How To Measure For Blinds
By Amy Kilvington
Many worry when they don’t know how to measure for blinds, but it couldn’t be more simple. Follow our step-by-step guides to get the correct measurements in a flash.
Our simple instructions on how to measure for blinds will make the process quick and easy, ensuring that you can place the right order, then sit back and relax while you wait for your new blinds to arrive. Ready? Let’s get started…
First things first
1. All measurements should be provided in cm – unless you are given the option for mm or inches.
2. Always use a metal ruler when measuring. Soft or cloth rulers can be inaccurate!
3. All the blinds at Blinds Direct are made with a 5mm manufacturing tolerance for both the width and drop. For wooden blinds, the actual drop depends on the size of the slat, but we will make the blind as close as possible to the measurements you provide.
4. You can discover the specific measuring guide for your window and blind type by reading our Expert Guide: How To Measure For Window Blinds.
Where will the blind be installed?
Before you start measuring, you need to identify where the blind will be installed – inside the recess, or outside (exact). Your window recess is the space between your window and your internal wall. The depth of this space depends on a number of factors, such as the way your house is constructed.
Inside the recess
If you want to install your blind inside the window recess, you need to make sure there is nothing within the recess that could hinder the movement of the blind, including handles and sockets.
To get the correct measurements, you need to measure the width from one side of the recess to the other. Complete this measurement process three times – once at the top, once in the middle, and once at the bottom of your window. Make a note of the smallest measurement.
Now it’s time to measure the drop, which will be the measurement from the top of the recess to the bottom. Again, complete this measurement process three times – on the left side, middle and right side of the window. Write down the smallest measurement.
When you submit your measurements to us, we will make the necessary deductions to ensure your blind fits neatly within the recess of the window. These deductions will depend on the type of product you’ve ordered.
Outside the recess (exact)
Fitting your blind outside the recess is also described as ‘exact’. This means your blinds will be the exact size you specify, so no deductions will be made before we manufacture them.
You need to decide how far you want your blinds to hang outside the window recess, overlapping the wall. We recommend at least 7.5cm on each side, as well as the top and bottom, which will block out as much sunlight as possible.
To get the correct measurements, you need to measure the width from one side of the window to the other. Complete this measurement process three times – once at the top, once in the middle, and once at the bottom of your window. Make a note of the smallest measurement.
Now it’s time to measure the drop, which will be the measurement from the top of the window to the bottom, underneath the sill. Again, complete this measurement process three times – on the left side, middle and right side of the window. Write down the smallest measurement.
Measuring for blinds for bay windows
Some window types require a different approach, such as angled bay and box bay windows. We explain this in more detail in the following guides:
Angled bay windows
Box bay windows
Measuring for blinds for roof windows
Measuring for roof blinds is simple. Sometimes, you don’t even need a tape measure! Simply open up your window and look for the small metal patch at the top. This should state the brand name and product code, for example “GGU” and “C01”, or “78×98”. These letters and numbers determine the roof window you have, and will inform the type of roof blind you need to order.
Our videos for how to measure for blinds
Window blinds- Outside recess
Window blinds- Inside recess
Learning how to measure for blinds is a doddle with our simple, step-by-step instructions. Want to know more? Get in touch with us today!
