Have you ever ordered window coverings online, only to find they don't quite fit when they arrive? Ordering blinds or shades that perfectly suit your windows requires careful and accurate measurements. Roman blinds, in particular, with their tailored folds and elegant appearance, demand precision for optimal light control, privacy, and aesthetic appeal. Incorrect measurements can lead to ill-fitting blinds that are both functionally ineffective and visually unappealing, costing you time, money, and unnecessary frustration.
Measuring for roman blinds doesn't have to be daunting! By following a few simple steps and understanding the key considerations, you can confidently order blinds that will transform your space. A well-fitted roman blind not only enhances the look of your room but also provides effective insulation and light control, creating a comfortable and stylish environment. Taking the time to measure correctly ensures that your investment in roman blinds pays off in the long run, providing you with years of enjoyment and functionality.
What's the difference between recess and exact measurements and how do I decide which one to use?
Should I measure inside or outside the window recess?
Whether you measure inside or outside the window recess depends on the look you want to achieve and whether you have a suitable recess. For a neat, streamlined look, measuring inside the recess is common. For a blind that sits outside the recess, potentially blocking more light and making the window appear larger, measuring outside the recess is the right choice.
Measuring inside the recess, also known as a recess fit, provides a cleaner, more integrated look within the window frame. The blind will sit neatly within the recess, offering a tidy appearance. This is a popular option if you want to showcase the window frame itself or have limited space outside the recess. When taking these measurements, be sure to measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the recess, as window recesses are rarely perfectly square. Use the smallest width measurement to ensure a proper fit; the blind manufacturer will typically make a small deduction to ensure the blind operates smoothly within the recess. Alternatively, measuring outside the recess, also known as an exact fit, allows the blind to cover a larger area, potentially blocking more light when lowered and creating the illusion of a larger window. This is especially helpful if you have a shallow recess or want to minimize light gaps around the edges of the blind. When measuring for an outside mount, decide how much you want the blind to overlap the window frame on all sides (typically 2-4 inches). Add this overlap to the window frame dimensions to determine the final blind size. Remember to consider any obstructions, such as window cranks or trim, when determining the desired overlap.How do I account for obstructions like window handles?
When measuring for Roman blinds, account for obstructions like window handles by measuring the window recess as usual, then measuring the projection of the handle from the window frame. You'll need to increase the blind's width to clear the handle when the blind is lowered, ensuring it hangs freely and isn't impeded.
The most common solution is to add the depth of the handle projection (the distance it sticks out from the window frame) to your overall width measurement. This ensures the fabric of the blind will comfortably clear the handle when fully lowered. If you are ordering a blind to fit *within* the recess, you will need to specify the handle projection so that the manufacturer can account for it. For blinds fitted *outside* the recess, the extra width you add will simply mean the blind overlaps the window frame a little more on each side.
Consider the handle's location as well. If it's positioned high up, near the top of the window, its impact on the blind’s operation is minimal. However, if the handle sits lower down, or multiple handles are present, a more generous allowance may be needed. It’s always better to overestimate slightly rather than underestimate and have the blind snag on the handle. Alternatively, you could consider replacing obtrusive handles with a more streamlined design that won't interfere with the blind.
What's the best way to measure for overlap if I want a wider blind?
To accurately measure for overlap when you desire a wider blind, first determine your desired total width including the overlap on each side of the window frame. Then, measure the inside width of your window frame. Finally, add the desired overlap amount to each side of the inside width measurement; this total becomes your final blind width measurement. Ensure you're measuring at the top where the blind will be mounted, as window frames are not always perfectly square.
To elaborate, consider why you want the overlap. Overlap minimizes light gaps and enhances privacy. A general recommendation is to add 1.5 to 3 inches on each side of the window frame for a standard overlap. However, if you're dealing with significant light leakage or simply prefer a more substantial block, you can increase this overlap further. When measuring for the height (drop) of the blind, measure from where you plan to mount the headrail down to the desired finished length, remembering to account for any obstructions like window cranks or decorative molding below the sill. Remember to use a steel measuring tape for accuracy. Fabric measuring tapes can stretch and distort, leading to inaccurate measurements. Always double-check your measurements before ordering to avoid costly mistakes. If you are unsure, consult a professional installer; they can provide precise measurements and ensure a proper fit.How precise do my measurements need to be for a good fit?
Accuracy within 1/8 of an inch (approximately 3mm) is generally recommended when measuring for Roman blinds. This level of precision ensures a snug fit that minimizes light gaps and allows the blind to operate smoothly without rubbing or binding.
