How to Measure for Blinds or Shades
How to Measure Outside Mount Blinds
Outside mount window treatments are mounted on the window molding, wall, or ceiling above your window. Outside mount blinds or shades can make your windows appear wider and longer while also providing better light control and privacy options. You may be required to install an outside mount if your windows do not have sufficient mounting depth. Follow these simple steps to measure your windows for an outside mount window treatment:
Measure above the window first to make sure you have at least 2" of flat space on the molding or wall.
Next, measure the width you want covered. Blinds.com recommends at least 1.5" of overlap on each side of the window for blinds and shades, and 2" of overlap on each side for solar or roller shades and vertical blinds. The extra width provides more privacy and light blockage. As always, record your measurements down to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Determine the location of the headrail - or top - of the window treatment. This could be installed on the window molding (if there is enough flat surface) or wall.
Measure the height of each window from the mark you just made to where you want the bottom of your window treatment to rest. Consider if you want your window treatment to extend to the sill or lower. If you have a protruding window sill, it is recommended that it be your bottom placement.
Be aware of obstructions such as doorknobs or molding. If you have obstructions, spacer blocks or extension brackets are available to help your blind or shade extend far enough to avoid protrusions.
Do not take deductions from your measurements.
Double check that your measurements follow the width by height format (W x H).