Measuring Windows for
Blinds and Shades
Tips for Measuring
Windows
Introduction:
Window blinds on an attractive window can really make the
difference between a plain bland room and a room
that is beautifully decorated.
Accurately measuring windows for
blinds and shades can make the difference between a
well dressed window that stands out rather than a
window that is an eyesore.
Listed below are
tips for you to correctly measure windows for
either custom made blinds and shades or to buy
standard stock blinds and shades that will fit your
windows.
The first step in measuring windows for blinds and
drapes is to use a very accurate tape measure such
as a steel tape measure. Do not use a cloth tape
measures as they can
bow and sag leaving you with inaccurate
measurements. Your tape measure should be able to
measure to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Measure each window
individually and record the measurement as width
and height to the nearest 1/8 inch. Width and
height is the standard measurement technique for
measuring for window blinds and shades. Before you
go too far you need to determine if you want inside
mounted blinds or outside mounted blinds.
Measuring for Inside Mounted Blinds or Shades:
Inside mount blinds are installed on
clips on the inside of the window casing. They need
to be a specific depth in order to sit flush within
the casing. When you purchase your blinds make sure
the blinds that you select will fit inside your
window casings. Measure inside the casing, from
left to right, in three different places to insure
you have an accurate measurement. If the three
different measurements are not the same use the
smallest measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Repeat this process for the height of the window,
measuring from top to bottom.
Measuring for Outside Mounted Blinds or Shades:
Outside mounted
blinds are installed outside the window casing on
the wall. They cover the window completely and are
used to make it look larger than the actual window
or hide unsightly windows. Use an accurate
measuring tape. Measure the width of the window
from the outside edge of the casing to outside edge
of casing. Add approximately 3 inches for an
overlap of 1.5 inches on either side of the casing.
Measure the exact height to be covered, normally
from the top edge of the window casing to the
bottom edge or the sill.
Measuring for Arched Windows for Blinds and
Shades:
Arched windows are not easy to measure for blinds
and shades. They are a little tricky because they
are nearly never perfect arches. Measure the width
of the window base and take half the base to get
the height.
If your arched window is not a perfect
semicircle, you can make a paper template to get an
accurate size.
In order to have
professional looking window blinds and drapes you
must take your time measuring accurately in order
to get custom fit blinds and shades or get stock
ones that will fit your windows.
By
following these tips for measuring windows for
blinds and shades you will really have blinds and
shades that will have a professional appearance and
bring out the best in your home.
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