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How To Measure Your Windows For Perfect Installation of Blinds and Window Shades

By Christine Harrell
Jun 26, 2009
If you are thinking about installing window shades or blinds in your home, it is important to get a great fit. And a big part of getting that fit is taking careful and precise measurements. If you do not measure properly, even the best looking set of blinds will not look good. Without proper measurements, shades and window dressings may look uneven, too short, too long, crooked, or just plain tacky.

Taking proper measurements to ensure proper installation isn't rocket science. Any careful person willing to exert the time and effort can ensure themselves great fitting blinds or shades. Doing it right simply takes learning how to take all of the measurements and learning a few tips and tricks along the way. This article explains a few easy tips and tricks of the trade to help you get the best fit for your window dressings.

What You Will Need
The first thing you will need is a tool for taking measurements. Many people would simply grab their tape measure and go from there, but it can result in an imperfect measurement. Using a steel tape measure offers the best method for measuring your window because steel is more rigid and thus much more likely to give you an accurate reading because it won't bend easily. Pencil and paper are also key because you will need to write down all of your measurements. Never try to simply remember, writing it down is the only way to ensure your figures are correct.

How And What To Measure
First, start out by measuring the width of your window. Measure the width to the nearest 1/8" in order to be as accurate as possible. When you have the width measured, re-measure it. Never measure once and call it done. The key to being precise is to check your work for accuracy. Once you are sure of the width, write it down immediately. Never give yourself the time to forget or else you will spend most of the day repeatedly taking the same measurements. When you have tackled the width, you can move on to the length. Once again, measure to the nearest 1/8" and measure twice.

What If You Get Two Different Measurements?
It is quite possible that you will end up with two different numbers for your width, your length, or both when measuring your windows. So what do you do in that case? Well, the answer depends on just how different your measurements are. If they are quite different, then you will want to re-measure one more time. If the numbers are quite close, simply take the smaller measurement and go with that. If the difference is slight, it will not affect the overall look of your blinds or window shades.

Finally, take your measurements to a retailer for help finding the blinds or window shades that will be the perfect addition to your room.
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