Measuring for Horizontal Blinds
When you are measuring there are two options to hang your window coverings. They can be inside mount, which are hanging them inside the window frame, or outside mount, which is hanging them outside of the window frame and usually a little above.
Inside Mount Blinds
- Measure the exact inside width and Height of the window opening between the jambs.
- Measure width of the window opening at the top, middle and bottom using the narrowest dimension when ordering.
- Measure height of window opening at left, center and right using the longest measurement for ordering.
- The minimum recess space required for an inside mount 2" product is 2". Recess space for 1" products is 1".
Note: Always state width first then length when ordering your window coverings and usually inside mount blinds will have an automatic 1/2" deduction from ordered width. That is to allow space for the brackets.
Outside Mount Blinds
- Measure the exact outside width and height from molding to molding. To overlap the window, add approximately 3" to your width and height measurements.
- If brackets are being mounted beyond the casing or on a door with molding you will need spacers. Spacers provide 3/8" projection. Request spacers when ordering.
- On outside mount door blinds add a minimum of 3" to window length to allow clearance to mount headrail and hold down brackets. You will need to request hold down brackets if required.
Note: Always state width First then length when ordering your window coverings and outside mount blinds will have no deduction from ordered width and length.
Many companies will have their own specifications on how to measure. Listed below are a few big names in the window covering business.
Graber Blinds >
Horizontal Blinds and Fabric Shades, including Innovative Shadings and Solar Shades
Inside Mount:
- Inside mount blinds and shades are installed inside the window casing. Minimum depth requirements vary by product and headrail type, or by tube size (for solar shades). Ask your designer or sales associate for details.
- Measure the exact inside width of window casing from one inside edge to the other in three different places. Record the narrowest measurement.
- Measure the exact height in three different places from top edge of opening to top of sill. Record the longest measurement.
- Do not take any deductions for clearance. The factory will take necessary deductions for a perfect fit.
- Measure the window diagonally in two places, as shown. If the two diagonal dimensions are not equal, we recommend an outside mount application for optimal shade function and aesthetics.
- Note on Solar Shades: On Continuous Loop inside mounts, there is a 7⁄8" light gap per side. On Cordless inside mounts, there is approximately 1 9⁄16" total light gap (31⁄32" on control end, 19⁄32" on idle end). For optimal light and glare control, outside mount is recommended.
Outside Mount:
- Outside mount blinds and shades are installed outside the window casing, covering an area larger than the window itself.
- Measure the exact width to be covered. Be sure the measurement overlaps the window opening by at least 1 1⁄2" on each side (3" total overlap) to ensure light control and privacy.
- Measure exact height to be covered, including desired overlap (typically from top edge of molding to bottom edge, or to top of sill if there is one).
- The factory makes NO allowances on outside mount.
