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Function and Fashion: How to Measure Windows for Blinds

Sep 5, 2018 11:57:20 AM

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Blinds and other window coverings add a certain appeal to your home, provide an added level of privacy, and can even increase the insulation. This is especially important if your windows have been installed for quite some time, as they may no longer be energy-efficient. Determining how to measure windows for blinds is not difficult, but you must understand the exact measurements that you will need to get started. As you're prepping for this update, keep in mind the overall sunlight that the room receives and how you will be using it. You'll need a different level of light filtering in your blinds in a room such as a living room than you would in your bedroom, for instance. See how adding new blinds to your home brings together function and fashion into a cohesive look you will love. 

Benefits of Blinds

Window blinds are one of the most cost-effective methods of protecting your furniture and flooring from the effects of the sunlight on a daily basis. By filtering out a portion of the light, blinds keep your carpet and upholstery from fading and also help control the temperature of your home. These safe and convenient window coverings fit tightly to your windows, providing an added level of security from prying eyes in the community.  Plus, you can quickly and easily decide whether you want to block the light from your room or enjoy the view—your choice! There are numerous options for your blinds that allow you to coordinate to the color and style of your home. Even the materials used in your blinds are highly customizable. Once you have selected the main components of your blinds, below are step-by-step instructions showing how to measure to get the perfect fit the first time. 

How to Measure Windows for Blinds

Your first major decision when you're prepping to measure your blinds is whether you want to use an inside mount or an outside mount for your window coverings.

Inside Mounted Blinds

Inside mounts offer a cleaner and more precise look, allowing you to see the full molding to be visible all around your windows. Something to be aware of is the overall depth of your window molding. You'll want your blinds to nestle inside them and not stick out -- everything should fit together flush at the front for the cleanest possible look.

Here are the steps for measuring windows for an inside window mount for your horizontal blinds:

  1. Measure the top, middle, and bottom of your window horizontally to see the width. You will choose the smallest number to determine your final measurements. Capture numbers exactly; don't make any attempt to round up or round down from the exact size you capture
  2. Next, measure the height of the window on the left, right and middle of the window. This time, you will be using the longest length; again providing the exact measurement number to your store or factory. 

The store where you purchase your blinds will automatically add the correct size deductions to ensure the correct fit each time. 

Outside Mounted Blinds

Blinds that are mounted on the outside of your window frame have a slightly different measuring scheme, which is the key reason that you need to determine whether you prefer inside or outside mounted blinds before measuring. Outside mounted horizontal blinds may make your windows look longer overall and can help hide any less-than-perfect windows.

Here are steps showing how to measure windows for blinds that are mounted on the outside:

  1. Determine the space around your windows that you want your blinds to cover. Record the exact horizontal measurements of the width for your headrail. 
  2. Once you have recorded the horizontal measurement at the top of your window, add 3 inches to provide an additional level of privacy and to help limit the light that filters into your room.
  3. From the top of the headrail to the base of the sill is your second measurement. If you would like to truly control the amount of light that enters the room, add an extra 1-1/2 inches to the height measurement. 

As you're measuring for your blinds, you may notice that there are some windows that need a little extra attention. You may see that there is a great deal of condensation on the inside of the windows, or perhaps you're even feeling a breeze as you measure. These are all indicators that your windows need as much of an upgrade as your window treatments! You'll be surprised how much new windows and blinds will make a difference in your home.