How To Measure For Roller Shades

Have you ever ordered roller shades online only to find they don't quite fit? Measuring for new roller shades might seem like a simple task, but inaccurate measurements can lead to frustration, wasted time, and a window covering that just doesn't look right. A perfectly fitting shade not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of your room but also ensures proper light control and privacy. Taking accurate measurements is the crucial first step in ensuring a successful and stylish window treatment upgrade.

Whether you're aiming for an inside mount for a sleek, recessed look or an outside mount that completely covers the window frame, understanding the nuances of measuring is key. Ignoring these details can result in shades that are too short, too wide, or simply won't operate smoothly. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you can avoid costly mistakes and enjoy beautiful, custom-fit roller shades that perfectly complement your space.

What are the common pitfalls when measuring for roller shades?

How do I decide between inside or outside mount for measuring roller shades?

Deciding between an inside or outside mount for roller shades depends primarily on your aesthetic preference, the depth of your window frame, and whether you want to maximize light blockage. Inside mounts offer a cleaner, more recessed look within the window frame, while outside mounts can make a window appear larger, cover unsightly frames, or address shallow window depths.

An inside mount requires sufficient depth within your window frame to accommodate the shade and its hardware. Measure the depth of your window recess carefully and compare it to the manufacturer's specifications for minimum inside mount depth. If your window isn't deep enough, an outside mount is necessary. Consider also if you want the shade fabric close to the windowpane. Inside mounts will achieve this better than outside mounts which will have a gap. Outside mounts are more versatile and can be used on virtually any window. They are also better at blocking light, as the shade extends beyond the window frame, minimizing light gaps. If you are concerned about privacy or need complete darkness for sleeping, an outside mount is often the best choice. Outside mounts allow for complete coverage when adding blackout roller shades, further enhancing their efficacy. Ultimately, the choice is yours!

What's the best way to measure for roller shades on windows with trim?

The best way to measure for roller shades on windows with trim depends on whether you want an inside mount (shade inside the trim) or an outside mount (shade outside the trim). For an inside mount, measure the exact inside width of the trim at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the narrowest measurement. For an outside mount, measure the width and height of the area you want the shade to cover, extending beyond the trim for optimal light blockage and privacy.

For inside mount roller shades, precision is key. Because the shade will fit snugly within the window trim, any inaccuracies can result in a shade that's too wide and won't fit, or too narrow and will leave unsightly gaps. Always measure to the nearest 1/8 inch. Note that most manufacturers will make slight deductions to your provided width to ensure a smooth operating fit within the trim. Check the manufacturer's specifications for deduction details. If your window is significantly out of square, consider an outside mount to avoid these issues. For outside mount roller shades, you have more flexibility. Decide how much you want the shade to overlap the trim on each side and at the top and bottom. A general recommendation is to add at least 1.5 to 3 inches to each side of the window trim to minimize light gaps. Consider any obstructions, such as door knobs or other architectural features, when determining the overall width. The height measurement should account for the fully extended shade plus a few extra inches for the roll. Remember that the shade will be fully visible when rolled up with this mounting style.

Should I deduct anything from my measurements when ordering inside-mount roller shades?

Generally, no, you should **not** deduct anything from your window measurements when ordering inside-mount roller shades *unless specifically instructed to do so by the manufacturer*. Provide the exact width and height of the inside of your window frame where the shade will be mounted. Most manufacturers will make the necessary deductions during production to ensure a proper fit and smooth operation, accounting for hardware and fabric tolerances.

The reason you shouldn't deduct yourself is that the manufacturer understands the exact deductions needed for their specific hardware and shade design. Attempting to deduct on your own increases the risk of miscalculation, leading to a shade that is too small and doesn't properly cover the window. Different manufacturers have different deduction standards, and some may not deduct at all, relying on very precise measurements from the customer. By providing the exact inside dimensions, you allow the manufacturer to apply their expertise and ensure the shade operates correctly within your window frame.

However, always **double-check the manufacturer's specific measuring instructions** before placing your order. Look for sections titled "How to Measure" or "Inside Mount Instructions." They may have unique requirements or exceptions. If the instructions explicitly state that you should deduct a certain amount, then follow those instructions precisely. If they are unclear, contact the manufacturer's customer service for clarification to avoid costly errors.

How accurate do my roller shade measurements need to be?

