blinds

How to measure for Blinds

Welcome to our comprehensive measuring guide for DIY blinds. Correct measuring is the key to easy, hassle-free installation. So, it's worth taking the time to get it right.

But, before diving into the measuring guide, there are a few key considerations listed below that you may find useful to know about first - just click on any of them to find out more.

After that's done, gather your tools: a metal tape measure, a pencil and paper for jotting down measurements, and if needed, a sturdy step ladder for reaching higher areas. 

With everything prepared, let's begin!

Things to consider before starting...

When should I recess fit?
If your window frame has enough depth to accommodate the blind without any obstructions, and you love a streamlined, integrated look where the blind fits neatly within the frame, a recess fit is perfect for you. It maintains the charm of your decorative window trim or moldings, and maximizes space by keeping the blind flush with the window.
When should I face fit?
If your window frame isn't deep enough for a recess fit, and you want to make your window appear larger or hide unattractive frames, a face fit is the way to go. This option blocks out more light by covering the entire window opening, and is perfect if there are obstructions like handles or security sensors within the window recess.
Why do I need to measure in three places?
When measuring for blinds, it's essential to measure in three places—top, middle, and bottom—for both width and height. This ensures you get the most accurate fit, as windows can often be slightly irregular or not perfectly square.

Measuring your window

Going for a recess fitting keeps your blinds tucked away neatly within the window recess. Just remember to check the depth of your recess before committing as not all windows are deep enough to contain the entire blind. Check out the details below for the depth requirements for recess fitting blinds.

Check your depth

Make sure your recess has enough depth to accommodate the blind, and be mindful of any obstacles like window handles. Consider their placement to achieve a flawless fit.

Not all windows are deep enough to cover the entire blind. Check out the list below for the depth requirements for recess fitting blinds.

1. Measure the width

For a recess fitting blind, measure the width inside your window frame (in millimeters) at the top, middle, and bottom. Record the smallest measurement of the three.

Please note: this measurement allows for both the blind fabric and the fitting brackets.

2. Measure the drop

Next, measure the exact height of the window recess. Again take three measurements – the left, middle and right and record the smallest measurement. If you notice a difference of 10mm or more from one of the three drop measurements to another, you have an uneven window frame. In this situation, we recommend contacting us as we will need to talk you through some options before you continue.

Please note: there’s no need to make any of your own deductions before you place an order. We'll do this for you.

Face fitting is where the blind sits outside the window frame recess (essentially covering the frame itself). It’s important to note the measurements for the width of a face-fitting blind will be from bracket-to-bracket.

1. Measure the width

To measure for face fitting blinds, measure the outside width of the window, recording the exact width you want your blind manufactured. For frameless windows, we suggest extending about 50mm past the recess edges on each side (as per the visual below).

Please note: For windows with architraves, we recommend measuring to the outer edge of the frame on each side.

2. Measure the drop

Next measure the outside height of the window frame, starting from the point at which you’d like your blind to sit above the window, down to the point at which you’d like your blind to finish.

Please note: We recommend the top of the blind starts approximately 50mm above the window.

Blind type
Required recess depth
Aluminium Venetian Blind

25mm

Cellular Blind

40mm

Double Roller Blind

90mm

Roller Blind

65mm

Roman Blind

We only recommend face fixing for Roman Blinds.

Venetian Blind

55mm

Vertical Blind

35mm