How to Measure for Window Blinds and Window Shades

Window Blinds: Providing Luxury and Functionality to Windows

Window blinds complement a window both in terms of appearance and functionality. Window blinds, or window shades, can complement the interior home décor by adding shapes and colors to possibly an otherwise boring interior window frame. Window blinds also provide privacy and can reduce lighting within a room. They also reduce UV sunlight helping to preserve carpeting and furniture.

Window blinds and shades come in many different materials and styles. Window blind materials include; many wood varieties, faux wood, aluminum, PVC and fabric. All can come in many different colors and shapes. There are inside window blinds, outside window blinds, vertical window blinds, horizontal window blinds, cellular shades, natural shades, and roller window shades. Many of the various window blinds can be motorized if required.

Inside window blinds reside on the inside of the window frame, whereas outside window blinds secure outside the window frame. Inside windows allow the window frame to be viewed. Outside window blinds allow the homeowner to give the illusion of larger windows within the home.

There are several popular window blind slat widths. The more popular slat widths include 0.5”, 1.0”, 1.5” and 2.0”.

Measuring for Outside Widow Blinds
To measure for outside window blinds, simply measure and note the width of the window frame and add at least 3-4 inches to allow the window blind to overlap the window frame by 1-2 inches on each side. For the height, measure from the required top position of the window blind / shade to the windowsill.

Measuring for Inside Window Blinds
To measure the width for inside window blinds, measure the exact distance between the inside window frame surfaces and note the distance. Perform this measurement at the top, middle and bottom of the window and use the narrowest width. To measure the height for inside window blinds, measure in 3 places from the sill to the top of the opening of the window and use the longest measurement.

A do it yourself homeowner can easily install window blinds and window shades. Typically basic household tools are all that are required (e.g. Screw Driver, pliers).

Warranties vary amongst the various manufacturers, however many offer limited lifetime warranties.

Window blind and window shade manufacturers include; Elden Draperies, Levolor, Zhejiang Orient Creation I/E Co Ltd.

About the Author: By Mark J. Donovan. Over the past 20+ years Mark Donovan has been involved with building homes and additions to homes. His projects have included: building a vacation home, building additions and garages on to existing homes, and finishing unfinished homes. For more home improvement information visit http://www.homeadditionplus.com/ and http://www.homeaddition.blogspot.com/