How to DesignDecorateCareMeasure

Introduction

 

When it comes to window treatments, blinds are a popular choice for many homeowners (especially the conscious homeowner who strives to obtain a good quality product at the right price). Not only do they provide privacy and control over natural light, but they also offer a range of benefits that can enhance the privacy of your home and smart lifestyle.

In this Complete Step-by-Step Tutorial, we will guide you through the process of measuring your windows for all blind types, this ensures your custom-made product is correctly built to your specifications, satisfies you and elevates your home interior.

 

What you need

 

 Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools handy:

     - Tape measure
     - Pencil and paper
     - Step stool if needed

 

 

 

 

Consider the mounting options 

 

Three main drivers impact the decision as to where to mount the blinds:

  1. the opening direction of the window,
  2. the retraction height of the blind and
  3. the distance between any edge of the window and the blind.

 

As a rule of thumb Roman Blinds and Roller blinds are generally fitted outside the recess while Venetian and Vertical blinds are usually fitted inside the recess.

 

Inside the Recess

Ideally, when windows open inward, there wouldn't be any obstructions in the window space so that it opens fully. However, this may not always be possible for venetian and vertical blinds. Once retracted, venetian and vertical blinds are usually always in the way of the window opening. This is why, as a rule of thumb, venetian and vertical blinds are mounted inside the window recess: to give a fit and tidy look in spite this drawback.  

It is also important to note the space between the window and the blind so that the louvres of the blinds can rotate without issue. Venetian and vertical blinds need to have enough space to rotate where they are mounted. If there isn't enough space in the window sill, it may be necessary to install venetian and vertical blinds outside the recess.

 

Outside the Recess

As a rule of thumb, Roller and Roman blinds can be installed outside the window recess as, when installed correctly, these are protracted enough to allow the window to open fully (if the window opens inwards).

However, these blinds may also be installed inside the recess if preferred, albeit the distance between the window and the blind is also important. 

 

 

Measurements to take if Mounting Inside the Recess

 

Step 1: Measure the width	Step 2: Measure the height

 Note: If there are tiles on the sides of the wall, take this distance as the smallest reading. 

 Deductions: we will make small deductions to these measurements to account for the blind brackets.

 

Step 3: Clearance for the blind in the recess

 

When the blinds are fitted inside the window recess, it is important to ensure there is enough space for the blind and its mechanism to act without issues.

Take note of the space for the blind as the depth between the edge of the window sill and that of the most outer obstruction in the window (like the handle). 

Ensure at least 5-7cm clearance between the edge of the window recess and the front of any obstruction.

In this example, the distance from the face of the window to the edge of the recess is 16cm (right) and the handle is 5cm (left), giving a comfortable clearance of 11cm to fit the blind inside the recess.

 

 

Step 4: Double-check your measurements

 

Before making a final decision, it's crucial to double-check your measurements. Take a step back and review your recorded measurements. Ensure that they are accurate and make any necessary adjustments.

  

 

Measurements to take if Mounting Outside the Recess

 

 

Step 5: Increase the width and height to your exact specifications

 

 

• For the height: take the Height from Inside the Recess (Step 2) and add at least 7cm to the top to account for the headrail of the blind. For the drop, stop at the window sill if it sticks out for over 5cm or drop as desired.  

 

• For the width:  take the Width from Inside the Recess (Step 1) and add at least 5cm to each side (at least 10cm total) to it. The more you add the better the light filtering properties but make sure that it is within reason. 

 

You will provide two measurements: the Total Height and the Total Width.

You can always contact us with a picture of your window if you require assistance. 

 

Review:

The measurements required to place the blind inside the window recess are: the smallest of three widths and heights measured across the length and height of the recess and the clearance between any obstacle and the edge of the recess. The clearance should be at least 5 to 7cm for the mechanism of the blind to operate.

If you are installing the blinds outside the recess, add at least 10cm to the width of the recess (Total Width = Window Recess Width + 10cm or more).

For the height, add 7cm to the top to account for the headrail, if the window sill protrudes over 5cm, end the drop here (Height = 7cm + Window Recess Height) but if it does not continue the drop until the desired height (Height = 7cm + Window Recess Height + Drop)

 

Conclusion

 

By following these easy steps and by taking accurate measurements, you can confidently shop for blinds knowing that they will fit your windows perfectly. You can always contact us if you require some guidance and send us some photographs over email at [email protected].