Learning how to measure your windows accurately is a crucial first step to ensuring your new window blinds or window shades fit perfectly and function as intended. At SelectBlinds, we aim to make this process straightforward and stress-free. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for measuring your windows for various window treatments, ensuring a seamless fit and professional look.
General Measuring Tips
Before diving into specific instructions, keep these general tips in mind:
- Use a Steel Measuring Tape: For the most accurate measurements, always use a steel measuring tape.
- Measure to the Nearest 1/8 Inch: Round down to the nearest 1/8 inch for width measurements and round up for height measurements.
- Measure Each Window Individually: Even if windows appear to be the same size, measure each one separately to account for any discrepancies.
- Refer to Product Specifications: Always check the specific measuring instructions provided on each product page, as requirements may vary.
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount
Decide whether you want an inside mount (installing the treatment within the window frame) or an outside mount (installing the treatment outside the window frame, covering part or all of the frame).
Your choice will affect your measurements and the overall appearance of the window treatment. Our Measuring Worksheet can help you track all of the information.
Measuring for Inside Mount
- Width:
- Measure the exact width of the inside edge of the window frame in three places: top, middle, and bottom.
- Record the smallest width to ensure the blind or shade fits within the frame.
- Round down to the nearest 1/8 inch if you are getting a 1/16” or 1/32” increment.
- For example, if the smallest measurement is 24 9/16″, round down to 24 1/2″. If it’s 24 3/8″, no need to round down.
- This will be the width you use.
- Height:
- Measure the exact height from the top inside edge down to the window sill in three places: left, center, and right.
- Record the largest height to ensure full coverage.
- Round up to the nearest 1/8 inch if you are getting a 1/16” or 1/32” increment.
- This will be the height you use.
Measuring for a No-Drill Inside Mount
No-Drill Blinds are only available for an inside mount; however, they are not recommended for PVC window frames.
Typically, no-drill products requires 2 1/2″ of depth to install. There are some products that only require 1 ½” of depth to install, such as the Select Light Filtering Cellulars. Be sure to check the Specifications tab on the product page to see the required depth.
- Width:
- Take all three standard width measurements (top, middle, bottom) to check for variance.
- Be sure to input the exact measurement of the top of your window frame into the width field.
- Compare the three measurements, and if the variance between them exceeds 1/4″, No-Drill Blinds Headrail may not fit properly.
- Height:
- Measure the exact height from the top inside edge down to the windowsill in three places: left, center, and right.
- Record the largest height to ensure full coverage.
- Round up to the nearest 1/8 inch if you are getting a 1/16” or 1/32” increment.
- This will be the height you use.
Measuring for Outside Mount
- Width:
- Measure the exact width of the window opening in three places (top, middle, and bottom).
- Record the largest width out of the 3 measurements.
- We recommend adding at least 2 inches on each side (a total of 4 inches) to minimize light gaps and ensure privacy.
- For example, if the window opening is 72”, it would be helpful to order 76”. This will provide 2” of coverage on each side of the window for maximum privacy and light gap coverage.
- Height:
- Measure the exact height of the window opening in three places (top left, center, and top right down to the bottom sill).
- Record the largest height out of the 3 measurements.
- Add at least 2 inches to both the top and bottom measurements (a total of 4 inches) for optimal coverage.
Product-Specific Measuring Guidelines
Different window treatments may have unique measuring requirements. Here are links to detailed measuring instructions for some popular options:
- Cellular Shades: Known for energy efficiency and sound absorption, cellular shades require precise measurements for optimal performance.
- Roman Shades: These shades add a touch of elegance and have specific measuring guidelines to ensure a tailored fit.
- Roller Shades: Offering a sleek and modern look, roller shades need accurate width and height measurements for proper installation.
- Woven Wood Shades: These natural shades bring warmth to any room and require careful measuring to accommodate their unique textures.
- Faux Wood Blinds: Combining durability with the classic look of real wood, faux wood blinds have specific measuring instructions to ensure a perfect fit.
- Wood Blinds: Authentic wood blinds add timeless beauty and require precise measurements for seamless installation.
- Mini Blinds: Ideal for smaller windows, mini blinds need accurate measurements to function correctly.
- Solar Shades: These shades reduce glare and UV exposure; precise measurements ensure maximum effectiveness.
- Shutters: Interior shutters provide a classic look and have unique measuring requirements due to their structure.
- Vertical Blinds: Commonly used for large windows and sliding doors, vertical blinds have specific width and height measuring guidelines.
- Curtains: Measuring for curtains involves considerations for rod placement and desired length.
- Panel Tracks: Ideal for large windows or as room dividers, panel tracks require accurate width and height measurements for smooth operation.
Final Thoughts on How to Measure Your Windows
Taking the time to measure your windows accurately will pay off with window shades and blinds that look great and function perfectly. If you have any questions or need assistance, our Design Consultants are here to help. Feel free to reach out to us at (888) 257-1840 for personalized guidance. For more detailed measuring instructions and tips, visit our comprehensive Measuring Guide.