Are you looking to upgrade your windows and want to know how to measure for blinds?
Before making your purchase, it’s essential to know how to measure your windows to ensure a perfect fit.
Measuring for blinds may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and guidance, you can do it yourself.
The process of measuring for blinds involves taking accurate measurements of the window frame, deciding on the type of mount, and determining the depth of the window.
It’s crucial to measure correctly to avoid any gaps or overlaps that can affect the functionality and aesthetics of the blinds.
With the right measurements, you can have custom-fit blinds that provide privacy, light control, and enhance the overall look of your windows.
In this article, we will guide you through the steps of measuring for blinds, whether you’re looking for inside mount or outside mount blinds.
We’ll provide you with tips and tricks to ensure your measurements are precise, and your blinds fit perfectly.
So, let’s get started on measuring for your new blinds!
How To Measure For Blinds
Measuring for blinds can be a simple process if you follow these steps:
- Determine whether you want inside or outside mount blinds.
- Inside mount blinds are installed inside the window frame, while outside mount blinds are installed outside the frame.
- Measure the width of the window frame at the top, middle, and bottom.
- Use the narrowest measurement as the width for inside mount blinds.
- For outside mount blinds, add a few inches to the width to ensure proper coverage.
- Measure the height of the window frame at the left, middle, and right.
- Use the longest measurement as the height for inside mount blinds.
- For outside mount blinds, add a few inches to the height to ensure proper coverage.
- Measure the depth of the window frame to determine how deep the blinds can be.
- If you have an irregularly shaped window or want to cover the entire window, measure the entire area you want to cover.
- Double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy before ordering your blinds.
Remember to measure in inches and to round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.
It’s always better to have blinds that are slightly too large than too small.
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your blinds will fit perfectly and provide the privacy and light control you need.
Measuring Tools Needed
Before you start measuring for blinds, you’ll need a few tools to ensure you get accurate measurements.
Here are the measuring tools you’ll need:
Tape Measure
A tape measure is an essential tool for measuring the width and height of your window.
Make sure to use a metal tape measure for accuracy, as fabric or plastic tape measures can stretch over time and give you inaccurate measurements.
Step Stool or Ladder
If your window is located high up, you’ll need a step stool or ladder to help you reach it.
Make sure your step stool or ladder is sturdy and secure before climbing up to measure your window.
Pencil and Paper
Having a pencil and paper handy will help you keep track of your measurements.
Write down the width and height of your window in inches, and make note of any irregularities or obstacles that may affect the installation of your blinds.
Level
A level is a useful tool to ensure that your blinds will be installed straight.
If your window is not level, you may need to make adjustments to your measurements to ensure that your blinds hang correctly.
With these measuring tools in hand, you’ll be ready to measure your windows accurately and confidently.
How To Measure For Inside Mount Blinds
Measuring for inside mount blinds is a simple process that can be done in just a few steps.
Follow these steps to ensure that your new blinds fit perfectly.
Step 1: Measure Width
To measure the width of your window, measure the inside width of the window frame at the top, middle, and bottom.
Use the narrowest measurement as the width of your blinds. Be sure to measure to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Step 2: Measure Height
To measure the height of your window, measure the inside height of the window frame at the left, center, and right.
Use the longest measurement as the height of your blinds. Again, be sure to measure to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Step 3: Measure Depth
Finally, measure the depth of your window frame.
This is the distance from the front of the window frame to the back of the window frame.
This measurement is important because it will determine the size of the headrail that you need for your blinds.
Once you have these measurements, you can order your new inside mount blinds with confidence, knowing that they will fit perfectly in your window frame.
How To Measure For Outside Mount Blinds
If you want to install outside mount blinds, you need to measure your windows accurately.
Here are the steps you need to follow to measure for outside mount blinds.
Step 1: Measure Width
- Measure the width of your window frame from one outside edge to the other.
- Record the measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch.
- Repeat this process in three places: the top, middle, and bottom of the window.
- Use the smallest measurement as your final width measurement.
Step 2: Measure Height
- Measure the height of your window frame from the top outside edge to the bottom outside edge.
- Record the measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch.
- Repeat this process in three places: the left, middle, and right of the window.
- Use the longest measurement as your final height measurement.
When measuring for outside mount blinds, it’s important to add extra inches to the width and height to ensure full coverage.
A good rule of thumb is to add at least 2-3 inches on each side and 2-3 inches on the top and bottom.
Once you have your final measurements, you can order your outside mount blinds with confidence, knowing they will fit perfectly.
Tips For Accurate Measurements
Measuring for blinds may seem like a daunting task, but with a few tips, you can ensure that you get accurate measurements every time.
Here are some tips to help you measure for blinds:
Use A Steel Tape Measure
When measuring for blinds, it is essential to use a steel tape measure.
Steel tape measures are more durable and accurate than other types of measuring tools.
They also have a locking mechanism that will help you keep your measurements consistent.
Measure Twice
Before you finalize your measurements, make sure to measure twice.
Double-checking your measurements will help you avoid costly mistakes.
It is better to take a few extra minutes to measure twice than to have to reorder your blinds because of inaccurate measurements.
Measure for Inside or Outside Mount
Decide whether you want to install your blinds inside or outside the window frame.
Measuring for inside mount blinds requires you to measure the width and height of the inside of the window frame.
Measuring for outside mount blinds requires you to measure the width and height of the area you want to cover with the blinds.
Account For Obstructions
If there are obstructions such as window handles or locks, make sure to account for them when measuring for your blinds.
You may need to measure around these obstructions to ensure that your blinds fit properly.
Consider The Type Of Blind
Different types of blinds require different measurements.
For example, vertical blinds require a different measurement than horizontal blinds.
Make sure to research the specific type of blind you want to install to ensure that you measure correctly.
By following these tips, you can ensure that you get accurate measurements for your blinds and avoid costly mistakes.
Key Takeaways
Measuring for blinds can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be.
Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind when measuring for blinds:
- Measure the width of your window in three places: the top, middle, and bottom.
- Take the narrowest measurement and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
- This will ensure that your blinds fit snugly inside the window frame.
- Measure the height of your window in three places: the left, middle, and right.
- Take the longest measurement and round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.
- This will ensure that your blinds cover the entire window.
- If you’re ordering outside mount blinds, add an additional 2-3 inches to the width and height measurements.
- This will ensure that the blinds cover the entire window frame.
- Consider the type of mounting you want for your blinds.
- Inside mount blinds fit inside the window frame, while outside mount blinds fit outside the window frame.
- Inside mount blinds provide a cleaner look, while outside mount blinds provide better light control.
- Don’t forget to account for any obstructions, such as window handles or locks, when measuring for blinds.
- Make sure to measure around these obstructions to ensure a proper fit.
By following these key takeaways, you can ensure that your blinds fit properly and provide optimal light control for your space.