Your roller shade measurements need to be accurate to within 1/8 of an inch (0.125"). Accuracy to this degree ensures a proper fit, smooth operation, and prevents light gaps or difficulty installing the shades within the window frame. Being even slightly off can lead to the shade rubbing against the window frame, not rolling up or down smoothly, or simply not fitting at all.

For inside mount roller shades, precision is absolutely crucial. You're working within the confines of the window frame, and any measurement errors will be immediately apparent. If your measurement is too large, the shade won't fit. If it's too small, you'll have excessive light gaps along the sides. Always use a steel measuring tape for the most accurate readings, and measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the window opening, taking the smallest measurement. This accounts for any variations in the frame's shape. For outside mount roller shades, you have a little more leeway, but accuracy is still important. While you're not constrained by the exact dimensions of the window opening, you want the shade to cover the area effectively and look aesthetically pleasing. Inaccurate measurements for an outside mount shade can result in insufficient light blockage or an unbalanced appearance. Therefore, aim for the same 1/8-inch precision. Remember to factor in any overlap you desire beyond the window frame when determining your measurements.

What's the correct way to measure the window width at the top, middle, and bottom?

To accurately measure your window width for roller shades, use a steel measuring tape and measure the inside width of the window frame at the top, middle, and bottom. Record all three measurements, and use the narrowest measurement to ensure your shade fits properly within the frame.

Measuring at these three points is crucial because window frames are rarely perfectly square. Variations, even small ones, can affect the fit of your roller shades. If you only measure at one point, you might order a shade that's too wide for another part of the window opening, preventing it from being installed correctly or operating smoothly. Using the smallest width obtained ensures the shade will fit comfortably throughout the entire window opening. When taking these measurements, make sure the measuring tape is held taut and level. Any slack or angling of the tape can introduce inaccuracies. For inside mounts (where the shade sits inside the window frame), you'll typically deduct a small amount (usually specified by the manufacturer, often around 1/4 to 1/2 inch) from the narrowest width to allow for smooth operation and prevent the shade from rubbing against the frame. Always refer to the specific measuring instructions provided by the roller shade manufacturer or retailer, as their guidelines may vary slightly.

How do I account for obstructions like window cranks or security sensors?

Carefully measure the depth and projection of any obstructions like window cranks or security sensors. Then, decide whether to mount the shade outside the frame (allowing it to clear the obstruction) or to deduct the obstruction’s depth from your inside mount measurements to ensure the shade doesn't collide with it.

When dealing with obstructions, outside mounting is often the simplest solution. By extending the shade's width beyond the window frame, you provide ample space for the shade to operate without interference. Ensure you add enough width to each side to completely clear the obstruction when the shade is fully retracted. Remember to consider aesthetic balance when determining the additional width.

For an inside mount, precise measurements are critical. Carefully measure the depth that the crank or sensor protrudes into the window opening. You will then deduct this depth from the total width you plan to order for your shade. For example, if your window opening is 30 inches wide, and the crank projects 1 inch into the opening, you'd order a shade that is 29 inches wide. Keep in mind that deducting too much could leave noticeable gaps. It may be necessary to choose a smaller shade and consider light-blocking strips to minimize light gaps.

Consider these options:

What happens if my roller shade measurements are slightly off?

If your roller shade measurements are slightly off, you could end up with shades that either don't fit within the window frame (too wide) or have noticeable gaps on either side (too narrow). This can impact light control, privacy, and the overall aesthetic of the window treatment.

If your roller shade is too wide, you won't be able to install it at all without potentially damaging the shade or the window frame. In some cases, you might be able to trim a very small amount off the end of the roller tube (the shade is wrapped around it), but this usually requires specialized tools and is not recommended for significant adjustments. On the other hand, if your shade is too narrow, you'll have gaps that let in unwanted light and reduce your privacy. While small gaps might be tolerable for some, larger gaps can be visually unappealing and compromise the shade's functionality, such as its ability to darken a room. The best approach is always to measure carefully and accurately, often twice, before ordering. Most manufacturers will provide detailed measuring instructions, so follow them precisely. If you're unsure, consider ordering slightly larger and opting for an outside mount. An outside mount gives you some leeway to position the shade correctly, even if it's slightly wider than needed. By following these steps you can ensure the shade fits perfectly.

And that's all there is to it! We hope this guide helped you feel confident in measuring for your new roller shades. Thanks for stopping by, and be sure to check back soon for more helpful tips and tricks to make your home a little brighter (and a little more stylish!).