?

Again, appreciate the helps,

Kawah

[johnam]

I think a molly bolt should work but a toggle actual is supposed to have greater holding strength.