Proper Measurements Vital for Proper Installation
Properly installing window treatments is impossible if the process didn’t begin with proper window measurement. Sadly, many novice shoppers fail to recognize the importance of measurements until it’s 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 yet sure what product you will be looking for you need two sets of measurements. One will be for products that mount above the window. The other set of measurements will be for those products that will be mounted inside the window frame/casing.
For products that mount outside the window casing you need to take three measurements vertically and three measurements horizontally. Don’t do too much estimating or rounding up or down. Take exact measurements; recording the measurements all the way to 1/8 inch. If you decide to purchase and install horizontal blinds you’ll add 3 inches to the length and width measurements. But when mounting vertical blinds products you’ll add 4 inches to the width measurements and 3 inches to the length.
To measure for an inside mount window treatment you will again need to take three measurements vertically and three measurements horizontally. Out of your measurements you should use the longest vertical measurement and the shortest horizontal measurement. Do not round up or down. Take the measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch without any deductions.
If you plan on mounting a window treatment inside a window casing you should have an additional measurement of the depth. The depth measurement should be taken between the interior of the wall and the window. Depth requirements should be included in the list of specifications on any window treatments with interior mount possibilities.
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.
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