Step-by-Step Guide To Measure Blinds For Windows
If you want precise measurements for custom made window blinds, you must follow all these steps to the letter. So, let’s start learning how to measure blinds for windows.
Step 1: Choose For The Right Mounting Option
The first step is not actual measuring; instead, it is determining what kind of mounting option you will choose for your blinds. There is an inside mount and an outside mount.
- The Inside mount is installed inside the window frame to provide a modern look. It is a preferable mounting option if the window frame’s depth is not sticking outward. This mount is loved for how clean and fitted it appears.
- The outside mount is when the blinds are installed outside the window frame to cover a larger surface area. They are ideal for shallow window frames where you want to block more light. Having an outside mount blind will create an illusion for larger windows.
Step 2: Prepare Your Tools
To start the measurement process, you will need some tools like:
- A steel tape measure which provides better accuracy for measurements.
- Notebook & a pen to write down your measurements.
- A step stool if the windows are hard to reach or high.
Also, before you start the measurements, you need to clear the area of any obstacles, like furniture and curtains. This will ensure precise measurements.
Step 3: Measure for The Inside Mount Blinds
When you wanted to know how to measure blinds inside mount, you need to focus on the inside dimension of your window frame. There are things you need to measure:
- For Width: You need to measure across your window frame in 3 places: its top, bottom, and middle. You must record the smaller measurements so that the blind will fit in just tight.
- For Height: You must measure from the top to the bottom of the frame in 3 places: its center, left, and right. This time, measure for the longest measurement to get optimal coverage.
- For Depth: You must measure the depth of the window frame as is to ensure it allows enough space for holding inside the blinds. You can check the minimum depth requirement from the blind manufacturer’s reference.
Step 4: Measure for The Outside Mount Blinds
When you measure for the outside mount blinds, you need to consider the area that the blind will cover just beyond the window frame. For this mounting option, you don’t have to measure for the depth.
- For Width: Measure the total width you are looking to cover with the blinds. Add 2 to 3 inches more on each side of your window frame width. This is so that there is better light blocking and privacy.
- For Height: Start your measurements from the top of the mounting area and all the way to where your blind will end. Add 2 to 4 inches above the window frame to let the blind hang properly and completely cover your window.
Step 5: Double-Check Your Numbers
Once all the measurements have been taken, you need to check the numbers again. This accuracy check is necessary, or the incorrect measurements will result in ill-fitting blinds and compromise their functionality and aesthetics. To ensure precision in the measuring method, you must:
- Take measurements to the closest 1/8 of an inch.
- Do not round up the numbers in measurements, as minor inaccuracies result in big issues.
- Even if you order blinds online in UAE for similar-style windows, you still need to measure each window separately. There are slight variations in the windows and this can affect your blinds.
Step 6: Order The Right Size Blinds
When you are booking an order for the window shades, send the blinds supplier in Abu Dhabi your recorded measurements. These suppliers are experienced and thus make adjustments to your measurements based on the mount option you choose.
For the inside mounted blind, it is best to send the exact width & height measurements. The supplier will reduce the measurements to ensure they fit the frame perfectly.
For an outside mount blind, provide the supplier with the exact height and width you need to cover. The supplier will then send the blinds exactly according to these dimensions.
Some Tips To Measure For Special Window Size
If your windows are not of the standard shapes, you need to take additional steps. Some tips for this are as follows.
- For Bay Windows, measure every section of the bay separately to note the angles and the overlapping areas.
- For Arched Windows, you need to measure the widest part of the window’s arch for its width. For the height, measure the tallest part of the frame.
- For sliding glass doors, measure the glass area’s height and width. To provide extra coverage, add 2 to 3 inches for each dimension.
Mistakes You Need To Avoid During Blind Measurements
These are common tips people often make when doing blind measurements.
- Do not just rely on how the window looks to you to record those numbers. Use a proper tape measure to get the right measurements.
- If you are going for the inside mount blinds, do not skip the measurement of the frame depth. Doing so results in poor installation.
- Always double-check when placing an order for an inside or outside mount.
- Do keep in mind that there is also blind mounting hardware for your blind installation. Their size will also impact the placement of these window coverings.
Conclusion
Our guide on how to measure blinds for windows will make the troubling task of blind measurements easy. No matter what mounting option you go for, the key to their aesthetic and functionality lies in the precision of the window frame measurements. So, be patient and follow all the steps to enjoy the satisfactory fitting of the shades and improve your home décor.
