How To Measure a Window for Blinds
Getting the right fit for your window blinds starts with one simple task: accurate measurements. It sounds easy enough. But even a small mistake may lead to gaps in coverage, poor light control, and more. If you’re planning to order custom window treatments, knowing how to measure a window for blinds is the first step toward a look that works well.
Our team at The Blind Guy Coeur d'Alene is here to share some steps to help you measure a window for blinds with confidence.
Start With the Right Tools
Before you start, you’ll need to gather the right tools for measuring blinds, such as:
- Tape measure.
- Pencil.
- Notepad.
- Step ladder.
Decide Between Inside-Mount or Outside-Mount Blinds
Deciding between an inside-mount and an outside-mount blind will determine how you take your window measurements.
For example, blinds with an inside mount sit inside the window frame. It looks clean and built-in. However, your window must be deep enough to accommodate the blind.
An outside mount, conversely, installs above and possibly beyond the window frame. This option works well if your window is shallow or slightly uneven. It can also make a window appear larger.
How to Measure for Inside-Mount Blinds
Accuracy matters most when measuring a window for inside-mount blinds, since you’re working within a fixed space.
Here are a few steps for measuring inside-mount blinds:
- Measure the width at the top, middle, as well as the bottom of your window opening. Use the narrowest width, as this helps ensure the blinds will fit without scratching the frame’s interior.
- Measure the height on the left, center, and right sides, and use the longest height to help guarantee full vertical coverage.
- Measure the depth of the frame to figure out if your chosen blinds will fit inside the frame.
As a good-to-know, even if your window looks square, it might not be. Homes settle over time, and small variations are common, so it’s important to measure your window each time you install a new window treatment rather than using older measurements just in case.
How to Measure for Outside-Mount Blinds
Outside-mount blinds give you more flexibility, but you still want as much precision as possible in your measurements.
To measure for outside-mount blinds, here are some steps:
- Determine the complete area around the window that you need to cover. You can improve light control and privacy by adding 1.5 to 3 inches to your horizontal measurements on either side.
- Establish the height of the headrail and the bottom location where the blinds should end.
- Add additional height to cover the entire window trim, if desired.
What Are Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring for Blinds?
Even careful, experienced homeowners can make measurement mistakes. Even a small oversight can delay your project or lead to costly adjustments later.
Watch for these common issues:
- Measuring only once instead of double-checking.
- Using the wrong mount style measurements.
- Forgetting to account for obstructions like handles or cranks.
- Rounding numbers instead of recording exact measurements.
Get Professional Blind Measurements Near Coeur d'Alene, ID
When you want a precise fit and a guaranteed smooth process, working with a professional team makes a noticeable difference. Measuring mishaps is where most ordering mistakes happen. That’s why many homeowners look for professional blind measurements near Coeur d'Alene, ID, with our team at The Blind Guy.
Skip the guesswork when it comes to measuring for window blinds, and contact us online or call (208) 667-6908 to schedule a free consultation with our team.
The Blind Guy Coeur d'Alene proudly serves Priest Lake, Bonners Ferry, Sandpoint, Athol, Rathdrum, Hayden, Post Falls, Coeur d'Alene, Wallace, St. Maries, and Harrison, ID.
