MEASURING GUIDE
How to Measure for Blinds & Shades
Accurate measurements are the foundation of a perfect fit. Follow our step-by-step guide to measure your windows like a pro.
First: Choose Your Mount Type
How do you want to hang your window treatments — inside the window frame or outside? The answer determines how you measure. Both options look beautiful; the best choice depends on your window depth, desired aesthetic, and light control needs.
- Mounted inside the window frame
- Clean, built-in look
- Leaves attractive trim exposed
- Requires minimum frame depth
- Mounted outside the window frame
- Taller, more dramatic appearance
- No minimum depth requirement
- Better light blockage with overlap
Quick Decision Guide
- Your window frame is at least 2" deep
- You want a clean, built-in look
- You have attractive window trim to show off
- Your window frame is shallow (under 2")
- You want windows to appear larger
- You want maximum light blocking
- Your window frame is uneven or damaged
Know Your Window
Understanding the parts of your window makes measuring much easier.
Tools You'll Need
Always use a metal tape measure (at least 25 feet) — cloth tapes stretch over time and give inaccurate readings. Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch for the most precise fit.
Step-by-Step Measuring Instructions
Select your mount type below. Because not all windows are perfect rectangles, we recommend measuring at multiple points to ensure a precise fit.
Measure the Width
Measure the window opening width at three points: across the top, middle, and bottom. Record all measurements to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Use the smallest (narrowest) of the three numbers. This is your ordering width — we'll make the necessary deductions (approximately 1/2") for operating clearance.
Measure the Height
Measure the window opening height at three points: on the left side, center, and right side. Record all measurements to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Use the largest (longest) of the three numbers. This is your ordering height — this ensures full coverage even if the frame is slightly uneven.
Check the Depth
Look at your window from the side. The depth is the distance from the glass pane to the front edge of the wooden frame. Place your tape measure flat against the glass and measure straight out to where the frame ends.
If this measurement is less than the minimum shown in the table below, your window is too shallow for inside mount. Use outside mount instead -- it works great and looks just as good.
Measure the Width
Measure the width of the area you wish to cover. We recommend adding 2–3 inches on each side of the window frame (4–6" total) to eliminate light gaps and create a more dramatic look.
This total measurement is your ordering width — the shade will be manufactured to this exact dimension. The valance (if included) will extend approximately 1" wider.
Measure the Height
Measure the height of the area you wish to cover, from your desired mounting point above the frame down to where you want the treatment to end (sill, apron, or floor).
We recommend mounting at least 2–3" above the window frame for a taller, more elegant look. This is your ordering height.
Minimum Depth Requirements
Inside mount requires your window frame to have enough depth for the headrail and brackets. Measure from the glass to the front edge of the frame at the top of your window.
| Product | Minimum Depth (Secure Mount) | Flush Mount Depth |
|---|---|---|
| Roller Shades | 1½" | 3" |
| Solar Shades | 1½" | 3" |
| Roman Shades (Flat) | 2" | 3½" |
| Roman Shades (Hobbled) | 3" | 4" |
| Cellular Shades | ¾" | 2½" |
| Wood Blinds | ¾" | 3" |
| Faux Wood Blinds | ¾" | 3" |
If your window frame does not meet the minimum depth for a secure mount, choose outside mount instead. It works with any window depth and provides excellent coverage.
Product-Specific Measuring Tips
Width: For inside mount, measure the exact opening width at three points — we deduct approximately 1/2" for operating clearance. For outside mount, add 2–3" per side.
Height: Measure from the top of the opening to the sill. Note that fabric length will be slightly shorter than the total to accommodate the roller mechanism at the top.
Important: Roller and solar shades need only one width measurement at the top of the frame (where the shade is widest), unlike blinds which need three measurements.
Width: Measure at three points (top, middle, bottom) and use the narrowest. Roman shades require precise width measurements for clean, even folds.
Height: Measure left, center, and right — use the longest. Add 3" if you want the shade to puddle slightly at the bottom for a softer look.
Depth: Flat Roman shades need at least 2" depth; hobbled and relaxed styles need 3" or more due to fabric bulk when stacked.
Width: Measure at three points and use the narrowest. We deduct approximately 1/4" per side for smooth operation inside the frame.
Height: Measure at three points and use the longest to ensure full coverage.
Slat size: Larger windows (over 36" wide) look best with 2" slats. Smaller windows and narrow frames pair well with 1" micro blinds.
Note: Wood blinds over 72" wide should be ordered as multiple units under one valance for proper support and smooth operation.
Width: Measure at three points (top, middle, bottom) and use the narrowest. Cellular shades need precise fit for their honeycomb cells to align properly.
Height: Measure at three points and use the longest. For top-down/bottom-up styles, the height measurement is especially important for smooth operation.
Cell size: ¾" single cell for small windows, ¾" double cell for maximum insulation, and ⅜" for a more delicate, refined look.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
Rounding Up Measurements
Always record exact measurements to the nearest 1/8". Rounding up results in shades too wide for the opening. We make all necessary factory deductions for a perfect fit.
Measuring Only One Point
Windows are rarely perfect rectangles. Always measure width at three horizontal points and height at three vertical points — the difference can be up to 1/4" or more.
Using a Cloth Tape Measure
Fabric tape measures stretch over time and introduce errors. Always use a rigid metal tape measure for window measurements — accuracy to 1/8" matters.
Forgetting to Check Frame Depth
Inside mount requires minimum frame depth for secure bracket installation. Measure depth from glass to the front edge of the trim before ordering. If too shallow, use outside mount.
Confusing Inside and Outside Measurements
Inside mount = exact frame opening dimensions. Outside mount = total area you want to cover (including overlap). Mixing these up leads to shades that are either too small or too large.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my window is not a perfect rectangle?
Measure at 3 points, use the narrowest for width and the longest for height. This is normal — most windows are slightly uneven.
Should I round my measurements up or down?
For inside mount, use EXACT measurements to the nearest 1/8". Do not round up. We make factory deductions for a perfect fit. For outside mount, you can round up slightly since you want full coverage.
What if my window frame is too shallow for inside mount?
Use outside mount. It looks just as good and has no depth requirements. Many designers actually prefer outside mount for the dramatic, larger-window effect.
Can I measure with my phone?
A phone measuring app is OK for rough estimates, but always verify with a metal tape measure. Phone measurements can be off by 1/4" or more, which matters.
Do I need to account for the headrail or roller mechanism?
No. Just give us your window measurements. We calculate all deductions for hardware, clearance, and mechanisms at the factory.
Ready to Order?
Now that you have your measurements, explore our collections or book a free consultation with our design team.