How to Measure for New Blinds

A badly fitted blind can ruin all the great features that these window dressings can offer, which is why it’s imperative that you measure your window with accuracy and precision, allowing your new blinds to be fitted without any hitches. The main benefit of blinds is that they grant the user the ability to control light levels, an advantage that is spoiled by a poor fit that allows sunlight to creep through side gaps. But it’s actually very simple to achieve a great fit for your new blinds; just read our handy guide below to get started.

Inside or outside the recess?

What do we mean by a ‘recess’? Generally we mean the ‘set-back’ area between the window glass and the inside wall. Not all windows have this feature, but if they do, then it’s up to the homeowner to decide if they want their blinds to hang from the outside of the recess (called the Actual fit) or from the inside of the recess. However, it’s important to note, that not all recesses can accommodate blinds. Shallow recesses might struggle, and it’s generally recommended that it is only an option for windows with recesses of no less depth than 7.5 cm.

Whichever you choose, measuring for outside and inside a recess both require different processes, which are described below.

Inside the recess

• Before you get the tape out, make allowances for any obstructions or protrusions, such as window handles, sockets and other fixtures.
• Measure both the width and the length of the window at three different points each (sides and middle for width, and top, bottom and middle for length), as the measurements may not be consistent across the whole window. Use the smallest measurements from the trio.
• If you have chosen vertical style blinds, it’s recommended to trim 1 cm off the measured length to prevent the possibility of the fabric catching on the sill.
• Venetian and roman blinds will need 0.5 cm shaving off each side to ensure there is no possibility of fabric dragging along the wall.
• Roller blinds are not entirely suited to a fitting inside a recess, as they require additional room at the top for the mechanism, creating a large gap that could reduce the efficiency of the blinds.

Outside the recess

• Measure the width of the entire window, but make sure to add an additional 10 cm to the final figure to ensure that sunlight will be completely blocked when the blind is lowered, thus preserving the blind’s optimal performance.
• When measuring for roller blinds, add a further 3 – 5 cm width on top of the final figure to allow space for the winding mechanism at the top.
• Blinds that are installed outside a recess will require a bracket or track to be attached directly to the wall, or to a wooden batten. So when measuring the length of the window, measure from the top of the estimated location of this fitting, and down to where you want the bottom of your blind to fall.

Other measuring tips

• Rigid metal tape measures are more accurate than their cloth or plastic cousins.
• Don’t round up to the nearest centimetre or inch – always record the exact millimetres or eighths of an inch.
• Always check your measurements twice to avoid future frustrations.

Here at Allegro Blinds, we have been providing and installing quality made-to-measure blinds for over 70 years. We have expert branches operating in many areas including St. Albans, Watford and Luton, all working to the highest industry standards, as confirmed by our approval from the BBSA (British Blind and Shutter Association). So if you want the professionals to provide and install your dream blinds, then don’t hesitate to get in touch.