How To Measure Windows For Shades

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the window opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your roller shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 1 3/16 inch (3 cm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the top width inside the window frame and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.

ORDER AT THE EXACT OPENING SIZE WITH NO DEDUCTIONS.

Inside mounts are classified as Top Mount and Side Mount.

The default option when placing an order is Top Mount. The factory will make a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

If you prefer a Side Mount, please include a note stating "Side Mount" when placing your order. This ensures the factory provides the corresponding brackets and applies an additional 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) deduction. If no note is provided, it may result in insufficient space for a Side Mount.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the middle height inside the window frame and round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.

Make sure the most exact measurement for the height.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the exact width of the window frame or the desired width for the blind.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

Depth

For the inside mount, the minimum depth required for the deco bar and cassette is 1 3/4 inches (4.5 cm), with the valance protruding approximately 11/16 inch (1.7 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 2 7/16 inches (6.2 cm).

For the square valance, the minimum required depth for the inside mount is 2 inches (5 cm), with the valance protruding around 1 1/8 inch (3 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 3 1/8 inches (8 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your cellular shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 3/16 inch (5 mm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure three separate locations- top, center, and bottom widths of the window frame, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch, and use the smallest measurement as the shade width, ensuring your tape is horizontal for accuracy.

Order at the exact opening size with no deductions.

For Hazel Shades, the factory will apply a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

For Nowa Shades, the factory will apply a small deduction of approximately 3/16 inch (5 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure three separate locations- left, middle, and right heights of the window frame, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch, and use the smallest measurement as the shade height, ensuring your tape is vertical for accuracy.

Make sure the most exact measurement for the height.

If the order height and exact height are not consistent, the shade may not cover the window, or the fabric will stack at the bottom after adjusting the upper and lower limits.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Measure the exact width of the window frame or the desired width for the blind.

Adding 2 to 6 inches (5.1 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom.

Adding 2 to 6 inches (5.1 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

Depth

For Hazel Shades, the minimum required depth for the inside mount is 7/8 inch (2.2 cm), with the valance protruding around 1 1/8 inch (2.8 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 2 inches (5 cm).

For Nowa Shades, the minimum required depth for the inside mount is 2 inches (5 cm), with the valance protruding around 3/4 inch (2 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 2 3/4 inches (7 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the window opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your zebra shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 1 3/16 inch (3 cm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the top width inside the window frame and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.

ORDER AT THE EXACT OPENING SIZE WITH NO DEDUCTIONS.

Inside mounts are classified as Top Mount and Side Mount.

The default option when placing an order is Top Mount. The factory will make a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

If you prefer a Side Mount, please include a note stating "Side Mount" when placing your order. This ensures the factory provides the corresponding brackets and applies an additional 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) deduction. If no note is provided, it may result in insufficient space for a Side Mount.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the middle height inside the window frame and round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.

Make sure the most exact measurement for the height.

If the order height and exact height are inconsistent, the shade may not cover the window, or the texture may not align after adjusting the upper and lower limits.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the exact width of the window frame or the desired width for the blind.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

Align Multi Blinds

Zebra shades that are highly uniform or to be installed on one wall need to be purchased together in 1 single order. It is best to make corresponding notes so that our factory can produce them from the same batch and the fabric slats will line up with each other.

Depth

For the inside mount, the minimum depth required for the deco bar and cassette is 1 3/4 inches (4.5 cm), with the valance protruding approximately 11/16 inch (1.7cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 2 7/16 inches (6.2cm).

For the square valance, the minimum required depth for the inside mount is 2 inches (5 cm), with the valance protruding around 1 1/8 inch (3 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 3 1/8 inches (8 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the window opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your woven wood shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 3/16 inch (5 mm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure three separate locations- top, center, and bottom widths of the window frame, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch, and use the smallest measurement as the shade width, ensuring your tape is horizontal for accuracy.

Order at the exact opening size with no deductions.

The factory will apply a small deduction of approximately 5/16 inch (8 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure three separate locations- left, middle, and right heights of the window frame, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch, and use the smallest measurement as the shade height, ensuring your tape is vertical for accuracy.

Make sure the most exact measurement for the height.

