These basic tips will get you perfect measurements for window treatments!

Basic Measuring Tips
1. Use a steel measuring tape.
2. Measure to the nearest 1/8" of an inch, if the size is on a 1/16" mark, then round down to the next 1/8".

Blinds.com knows that the perfect fit for a beautiful new window treatment all starts with an accurate measurement. If you’re planning a DIY window treatment project, our How to Measure Roller Shades guide makes measuring easy!

You can also call our Customer Experience Center for an immediate quote once you have your measurements. Don’t forget you can always Find a Pro in your area to complete the project for you!

Get Professional Help

We have professionals waiting to help you with both measuring and installation. Click here or call us at 800.935.7028 to find a local professional.

What You Will Need

Steel Tape Measure
Step Ladder (if necessary)
Pencil
Blinds.com Measuring Worksheet

Helpful Hints Before You Begin Measuring for Roller Shades:

For the most accurate measurements, only use a steel tape measure.
Don’t mix up width and height measurements. Always follow the width by height format (W x H) and mark them as such.
Measure down to the nearest 1/8 inch. Never round up or down to the nearest half or whole inch.
If you’re measuring for more than one window, measure each one individually – never assume that your windows are the same size, even if they may look alike.

How to Measure for Inside Mount Roller Shades

Inside mount roller shades are installed inside the window frame or casing – they provide a sleek, clean look which can showcase your window size and moldings. If you’re interested in measuring for inside mount roller shades, follow these steps:

Measure the depth of your window frame, from the front of the opening to the glass. You’ll need this measurement to ensure your window recess meets the minimum depth requirement for an inside mount. Refer to the Mounting Requirements section for the roller shade you’ve chosen to ensure your window meets the requirement for an inside mount.
Measure the width of each window. Measure your width only at the top of the window for roller shades.
Measure the height of your window opening in three places: left, center, and right. Circle the tallest measurement - this is the number you submit for your window’s height.
Order at the exact opening size with no deductions. The factory will take deductions in production.
Double check that your measurements follow the width by height format (W x H).

Determine width for inside mount roller shades by measuring across the inside edge of the window frame at the top

How to Measure for Outside Mount Roller Shades

Outside mount roller shades are mounted on the window molding or wall above your window. Outside mount shades are a good choice if an inside mount is not possible due to window depth or obstructions around the window frame. Follow these simple steps to measure your windows for outside mount roller shades:

Check the mounting requirements on your roller shades to ensure you have enough flat surface for the mounting hardware.
Determine the width of the roller shades you want to order. The fabric will be narrower than the ordered width so determine how wide you would like the fabric/ material to be and then add 3 inches to determine the bracket-to-bracket width.
If your window has no trim, we recommend adding two to three inches on each side of your window to provide light gap coverage and privacy. Mark these additions on each side and measure the width between them in a straight line.
Determine the height of the shades you will order. If you have a protruding window sill, start at the sill and measure three inches beyond the top of the window opening to accommodate for mounting hardware.
If you do not have a protruding window sill, we recommend starting your measurement two inches below the sill for maximum coverage and then measure three inches beyond the top of the window opening to accommodate for mounting hardware.
Double check that your measurements follow the width by height format (W x H). Remember, with outside mount roller shades, your product will be made to the exact specified size.