Faux wood blinds are a popular choice for window treatments because they offer the look and feel of real wood at a fraction of the cost. They are also durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture and warping. But before you order your faux wood blinds, you need to measure your windows correctly to ensure a perfect fit and a beautiful result. Measuring for faux wood blinds is not difficult, but it does require some attention to detail and accuracy. In this post, we will show you how to measure for faux wood blinds in a few simple steps.
How to measure for faux wood blinds?
To measure for faux wood blinds, you need to decide if you want an inside mount or an outside mount. Inside mount fits within the window frame, while outside mount covers the entire window opening. Use a steel tape measure for the most accurate measurements. Measure width first and height second, and round to the nearest 1/8 inch. For inside mount, measure the depth, width, and height of your window frame in three places: left, center, and right. Order at the exact opening size with no deductions taken. For outside mount, measure the width and height of the trim or the area you want to cover. Add at least 1.5 inches on each side for overlap and light control. Take a 1/4 inch deduction from the width for end mount brackets.
Step 1: Choose your mount type
The first thing you need to do is to decide whether you want an inside mount or an outside mount for your faux wood blinds. This will affect how you measure your windows and how your blinds will look and function.
- Inside mount: This means that your blinds will be installed inside the window frame or casing. This gives a sleek, clean look that showcases your window size and moldings. It also allows you to use other window treatments like curtains or valances on top of your blinds. However, an inside mount requires enough depth in your window frame to accommodate the headrail and slats of your blinds. You also need to consider any obstructions like handles or locks that may interfere with your blinds.
- Outside mount: This means that your blinds will be installed outside the window frame or casing, covering the entire window opening or more. This is a good option if your window frame is too shallow or has obstructions for an inside mount. It also helps to minimize light gaps around the edges of your blinds, giving you better light control and privacy. However, an outside mount may make your window appear smaller or block some of your view.
Step 2: Use a steel tape measure
The next thing you need to do is to use a steel tape measure for the most accurate measurements. Do not use a cloth tape measure or a ruler, as they may stretch or bend and give you incorrect measurements. Also, make sure you measure width first and height second, and round to the nearest 1/8 inch. Do not make any deductions or allowances on your own, as the factory will do that for you based on your mount type.
Step 3: Measure for inside mount
If you have chosen an inside mount for your faux wood blinds, follow these steps to measure your windows:
- Measure the depth of your window frame from the front of the opening to the glass. You need this measurement to ensure that your window frame has enough depth to accommodate your blinds. Refer to the product specifications of your chosen blinds to check the minimum depth requirement for an inside mount.
- Measure the width of your window frame in three places: at the top, middle, and bottom of the opening, from edge to edge. Record the smallest measurement of the three to the nearest 1/8 inch. This is the width you will order for your blinds.
- Measure the height of your window frame in three places: at the left, center, and right of the opening, from top edge to bottom edge. Record the largest measurement of the three to the nearest 1/8 inch. This is the height you will order for your blinds.
- Order at the exact opening size with no deductions taken. The factory will take small deductions during production to ensure that your blinds fit properly within your window frame.
Step 4: Measure for outside mount
If you have chosen an outside mount for your faux wood blinds, follow these steps to measure your windows:
- Measure the width of your window trim or the area you want to cover with your blinds. We recommend adding at least 1.5 inches on each side of the window opening for overlap and light control. Record this measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch. This is the width you will order for your blinds.
- Measure the height of your window trim or the area you want to cover with your blinds. We recommend adding at least 1.5 inches above the window opening for the headrail and at least 1.5 inches below the window sill or the desired length for your blinds. Record this measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch. This is the height you will order for your blinds.
- Take a 1/4 inch deduction from the width measurement for end mount brackets. These are optional brackets that allow you to mount your blinds on the wall or trim instead of the ceiling or top of the window frame. This will give you more clearance and a better fit for your blinds.
FAQs
Q: How do I measure for bay or corner windows?
A: For bay or corner windows, you need to measure each window separately and order individual blinds for each section. You also need to consider the angle and depth of your windows and adjust your measurements accordingly. For more details, please refer to our guide on how to measure for bay or corner windows.
Q: How do I measure for arch or specialty shape windows?
A: For arch or specialty shape windows, you need to measure the width and height of your window at the widest and tallest points. You also need to indicate the shape and style of your window, such as half circle, eyebrow, octagon, etc. For more details, please refer to our guide on how to measure for arch or specialty shape windows.
Q: How do I measure for multiple blinds on one headrail?
A: For multiple blinds on one headrail, you need to measure the overall width and height of your window as if you were ordering a single blind. You also need to specify how many blinds you want on one headrail and the individual widths of each blind. The factory will divide the overall width by the number of blinds and make adjustments as needed. For more details, please refer to our guide on how to measure for multiple blinds on one headrail.
Final Thoughts
Faux wood blinds are a great way to enhance your home with style and functionality. But before you order them, you need to measure your windows correctly to ensure a perfect fit and a beautiful result. Measuring for faux wood blinds is not difficult, but it does require some attention to detail and accuracy. By following these simple steps, you can measure for faux wood blinds like a pro and enjoy your new window treatments in no time. Happy measuring!?