Looking for the perfect fit for new window treatments? It all starts with an accurate measurement. Most hardware packages come with everything you need for installation in wood or drywall. For metal or masonry, make sure you have the right drill bits and the appropriate screws for installing window treatments.

Before taking any measurements, determine if the window treatment will be installed as an inside mount or an outside mount. Use a metal tape measure to measure accurately to the nearest 1/8-inch. Do not round down.

Inside mount treatments are installed inside the window casing. They are frequently used in conjunction with draperies, which mount outside the window. Inside mounts can also offer a clean, streamlined look. They don't provide as much light control as outside mounts.

Outside mount window treatments are mounted outside the window casing. They are a popular choice when the shades are going to be the only window covering. Extending them past the window provides maximum light control.

 

How To Measure for Inside Shade

When you're measuring for outside shades, allow for enough wall space to accommodate the mount. Here’s how to get accurate measurements:

• Measure the overall area to be covered. Measure both the width of the window and the height of the window.
• Consider adding an extra 3 inches to the width and height for optimum light control and privacy. Extending the shades outside the window will also provide the space needed for the mounts and help the window appear larger than it actually is.

Additional Considerations:

• Our factory will make your shade to the exact measurements you provide. Be sure to allow extra space for the head rail and mounting brackets, which can be up to 2 1/2-inches tall. If you want increased light blockage and privacy, add a few extra inches outside of the window space.
• Make allowances for obstructions like doorknobs, deadbolts or moulding that might get in the way. If you have obstructions, spacer blocks or extension brackets are available to help your shade extend far enough to avoid protrusions.
• Outside mounts require at least 2 inches of flat surface above the window or frame for mounting brackets. You may need projection brackets to clear the frame moulding.

 

How To Measure for Outside Shade

When measuring for shades, it is important to remember a few key things:

• Decide if you want an inside mount or an outside mount before you begin the measuring process.
  If you aren't sure, take measurements both ways and then choose shades that appeal to you.
• A steel measuring tape is much more accurate than a cloth measuring tape.
• Always measure to the nearest 1/8-inch. Don't round to a half or whole inch.
• Be careful about transposing measurements.
• Always have width and height clearly marked.
• Always put your width measurement first and height last (W x H).