How To Measure For Window Treatments Like a Pro

When measuring for custom window treatments be sure to always use a steel tape measure, never use rulers, yardsticks or cloth tapes.

? Always measure to the nearest eighth of an inch, never round up or down to the next whole inch.

? A common mistake is to reverse the width and height when measuring a window. The industry standard is width X height, so always put the width first and the height last. Example given: 36 ¼ X 59 ½, 36 ¼ being the width and 59 ½ being the length.

? Do not take your own deductions, the factory will take it's own deductions for a proper fit. Measure the window opening for an inside mount if the treatment is being mounted inside the window opening. If it is an outside mount, make sure you have added for hardware and any over hang you may want.

When measuring your windows, first decide what type of a mount you want to do. 'Inside' means that you will be installing the treatment inside the window opening. 'Outside' means that you will be installing the treatment outside the window opening. It usually looks better to install the treatment on the inside of the window, however, if your window is out of square, you may want to consider an outside mount to hide the windows imperfections. If you are mounting outside, make sure you have added the proper amount for hardware and over hang. If you are mounting inside, make sure you have enough room to mount the treatment.

If you will be installing horizontal blinds or shades as an inside mount, measure the width in 3 places, top, middle and bottom. Mark down the narrowest width. Then measure the height in 3 different places, left, middle and right. Mark down the longest height. This will assure proper fit of your blind or shade. For an outside mount, measure exactly where you want the blind or shade to fit. Measure the window plus over-hang. For inside mount verticals measure across the top of the window for the width, and take the shortest measurement for the height. Do not add or deduct anything, order the exact size of the window.

For outside mount, measure window and add for over-hang and hardware. Windows with no inside dimension will need an outside mount. As a general rule you will measure the size of the window then add how much overhang you want. If the window is 62 inches wide, and you want the blind to extend 3 inches past on each side, you will need to order it 68 inches wide. If the window is 50 inches in height, and you want the blind to be the same length, your height will be 50 inches. If you want over-hang, add the proper amount of over-hang. If you want the blind to extend 3 inches beyond the height of the window, order the blind 53 inches in height.

For outside mounts you will also have to add for the height of the hardware. This is especially important for outside mount vertical blinds. For the width measure trim to trim (if no trim, measure from casing to casing) then add for how much over-hang you want. For the height measure from the floor to the top of the trim or casing, then add 2 inches for the mounting hardware.

You will only add to the size for outside mount blinds NOT inside mount. Outside Mount applications (in most cases):

? Sliding glass doors, Anderson-style windows, and French doors.

? Shutters are generally easier to install as outside mounts.

? Remember the golden rule "measure twice, cut once".

? Once your order is in production, it cannot be stopped.

? This is a custom made item and cannot be returned, so please take the time to measure your windows properly.

? You are responsible for your own measurements.

Mike Wasdin is a specialist in all facets of home decor. For questions or additional help, visit Decorating Depot or call 866-755-2173

---

Decorating on a Dime

Decorating your home and office can be a challenge if... Read More

Where to Buy Discount Down Comforters

Many people love the look and feel of down comforters,... Read More

Home Decorating Tips - How to Change a Rooms Dimension using Wall Pictures

The Basic Role of Pictures Wall art plays an... Read More

How a Good Bedroom Design Can Boost Your Confidence

Do you know that your bedroom is responsible for who... Read More

Where to Find Unique Shower Curtains

Once upon a time, shower curtains were functional? and they... Read More

The Value of Antique Wood Stoves

Antique wood stoves provide decoration and can still be used... Read More

Decorating on a Shoestring Budget

Right now one of the most popular shows on television... Read More

The Advantages of Wooden Wine Racks

Wood wine racks provide the best storage system for a... Read More

The German Grandfather Clock Tradition

We expect a lot from our clocks. We expect them... Read More

Home Décor for First Timers (no matter what your age)

If you're like most people home décor is a puzzling... Read More

A Look at Vending Massage Chairs

Vending massage chairs are coin-operated devices that can be found... Read More

The Function of Hurricane Shutters

Every part of the world has its share of natural... Read More

How to Choose the Right Air Conditioner Filter

The air filter in an air conditioning system keeps the... Read More

The Art Of Selecting Your Homes Art

Art should be personal. Selecting pieces that you really love... Read More

10 Tips to Care for Your Antique Glassware

Antique glassware needs a gentle hand. This month we'll give... Read More

Decorating Frugally

The trend these days is to discover extremely innovative ways... Read More

Five Quick and Cheap Ways to Decorate for Fall

1. Utilize the "use what you have" theory! Go through... Read More

Go Vintage When Decorating Your Hearth

With the weather cooling, it's time to put on the... Read More

The Importance of Home Air Filters

Many people are not aware that the air inside our... Read More

Luau! Decorating with a Hawaiian Theme

Hawaii is a first choice travel destination with millions of... Read More

Heirloom Decorating

I love to surround myself with things from the past.... Read More

A Review of Popular Ceiling Fan Manufacturers

Nearly every residence has at least one ceiling fan. Ceiling... Read More

Color Determines The Tone Of Your Flowers Arrangements

Color is influential in every aspect of our lives. It... Read More

Beautiful Lighting Tips 101 - A Crash Course in Lighting Design

Many people cannot immediately identify why they may like or... Read More

Decorate Yourself Happy: How to Decorate For Everyday Pleasure/Joy

Because psychologists relate true happiness to joyous occurrences happening frequently,... Read More

An Informative Review of Popular Adjustable Beds

This article provides a detailed review of popular adjustable beds... Read More

Decorate Like You See in Magazines & Books?

Have you ever wondered why interior designers place slippers on... Read More

The Cost of Granite Countertops

The beauty, hardness and utility of granite makes it a... Read More

How to Decorate Spaces for People

When it comes to decorating your home, forget about the... Read More

Do You Need An Interior Designer?

All of us want our homes to be places of... Read More

Magic Carpet Ride?

There are hundreds of choices carpet choices out there! How... Read More

Country Decorating Ideas - Create Warmth and Charm with Country Style Decorating Ideas

Country decorating ideas can help you create a home that... Read More

Buying a Bakers Rack

Bakers racks are a perfect enhancement to any kitchen, whether... Read More