Measuring your windows correctly is one of the most important steps when choosing new blinds. Accurate measurements help ensure your blinds fit neatly, operate properly and look right once installed.
Whether you are choosing roller blinds, Roman blinds, Venetian blinds or another style, this guide explains how to measure windows for blinds and what to consider before ordering.
For the best result, Brighton Sunblinds offers a professional measuring and fitting service, giving you confidence that your made-to-measure blinds will be designed to suit your windows perfectly.
Before you start measuring
Before measuring for blinds, you need to decide whether the blind will sit inside the window recess or outside the recess.
A recess fit means the blind sits inside the window opening. This creates a neat, built-in look and is a popular choice for roller blinds and many made-to-measure blinds.
An exact fit, sometimes called a face fit, means the blind sits outside the recess and overlaps the wall around the window. This can help reduce light gaps and may be better if the recess is too shallow or obstructed by handles, tiles or uneven surfaces.
What you need to measure windows for blinds
You will need a metal tape measure, a pencil and paper or a notes app. A metal tape measure is best because fabric or flexible tape measures can stretch and give less accurate results.
Measure in millimetres for greater accuracy. Always check your measurements more than once before placing an order.
How to measure for blinds inside a recess
To measure for blinds inside a window recess, measure the width of the recess in three places: the top, middle and bottom.
Use the smallest width measurement. This helps make sure the blind can fit inside the recess, even if the window opening is not perfectly even.
Next, measure the drop in three places: the left, middle and right.
Use the smallest drop measurement.
These measurements give the size of the recess. Depending on the blind type and supplier, an allowance may be made so the blind fits and operates correctly.
How to measure for blinds outside a recess
To measure for blinds outside the recess, decide how much you want the blind to overlap the window on each side.
As a general rule, allowing an overlap can help improve privacy and reduce light gaps. The exact overlap depends on the window, the blind style and the surrounding wall space.
Measure the full width you want the blind to cover. Then measure the full drop from where the blind will be fitted down to where you want it to finish.
For roller blinds, remember to consider the position of the brackets and the roll of fabric at the top.
How to measure for roller blinds
Roller blinds are a popular choice because they are practical, simple and suitable for many rooms.
If fitting roller blinds inside the recess, measure the recess width and drop in three places and use the smallest measurements.
If fitting roller blinds outside the recess, measure the area you want the fabric to cover, including any overlap.
It is worth noting that the fabric width of a roller blind is usually slightly narrower than the overall bracket-to-bracket width. This is one reason professional measuring can be helpful, particularly if you want to reduce light gaps.
Common measuring mistakes to avoid
One of the most common mistakes is only measuring the window once. Many windows are not perfectly square, especially in older properties, so it is important to measure in several places.
Another mistake is using the largest measurement for a recess fit. If you do this, the blind may be too wide or too long for the window opening.
It is also important to check for handles, tiles, radiators, inward-opening windows and other obstacles that could affect how the blind fits or operates.
Finally, avoid rounding measurements too much. Small differences can affect the final fit of made-to-measure blinds.
Should blinds go inside or outside the recess?
Both options can work well.
Inside-recess blinds create a clean and tidy finish. They are a good choice when the recess is deep enough and free from obstructions.
Outside-recess blinds can make the window look larger and may provide better coverage. They are often a good choice for bedrooms, blackout blinds or windows where reducing light gaps is important.
If you are unsure, a blinds specialist can advise which option is best for your window and room.
Why choose made-to-measure blinds?
Made-to-measure blinds are designed to fit your specific windows. This gives a more polished finish than off-the-shelf blinds and can improve everyday use.
They are especially useful for unusual window sizes, older properties, bay windows and rooms where appearance and performance both matter.
With made-to-measure blinds, you also have more choice over fabrics, colours, materials and operating systems.
Professional measuring from Brighton Sunblinds
Measuring windows for blinds can be straightforward, but it needs to be accurate. A small error can affect how the blind fits, looks and operates.
Brighton Sunblinds offers expert advice, measuring and fitting for made-to-measure blinds across a wide range of styles, including roller blinds.
Our team can help you choose the right blind type, measure your windows correctly and ensure everything is installed to a high standard.
Get help choosing and measuring your blinds
If you are planning to update your window blinds, accurate measuring is the best place to start.
Whether you are interested in roller blinds, blackout blinds, Roman blinds or another style, Brighton Sunblinds can help you choose a made-to-measure solution that suits your home.
Contact Brighton Sunblinds for friendly advice and professional measuring for your new blinds.
To explore your options, speak to Brighton Sunblinds about made-to-measure roller blinds and Roman blinds for your home in Brighton, Hove an Sussex.
Check out our blind installation and products today!
💬 Or get in touch to book a consultation:
📞 01273 608208
📧 sales@brightonsunblinds.co.uk