Measuring Your Windows for Roller Shades

When it comes to window treatments, one of the smartest, most economical choices you will make are installing discount roller shades. You can substantially lower your cooling and heating costs of your home when you choose roller shades that have a reflective coating on both sides. Discount roller shades are a maintenance-free, cost-effective and highly durable way to cover your windows. Here are some steps to take for measuring your windows before you install your roller blinds.

Step 1 – Choose Your Tape Measure Carefully

The discount roller shades installed in your home need to be measured accurately to increase the energy-efficiency of your home. Try not to use a cloth tape to measure for blinds as they tend to stretch when they are pulled. Steep tape measures provide the most accurate results. You should also ask a friend or a family member to help you out.

Step 2. Define the Depth of the Recess

If you window has a recess, define its depth. If its depth is less than 2.5” deep, the discount roller shades will to be mounted inside the recess. Check that there are no other obstructions that would prevent the blinds from opening with each and make sure that your windows open outwards.

Step 3. Inside the Recess

You can measure the width and height of the recess, if it more than 2.5” deep and your windows open outwards. When you buy discount roller shades either at a store or online, your will arrive at your home with a few alterations to the measurements that you have provided. This ensures that the blinds fit in the recess well. The width of the cloth will always be about an inch shorter on either side, due to the brackets. Measure the width in multiple places and quote the smallest measurement.

Step 4. Outside the Recess

Your decision is a bit simpler if you are measuring to fit discount roller shades outside your window frames as you don’t have to worry about whether the blinds will be able to open or close properly. You must make a decision as to how much you want your window width to be overlapped by the shades. In most cases, an overlap of about 2.5” is suggested. To make it look more aesthetically appealing, fix the blinds around 2.5” above the top of your window frame so that when the blinds retract, it won’t overhang the window.

Step 5. Start Shopping

Now that your measurement has been completed, it’s time to start shopping for new shades! You can find a supplier near you or shop online for the best deals on discount roller shades at Payless Decor. You should order you blinds in the accurate height and width of the windows in your home so that you obtain the best thermal insulation possible. If you blinds are too short or too narrow, they will let heat and cool air pass around its outer edges more easily.

Article by Jamal Dickson