Proper Installation of Window Treatments Depends Upon Proper Measurement

Properly installing your new window treatments is vital for proper function. But proper installation is impossible if proper measurements weren’t taken prior to the purchase. The vital nature of the measurement is missed by many shoppers new to the window treatment industry and once the mistake is made…it’s often too late.

Improper window measurements could leave buyers unhappy with their purchase. The entire purpose of window treatments is to cover the window. So unexpected “gaps” are appallingly obvious once the product is installed in the home. Even small gaps (1/8 of an inch) are noticeable and will decrease your satisfaction with your window treatments.

There are simple guidelines you can follow to ensure you have the basic measurements you need to get started. You may find that the product you eventually end up with requires additional or slightly altered measurements, but starting the process off with the appropriate basic measurements is important. You will use them to gather estimates on pricing and unless the product you choose to purchase requires “special instruction” measurements you’ll be ready to go with your exact measurements when it’s time to buy.

If you aren’t sure which type of window treatment you are looking to purchase you should probably take two separate sets of measurements. One would be for any window treatment that mounts inside a window frame/casing and the other would be for any window treatment that mounts to the wall above the window.

When you plan on mounting window treatments outside your window casing you should take three measurements vertically and three measurements horizontally. Stick to an exact measurement to 1/8 of an inch. If you are planning on mounting horizontal blinds you need to add 3 inches to both your length and your width measurements. If you’re planning on mounting vertical blinds you must add 4 inches to the width and 3 inches to the length measurements.

For interior mount products you will again take the three measurements running in each direction. And you will again be as specific in your measurements as possible (to the 1/8 inch). You’ll take your longest vertical measurement and your shortest horizontal measurement to use in your calculations and product ordering.

This type of mount (interior of the window frame/casing) also requires a depth measurement. This measurement is taken by measuring the distance between the interior wall and the window. Check the product specifications on any interior mount products you are considering to check the depth requirements. You’ll want it to be able to hang flush with the interior wall.

While shopping specialty window treatment products ALWAYS consider any special installation or measurement instructions or advice. They are there for a reason. Improper window measurement impairs your ability for proper installation of the window treatment. And improper installation of a window treatment could eliminate or decrease energy efficiency and/or special features and options.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.