How to Measure for Window Blinds, Shades and Curtains

 

 

Blinds, shades or curtains make a room feel complete. There are endless varieties of window treatments to suit any style. So, the first step to creating functional, appealing window treatments is to take measurements. The standard window length ranges from 36 to 72 inches and the standard width ranges from 24 to 60 inches. However, window sizes and shapes can vary greatly. We’re here to help you get the perfect fit. We’ll show you how to measure your window to get the right-sized blinds or shades, whether your home features modern or traditional styles.

 

Why Do Accurate Window Measurements Matter?

Professional measurements prevent costly mistakes. When you measure correctly, you avoid gaps that let light leak through, treatments that don’t cover your windows fully or hardware that won’t fit properly. Taking the time to measure ensures your custom window treatments will look beautiful and perform as intended for years to come.

Inside vs. Outside Mount Comparison

An inside mount creates a built-in look that showcases trim, while an outside mount extends beyond the frame to maximize light control. Here is a comparison of the two:

Feature	Inside Mount	Outside Mount
Installation	Within frame	On wall/molding
Appearance	Clean, minimalist	Makes windows larger
Light blocking	Moderate	Maximum
Depth required	Two to three inches	None
Tolerance	Precise	Forgiving

 

Measurement Basics and Essential Rules

The tools you need include a metal tape measure, notepad, pen and level. Follow these three important rules when taking measurements:

• Use a metal tape measure: Steel stays rigid, but cloth tapes stretch and cause errors.
• Measure to 1/8 inch: Custom treatments need exact specifications. Rounding causes a poor fit.
• Measure each window individually: Windows vary even in new construction, so measuring each helps get accurate values.

Pro Tip: Measure three times per window. Measure top, middle and bottom for width, and left, center and right for height. Use the narrowest width and longest height for inside mounts. This catches irregularities in single measurements.

 

How to Measure for Window Shades

The measurement principles for roman shades, roller shades and cellular shades are similar, with product-specific considerations. For inside window shades:

1. Width: Measure the inside width at the top, middle and bottom of your window frame. Use the narrowest measurement. Most shade manufacturers make automatic deductions for brackets, but verify specifications for your chosen product.
2. Height: Measure from the top of the frame to the sill at three points. Use the longest measurement. For roller shade measurements, account for the roll at the top, which adds about two inches when raised.
3. Depth: Confirm your window has adequate depth. Roman shades need more clearance than roller shades due to their folding fabric. Measuring honeycomb shades also requires extra depth depending on cell size.

When measuring outside mount shades:

• Width: Measure the area to cover and add three to four inches on each side. For maximum light control, add even more overlap.
• Height: Measure from your mounting point to where you want the shade to end. Extend below the sill for complete coverage.

 

Types of Shades

Shades are available for all kinds of window sizes and are excellent at blocking light or making a room more energy-efficient. Here are just a few shade types to consider.

• Roman: Roman shades, made of a continuous piece of fabric, can come in a variety of fabrics from cotton to silk. When rolled up, Roman shades can have the soft, luxurious look of drapery, and when pulled down, they lie flat against the window.
• Honeycomb: This type of shade, also called pleated or cellular shades, pulls down, but the fabric has chambers that trap air, providing greater insulation and possible savings on your home’s energy bill.
• Silhouette: Resembling horizontal blinds in functionality, silhouette shades are s-shaped and made from sheer fabrics that look floating in your windows suspended between light and air. These shades give your windows and your space a sophisticated feel.
• Pirouette: A totally unique experience in window treatments, these shades move and curve upward like a pirouette — their shape gives you elegance with all sun and UV-protection traditional coverings offer. You can have both delightful styles with protection and practical function, which makes these shades desirable in many Philadelphia homes for all types of windows.
• Woven: Woven shades give you the warm feel and strength of nature all in one window dressing. Woven shades typically are seen as rollers, roman and in drapery, so the choice is yours when you bring the textures of the outside into your home.
• Solar: Solar shades are similar to sunglasses, allowing you to see the outside world through the fabric while still providing light control and a clean, modern look.
• Roller: These shades are housed in a valance tube at the top of the window and pull down like a roll of wrapping paper or an old-fashioned school map with a chain or by a motor with a remote control. You get privacy while blocking sun glare and UV rays, but can still see out through the shade.

How to Measure for Window Blinds

Wood blinds, vertical blinds and mini blinds all require careful measurements for a perfect fit. For blinds mounted inside your window frame, follow these steps:

1. Width: Measure the inside width at three points, which are top, middle and bottom.
2. Height: Measure from the top of the window frame to the sill at three points, including left, center and right.
3. Depth: Measure how deep your window frame is from front to back.

Here are the steps for blinds mounted outside your window frame:

1. Width: Measure the area you want to cover, then add three to four inches on each side. This overlap prevents light gaps and makes your window appear larger.
2. Height: Measure from where you’ll mount the top bracket to your desired endpoint. Add three to four inches above the window frame and extend to the sill or below as preferred.
3. Mounting: Note if mounting into studs or drywall. Wood blinds need secure anchoring.

