How to Measure Your Windows for Blinds, Curtains, or Shutters

Measuring your windows for blinds, curtains, or shutters can seem like a daunting task, especially if you are doing it for the first time. However, getting accurate measurements is crucial to ensure that your window treatments fit perfectly and function well. Incorrect measurements can lead to blinds that don’t cover the window properly, curtains that are too short, or shutters that simply won’t fit. This guide will walk you through the steps to measure your windows for different types of window treatments, whether you are looking to fit blinds, curtains, or shutters.

Tools You Will Need

Before you begin measuring, it’s important to gather the necessary tools. For accurate measurements, you will need:

• A steel measuring tape (soft fabric ones can stretch and give inaccurate readings)
• A pencil and paper for noting down measurements
• A step stool or ladder (if your windows are tall or difficult to reach)
• A spirit level (optional but helpful to ensure level measurements)

General Tips for Measuring

• Always measure in millimetres (mm) or inches, depending on the specifications given by the manufacturer or retailer. Millimetres tend to give more precision.
• Measure all your windows individually, even if they appear to be the same size. Many homes have small differences in window sizes.
• When taking measurements, always measure in three places – top, middle, and bottom (width) or left, centre, and right (height). This helps account for any warping or unevenness in the window frame.
• Note down the smallest measurement when measuring for blinds or shutters, as they need to fit within the frame.

Now, let’s dive into the specific measurement techniques for blinds, curtains, and shutters.

Measuring for Blinds

Blinds can be mounted inside the window recess (recess fitting) or outside the window frame (exact fitting). It’s essential to know which option you prefer before measuring.

Inside the Recess (Recess Fitting)

For blinds fitted inside the recess, follow these steps:

1. Measure the width: Take three measurements across the window recess – at the top, middle, and bottom. Write down the smallest measurement. This ensures that the blind will fit even if the window is slightly narrower in one area.
2. Measure the drop (height): Measure the height from the top of the recess to the windowsill in three places: left, middle, and right. Again, note down the smallest measurement to ensure the blind will drop smoothly without hitting the sill.
3. Check the recess depth: Measure the depth of the recess to make sure there’s enough room to fit the blind mechanism. This is particularly important for roller blinds and shutters, which require a minimum depth for proper installation.

Outside the Recess (Exact Fitting)

For blinds mounted outside the recess, the process is slightly different:

1. Measure the width: Measure the width of the window, adding 50-100mm (2-4 inches) on each side to allow the blinds to overlap the window frame and block out light more effectively.
2. Measure the drop (height): Measure from the top of where you want the blind to be positioned (usually above the window frame) down to the desired length. This could be the windowsill, or for longer blinds, it could extend below the sill.

Measuring for Curtains

Curtains can also be hung inside or outside the window frame, though it is more common to hang them outside. The style you choose will affect how you measure.

Width

1. Measure the curtain pole or track: For curtains, you don’t measure the window itself but the width of the curtain pole or track. The track or pole should extend beyond the window frame by at least 150mm (6 inches) on each side, so ensure that it is long enough to allow the curtains to fully cover the window when drawn.
2. Add overlap for gathering: Curtains are typically wider than the window to allow for a pleated or gathered look when they are closed. To achieve this, you will need to double or even triple the width of the window for fuller curtains, depending on the style you want.

Length

For the curtain length, the measurement depends on where you want the curtains to fall:

1. Sill length: Measure from the top of the pole or track down to the windowsill, subtracting 12mm (half an inch) so the curtains sit just above the sill.
2. Below sill length: Measure down to around 150mm (6 inches) below the sill.
3. Floor length: For full-length curtains, measure from the top of the pole to the floor, subtracting 10-20mm (0.5-1 inch) to prevent the curtains from dragging on the floor.

Measuring for Shutters

Shutters can be installed within the window recess or mounted on the outside, depending on the style of your windows and the look you want to achieve. As with blinds, the first step is to decide whether you want your shutters to be fitted inside the window recess or outside of it.

Inside the Recess

1. Measure the width: As with recess-fitted blinds, take three measurements for the width – at the top, middle, and bottom of the recess. Use the smallest measurement to ensure the shutters fit within the recess.
2. Measure the height: Measure the drop (height) of the window in three places – left, middle, and right – and again, use the smallest measurement.

Outside the Recess

For shutters that sit outside the recess, measure the full width and height of the window, then add extra to allow for the shutter frame. The additional width can be around 50-100mm (2-4 inches) on each side, similar to blinds, to ensure full coverage and to enhance the look.

Final Thoughts

Accurate window measurements are essential for achieving the perfect fit for your blinds, curtains, or shutters. It’s always better to take multiple measurements to ensure precision, as small discrepancies in the window frame can affect the final installation. If you feel unsure, many companies offer professional measuring services to guarantee that your new window treatments will fit perfectly. Following the steps outlined above will help you achieve a beautiful and functional result, enhancing both the aesthetic and practicality of your living space.