how-to-measure

Measuring Instructions

Click here to locate a professional installer

Guidelines for a Perfect Fit

• Measure each window individually as size variances are common.
• Record width first, then height (also referred to as length) to the nearest 1/8".
• Measure width from left to right and height from top to bottom using a steel tape measure. Do not use a cloth tape.

Horizontal Blinds and Shades

Cellular Shades, Pleated Shades, Natural Shades, Roman Shades, Roller Shades, Solar Shades, Wood Blinds, Faux Wood Blinds and Horizontal Blinds

Inside Mount
Inside mount blinds and shades are installed inside the window casing. Minimum depth requirements vary by product and headrail type, or by tube size for Solar Shades. Ask your designer, sales associate or call BlindsOnSale for complete details 1-800-919-4301.

	1.	Measure the exact inside width of window casing from one inside edge to the other in three different places. Record the narrowest measurement.
	2.	Measure the exact height in three different places from top edge of opening to top of sill. Record the longest measurement. Solar Shades should be measured at the top only.
	3.	Do not take any deductions for clearance. The factory will take necessary deductions for a perfect fit.
	4.	Measure the window diagonally in two places, as shown. If the diagonal dimensions are not equal, we recommend an outside mount application for optimal function and aesthetics.

Additional Information for Measuring Solar Shades and Roller Shades

	1.	On Continuous Loop inside mounts, there is up to 3/4" light gap per side. On Cordless inside mounts, there is approximately 1" of light gap on the right and just over 1/2" on the left.
	2.	For optimal light and glare control, outside mount is recommended, or you may add a secondary soft window treatment (drapery or curtain) to hide the light gap on an inside mount.
	3.	Fabric width is 1 1/8"-1 3/8" narrower than finished shade width of the tube and its components on Continuous Loop shades.
	4.	Fabric width is 1"-1 1/4" narrower than finished shade width of the tube and components (without valance or side covers) on Cordless shade.

Outside Mount
Outside mount blinds and shades are installed outside the window casing, covering an area larger than the window itself.

Measure the exact width to be covered. Be sure the measurement overlaps the window opening by at least 1 ½" on each side (3" total overlap) to ensure light control and privacy.

•	For Solar Shades make sure the measurement overlaps the window opening by at least 3" on each side (6" total overlap) to ensure light control and privacy.
•	See your designer or sales associate for complete details.

Measure exact height to be covered, including desired overlap (typically from top edge of molding to bottom edge, or to top of sill if there is one).

The factory makes NO allowances on outside mount.

Vertical Blinds

Inside Mount
Inside mount blinds are installed inside a window casing or door, or wall to wall in a room. The window casing must be at least 2 ¾" deep for track flush mount or 3 ¾" deep for louvers flush mount. Otherwise, an angle bracket may be necessary.

	1.	Measure the exact inside width of the window casing from one inside edge to the other in three different places. Record the narrowest measurement.
	2.	Measure the exact height in three different places from top edge of opening to bottom, or top edge of sill if there is one. Record the shortest measurement.
	3.	Do not take any deductions for clearance. The factory will take necessary deductions for a perfect fit.

Outside Mount
Outside mount blinds are installed outside the window casing, covering an area larger than the window itself.

	1.	Measure the exact width of window, including frame if there is one. Add 3" for each side (6" total overlap) to ensure light control and privacy.
	2.	Measure height of window from top edge of molding to bottom edge, or to top of sill if there is one. Add 3" to allow for adequate mounting area above the window.
	3.	If blind extends to floor (i.e. to cover patio door), measure height in three places, take the smallest measurement and deduct at least 1/2" for clearance so the louvers don't touch the floor.
	4.	The factory makes NO allowances on outside mount.
	5.	If you want the entire window uncovered when the blind is fully open, you may need to add more than 6" to the width.

Slide-Vue™ Cellular Shades

Inside Mount
Inside Mount shades are installed inside the window casing or door, or wall to wall in a room. For inside mount recess requirements, see your designer or sales associate.

	1.	Measuring for Inside, Side & Ceiling Mount (2.19 MB)
	2.	Measure the exact inside width of window casing from one inside edge to the other in three different places. Record the narrowest measurement.
	3.	Measure the exact height in three different places from top edge of opening to top of sill. Record the longest measurement.
	4.	Measure the window diagonally in two places, as shown. If the diagonal dimensions are not equal, we recommend an outside mount application for optimal function and aesthetics.
	5.	Do not take any deductions for clearance. The factory will take necessary deductions for a perfect fit.

Outside Mount
Outside mount shades are installed outside the window casing, covering an area larger than the window itself.

	1.	Measuring for Outside Mount (2.99 MB)
	2.	Measure the exact width of window, including frame if there is one. Add 3" for each side (6" total overlap) to ensure light control and privacy.
	3.	Measure height of window from top edge of molding to bottom edge, or to top of sill if there is one. Add 3" to allow for adequate mounting area above the window.
	4.	If shade extends to floor (i.e. to cover patio door), measure height in three places, take the smallest measurement.
	5.	Do not take deductions. Allowances are made at the factory to ensure a perfect fit.
	6.	If you want the entire window uncovered when the shade is fully open, you may need to add more than 6" to the width. See designer or sales associate for additional guidance.

Click here for corner and bay windows or call for instructions toll free 1-800-919-4301.

Sliding Panels

Inside Mount
Inside mount blinds are installed inside the window casing or door, or wall to wall in a room. For inside mount recess requirements, see your designer or sales associate.

	1.	Measure the exact inside width of window casing from one inside edge to the other in three different places. Record the narrowest measurement.
	2.	Measure the exact height in three different places from top edge of opening to top of sill. Record the shortest measurement.
	3.	Measure the window diagonally in two places as shown. If the two diagonal dimensions are not equal, we recommend an outside mount application for optimal shade function and aesthetics.
	4.	Do not take deductions. Allowances are made at the factory to ensure a perfect fit.