How to Measure for an Inside Mount Wood or Faux Wood Blind

These instructions are designed to help you accurately measure for wood blinds and faux wood blinds. Blinds can be installed one of two ways: inside the window frame, which is called inside mount and outside the window frame on the wall, which is termed outside mount.  For the purposes of this article we will focus on the most common application which is the inside mount option.

Inside Mount Window Measuring

For your best look, the exact window opening measurements should be given for all blinds to be mounted inside the window casing.

First, measure the width (left to right) at the top.  This is the most important measure but it is wise to check several the middle and bottom width of the window to ensure that you do not have more than 1/2" variation.  For instance, if the top width is 72" and the bottom width is 71 3/4", you are okay ordering at 72" IM.  The blind will actually be made to 71 1/2".  So as long as you don't have a size equal to or smaller than 71 1/2" you will have a good fit, and the blind should not get bound up when raising and lowering it.

Second, measure the height (up to down) at the center.

Third, measure the window depth (the distance from the front of the window casing to the front of the window glass or window frame).   With enough sill depth, your blind will not take up wall space and the blind does not significantly project into the room, making it easy to use fabric treatments on the top, if desired.  

With this type of mounting, your window frame will be exposed. This is usually preferred when the frame itself is an architectural feature.

No worries, provide the actual window opening size and a reduction in the width and/or height will be taken at the factory to allow for proper operating clearance for the blind. Know this, most windows are not perfectly square. This fact, together with the standard factory operating clearance deductions, will result in some light gaps between the sides of the blind and the window casing.

Basic Measuring Guidelines

Please use a steel tape measure for accuracy. Preferably use a wide steel tape measure for greater precision.  For widths longer than an arm span, someone should assist in holding the tape measure.  Every measurement should be recorded as it is taken. Two measurements should never be taken and then written down because it is hard to remember which was which.

The width should always be recorded first, then the length. This is standard throughout the window covering industry. Measurements must be recorded in inches, never feet and recorded to the nearest 1/8".

We hope this helps you conceive of how to consider applying wood and faux wood blinds to your inside mount windows.

Of course, we can help you with all of this and we would love to help you with your wood or faux wood blind project.  Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!

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