How to Measure Your Windows for Blinds: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Choosing the perfect blinds for your home is exciting, but before selecting your favourite style and colour, it’s important to get your window measurements right.
Whether you’re considering Venetian blinds, roller blinds, vertical blinds or wooden blinds, accurate measurements help ensure that your blinds fit beautifully and function properly.
At World of Decor, we want to make the process as simple as possible. Follow our step-by-step guide to measuring your windows for blinds.
1. What You Will Need
Before you start measuring, make sure you have:
- A metal measuring tape (preferably, rather than a fabric tape).
- A pen and paper to record your measurements.
- A step ladder if your windows are difficult to reach.
- Someone to assist you with wider windows.
Important: Always record your measurements in millimetres (mm).
2. Understand the Two Types of Blind Installation
Before measuring, you need to decide whether you want a recess fit or a face fit.
Recess Fit (Inside the Window Frame)
A recess fit means that your blind is installed inside the window frame, sitting neatly within the opening.
This creates a clean, streamlined appearance and is ideal if you want your blinds to sit within the window recess.
How to measure for a recess fit:
- Measure the inside width of your window at the top, middle and bottom.
- Record all three measurements.
- Use the smallest width measurement.
- Measure the height (drop) on the left, middle and right sides.
- Record all three measurements and use the smallest drop.
Do not automatically deduct anything from your measurements. Your blind supplier will advise whether a fitting allowance is required for your chosen blind.
Tip: Check that there is enough depth inside the window frame for your selected blind. Window handles, tiles and other obstructions can affect the installation.
Face Fit (Outside the Window Frame)
A face fit means that your blind is installed outside the window recess, usually onto the wall or window frame.
This option is ideal if you want to make your windows appear larger, cover the entire window opening or reduce light entering around the edges.
How to measure for a face fit:
- Decide where you want your blind to be installed.
- Measure the total width you want the blind to cover.
- Include additional width on both sides of the window for suitable overlap.
- Measure from the desired installation height to the bottom of where you want the blind to finish.
As a general starting point, many installations allow approximately 50–100 mm of overlap on each side and above the window, but this depends on the blind type and your installation requirements.
Tip: Consider nearby walls, window handles, furniture and doors before deciding on your final measurements.
3. Measuring Different Window Sizes
For the most accurate results, measure each window individually, even if several windows appear to be the same size.
Windows can vary slightly, particularly in older homes.
If you have multiple windows, label each measurement clearly, for example:
- Bedroom 1
- Main bedroom
- Lounge window
- Kitchen window
4. Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes when measuring for blinds:
- Measuring only once instead of checking the width and drop in three places.
- Confusing width with drop.
- Measuring the outside of the frame when you want a recess fit.
- Forgetting to check window handles and other obstructions.
- Assuming all windows in the same room are identical.
- Deducting measurements yourself without checking the supplier’s fitting requirements.
5. Ready to Choose Your Blinds?
Once you have your measurements, you’re ready to explore the different blind styles available for your home.
From modern aluminium Venetian blinds and elegant wooden blinds to practical roller and vertical blinds, the right window treatment can completely transform your space.
Explore the blinds collection at World of Decor and find the perfect finishing touch for your windows.
If you’re unsure about your measurements or which blind style would work best, contact World of Decor for assistance.
Please note: Measuring guidelines are general recommendations. Final fitting allowances, deductions and installation requirements depend on the selected blind system.