How to Measure & Install Your Blinds, Shades, and Shutters
MEASURING
Please click on the window treatment you would like measuring instructions for below. A PDF document of each product's measuring instruction sheet will come up on your screen (if you do not have Adobe Reader, you will have to download Adobe Reader to view these instructions). You may choose to open it to print now or save it to your computer to print later.
MEASURING TIPS
Choosing Inside or Outside Mount [+]
Inside Mount
Inside mounted window coverings are confined within the
window frame and are the most popular choice. This provides a clean, finished look that does not cover
your window frame molding, giving you a built-in look. It is ideal for
the first layer of a multi-layered window décor.
Outside Mount
Outside mounted window coverings are mounted to the
wall or molding outside of the window frame. Common reasons to use
an outside mount are for windows with a shallow frame depth, an out
of square window, or to make the window look larger.
Things to Consider When Choosing Inside/Outside Mount [+]
Obstacles
Look for anything that may obstruct the operation or placement of the window covering. This includes window controls such as cranks, handles, and latches. If obstacles are present, then you may want to consider an outside mount.
Frame Depth
The frame depth is an important consideration for an Inside Mount. A window frame that is at least 2" deep is sufficient for most blinds, shades, and shutters. If your window frame is not deep enough, then you may consider an Outside Mount. Please see the product specifications listed for each category on our product information pages. This will help you determine the best mounting option for your window.
Squareness
Your window should be square for inside mount, otherwise
the blind, shade, or shutter may not function or hang properly. If your window
is out of square, then an outside mount is your best option. This is especially important for shutters.
Mounting Surface
An Inside Mount requires a flat surface in the top of the window frame. An Outside Mount requires at least 2” of flat surface above or on each side of the window.
If You Have Chosen Outside Mount [+]
Please follow the specific measuring instructions for your desired product type at the top of this page. When Outside Mount is specified on the order, the window treatment will be made to the exact size you have specified. Please be sure to specify any extension brackets needed to clear obstacles, etc. when you place your order in our Customize & Buy section.
For Vertical Blinds, please see the Stack Width chart in the product specifications to determine how much of your window opening will be covered by the stacking of the window treatment. This is especially helpful for patio doors and large windows.
If You Have Chosen Inside Mount [+]
Please follow the specific measuring instructions for your desired product type at the top of this page. When Inside Mount is specified on the order, the window treatment will be made ½” smaller, on all products except shutters, than the size you specify in order for the blind to have proper operating clearance. Please do not take a deduction on your window sizes, as this will be done at the factory.
INSTALLATION AND TROUBLESHOOTING
Please click on the window treatment you would like installation instructions for below. A PDF document of each product's installation instruction sheet will come up on your screen. You may choose to print it now or save it to your computer to print later.
TROUBLESHOOTING
