Windows aren’t created equal, and neither are window blinds. Finding the right fit and color can be a tedious task if you’re not sure where to start. But starting with SelectBlinds makes it easier. All you have to do is find the blinds you like and then measure your windows. If measured correctly, you’ll have blinds that perfectly fit your windows, no matter their sizes. With just a few specialized tips, you can measure for your custom blinds perfectly.
Tip #1: Determine the Mount
Before you can measure, you have to decide whether you want an inside mount or an outside mount. The chosen mount will affect the measurements, so be sure of your decision as you’re measuring. If you’d prefer an inside mount, don’t use the window molding or frame in the final numbers. If you want an outside mount, make sure to measure using the molding, and go out as far as you’d like the window blinds to sit.
Tip #2: Reference the Measuring Guides
Each type of window covering has a unique and specific measuring guide. Thoroughly reading the guide for your custom blinds, whether they’re aluminum, wood, or vertical blinds, will ensure proper measuring for that specific product. Here’s a great resource list. Just pick which mount you want and the type of window coverings you’re measuring for, and the right measuring guide is at your fingertips.
Tip #3: Use a Steel Tape Measure
When you’re ready to measure your windows, opt for a steel tape measure over a cloth or fabric one. A steel measuring tape won’t allow gaps from not being pulled tight enough. A steel tape measure is more apt to give you true measurements. Using steel is also a benefit if you have taller windows because you can measure without always getting a chair or a ladder, depending on the window’s height.
Tip #4: Use a Friend
Using a friend to confirm measurements is a fantastic way to make sure you measured correctly. If you have particularly large or tall windows, have your friend hold one side of the steel tape measure, so you don’t have to try to do it all by yourself.
Tip #5: Write it Down
You may have a good memory, but write those measurements down anyway. It will save you possible measuring hassles in the long run. If you have someone helping, call out the measurements to your friend to write down right away, saving you from having to climb up and down a ladder.
Tip #6: The Rule of Three
To ensure accuracy, measure the height and width of each window three times. When measuring the height, measure the left side, middle, and right side of the window, writing down the measurements as you go. For the width, measure the top, middle, and the bottom. The three window measurements might be different from each other, but there’s nothing to worry about. Next, watch this video. It will tell you which measurements to use.
Measuring for window blinds is easy. With the six tips above, you’ll be well on your way to having the best fit blinds you’ve ever had.
