How to Measure for Mini Blinds.

Measuring for window treatments is simple of you follow a few basic rules.  First, identify whether you have secure trim along the top edge of your window at least 3/4” in width.  The wider the better.  If you do not have secure trim, meaning that you can fasten the blinds to the trim and it will support up to 40lbs of weight, then you will need to measure an equal distance from above the trim on the wall in each case.  Most blinds weigh a lot less than 40lbs, but we must compensate for the pulling force on the draw cord plus friction added to the actual weight of the blinds to be sure you’re choosing a secure enough anchor point.  40lbs is a good general guideline for most windows.

It is not preferable to hang blinds from the wall above unless you have several windows being shaded by the same blind and/or if you’re planning to purchase vertical hanging blinds. 

 

 

In most cases if you do not have sufficient anchoring space inside the window frame you can fasten them to the above trim, but it is recommended that you purchase a set of longer screws in addition so that you can reach the wall studs through the trim and plaster or drywall.

Measure from the bottom of the window sill up to the top fastening point.  This will be either to the inner-top surface of the trim or some point on the wall above.  Add two inches to this measurement to allow for weight to rest on the sill when the blinds are closed.  

For your width, measure the inside width of the window, just inside the trim.  Measure horizontally from left to right at the bottom of the window and again at the top of the window.  Deduct ½ inch from the smallest measurement and this is your preferred width.   Take a measurement from the left or right side trim to the “daylight” edge of the window at the edge where the glass appears.  Subtract 1 1/2 inches from this measurement.  

Your preferred width was determined by subtracting 1/2 inch from the overall width inside the window trim.  If you’re planning to purchase blinds from a store and they do not sell your “preferred” width, another option is choosing a narrower blind.  Here are some helpful hints:

Take a measurement from the left or right side trim to the “daylight” edge of the window at the edge where the glass appears.  Subtract 1 1/2 inches from this measurement. 

The blinds must overlap the glass at least by 3/4” on each side to be effective.  Also, the narrower your blinds get in comparison to the window opening size, the more unattractive and unfitting your blinds will appear when they are installed.   If you deduct 1 1/2” from the distance from the window trim to the “daylight” mark and then subtract that number from your overall width, this will give you a minimum width that your blinds need to be. 

If you do not have more than a 1 1/2 inch space from trim-to-daylight then you will need blinds that really fit your above measured “preferred width”.

Repeat this process for each window and you should be ready to order or purchase your blinds.