Wondering how to measure windows for blinds? This step-by-step guide will help you get accurate measurements, ensuring your blinds fit perfectly and look great. You'll learn what tools you need, how to measure both the width and height and tips for inside and outside mounts.
Key Takeaways
Choose between inside or outside mount for blinds, as this decision influences measurement techniques and final aesthetics.
Use precise tools, such as a metal tape measure and notepad, to record measurements for width and height accurately.
Double-check measurements for accuracy, including width measurement, to avoid issues during installation, and clearly document whether measurements are for inside or outside mounts.
Preparation is Key
Before you start measuring your windows for blinds, it's crucial to prepare yourself with the right tools and knowledge. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
Use a Metal Tape Measure: A metal tape measure is essential for accurate measurements. Unlike cloth tape measures, metal ones don't stretch, ensuring you get precise dimensions for your blinds.
Decide on the Type of Blind: Different types of blinds, such as roller blinds or vertical blinds, have different measurement requirements. Knowing the type of blind you want to install will guide your measurement process.
Consider Window Obstructions: Take note of any obstructions like window handles, tiles, or other fixtures that might affect the fitting of your blinds. This will help you avoid any surprises during installation.
Take Multiple Measurements: For the most accurate results, measure each dimension multiple times. This helps account for any inconsistencies in the window frame or recess.
Measure in Millimeters (mm): Measuring in millimetres ensures the highest level of precision, which is crucial for a perfect fit.
By being well-prepared, you'll be able to take accurate measurements and ensure your blinds fit perfectly, enhancing both the look and functionality of your windows.
Understanding Window Types
Different window types require different measurement approaches. Here are a few common window types and their specific measurement requirements:
Standard Windows: For standard windows, measure the width and drop of the window recess. Be sure to account for any obstructions like window handles or tiles that might affect the fit of your blinds.
Bay Windows: Measuring bay windows can be a bit more complex. Measure the width and drop of each section of the bay window individually, taking into account the angles and any obstructions. This ensures each blind fits perfectly within its section.
Inside Mount Blinds: When measuring for inside mount blinds, measure the width and drop of the window recess. Take measurements at the top, middle, and bottom of the recess, and use the smallest measurement to ensure a snug fit inside the window frame.
Mount Blinds: For mount blinds, measure the width and drop of the window frame itself. This type of measurement is typically used for outside mounts, where the blinds will cover the entire window frame and possibly extend beyond it for better light control.
Understanding the type of window you have and its specific measurement requirements will help you take accurate measurements, ensuring your blinds fit perfectly and look fantastic.
1. Choose Inside or Outside Mount
Decide whether you want your blinds mounted inside the window recess or outside it before measuring. This choice will affect your measurements and the overall appearance of your blinds.
Inside mount blinds provide a streamlined, flush look that highlights the window frame. This option is ideal if you want a clean, minimalist appearance and have a deep enough recess to accommodate the blinds. They fit inside the window recess, giving your room a neat and tidy appearance without any overhang.
On the other hand, outside-mount blinds can make a room feel bigger by extending beyond the window frame. This approach is particularly useful if your window recess is shallow or if you're covering a bay window. By mounting the blinds outside the recess, you can also cover any imperfections around the window frame and enhance light control.
When deciding on outside mounts, it's important to consider the projection of the window sill. If the window sill obstructs the blind, adjustments in height measurements should be made to ensure proper fitting and functionality.
Selecting the right mounting style is crucial as it determines how you'll measure and ensures that your blinds will fit and function properly. Consider which style best suits your space and needs.
2. Gather Your Tools, Including a Metal Tape Measure
Having the right tools is crucial for accurate measurements. Here are the essentials you'll need:
A metal tape measure is indispensable for accurate measurements, as it doesn't stretch like cloth ones. This precision ensures a perfect fit for your blinds.
Understanding the difference between the overall width and the fabric width is essential. The fabric width is typically narrower due to various components, so measure carefully for an accurate fit.
Have a notepad or a device ready to record your measurements. An organised record will save you time and prevent mix-ups later on.
A pencil or pen is necessary for marking points, guiding you to measure consistently across different sections of the window.