If the order height and exact height are not consistent, the shade may not cover the window, or the fabric will stack at the bottom after adjusting the upper and lower limits.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the exact width of the window frame or the desired width for the blind.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

Depth

For the inside mount, the minimum depth required for the valance is 1 7/8” (4.8 cm), with the valance protruding approximately 1 13/16 inch (4.6 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 3 11/16” (9.4 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your outdoor shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 2 1/2 inch (6.4 cm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the patio posts after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Side By Side Gaps

The distance between the guide wires and the valance after installing multiple adjacent shades, is illustrated in the picture.

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the top width inside the window frame and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.

ORDER AT THE EXACT OPENING SIZE WITH NO DEDUCTIONS.

Inside mounts are classified as Top Mount and Side Mount.

The default option when placing an order is Top Mount. The factory will make a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

If you prefer a Side Mount, please include a note stating "Side Mount" when placing your order. This ensures the factory provides the corresponding brackets and applies an additional 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) deduction. If no note is provided, it may result in insufficient space for a Side Mount.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the middle height inside the frame and round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.

The order height can be slightly larger than the exact opening height, as the length can be fine-tuned by setting the upper and lower limits.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the exact width of the frame or the desired width for the blind.

Adding 2 to 6 inches (5.1 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire opening and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom.

Adding 2 to 6 inches (5.1 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire opening and provide maximum light coverage.

The order height can be larger than the exact height of the opening since the length can be adjusted by setting the upper and lower limits.

Depth

For the Inside Mount, the minimum depth required for the standard valance is 2 1/8 inches (5.4 cm), with the valance protruding approximately 1 inch (2.6 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 3 1/8 inches (8 cm).

For the inside mount, the minimum depth required for the valance is 2 1/8” (5.4 cm), with the valance protruding approximately 5/8" inch (4.1 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 3 3/4” (9.5 cm).

For the outside mount, the minimum required length for the flat space above the opening is 3 1/8” (7.9 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the top width inside the window frame and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.

Order at the exact opening size with no deductions.

The factory will apply a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the middle height inside the window frame and round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.

The order height can be slightly larger than the exact opening height, as the length can be fine-tuned by setting the upper and lower limits.

Depth

For the standard valance, the minimum required depth is 3 7/8 inches (9.8 cm).

For the cassette valance, the minimum required depth is 4 inches (10.2 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your harmony duo plus dual shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 1 3/16 inch (3 cm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the top width inside the window frame and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.

ORDER AT THE EXACT OPENING SIZE WITH NO DEDUCTIONS.

Inside mounts are classified as Top Mount and Side Mount.

The default option when placing an order is Top Mount. The factory will make a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

If you prefer a Side Mount, please include a note stating "Side Mount" when placing your order. This ensures the factory provides the corresponding brackets and applies an additional 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) deduction. If no note is provided, it may result in insufficient space for a Side Mount.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the middle height inside the window frame and round up to the nearest 1/8 inch.

Make sure the most exact measurement for the height.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the exact width of the window frame or the desired width for the blind. Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom. Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

Depth

For the inside mount, the minimum required depth is 2 inches (5 cm), with the valance protruding around 1 1/2 inch (3.9 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 3 1/2 inches (8.9 cm).

Comprehensive Description

Before installation, be mindful of obstacles in the window opening, such as cranks or handles, which can impede proper shade installation.

When measuring for your roman shade, remember that the fabric width is typically around 1/8 inch (3 mm) smaller than the valance size (order width) provided.

For more detailed information on gaps and the space between the fabric and the window after installation, please click here to refer to the examples for our comprehensive guide .

Inside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure three separate locations- top, center, and bottom widths of the window frame, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch, and use the smallest measurement as the shade width, ensuring your tape is horizontal for accuracy.

ORDER AT THE EXACT OPENING SIZE WITH NO DEDUCTIONS.

Inside mounts are classified as Top Mount and Side Mount.

The default option when placing an order is Top Mount. The factory will make a small deduction of approximately 5/16 inch (8 mm) during production to ensure a safe and proper installation.

If you prefer a Side Mount, please include a note stating "Side Mount" when placing your order. This ensures the factory provides the corresponding brackets and applies an additional 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) deduction. If no note is provided, it may result in insufficient space for a Side Mount.

Attention: Please check if your windows have a splayed or recessed frame. If they do, measure the shortest width and use that measurement when placing your order; otherwise, the shades may not fit in the frame.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure three separate locations- left, middle, and right heights of the window frame, round down to the nearest 1/8 inch, and use the smallest measurement as the shade height, ensuring your tape is vertical for accuracy.

