How to Measure Your Windows for Custom Blinds: A Step-by-Step Guide

Getting an accurate measurement is the single most important step in ordering custom blinds. Even a small mistake of a few millimetres can mean gaps around the frame, blinds that stick, or a fit that simply doesn’t look right. Whether you’re planning to measure your own windows or book a free in-home measurement with our Edmonton team, it helps to understand how the process works.

All you need to get started is a steel measuring tape (not a fabric one, which can stretch), a pencil, and a notepad. Measure each window separately, even if they look identical, since older homes especially can have small variations from window to window.

Measuring for an Inside Mount

Width

Measure the width of the window opening at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame. Window frames are rarely perfectly square, so use the narrowest of the three measurements to make sure your blinds will fit without forcing.

Height

Measure the height on the left side, center, and right side of the opening, from the top of the frame down to the sill. Use the longest of the three measurements so the blind fully covers the window when lowered.

Measuring for an Outside Mount

If you’re mounting blinds outside the window frame, on the wall or trim, measure the exact width and height you want the finished blind to cover. Most homeowners add 2 to 3 inches of overlap on each side of the window opening for better light and privacy control.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

The most common issues we see are measuring only once instead of at three points, using a cloth tape measure that stretches, and forgetting to account for existing hardware like handles or cranks that could interfere with the blind’s operation.

If you’d rather skip the guesswork, HighEnd Blinds offers free in-home measurements across Edmonton and the surrounding area. Our team measures every window precisely and walks you through your options on the spot, so your custom blinds fit perfectly the first time.