With these tools at your disposal, the measuring process will be smoother and more efficient. You're now ready to measure your windows with confidence.
3. Measure Width
With the right tools, measure the exact size of your window opening. This step ensures your blinds will fit perfectly, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
For an inside mount, measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the window recess. Since windows are not always perfectly square, take three measurements and use the smallest one to ensure the blind fits without any gaps.
For an outside mount, measure the width you want the blinds to cover and add an extra 5-10 cm on each side for complete window coverage. This ensures better light control and a tailored appearance.
For bay windows, measure each section individually. Decide if you want each blind to overlap slightly at the edges for a seamless look, ensuring proper coverage of each section.
By taking precise width measurements, you ensure that your blinds will fit perfectly, enhancing both the look and functionality of your windows.
4. Measure Height
Now, measure the height of your window opening with the same level of precision as both the width.
For an inside mount, measure the height at the left, centre, and right sides of the window recess and record the longest measurement to ensure full coverage.
For an outside mount, measure from the top of where you want the blinds to start down to the bottom of the window, adding an extra 5-10 cm at the top and bottom for full coverage.
Taller or bay windows may require more careful measurement for a perfect fit. Double-checking these measurements can save you time and hassle during installation.
Following these steps ensures your blinds will fit perfectly, enhancing both the appearance and functionality of your windows.
5. Double-check and Record Your Measurements
Double-check your measurements for accuracy. Incorrect measurements can result in blinds that are too narrow or too long, causing frustration and additional costs.
When replacing an existing blind, it is crucial to measure accurately, including all controls and fittings, to ensure a proper fit.
Re-measure the width and height using your metal tape measure and compare them with your initial recordings to catch any discrepancies.
Clearly record each measurement, labelling them as width and height, and indicate whether they're for an inside or outside mount. This clarity will ease the ordering process and prevent mix-ups.
Double-checking and accurately recording your measurements will prevent potential issues and ensure your blinds fit perfectly.
Additional Tips
When measuring roller blinds, remember that some fabrics can be trimmed to fit. However, accurate initial measurements make the ordering and installation process smoother.
It's important to understand the difference between the overall width and the fabric width. The fabric width is typically narrower than the overall width due to various components, so measure carefully for an accurate fit.
Unusually shaped windows, like bay windows, often require more detailed measurements and patience to get the best fit.
These steps provide a solid start to measuring a bay window for blinds. Accuracy is key to ensuring a perfect fit and seamless appearance.
The goal is to achieve an exact fitting that enhances both the look and function of your windows. Follow these tips to navigate challenges and ensure a successful installation.
Summary
Measuring windows for blinds is a straightforward process when broken down into these five easy steps. From choosing the right mount to gathering your tools and taking precise measurements, each step is designed to ensure a perfect fit.
Accurate measurements not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your blinds but also ensure they function effectively. This guide provides you with the knowledge and confidence to measure any window in your home, whether it's a standard frame or a complex bay window.
So go ahead, take those measurements, and transform your space with blinds that fit perfectly and look fantastic. Happy measuring!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I decide between an inside and outside mount?
To decide between an inside and outside mount, consider that inside mounts offer a sleek, streamlined appearance within the window recess, while outside mounts can create a sense of larger space and work well in shallow recesses or bay windows. Your choice should reflect your aesthetic preference and the specific characteristics of your window area.
What tools do I need to measure my windows for blinds?
To measure your windows for blinds, you require a metal tape measure, a notepad or device for recording measurements, and a pencil or pen for marking. This ensures you have accurate and organised measurements for a precise fit.
How do I measure the width of my window for inside mount blinds?
To measure the width of your window for inside mount blinds, take measurements at the top, middle, and bottom of the window recess, and use the smallest measurement for the best fit. This will ensure that the blinds fit snugly within the window frame.
Why is it important to double-check my measurements?
It is crucial to double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy, as this prevents mistakes that can lead to ordering incorrect blinds, saving you both time and money.
Are there any additional tips for measuring unusually shaped windows?
To accurately measure unusually shaped windows, pay meticulous attention to dimensions, especially for bay or tall windows, and account for any unique characteristics that may affect the fitting process. Ensuring precision will lead to a better outcome.