How Do You Measure Up for Blinds?

Mastering the perfect fit for your windows starts with accurate measuring.
Whether you're updating your home's style or improving privacy and light control, getting the measurements right is essential for blinds that look professional and function flawlessly.

Why Accurate Measuring Mattersm - The Foundation of Perfect Blinds
Precise measurements ensure your blinds operate smoothly and provide optimal light control. They help you avoid the frustration and expense of returns or ill-fitting blinds that gap or bind.

Different mounting styles require different measurement techniques, so understanding the fundamentals before you begin is crucial for success
 

Step 1: Choose Your Mount Type

Inside Mount
Blinds fit neatly inside the window frame, creating a sleek, minimalist appearance that showcases your window trim.
Ideal for rooms where you want to maintain architectural details.

Outside Mount
Blinds cover the window frame completely and extendbeyond its edges, providing maximum light control,
enhanced privacy, and the ability to make windows appearlarger.

Your mounting choice fundamentally affects how and where you take measurements, so decide this first before reaching for your
tape measure.

Measuring for Inside Mount Blinds: Width

01 Use a Steel Tape Measure
Always choose a rigid metal tape measure for precision4fabric or plastic tapes can flex and provide inaccurate readings.

02 Measure Three Points
Measure the inside width of the window frame at the top, middle, and bottom. Windows aren't always perfectly square.

03 Record the Smallest Measurement
Use the narrowest width to ensure the blind fits within the tightest point of your frame.

04 Round Down to 1/8 Inch
Always round down to the nearest 1/8 inch (0.125") for inside mount width to prevent binding.

Measuring for Inside Mount Blinds: Height & Depth

Height Measurement
Measure the height inside the frame at three points: left, middle, and right. Unlike width, you'll record the longest measurement to ensure complete coverage from top to bottom.

Depth Requirement
Measure the window depth (the distance from the front of the frame to the glass) to confirm it can accommodate your blind's mounting hardware and headrail.

Always check the manufacturer's product-specific depth requirements before ordering4some blinds need more clearance than others.

Measuring for Outside Mount Blinds: Width & Height

Measure the Full Coverage Area
Determine the complete area you want to cover, including the window frame itself plusyour desired overlap on all sides for optmal light blockage.

Add Generous Overlap

Add at least 3 inches to both width and height beyond the frame edges. This prevents light gaps and enhances privacy whilst making your windows appear larger.

Check Mounting Surface
Ensure you have at least 2 inches of flat, solid wall space above the window for securely mounting the brackets and hardware.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Don't Measure Old Blinds
Always measure the window itself, not existing blinds. Old blinds may have been incorrectly sized or the window frame may have shifted over time.

Never Round Up Inside Widths
For inside mount widths, always round down to the nearest 1/8 inch. Rounding up will result in blinds that don't fit or bind when operating.

Account for Obstructions
Check for window handles, locks, moulding, or trim that might interfere with blind operation or installation.

Measure Multiple Spots
Take measurements at several points across each dimension. Windows are rarely perfectly square, and you need to account for variations.