While a fraction of an inch might seem insignificant, it can make a noticeable difference in the overall appearance and functionality of your Roman blinds. Too much wiggle room, especially in width, will result in excessive light leakage and a sloppy aesthetic. Similarly, being too tight can prevent the blind from raising and lowering freely, potentially damaging the mechanism or fabric over time. Consider also the fabric you are using. Thicker materials can cause problems if the blind is too tight. Think about it this way: small inaccuracies accumulate. If your window recess isn’t perfectly square (and most aren't), even a slightly off measurement on one side can exacerbate the issue when the blind is installed. Measuring precisely and accounting for any slight variations in the window frame will help ensure a professional and functional result. When in doubt, it's always better to err slightly on the side of being a little too wide, as it's easier to adjust a blind that's slightly too large than one that is too small. This is especially crucial if you're opting for an inside mount.How do I measure if my window isn't perfectly square?
To determine if your window is out of square, measure both diagonals (corner to corner). If the diagonal measurements are different, your window isn't perfectly square. The larger the difference, the more out of square it is.
Measuring for Roman blinds in an out-of-square window requires extra attention. After determining that your window isn't square by checking the diagonals, measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the window opening. Similarly, measure the height on the left, right, and in the center. Note down all these measurements; you'll need them when deciding how to mount your blinds.
For an inside mount (where the blind fits inside the window recess), use the narrowest width measurement and the shortest height measurement. This ensures the blind will fit without binding. However, be aware that there might be small gaps due to the window's irregularities. For an outside mount (where the blind sits outside the window recess on the wall), use the widest width and the longest height measurements, then add a few extra inches to each side and top to ensure full coverage and minimize light gaps. It's crucial to communicate these measurements and the fact that your window is not perfectly square to your blind supplier; they can advise on the best adjustments to ensure a good fit and functionality.
What allowances should I make for the headrail mechanism?
When measuring for Roman blinds, you generally don't need to make specific deductions for the headrail mechanism itself. The manufacturer typically accounts for the headrail dimensions in their overall blind calculations based on the measurements you provide for the desired finished size of the blind. Focus instead on accurately measuring the window recess or the area where you want the blind to sit, and clearly communicate to the manufacturer whether those measurements reflect the exact desired finished size or the recess dimensions. They will then calculate the correct headrail size.
For recess fit blinds (fitted inside the window frame), provide the exact recess width and drop. The manufacturer will automatically deduct a small amount (usually around 10-15mm in total width and sometimes a few millimeters in drop) to ensure the blind fits comfortably and operates smoothly without binding against the frame. For exact blinds (fitted outside the window frame), provide the desired finished width and drop you want the blind to cover. No deductions will be made, and the blind will be manufactured to these exact dimensions. It's crucial to specify whether your measurements are for a recess fit or an exact (outside) fit. Any miscommunication here can lead to blinds that don't fit correctly. If you are unsure, it's always best to contact the manufacturer or supplier for clarification on their specific measuring guidelines and deduction policies. This will help avoid any sizing errors and ensure your new Roman blinds fit perfectly.Do I need to factor in anything different for blackout lining?
Yes, when measuring for Roman blinds with blackout lining, the main difference lies in accounting for the added thickness and potential stiffness of the lining. This primarily affects the fold size and the overall stacking height of the blind when it's fully raised.
The increased thickness from blackout lining can cause the folds of your Roman blind to be bulkier and more pronounced. Therefore, when calculating your desired finished length, consider that the stacking height (the total height of the folded blind at the top when raised) will likely be greater than it would be with a standard lining. If space above your window is limited, this extra stacking height becomes crucial. You may want to factor in an extra inch or two for stacking height, especially for longer blinds or heavier fabrics. It is also important to consider the overall weight of the blind. Blackout lining adds significant weight, which may necessitate a more robust headrail and lifting mechanism. Consider the recommendations of your chosen blind supplier regarding weight limitations and appropriate hardware. If you're unsure, providing your measurements and fabric choice to a professional blind maker is always advisable; they can accurately estimate the stacking height and recommend suitable components for your specific needs, ensuring a well-functioning and aesthetically pleasing Roman blind.And that's all there is to it! Measuring for Roman blinds might seem a little daunting at first, but with these steps, you'll be well on your way to perfectly fitted window treatments. Thanks so much for reading, and we hope this has been helpful. Feel free to pop back anytime you need some more home decor inspiration or handy guides!