How to Measure for Custom Blinds & Shades

Measuring your windows is an important first step toward getting custom blinds and shades that fit just right. Whether you're ordering an inside mount or outside mount window treatment, taking accurate measurements helps ensure the best possible fit for your windows.

Every type of window treatment has its own measuring requirements. Choose your product category for detailed instructions, and use the general tips below to help you measure with confidence.

Still need help? Our Design Consultants are available to help.

Before You Measure Your Windows

A few minutes of preparation can make measuring easier and help you record accurate dimensions. Before getting started, identify the type of blind or shade you're considering and review its product-specific measuring requirements.

You'll want to have:

• A steel measuring tape for accurate measurements
• A pencil or pen
• Your printable measuring worksheet to record each window's dimensions
• The measuring instructions for the type of blind or shade you're ordering

Measure each window individually, even when multiple windows appear to be the same size. Window openings can vary slightly, and custom window treatments are made using the measurements you provide.

Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount

Before taking your final measurements, decide whether you plan to install your window treatment as an inside mount or outside mount. Your mount type determines how and where you'll measure.

Inside mount window treatments are installed inside the window frame for a clean, built-in appearance. Inside mounts require sufficient window depth for the selected product, so be sure to review the product specifications before ordering.

Outside mount window treatments are installed on the wall, trim, or another surface outside the window opening. An outside mount can provide additional window coverage and may be a good choice when there isn't enough window depth for an inside mount.

Mounting requirements can vary by product. Always follow the measuring instructions and specifications for the specific blind or shade you're ordering.

How to Measure Windows for Blinds and Shades

You'll generally need the width and height of your window, but exactly where and how those measurements are taken depends on your window treatment and mount type. Some products may also require you to check the depth of the window opening.

Windows aren't always perfectly square, which is why product-specific instructions may ask you to measure the width or height in more than one place. Even small differences can affect the fit of a custom window treatment.

Follow the instructions for your selected product carefully, including which measurement to enter if your measurements differ.

Quick Measuring Tips

• Always use a steel measuring tape rather than a cloth or flexible measuring tape.
• Measure each window separately and record the measurements as you go.
• Always record measurements as width first, then height.
• For width measurements that fall on a 1/16-inch or 1/32-inch increment, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
• For height measurements that fall on a 1/16-inch or 1/32-inch increment, round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.
• Check the depth of your window if you're considering an inside mount.
• Review the specifications at the bottom of the applicable product page before placing your order.
• Double-check your measurements before submitting your order.

Before You Order Custom Blinds or Shades

Once you've measured your windows, take a moment to review everything before placing your order. Custom window treatments are made specifically for your windows, so accurate measurements are important.

• Confirm that you've selected the correct inside mount or outside mount option.
• Make sure you've recorded each measurement as width first, then height.
• Compare your measurements with the instructions for the specific product you're ordering.
• Check minimum window depth and other installation requirements listed in the product specifications.
• Verify that you've entered the correct measurements for each individual window.

Frequently Asked Questions About Measuring for Blinds and Shades

Should I measure every window separately?
Yes. Even windows that look identical can have slightly different dimensions. Measure and record each window individually before ordering custom blinds or shades.

Do I need to measure differently for inside mount and outside mount blinds?
Yes. Inside and outside mounts use different measuring methods because the window treatment is installed in a different location. Select your mount type and follow the product-specific measuring instructions before ordering.

Why do I need to measure my window in more than one place?
Window openings aren't always perfectly square. Measuring in multiple places helps identify small variations that could affect how your window treatment fits. Follow the instructions for your specific product to determine which measurement to use.

How precise should my window measurements be?
Measure as accurately as possible with a steel measuring tape. If a measurement falls on a 1/16-inch or 1/32-inch increment, round widths down to the nearest 1/8 inch and heights up to the nearest 1/8 inch.

How do I know if my window is deep enough for an inside mount?
Inside mount depth requirements vary by product. Measure the depth of your window opening and compare it with the minimum depth requirements listed in the specifications on the applicable product page.

What if I'm not sure I'm measuring correctly?
Review the measuring instructions for your product category before ordering. If you still have questions about your windows, mount type, or measurements, contact a SelectBlinds Design Consultant for help.

Keep Your Window Measurements Organized

Measuring more than one window? Use our printable worksheet to record the width, height, mount type, and other details for each window as you measure.

Need Help Measuring?

Contact our Design Consultants for help, or call us at 888-257-1840. We're real people, and we're happy to help!