How to measure a window for window blinds - Primo Blinds - window blinds guide to how to measure a window for window blinds

Congratulations on your decision to purchase blinds for your home! Here are some tips to help you enjoy many years of beauty and functionality with your new blinds.

Make sure you measure for your blinds correctly; a common mistake is reversing the width and height measurements. Remember width is the side-to-side measurement while height is top-to-bottom. It wouldn’t do to have your brand-new vertical blinds turned sideways!

Check the measurements in three places for both height and width; many windows are not exactly square so checking in three places will ensure the most accurate fit. Use a stepladder to reach the highest point of a window for measuring and when ordering your blinds give your store the smallest measurement; slightly smaller blinds are easier to compensate for than over sized ones.

A common frustration with hastily planned blind installation is realizing that the controls are located in an inaccessible place, like behind a chest of drawers or the television. You may be reluctant to change the layout of your room after installing your blinds, so take the time to plan it right. After measuring, step back and choose the best spot to place the controls and make sure to inform the store of your decision. You can also request short or longer controls depending on your needs.

If you are mounting your blinds on the outside, remember to allow enough overlap to cover the window completely to ensure privacy and to keep sunlight from leaking in through the sides of the blinds. Some blinds require more overlap than others depending on the design so be sure to measure accordingly.

Window cranks and screen handles can obstruct the movement of your blinds; ask your home improvement store if they can provide fold down cranks and more streamlined handles for your screens. Choose the type of blinds according to purpose and location. You will want different types of blinds for your kitchen than for your bedroom or bathroom for example. Never round of your measurements, this will increase the likelihood of fitting discrepancies. Instead measure to the nearest 1/8-inch. A good blinds supplier will be able to determine the best fit for your window based on this measurement.