Welcome to our complete How to Measure Windows for Roller Blinds: Step-by-Step Guide. Getting the exact measurements is the most crucial step before buying custom window shades. A small mistake can leave you with light leaks or blinds that don’t fit your frame properly.
In this straightforward guide, we will break down everything you need to know about measuring your windows accurately for both inside and outside mounts.
1. Choose Your Mount Type: Inside vs. Outside
Before pulling out your tape measure, you need to decide how you want to install your roller shades:
- Inside Mount: The blind fits entirely inside the window frame. This offers a clean, streamlined look and is ideal if your window frame has enough depth.
- Outside Mount: The blind mounts on the wall or trim outside the window frame. This is perfect for blocking maximum light or hiding unattractive window frames.
2. Tools You Will Need
To get precise results, gather these basic tools first:
- A steel measuring tape (flexible cloth tapes can stretch and lead to inaccurate measurements).
- Pencil and paper to write down dimensions immediately.
- A step stool or ladder for tall windows.
3. How to Measure for Inside Mount
Follow these steps when measuring for an inside mount:
- Measure Width: Measure the inside width of the window opening at three places: top, middle, and bottom. Write down the smallest measurement.
- Measure Height: Measure the inside height from the top of the frame to the sill at three places: left, center, and right. Write down the longest measurement.
- Measure Depth: Check the depth of your window frame to ensure it meets the minimum depth requirement for the roller blind bracket.
4. How to Measure for Outside Mount
If you choose an outside mount, follow these steps:
- Measure Width: Measure the overall width of the area you want to cover. We recommend adding 2 to 4 inches to the total width (1–2 inches on each side) to prevent light gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Should I deduct anything from my measurements before ordering?
A: No. Always provide the exact window measurements to the manufacturer. Most blind makers will automatically make necessary factory deductions for operating clearance.
Q: Can I use a cloth measuring tape?
A: It is strongly recommended to use a rigid steel tape measure because cloth tapes can stretch over time and cause inaccurate readings.
Q: What if my window is not perfectly square?
A: If your window is uneven, an outside mount is usually the best solution to cover frame imperfections seamlessly.