How to Properly Measure Blinds

Regardless of the type of blind you intend to install, in order to take the proper measurements for your blinds, you must first decide if the blind will be installed inside or outside the window frame.

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Horizontal Blinds
Vertical Blinds
Installation within the frame provides a nice clean finish while exterior installation allows you to “cheat” and make the window appear bigger than it really is.

If you intend to install your blinds within the window frame, make sure that you have the depth required to install the type of blind selected. Pay careful attention to the window opening and locking systems, if applicable, as these devices may hinder the movement of the blind. You can buy folding handles, which can usually resolve this type of problem.

Take your measurements using a metal tape measure and round off the measurements to the nearest 1/8 of an inch (0.3 cm). All measurements must be accurate and precise.

Horizontal Blinds

Installation inside the window frame:
  • Measure the inside width in three different locations and take note of the shortest one. Do not subtract anything from these measurements: the manufacturer will calculate the appropriate reductions.
  • Measure the inside height in two different locations and take note of the longest one.
Installation outside the window frame:
  • Measure the outside width and add at least 1 ½ in. (3.8 cm) on either side. This way, the blind will be wide enough to hide the window frame and to ensure adequate privacy.
  • Measure the outside height and add at least 1 ½ in. (3.8 cm) above the upper frame. If you install the blind holder even higher (Ex: 4 in.) and let the blind hang just below the upper frame (in order to hide it), your window will appear to be taller. You may also choose to extend the blind below the lower frame at your own discretion.

Vertical Blinds

Installation inside the window frame:
  • Measure the inside width and subtract ¼ in. (0.6 cm).
  • Measure the inside height in three different locations and take note of the shortest one, subtract ½ in. (1.25 cm) from this measurement, unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer (some manufacturers prefer to do their own calculations).
Installation outside the window frame:
  • Measure the outside width and add at least 3 in. (7.6 cm) to each side (space required to store the blinds and ensure adequate privacy).
  • Measure the outside height and add at least 1 ½ in. (3.8 cm) above the upper frame. You may also choose to extend the blind below the lower frame at your own discretion.
Taking the proper measurements prior to installing your blinds will help you prevent any nasty surprises. While you’re at it, you might as well take those measurements twice - you never know…
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