How Much Smaller Should Blinds Be Than The Window? A Guide to Measuring Blinds

Blinds are a great way to add style, privacy and light control to your windows. But before you order your blinds, you need to measure your windows correctly. This will ensure that your blinds fit well and look good.

One of the most common questions that people have when measuring for blinds is how much smaller should blinds be than the window. The answer depends on whether you want an inside mount or an outside mount for your blinds.

An inside mount means that your blinds will fit within the window frame, creating a neat and tidy look. An outside mount means that your blinds will cover the entire window opening or beyond, creating a more dramatic and expansive look.

In this guide, we will show you how to measure for both inside mount and outside mount blinds, and how much smaller they should be than the window.

Blinds should be smaller than the window by the following amounts:

• For inside mount, width should be at least 1/8 inch narrower than the smallest measurement of the window opening. Height should be at least 1/4 inch shorter than the longest measurement of the window opening. No deductions are needed when ordering.
• For outside mount, width should be at least 3 inches wider than the window frame or the area you want to cover. Height should be at least 4 inches longer than the window frame or the area you want to cover. A 1/4 inch deduction is needed for end mount brackets when ordering.

How to Measure for Inside Mount Blinds

If you want an inside mount for your blinds, follow these steps:

• Measure the depth of your window frame, from the front of the opening to the glass. You’ll need this measurement to ensure your window has enough depth to accommodate the headrail and the slats of your blinds. The minimum depth requirement varies depending on the type and size of your blinds, but it is usually between 1 inch and 3 inches.
• Measure the width of your window opening at three different places: top, middle, and bottom. Use a steel tape measure for accuracy and round to the nearest 1/8 inch. Use the smallest measurement as your width measurement.
• Measure the height of your window opening at three different places: left, center, and right. Use a steel tape measure for accuracy and round to the nearest 1/8 inch. Use the longest measurement as your height measurement.
• Order your blinds at the exact measurements you took with no deductions taken. The manufacturer will make any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit.

How to Measure for Outside Mount Blinds

If you want an outside mount for your blinds, follow these steps:

• Measure the width of your window frame or the area you want to cover with your blinds. Add at least 1.5 inches on each side for overlap and light control. This is your width measurement.
• Measure the height of your window frame or the area you want to cover with your blinds. Add at least 2 inches on top for mounting brackets and at least 1 inch on bottom for clearance. This is your height measurement.
• Take a 1/4 inch deduction from your width measurement if you plan to use end mount brackets instead of standard brackets. End mount brackets allow you to mount your blinds on the side of the window frame or wall, which may be necessary if you have limited space above or below your window.
• Order your blinds at the size you measured with no deductions taken. The manufacturer will make your blinds exactly as ordered.

FAQs

Q: How do I choose the right type and size of blinds for my windows?

A: There are many types and sizes of blinds available, such as roller blinds, roman blinds, venetian blinds, vertical blinds, and more. The best type and size of blinds for your windows depend on your personal preference, window style and size, and light control needs. You can browse our selection of blinds online or visit our showroom to see them in person.

Q: How do I install my blinds?

A: Installing blinds is easy and can be done with some basic tools and skills. You’ll need a drill, a screwdriver, a level, a pencil, and a tape measure. You’ll also need the mounting brackets, screws, and hardware that come with your blinds. Follow the instructions that come with your blinds, or watch our video guides on how to install inside mount blinds and how to install outside mount blinds.

Q: How do I operate my blinds?

A: Operating blinds is simple and convenient. You can use the cord or wand to tilt the slats open or closed, or to raise or lower the blinds. You can also choose cordless or motorized options for more safety and convenience. Cordless blinds have a lift mechanism that allows you to raise or lower the blinds by pushing or pulling on the bottom rail. Motorized blinds have a remote control that allows you to adjust the blinds with the touch of a button.

Conclusion

Blinds are a great way to add style, privacy and light control to your windows. But before you order your blinds, you need to measure your windows correctly. This will ensure that your blinds fit well and look good.

One of the most common questions that people have when measuring for blinds is how much smaller should blinds be than the window. The answer depends on whether you want an inside mount or an outside mount for your blinds.

In this guide, we showed you how to measure for both inside mount and outside mount blinds, and how much smaller they should be than the window.

Dale

Dale is the colorful mind behind HuetifulHomes.com, where he shows you how to create a home that is as fun and fabulous as you are. He has a passion for color and a knack for DIY, with years of interior design experience he shares his tips and tricks on how to create a home that reflects your personality and style. He believes that color is the key to happiness, and he wants to help you make your home more Huetiful.