Measuring windows for custom blinds is something that confuses many do-it-yourselfers. When I recently moved in to a new home, I knew one thing: I had to have custom blinds. When the company I hired to make my blinds came over, I learned how to measure windows for blinds the proper way. Knowing how to measure windows for blinds is great, as I will use this information at rental houses and when I help my friends with their do-it-yourself projects.
Measuring Windows for Custom Blinds Considerations
There are a couple things you need to consider when measuring windows for custom blinds. First, you need to know what type of blinds you are going to buy. Horizontal blinds are the type of custom blinds that many people use on their windows. Vertical blinds are a type of blind that are used for sliding glass doors. Getting the two types of custom blinds confused could be a costly mistake, so make sure you write down what type of blinds you are measuring windows for custom blinds for.
Second, you need to know if you are going to choose inside mounted blinds or outside mounted blinds. Custom blinds that are mounted on the inside of your window will fit inside the frame. Custom blinds that are mounted outside your window will cover your frame. Personally, I prefer inside mounted blinds. Knowing where your blinds will be mounted is paramount to properly measuring windows for custom blinds.
How to Measure Windows for Blinds: Inside Mounted Horizontal Blinds
If you are desire inside mounted blinds, you need to know how to measure windows so that your blinds will properly fit inside the window frame. Here are the steps to properly measuring windows for custom blinds:
1) Measure the window horizontally from inside of the window frame to inside of the window frame. Perform this measurement at the top, middle, and bottom of the window. Choose the smallest measurement and write it down.
2) Measure the window vertically from top of the inside of the window frame to your window sill. Measure at the far left, center, and far right. Choose the largest measurement and write it down
When at the store, you might get lucky and be able to purchase a standard sized horizontal blind that was manufactured to have a custom blind look. Check standard sizes first before ordering custom blinds. This could save you HUNDREDS of dollars.
How to Measure Windows for Blinds: Outside Mounted Horizontal Blinds
If you like the look of outside mounted horizontal blind measuring windows for custom blinds doesn’t differ too much from measuring windows for inside mounted horizontal blinds.
1) Measure the window horizontally from the outside of each side of the window frame. Take this measurement at the top, center, and bottom. Write down the smallest measurement.
2) Measure the window vertically from the far left, center, and far right of the window frame. Write down the largest measurement.
How to Measure Windows for Blinds: Vertical Blinds
Many people desire vertical blinds for privacy. Sliding glass doors can provide a sometimes embarrassing peek in to our personal lives. Measuring windows for custom blinds when you desire vertical blinds is not too difficult.
1) Measure the width of the door, and add 3-5″ to the measurement. Adding 3-5″ to the measurement will provide extra protection from the light.
2) Measure the height of the window or door you wish to cover. Take this measurement in 3 places: far left, center, and far right. Choose the smallest measurement and add 3-4″. The extra 3-4″ will account for mounting the bracket for the vertical blind.
Measuring windows for custom blinds isn’t difficult. I was very satisfied with the overall look of my custom blinds. Once you know how to measure windows for blinds, you can save yourself some money. Hopefully you will have standard sized windows and doors so that you can purchase standard blinds that have a custom look.
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