Measuring for New Window Treatments
So you’ve decided to upgrade the way you cover your windows and look into custom Hunter Douglas window treatments. The style and function of custom window coverings is a significant upgrade to big box store window treatments. You can choose the style, colors, and material to create shades or blinds that are a perfect fit. That is, if they fit perfectly. The experts at Rachel Brosky Interiors have gathered some tips to make measuring for your new window treatments easy.
First Things First
Make sure you’re using a steel measuring tape for better accurace because a flimsy cloth tape won’t do you any favors while you’re trying to measure. Next, decide if you want an inside or outside mount for your blinds or shades. Most window coverings can use either mount, so it ultimately boils down to preference and available mounting depth.
Inside or Outside?
As the name suggests, an inside mount places your shades or blinds within the window frame. Your window coverings stay flush with the walls for a clean, polished appearance. The only real barrier to this mount type is insufficient mounting depth, but you can measure that, too. The depth must be enough to accommodate the necessary hardware. Inside mounted shades also provide some insulation because less unwanted air can move around the edges of the window covering.
Outside mounted blinds are installed beyond the edges of the frame, usually on the walls, molding, or ceiling. An outside mount is more versatile because you can extend the edges of your drapes, shades, or blinds several inches beyond the window. This can make your windows and room appear larger. You can also use this mount to hide unattractive molding or any architectural mishaps that haven’t been addressed yet. The only requirement is at least two inches of flat space above the window for proper placement of mounting brackets.
Bust Out the Measuring Tape
Once you know what mount you’re measuring for, grab your measuring tape and get to it. The measuring process is quite different depending on the mount you’re using.
For an inside mount, you need to measure the window's width at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest number and round down to the nearest ⅛”. Measure your window’s height at the left, middle, and right. Go with the smallest measurement and round down to the nearest ⅛”. Why do you need three measurements? Much like the saying “Measure twice, cut once.”, taking three measurements will account for any user error and minor differences in the size of the window.
Outside mounts require you to measure the space you would like to cover. Start with the center width and add at least three inches to either side to eliminate any bothersome light gaps. Next up is the center height. Make sure to include any extra overlap and remember that shades with different sizes may have minor variations. Keep this in mind if you’re going for a completely uniform look.
Contact Us
Are you ready to measure your windows? Bring your measurements to the window treatment specialists at Rachel Brosky Interiors and we’ll help you find the perfect Hunter Douglas window coverings for your home. Or let us measure for you! We also offer other interior design services, including custom bedding, rugs, and wallpaper. Contact us today to schedule your in-home consultation. You can find us in Elizabethtown, KY. We happily serve the areas of Elizabethtown, Brandenburg, Vine Grove, and Bowling Green, KY.
