• Always use a steel tape measure for accuracy.
• Round each measurement to the nearest 1/8”.
• To eliminate errors, always measure the width first and write it down, then measure the height next and write it down.
• Always measure at least twice before recording your final measurement.
• Two windows may appear to be the same size, but rarely have the identical measurements. Take separate measurements for each window.
• Do not take any deductions from your measurements. The manufacturer will make any necessary deductions.

Minimum mounting depth is the depth required to mount the headrail inside the window opening. Part of the blind or shade may protrude out from the window opening.

Flush Mount minimum depth is the depth required to mount the headrail inside the window opening so the blind or shade is completely recessed and no part of the headrail extends out from the window opening.

Minimum and Flush Mount depth requirements for each type of blind or shade are listed in the specifications tab of each type of window covering.

Horizontal Blinds and Shades

Inside Mount Measure the exact width inside of the window opening in three places - top, middle and bottom. Use the narrowest measurement. (except roller shades - use the top measurement). Measure the exact height inside of the window opening in three places - left, middle and right. Use the longest measurement. DO NOT take any deductions from your measurements. The manufacturer will make the necessary deductions.

Outside Mount For windows without molding, measure the width of the opening and add at least 1-1/2” overlap to each side (3” total overlap). For windows with molding of at least 1-1/2”, you may measure from outside edge to outside edge of the trim. For Solar & Roller Shades, make sure the measurement overlaps the window by at least 2-1/4” on each side to ensure light control and privacy. When measuring the height, you will typically add at least 1-1/2” above and below the window opening (3” total). We do not recommend mounting window coverings directly onto wood trim, but instead, suggest mounting the brackets directly above the wood trim. In this case, you will need to add at least 1-1/2” to the top of the wood trim. You will also need to order spacer blocks or extension brackets to allow the headrail to clear the wood trim. For windows with a sill that extends from the window opening, measure the height down to the sill. No additional overlap is necessary at the bottom of the window.

Vertical Blinds and Shades

Inside Mount

• Measure the exact width at the top of the window opening.
• Measure the exact height inside of the window opening in three places - left, middle and right. Use the shortest measurement.
• DO NOT take any deductions from your measurements. The manufacturer will make the necessary deductions.

Outside Mount

• Measure the width of the opening and add 4” overlap to each side (8” total overlap) to ensure light control and privacy.
• For an unobstructed view, check the Vertical Stacking Chart to determine the overlap needed to completely clear the window or door opening when the vertical is fully opened. Make sure the additional required space on each side of the window or door is available.
• Measure the height of the opening and add at least 3” above the window opening or wood trim and below the opening (6” total overlap). For verticals extending to the floor, deduct 1/2” from the bottom (clearance so the louvers will not touch the floor). Remember to still add the top overlap amount to the opening measurement.
• For windows with a sill that extends from the window opening, measure the height down to the sill and deduct 1/2”. No additional overlap is necessary at the bottom of the window.

French Doors

• Measure the width of the glass pane area and add any additional space available without interfering with the door handles. There is usually at least 1” on each side. If available, add a 2” overlap on each side (total 4” overlap) of the glass pane area.
• Measure the height of the glass pane area and add at least 2” to the top and bottom (total 4” overlap) to allow for the mounting hardware and privacy coverage.
• Window coverings for this situation are typically ordered with hold-down brackets.