Title: A Comprehensive Guide to Measuring for Window Blinds
Purchasing the perfect set of blinds for your home isn’t just about finding the right colour, style, and material. While these are certainly important, it’s equally vital to take accurate measurements of your windows to ensure a perfect fit. Even the most luxurious blinds won’t look right if they’re not the correct size. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of measuring your windows for blinds, helping you to get it right the first time.
Understanding Inside and Outside Mount
Before you start measuring, decide whether you’ll be installing your blinds as an inside mount or an outside mount.
- Inside Mount: This means the blinds will be mounted and hung on the inside of the window frame. They offer a clean, built-in look and highlight attractive window moldings.
- Outside Mount: These blinds are mounted and hang outside the window frame, either on the frame itself or above it on the wall. They’re useful for windows with shallow depth or when more light coverage is desired.
Your choice will impact how you measure your window for the blinds.
Measuring for Inside Mount Blinds
For an inside mount, it’s essential to measure the width and height of the window opening in three places – the top, middle, and bottom for width, and left, right, and center for height.
- Width: Measure the width from inside edge to inside edge at the top, middle, and bottom of your window frame. Use the narrowest width as your measurement.
- Height: Measure the height from the inside surface at the top of the window to the sill at the left, right, and center of the frame. Use the longest height as your measurement.
Remember, the manufacturer will make the necessary deductions to ensure the blinds fit inside your window frame.
Measuring for Outside Mount Blinds
For an outside mount, you have more leeway because the blinds can cover an area larger than the window itself.
- Width: Measure the exact width of the area you want the blinds to cover. Usually, this is from the outer edge of the molding to the opposite edge. If there’s no molding, measure the width you want the blinds to cover, typically 2-3 inches beyond the window opening on both sides for optimal light control and privacy.
- Height: Measure the exact height you want the blinds to cover. Again, if there’s molding, this would be from the top edge of the molding to the bottom. If there’s no molding, start your measurement where you plan to mount the blinds at the top and measure down to your desired length, usually the windowsill or 2-3 inches below it.
When specifying your measurements for outside mount, ensure to state the exact dimensions as the manufacturer will not make any deductions.
Measuring for Different Types of Blinds
Different types of blinds might require additional measurements:
- Vertical Blinds: For vertical blinds, you also need to measure the depth of the window to ensure the vanes (vertical strips) won’t be obstructed.
- Roller Blinds: For roller blinds, consider the extra width of the control mechanism and brackets. This may require additional space beyond the window width.
Use the Right Tools
To ensure accuracy, use a steel measuring tape and always measure to the nearest eighth of an inch. Avoid using a cloth measuring tape as it can stretch and lead to inaccurate measurements.
Double-Check Your Measurements
It’s a good practice to measure twice to confirm your numbers. The old saying “measure twice, cut once” definitely applies here. Mis-measurements can lead to delays, costs, and ill-fitting blinds.
Conclusion
Properly measuring your windows is a crucial first step in the blind selection process. By following the