How To Measure for Blinds and Shades

Standard windows are usually 24 to 60 inches wide and 36 to 72 inches long. As a result, many off-the-shelf blinds, shades and curtain sizes are within those ranges also. But once you have the exact measurements for your home’s windows, you can have the retailer customize your purchase to fit.

Looking for the perfect fit for new window treatments? It all starts with an accurate measurement. Most hardware packages come with everything you need for installation in wood or drywall. For metal or masonry, make sure you have the right drill bits and the appropriate screws for installing window treatments.

Before taking any measurements, determine if the window treatment will be installed as an inside mount or an outside mount. Use a metal tape measure to measure accurately to the nearest 1/8-inch. Do not round down.

Inside mount treatments are installed inside the window casing. They are frequently used in conjunction with draperies, which mount outside the window. Inside mounts can also offer a clean, streamlined look. They don't provide as much light control as outside mounts.

Outside mount window treatments are mounted outside the window casing. They are a popular choice when the blinds are going to be the only window covering. Extending them past the window provides maximum light control.

When you're measuring for inside mount blinds, accuracy is key. Fortunately, you can get measurements in three simple steps:

• Measure the inside of the window frame in three places for width: across the top, middle and bottom. This is because not all windows are built perfectly. Measure the narrowest width of the three measurements.
• Measure for height: at the left, middle and right side. Document the longest length of the three measurements.
• Measure the depth of the window so you know how deep the blinds can be.

Additional Considerations:

• Don't round down when learning how to measure windows for blinds. Our factory will take the necessary steps to make sure your blinds or shades fit perfectly in your window and will operate correctly.
• Double check the "mounting requirements" section of your chosen product to ensure that your window has enough depth to accommodate an inside mount. If it doesn't, choose an outside mount or switch to another product.
• Remember to measure in multiple places across the window width and height. For specific instructions on where and how many times to measure, see your product's specific measuring guide.

When you're measuring for outside mount blinds, allow for enough wall space to accommodate the mount. Here’s how to get accurate measurements:

• Measure the overall area to be covered. Measure both the width of the window and the height of the window.
• Consider adding an extra 3 inches to the width and height for optimum light control and privacy. Extending the blinds outside the window will also provide the space needed for the mounts and help the window appear larger than it actually is.

Additional Considerations:

• Our factory will make your shade or window blind sizes fit the exact measurements you provide. Be sure to allow extra space for the head rail and mounting brackets, which can be up to 2 1/2-inches tall. If you want increased light blockage and privacy, add a few extra inches outside of the window space.
• Make allowances for obstructions like doorknobs, deadbolts or moulding that might get in the way. If you have obstructions, spacer blocks or extension brackets are available to help your blind or shade extend far enough to avoid protrusions.
• Outside mounts require at least 2 inches of flat surface above the window or frame for mounting brackets. You may need projection brackets to clear the frame moulding.

When measuring for blinds, it is important to remember a few key things to get accurate window blind sizes:

• Decide if you want an inside mount or an outside mount before you begin the measuring process.
  If you aren't sure, take measurements both ways and then choose blinds that appeal to you.
• A steel measuring tape is much more accurate than a cloth measuring tape.
• Always measure to the nearest 1/8-inch. Don't round to a half or whole inch.
• Be careful about transposing measurements.
• Always have width and height clearly marked.
• Always put your width measurement first and height last (W x H).