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Measuring your windows for blinds and shades is easy and we provide these measuring instructions to help make it even easier for you. If you have any questions regarding how to measure properly for our products then please contact us.

Important rules to follow while measuring your windows:

  • Always use a steel measuring tape for accuracy.
  • Write down WIDTH first then HEIGHT. Do not list them out of order.
  • Measure ALL of your windows, even if they appear to be the same size.
  • Never measure an existing blind/shade for your measurements.

There are two mount types to consider, Inside Mount and Outside Mount. Please note that mounting onto a door is considered an outside mount.

Inside Mount
Inside mounted blinds and shades are mounted within the window frame providing a clean, custom look. A great way to leave an attractive window trim exposed. Please note that if your mounting space is restricted in width or it is between two stationary objects then that is most likely also considered an inside mount because the inside mount deduction may be required for the product to fit.

Inside Mounting Depth
To properly mount a blind or shade inside the window's frame, your frame must be deep enough to accommodate the mounting brackets. If the depth of your window's frame is not equal to or greater than the minimum mounting depth, you will need to measure for an outside mount and mount your product outside the window frame.
Overhead view of window depth for inside mount
Minimum Inside Mounting Depth is the minimum flat depth required to mount a blind or shade inside the window opening. This depth allows for enough space for the brackets to be mounted. A portion of the blind or shade may protrude from the window opening.
  • Minimum Inside Mounting Depth (Standard Cassette Valance): 2"
  • Minimum Inside Mounting Depth (Cassette Valance w/Fabric Insert): 1 3/4"
Flush Inside Mounting Depth is the flat depth required to mount a blind so that it is fully recessed inside the window casing and no portion of the blind or shade protrudes from the window frame. Obstructions such as window cranks, handles and other items inside the window opening must be factored into your depth measurement.
  • Flush Inside Mounting Depth (Standard Cassette Valance): 3 1/4"
  • Flush Inside Mounting Depth (Cassette Valance w/Fabric Insert): 3 5/8"
Inside Mount Measuring
Inside Mount Measuring
Width
Measure the window opening in at least THREE (3) places: top, middle, and bottom. Take the smallest of the 3 measurements (rounded down to the nearest 1/8th inch - this does not mean deduct an 1/8th inch) and write it down. This is the width you will order.
Height
Measure the exact height from the top inside edge down to the window sill/window bottom in THREE places: left, middle, right. Take the smallest of the three measurements (rounded down to the nearest 1/8th inch - this does not mean deduct an 1/8th inch). This is the height you will order. You must use the smallest height measurement of your opening when ordering an inside mount shade because if the shade is too long the louver slats will not tilt closed properly. If your window sill is not level there could be a light gap in the area that has a larger height measurement.
Important: Do not take any deductions from your measurements, the factory will make the appropriate deductions for the proper operation of your blind or shade.
Check for Window Square
Window Square Measuring
Measure the window opening on the diagonal from corner to corner. First from the top left corner to the bottom right corner and then from the top right corner to the bottom left corner. If the two measurements differ by more than a 1/2" then it is recommended that you switch to an outside mount.
Please note: When measuring, do not be surprised if your windows are not exactly square, many aren't. If they are a little out of square, it will probably not be noticeable.

Outside Mount
Outside mounted blinds are mounted to the wall or the window trim outside of the window opening and cover an area larger than the window itself. Provides greater light control and privacy. Perfect for windows that lack the required depth for an inside mount.

Outside Mount Measuring
Outside Mount Measuring
Width
Measure the width of the area you wish to cover (left to right). The actual fabric width will be narrower than the ordered width. Using the fabric deduction amounts listed below, add the deduction amount to the width you want to cover to get the width you will order. If space allows, make sure that your ordered width provides at least an additional 3" of total fabric overlap beyond the window opening to ensure maximum light control, 1 1/2" to each side.
Important: The ordered width is size of the cassette valance headrail. The fabric will be a smaller width than the ordered width. When adding to your measured width for fabric coverage, please double check that you have the required space for mounting the shade's cassette valance.

• Outside Mount Fabric Deduction (Continuous Cord Loop): 1 1/8"
• Outside Mount Fabric Deduction (Motorized): 1 7/8"
Height
Measure the height of the area you wish to cover (top to bottom). You must have the minimum flat mounting surface space above the window opening for proper bracket mounting and at least 3 1/2" of space for the headrail. Provide enough overlap to the height to accomodate the mounting space and to provide light control overlap below the bottom of the window.
  • Minimum Flat Mounting Surface: 2"
Please note: If you have a window sill that protrudes at the bottom of the window, measure your height down to the sill so the shade rests on the sill.