How to Measure for Blinds

---

Don't panic, take a deep breath. We're here to tell you that measuring your blinds is a straightforward process. The hardest part will be trying to find a pen around the house... 

So gather your kit – all you need is a tape measure, pen and piece of paper – and get measuring. Once you've measured your windows, you'll wonder why you didn't do it earlier..

​The first decision you need to make is whether you would prefer an 'inside' or 'outside' mount. Both options can look great and the choice comes down to your personal style, but the process for measuring is slightly different. 

Here's how to go about it.

---

---

How to measure for 'inside' mount
​For a great result, ensure you have a minimum window depth of 2 3/8". This means the blind will fit neatly inside the recess. If the depth is less than 2 3/8" the blind will protrude outside the recess.

1.  To start, draw a square or rectangle on a piece of paper – this is your window frame. If you are measuring multiple windows, give them a label, such as 'living room window 1' so you don't get confused later on.

2.  Grab your tape measure and place it within the inside window recess. Measure across the inside of frame from one end to the next. Do this at the top, middle and bottom of the frame as not all windows are perfectly square. 

Write down the width of your window frame. If your window is not perfectly square, use the 'shortest width' measurement as a guide. This will ensure the blind fits nicely from top to bottom. 
​
3.  Measure the length (vertical drop) from the top of the inside recess left, middle & right to the base of the window sill.

Write down the length of your window frame. 

4.  Double-check both measurements.

---

How to measure for 'outside' mount
If you are installing your blind to a plaster wall, make sure you locate the stud in the wall and ensure you secure your blind to the stud. It gives your blind the support it needs to hold the weight of the blind.

1.  To start, draw a square or rectangle on a piece of paper – this is your window frame. If you are measuring multiple windows, give them a label, such as 'living room window 1' so you don't get confused later on.

2.  Grab your tape measure and place it on the outer edge of the window. Measure along the width of the window to the opposite edge. Write down the width of your window frame.

3.  Measure the the length (vertical drop) from the top of the window to where you would like the blind to end. This may be the end of the sill plate, or you may wish for the blind to end at a different point – the floor for example.

4.  Now, we need to adjust the length measurement:
           *You need to allow a minimum of 2" for the headrail to be fitted above the window.                  You can allow more if you like, but 2" is absolutely necessary. Whatever you decide,                add this to your total length measurement.
           
            *If you decide to extend your blinds all the way to the floor, you need to ensure the                   blind doesn't sit on the floor as you'll affect its ability to tilt open and closed.                       Simply deduct 3/4" from your length measurement to allow for this.

5.   Double-check both measurements.


Jerry Hale
713-373-9521
Complementary Consultations 
Solutions for all your windows & doors

---