Measuring Windows for Blinds and Shades

Tips for Measuring Windows

 Introduction:

Window blinds on an attractive window can really make the difference between a plain bland room and a room that is beautifully decorated.  Accurately measuring windows for blinds and shades can make the difference between a well dressed window that stands out rather than a window that is an eyesore.

Listed below are tips for you to correctly measure windows for either custom made blinds and shades or to buy standard stock blinds and shades that will fit your windows.

The first step in measuring windows for blinds and drapes is to use a very accurate tape measure such as a steel tape measure. Do not use a cloth tape measures as they  can bow and sag leaving you with inaccurate measurements. Your tape measure should be able to measure to the nearest 1/8 inch.

Measure each window individually and record the measurement as width and height to the nearest 1/8 inch. Width and height is the standard measurement technique for measuring for window blinds and shades. Before you go too far you need to determine if you want inside mounted blinds or outside mounted blinds.

Measuring for Inside Mounted Blinds or Shades:

Inside mount blinds are installed on clips on the inside of the window casing. They need to be a specific depth in order to sit flush within the casing. When you purchase your blinds make sure the blinds that you select will fit inside your window casings. Measure inside the casing, from left to right, in three different places to insure you have an accurate measurement. If the three different measurements are not the same use the smallest measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch. Repeat this process for the height of the window, measuring from top to bottom.

Measuring for Outside Mounted Blinds or Shades:

Outside mounted blinds are installed outside the window casing on the wall. They cover the window completely and are used to make it look larger than the actual window or hide unsightly windows. Use an accurate measuring tape. Measure the width of the window from the outside edge of the casing to outside edge of casing. Add approximately 3 inches for an overlap of 1.5 inches on either side of the casing. Measure the exact height to be covered, normally from the top edge of the window casing to the bottom edge or the sill.

Measuring for Arched Windows for Blinds and Shades:

Arched windows are not easy to measure for blinds and shades. They are a little tricky because they are nearly never perfect arches. Measure the width of the window base and take half the base to get the height.  If your arched window is not a perfect semicircle, you can make a paper template to get an accurate size.

In order to have professional looking window blinds and drapes you must take your time measuring accurately in order to get custom fit blinds and shades or get stock ones that will fit your windows.  By following these tips for measuring windows for blinds and shades you will really have blinds and shades that will have a professional appearance and bring out the best in your home.

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