How to Measure Windows for Custom-Made Blinds: A Louisville Homeowner's Guide
Measuring your windows correctly before ordering custom-made blinds can mean the difference between a perfect fit and a costly mistake. Louisville, KY, homes range from tall double-hung windows in older Highlands bungalows to wide picture windows in newer East End builds, and accurate numbers up front ensure your blinds look and function exactly as intended.
What You Need Before You Start
Gather these items before you begin:
- A steel measuring tape (fabric tapes can stretch and give false readings).
- A pencil and notepad, or your phone's notes app.
- A helper for larger windows.
Measure each window individually. Even windows that look identical can differ by a fraction of an inch, and that gap matters when ordering custom window blinds.
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount
Choosing your mount type before measuring is essential, as it determines exactly how and where you record your dimensions.
Inside Mount Measurements
An inside mount sits within the window frame for a clean, recessed look. Many Louisville homeowners prefer this style for casement and double-hung windows because it keeps the trim visible.
To measure for an inside mount:
- Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening.
- Record the smallest width.
- Measure the height on the left, center, and right sides.
- Record the smallest height.
Most manufacturers apply a small deduction from your width to ensure the blinds clear the frame, but confirm this with your supplier before ordering.
Outside Mount Measurements
An outside mount attaches to the wall or trim above the opening, can make a window appear larger, and works well when the frame is too shallow for an inside mount.
To measure for an outside mount:
- Decide how far beyond the opening the blinds will extend on each side (typically 1.5 to 3 inches per side for light blockage).
- Add those extensions to the opening width and record your total.
- Decide how high above the frame the headrail will sit and how far below the sill the blinds should fall.
- Add those amounts to the opening height and record your total.
How to Account for Clearance and Stack
Check each window for handles, cranks, and HVAC vents that may interfere with how blinds hang or operate. Allow at least 1.5 inches of depth inside the frame for an inside mount to sit flush.
For horizontal blinds, slats bundle upward when raised. On taller windows, position the headrail high enough so the stack does not block your view.
Frequently Asked Questions
What If My Window Frame Isn't Square?
Measure both diagonals inside the frame. If they differ by more than half an inch, choose an outside mount for a better fit.
Do I Need to Round My Window Measurements?
No, never round. Record measurements to the nearest 1/8 inch, using the smallest width and largest height for accuracy.
Can I Use My Old Blinds' Measurements for a New Order?
No, always measure the window opening itself. Old blinds can warp or shrink, and allowances vary between manufacturers.
Ready to Order Your Custom Blinds in Louisville?
Econo Glass Systems designs and installs custom-made blinds tailored to fit any window size or style in Louisville, KY. Give us a call at (502) 253-9401 or reach out to us through our contact page. You can also visit our Google profile to see what customers are saying about us.
