How to Measure Windows for Blinds and Shades

As smart home technology becomes increasingly popular, smart blinds and shades are gradually becoming the ideal window treatment choice for modern homes. Compared to traditional manual curtains, smart blinds and shades offer numerous advantages, including automated control, remote operation, energy efficiency, and smart home integration. Users can adjust their blinds effortlessly using a remote control, smartphone app, or even voice assistants like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit, creating a more convenient and comfortable living experience.

Additionally, smart blinds and shades support scheduled control, allowing users to preset opening and closing times based on their daily routines or personal preferences. For instance, the blinds can automatically open in the morning to welcome natural light and close at night to ensure privacy. This feature not only enhances convenience but also promotes healthier living habits. If you're looking to upgrade your home with smart technology, smart blinds and shades are definitely a worthwhile investment.

Precise measurements are the cornerstone of an ideal window treatment. From motorized blinds to automated shades, precise measurements guarantee a smooth fit, perfect light control, and hassle-free operation. Wrong measurements may cause gaps, improper functionality, or the expense of replacements.

This guide will walk you through a step-by-step process to properly measure your windows for an inside mount to give you the built-in appearance or an outside mount for maximum coverage.

Accurate measurements of your windows before you order your blinds and shades is very important. Here's why:

• Improved Privacy – Stops openings along the edges, meaning complete coverage.
• Better Light Control – Shields the eyes from glare or admits filtered sun as desired.
• Professional Look – Blinds and shades that fit your room precisely are a perfect match.
• Saving Installation Issues – Wrong measurement creates blinds and shades that don't fit, and that costs you in adjustments or returns.

Preventing typical measurement mistakes is as easy as using the below step-by-step measurement guide.

Get these tools first to ensure that you get the correct window measurements:

• Measuring Tape – A metal measuring tape will give you the best measurement. Don't use plastic or cloth tapes because they will stretch and give you a wrong reading.
•  Level– Ties even measurements, perfect when mounting blinds and shades on the outside where accuracy is important.
• Ruler or Straight Edge – Perfect to use when making straight guide lines and marking measurement points.
• Step Ladder – Use a stable step ladder for accessing upper or out-of-reach windows and take a secure, precise measure.

•  For Inside Mount Blinds and Shades: Measure three times at the window frame – top, middle, and bottom. Write down the shortest of the three measurements to be sure of a good fit.
• For Outside Mount Blinds and Shades: Measure the overall width of where you want the blinds and shades to fit into. Add 1.5 to 4 inches on both sides for further light blocking and privacy.

• Inside Mount Blinds and Shades: Measure from inside top of the frame to the bottom at left, middle, and right points. Take the longest measurement for full coverage.
• For Outside Mount Blinds and Shades: Start at the top of the mounting area (above the window frame) and measure down to your desired length. If the blinds and shades are to the floor, subtract ½ inch to prevent dragging.

Measure from the front of the window frame to the glass. Ensure the depth meets the minimum requirement for the blinds you’re purchasing.

• Sleek and Clean Look – Installs inside the window frame to provide a built-in appearance.
•  Suitable for Shallow Windows – If the mounting depth is adequate, then ideal.
• Gaps May Let Light In – Since the blinds and shades are within the frame, small gaps on the sides may let some light in.

• Better Light Control and Privacy – Covers the whole window frame, keeping more light out.
• Hides Flaws – Best for irregular or off-standard window frames.
• Takes Up More Space – Needs more clearance space around the window frame to be fitted.

Not yet certain what mount style will function best in your area? BEASEN offers expert advice to help you make the right choice before buying.

• Use a Steel Measuring Tape – Holds its accuracy better than cloth or plastic tapes.
• Round to the Nearest 1/8 Inch – Provides a small margin for sizing error.
• Measure Each Window Separately – Windows are alike, but variations affect fit.
• Write Down Measurements Immediately – Prevents loss of numbers or incorrect calculation.
• Check for Obstructions – Handles, cranks, or trim block blinds and shades movement.

Do you have French doors, bay windows, or arched windows? Those require specialized measurement. If unsure, it is always wise to call a professional to avoid costly mistakes.

Blinds and shades should be measured wide enough to cover glass but not encroach on door handles.

All panels will need to be measured separately to accommodate unique angles.

• Double-Check Measurements – Double-check all measurements twice for accuracy.
• Consider Privacy and Light Control Needs – Choose blackout shades and blinds for total darkness or light-filtering materials for less light.
• Choose the Right Material and Color – Match your decor with wood, vinyl, or woven material.
• Inspect Safety Features – Choose cordless shades and blinds if you have children or pets.
• Compare Prices and Installation Fees – Add installation fees if you're not installing yourself.
• Consider the Warranty and Return Policy – A quality warranty provides peace of mind in case of sizing issues.

Choosing the right blinds and shades starts with the right measurements. At BEASEN, we simplify it by offering:

• Professional Consultation – We'll guide you through measuring and selecting.
• Sample Books Available – View fabric textures and light control options before you decide.
• Satisfaction Guarantee – We ensure your blinds and shades meet expectations.

Heed this advice and you'll be on your way to an ideal fit, with optimal functionality and style in your space. For additional information or advice, contact BEASEN today—we're here to help!