 

Types of Blinds

There are a variety of types of blinds to choose from. Some blinds to consider include the following.

• Wood: Blinds crafted from genuine hardwoods add warmth, richness and natural beauty to a space. Wood blinds pair gorgeously with other furniture pieces, whether your style is sleek and modern or classic and cozy.
• Aluminum: Contemporary and clean aluminum blinds are ideal in kitchens, bathrooms or laundry rooms.
• Vertical: Vertical blinds are perfect for large floor-to-ceiling windows commonly found in high-rise apartments or spacious lofts and are available in a range of stunning colors, patterns and materials.
• Horizontal: Offer functionality while adding overall aesthetic appeal. They often work well in bedrooms and over-the-sink kitchen windows.

 

How to Measure for Curtains

Custom curtains require different measurements because they hang from rods rather than being mounted directly to your window.

• Rod length: Measure the horizontal length of the curtain rod, excluding the decorative end pieces.
• Width: Curtains should be almost twice the width of your window for proper fullness. This fullness creates beautiful folds and draping.
• Height: Measure from the rod to the window sill, adding a few inches.

Mount your curtain rod four to six inches above the window frame and four to six inches wider than the frame for best proportions.

Minimum Inside-Mounting Clearance for Blinds, Shades and Curtains

Crafting ambiance begins with meticulous measurements for width and height. Each shade or blind mandates a minimum allowance to nestle neatly inside the window frame. With window treatments, there’s an art to the science that Allure Window Treatments uses to encapsulate beauty and utility in equal measure.

Common Window Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

The following are some common window measurement mistakes you should avoid:

• Measuring only once: Windows aren’t perfectly square. Always measure width and height at three points and use the appropriate measurement.
• Rounding measurements: If you round down on an inside-mount width, your blinds or shades will leave unwanted light gaps on the sides. If you round down on height, the fabric might not fully close. Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch for precision.
• Forgetting depth: Check the manufacturer’s required depth before you buy. Measure the clear depth from the front of the frame to the glass or any obstructions like cranks.
• Confusing width and height: If you write down two numbers and forget which one represents the horizontal span and which is the vertical drop, you will not get the right product. Always write the width first and the height second (Width × Height) to avoid confusion.
• Ignoring inside-mount clearance: Measure usable depth past any handles or protruding hardware. If your hardware blocks the path, you may need an outside mount instead of an inside mount.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about measuring window treatments.

Should I measure myself or hire a professional?

If you’re comfortable with precise measurements and have standard rectangular windows, you can measure yourself. However, professional measurement provides more accuracy and is especially valuable for large orders, expensive treatments or complex window shapes.

What if my measurements are wrong?

Contact your provider immediately if you discover measurement errors. Most custom window treatment companies cannot accept returns on made-to-order products, which is why accurate measurements are critical.

Do I measure before or after ordering?

Always measure before ordering. Most retailers need your measurements up-front to fabricate custom window treatments to your exact specifications.

What’s the most common mistake?

Measuring only once is the biggest mistake homeowners make. Window measurements can vary even in the same room, so always measure width and height in three different spots and use the narrowest width and longest height for inside mounts.

What if my window is an unusual shape?

Unusual shapes like arches, angles or bay windows require specialized measurement techniques and often custom solutions. These situations are best handled by professional measurers who have experience with non-standard windows.

How do I know if I need projection brackets?

You need projection brackets if your window has obstructions like handles, cranks or deep trim that prevent the blind or shade from hanging flush. Measure the depth of the obstruction. If it extends more than two to three inches from the mounting surface, projection brackets are likely necessary.

When to Hire a Professional to Measure for Window Blinds, Shades and Curtains

For standard rectangular windows, do-it-yourself measuring will suffice, but there are cases when one may need a professional to come and measure their window. Measuring arched, bay or angled windows will be more complicated and should only be done by an expert. When it comes to high-dollar jobs, like full home coverage and expensive materials like made-to-order curtains and motorization, hiring a professional to measure is justified to ensure proper installation. Uncertainty of inside mounting clearance and tough architecture also necessitate professional measuring.

Get Professional Measurement Services in Philadelphia

Allure Window Treatments serves both homes and businesses in the Philadelphia area. As a full-service window treatment design studio, we offer free in-house consultations, professional installation and the highest quality custom window treatments. We guide you through every step of the process.

At Allure, our drapery is custom-made by hand, in house and made to fit your windows — and your style — perfectly. We also install motorized systems for drapes, shades, blinds and more. Our experienced technicians can even integrate them into your existing smart home system, or connect to your tablet or smartphone for ease of use.

Selecting curtains, blinds or shades that produce the desired look requires precise measurements. You may need custom-made blinds or curtains depending on your window shape, size or style. At Allure Window Treatments, we can help you ensure you get the right size for your blinds, shades and curtains, book your free in-home consultation today.