Make sure the most exact measurement for the height.

If the order height and exact height are not consistent, the shade may not cover the window, or the fabric will stack at the bottom after adjusting the upper and lower limits.

Outside Mount

• Width Measurement

Order width includes the width of the valance.

Measure the exact width of the window frame or the desired width for the blind.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact width is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

• Height Measurement

Order height includes the height of the valance.

Measure the desired height for the blind by measuring from top to bottom.

Adding 3 to 6 inches (7.6 to 15.2 cm) to the exact height is recommended to cover the entire window and provide maximum light coverage.

Depth

For the inside mount, the minimum depth required for the valance is 2” (5 cm), with the valance protruding approximately 3/4 inch (2 cm). It's recommended to have a depth of more than 2 3/4” (7 cm).

How to Measure for Drapery

To ensure a perfect fit for your SmartWings motorized drapery, accurate measurements are crucial. Follow these steps based on your chosen mount type to achieve the best results.

Mount Type 1: Wall to Wall

• Width Measurement

Measure the precise width from wall to wall and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch. Order at the exact opening size with no deductions. It determines the length of the drapery rod.

Note that when fully opened, the drapes will gather to about 20% of the total width (10% fabric stack on each side).

• Height Measurement

Measure from the exact location you want the shades to cover.

The default position of the tracks is 2 inches (5 cm)above the window.

Our factory will automatically deduct 1/2 inch (1.5 cm)from the height to prevent the fabric from dragging on the ground.

Order Height = Fabric Height + 2.5 inches (6.5 cm).

Mount Type 2: Window Trim to Window Trim

• Width Measurement

Measure the precise width of the window trim to the opposite window trim and round down to the nearest 1/8 inch.

Measure your windows precisely and add the following width when ordering drapes to prevent obstruction when fully opened.

For window widths between 59 - 106 inches, add 28 inches.

For window widths between 107 - 162 inches, add 36 inches.

For window widths between 163 - 220 inches, add 44 inches.

• Height Measurement

Measure from the exact location you want the shades to cover.

The default position of the tracks is 2 inches (5 cm)above the window.

Our factory will automatically deduct 1/2 inch (1.5 cm)from the height to prevent the fabric from dragging on the ground.

Order Height = Fabric Height + 2.5 inches (6.5 cm).

How to Measure Corner Windows

For corner windows, measure based on your chosen mount style.

Note: Valance depth varies between shade types. Refer to the product page to confirm the minimum depth requirements. The diagram below uses roller shades as an example.

How to Measure Multiple Shades in One Window

How to Measure Bay Window

If each of your windows is self-contained, meaning that trim or wall space separates them, then you measure each window exactly like any other individual window.

You cannot measure your windows in the normal manner if they are all connected. Valance will eventually collide with one another.

 

Inside Mount:

1. Please ensure that the depth is more than 3 1/8 inches (8 cm) (the depth data of the roller blind square valance is for reference, please refer to the specific data of the selected type of blind and valance).
2. Based on ensuring the depth, refer to the measurement instructions of the inside mount for each blind.

Note: For the inside mount, measure the depth of the window reveal from the front of the architrave to the window. If there are any handles or decorative elements on the window that could obstruct the blind, start measuring from the front of the architrave to the handle or decorative feature. 

 

Outside Mount:

1. Refer to the data in the chart above and determine the minimum inside mount depth for the corresponding type of shade (e.g., the Cassette for Roller Shades is 2 7/16 inches (6.2 cm)).
2. Cut two pieces of cardboard matching the minimum inside mount depth. Use them as guides to visualize the placement of the valance for each shade and ensure they don't overlap or obstruct each other during installation or operation.
3. Position the cardboard pieces so their front edges align at the adjoining corners, then tape them in place as illustrated here.

4. Using a pencil, lightly mark each end of the cardboard pieces where they form an angle and meet in the middle window. Measure the distance between the marks to determine the width of the middle window.

5. From the center marks at the corners of the middle window, measure the width of the window to the right and then to the left edge. Be sure to double-check all your measurements, rounding each window's width to the nearest 1/8 inch. (During production, the factory will apply a small deduction of approximately 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) to ensure a safe and proper installation.