At Best Blinds & Awnings, we know there’s nothing worse than blinds that don’t quite fit. They rattle when the wind blows, leave awkward gaps, or refuse to roll up straight. Measuring your windows for blinds might seem like a straightforward task, but trust us—there’s more to it than whipping out your tape measure and eyeballing it. The good news? We’re here to help you measure like a pro (or convince you to let us handle it for you!).
Step 1: Know Your Style
Before diving into measurements, decide what type of blinds or shades you want. Are you dreaming of sleek cellular shades, versatile roller blinds, or elegant Roman shades? Your choice impacts how you measure, so this isn’t the time for indecision. Also, determine if you want inside mount blinds (installed within the window frame for a polished look) or outside mount blinds (which hang outside the frame, ideal for covering gaps or uneven windows).
Step 2: Assemble Tools of the Trade
Arm yourself with a steel measuring tape (no, the stretchy cloth one from your sewing kit won’t cut it), a pencil, paper, and a spirit of precision. Pro tip: Always measure in inches and double-check your numbers. The only thing worse than blinds that don’t fit is realizing it’s because you swapped a 3 for an 8.
Step 3: Measure
Inside Mount Measurements
For inside mount blinds, accuracy is everything. Follow these steps for a fit so perfect even Goldilocks would approve:
1. Measure the Width: Take measurements in three places: top, middle, and bottom of the window opening. Record the narrowest width to ensure the blinds fit snugly without scraping.
2. Measure the Height: Again, measure in three places: left, center, and right. Use the longest measurement this time to avoid any awkward gaps.
3. Depth Check: Ensure your window frame has enough depth to accommodate the blinds or shades you’ve chosen. Not all styles are shallow-frame-friendly!
Outside Mount Measurements
If you’re going for outside mount blinds (great for blocking more light or disguising imperfect windows), follow these tips:
1. Measure the Width: Measure the exact area you want the blinds to cover. Add a few extra inches on each side for light control and privacy.
2. Measure the Height: Measure from the point above the window aperture where you’ll mount the blinds to the bottom of the coverage area. Don’t skimp—outside mount blinds should fully cover the window and then some.
Step 4: Double-Check Everything
Seriously, check those numbers twice. Incorrect measurements lead to frustration, returns, and, frankly, questionable life choices. When it comes to buying blinds, the famous craftsman advice “Measure twice; cut once” could be rephrased “Measure twice; order once.” And if you have arched windows, bay windows, or something else entirely, you might want to make that “Measure three times.” Windows with unique shapes and sizes require extra care (and possibly a professional touch).
Step 5: Skip Steps 1–4 and Call the Pros
Still with us? If this sounds like a lot of work, that’s because it can be. Even with the best instructions, measuring windows for blinds is a task best left to professionals, especially if you’re tackling unique shapes or oversiz ed frames. Not only that, but providers of custom blinds and shades have access to a large selection of fabrics and designs so they can match your decor to a T.
At Best Blinds & Awnings, we specialize in making your home look its best with perfectly fitting blinds and shades. We’ll take care of the measuring, so you don’t have to worry about the tape slipping or that rogue 1/8-inch discrepancy. Whether you’re outfitting a single room or giving your entire home a window-treatment makeover, our team has you covered.
Ready to turn your window woes into window wow? Visit Best Blinds & Awnings to learn more, or schedule an appointment today. Let’s make sure your blinds are the perfect fit every time. Because life’s too short for bad blinds!