Accurate Measurements For Roller Shades Are Essential For Proper Fit
Roller shades offer an attractive and economical option for window shades. They can increase privacy, protect drapes and furniture from fading due to sunlight, and make a decorating statement. However, shades must be able to operate easily, so it is important to measure accurately and install them properly.
Before taking measurements, you must decide whether you want to mount your window shades inside the window casement or outside of it. An inside mount is normally used if drapes or curtains will be installed over the window shades, but it is not an absolute requirement. Outside mounts are typically used for window frames that are very shallow, such as three inches or smaller. If the windows are out of square, an exterior mount is sometimes used to hide the imperfections. Small windows can also be made to appear larger by mounting shades on the outside of the casement. In addition, an outside mount offers even more privacy and blocking of light and can be extended to cover the lower sill, if desired.
Always use a steel measuring tape when taking window measurements. Cloth or vinyl tapes can stretch even while you are measuring. Older tapes may be stretched to the point that measurements are off by up to one-fourth inch. Accurate measurements are crucial to a proper fit.
The windows in a room may have all been ordered in the same size, but do not assume this to be so. Take the measurements of each window on which shades are to be installed. Measure width at the bottom, top, and in the middle and length on the right side, left side, and down the center. Take the lowest numbers and round off to the nearest 1/8 inch. Widths should be rounded down and heights should be rounded up. Write your results down with the width first and then the height.
You might notice that both custom shades and those you purchase ready made will have different measurements than what you submitted. Shades use brackets to hold them in place, and allowance must be made for these brackets. Your actual shades will not be as wide as the window. The gap is normally between a fourth and an eighth inch, although some brackets need about one half inch. Height will be greater, since the roller takes up around twelve inches.
Shades to be hung on the outside of the casement require adjustments to the measurements of the windows. Normally, brackets are positioned between two and four inches above the top of the casement, so adjust accordingly for it. You will also need the width to accurately reflect the overlap you want on each side.
You may need to make adjustments to your measurements to accommodate any trim around the window. The bracket must have enough flat surface available for installation. If trim is going to interfere with the mounting, you may need to adjust so that the brackets can be installed on a flat, level surface. If not, the window shades may not operate properly.
If the dealer from whom you are ordering your roller shades provides a set of instructions for taking measurements, follow their directions. There are a few manufacturers who use special brackets or different trim allowances, so it is best to use the method they provide for optimal fit. Improper measurements can cause unsightly gaps, so measure twice and order once.
Learn how to select and save on window shades. Stop by Jerikat Jennison’s site where you can find out all about roller shades and what they can do for you when saving money is also an issue.
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