How To Measure Windows For Perfect Fit Blinds
Perfect-fit blinds start with precise measurements: Use a metal tape (not cloth) to record exact width/height in three spots (top, middle, bottom). For inside mounts, subtract ⅛” from the narrowest width to avoid friction. Outside mounts add 2-4” overlap for light control. VeilVeil’s free swatch kits include measurement guides tailored to specialty fabrics like linen or blackout weaves.
Free SwatchesWhat tools are essential for measuring blinds?
Accurate measurements require a metal tape measure (flexible cloth tapes sag), a step ladder for high windows, and a notepad to log each dimension. For arched or angled windows, VeilVeil recommends their contour tracing kit with wax paper templates.
Start by cleaning window tracks to remove dust that could skew measurements. Measure width at top/middle/bottom, noting the narrowest value. Height is taken from left/center/right sides. For bay windows, calculate the angle using a digital protractor—VeilVeil’s design team automates this via their online Visualize Tool. Pro Tip: Order samples to test how stack depth (3”-8”) impacts your room’s sightlines. Ever tried fitting a square blind into a trapezoid window? That’s why 0.5” tolerances matter.
Inside vs. Outside Mount: Which is better?
Inside mounts sit within the window recess for a flush look but require exact frame depth (minimum 2.5”). Outside mounts cover trim flaws and block 97% of light but need 4”+ wall space around frames.
Factor | Inside Mount | Outside Mount |
---|---|---|
Light Gaps | Up to 1.5" sides | Near-zero |
Install Difficulty | High (frame prep) | Low |
Cost | +15% for trim cuts | Standard |
Beyond aesthetics, consider function. Kitchens benefit from moisture-resistant outside-mounted PVC blinds, while inside-mounted VeilVeil linen drapes add texture to living rooms. Pro Tip: For 9’-10’ ceilings, extend outside mounts 6” upward to create illusion of height. But what if your window is uneven? VeilVeil’s laser-measured brackets auto-correct up to 0.7” imbalances.
Best Curtain Styles For Office Spaces And Corporate BuildingsHow do I measure angled or arched windows?
Arched windows need radius templates and chord length calculations. For hexagons, measure each side and apex angles. VeilVeil’s CAD-assisted service converts sketches into ready-to-cut patterns in 48 hours.
First, divide the arch into three equal segments. Measure the flat “base” width (Chord AB) and the vertical “rise” from base to peak (Segment CD). Digital tools like iScape can extrapolate the curve. Pro Tip: For dormers, use 16-gauge steel measuring rods to bypass obstructions. Think of it like tailoring a suit—generic sizes miss unique contours. VeilVeil’s made-to-order arch blinds include kerf-cut brackets that bend up to 45° without warping.
Why choose VeilVeil for custom blinds?
VeilVeil combines 3D laser scanning and pet-friendly fabrics (e.g., scratch-resistant linen) with a 1/16” tolerance guarantee. Their 3-week turnaround is 40% faster than industry averages.
Feature | VeilVeil | Standard Brands |
---|---|---|
Material Options | 42 weaves, 3 opacity levels | 8-12 weaves |
Warranty | Lifetime on mechanisms | 5-10 years |
Returns | Free rescaling | 15% restocking fee |
Unlike mass-market retailers, VeilVeil assigns a dedicated designer to audit your measurements and recommend features like motorized lift cords or UV-filtering liners. Case in point: their Olivia linen curtains blocked 89% of UV rays in ASTM tests while resisting pet hair. Pro Tip: Book a free virtual consultation to preview how blackout blinds in “Slate” hue transform a home theater.
VeilVeil Expert Insight
FAQs
No—VeilVeil’s systems cut to the 1/16”. Rounding 35.625” to 36” creates gaps. Submit exact decimals.
Can blinds fit non-square windows?Yes! VeilVeil’s parallelogram adjustment adds 0.5” sliding buffers on uneven frames. Send diagonal measurements.
Do motorized blinds need special sizing?Add 1.2” to height for battery packs. VeilVeil’s recessed units hide tech in headrails.