We often get messages via our Contact Us Page requesting specific advice regarding measuring windows so we thought it might be a god idea to have a look in hopefully answer some questions in advance that you may have.
No doubt you have heard the saying “measure twice and cut once.” There is no need to worry about the “cutting” as we at Contour Blinds will made your blinds to your exact sizes, but as you can image, to start off, the correct sizes are pretty important.
Things You Should Know Before You Start Measuring
- Always use a steel measuring tape.
- For a perfect fit always measure to the nearest millimetre.
- Always measure from Left side to the Right side of your window or door.
- Always measure the WIDTH FIRST in three places and write down the smallest width before you go on the take the HEIGHT measurement. Again, measure in three places and record the size.
- Always clearly indicate which measurement is the WIDTH and which is the HEIGHT. It is very common to swap measurements if you are not careful, so always indicate the WIDTH measurement first, then the HEIGHT last (W x H).
- IMPORTANT. Always measure all windows, even those windows that appear to be the same width and height.
We will custom make your blinds to the sizes you write on the order. If these sizes are not correct it is impossible to change the blind(s) so please take your time and double check your measurements before ordering.
Window Recess Fitting
This is the measurement you need to take if you want your blind to fit inside the window recess.
Measure the full width and height of the recess [the size of the hole if you like] and we will make the appropriate deductions to ensure a perfect fit.
(The normal allowance that would be made when you select Window Recess Sizes is minus 10mm to 12mm depending on blind type.)
Outside Window Recess Fitting. (Exact Sizes)
Whilst Window Recess Fitting is by far the best and most popular option, there will be occasions when the blinds may be required to be fitted outside the Window Recesses.
A good example could be bay window or doors. If you select Exact Blind Sizes Required no allowances will be made in the factory.
Bay Windows
There are many types of bay windows out there and this is the area where some people lack the confidence when it comes to measuring for blinds, but don’t worry help is as hand.
Many companies pride themselves in producing different guides which are common to most bays, but not them all, which ends up in confusion for the customer.
Let’s look at a Square Bay (90 degrees) for example.
Is it made of wood or pvc? “What’s the difference” I hear you ask. Ok, with a wooded window the vent handles are normally inside the opening casement and do not protrude which means that the blinds can be fitted right up against the window with no obstructions.
If the same size bay is made from pvc then the handles will protrude from the window. Therefore, the blinds need to be measured with that in mind so that the handles don’t foul the blinds.
The example above is just one of the many scenarios where it is important to get the correct advice when it comes to getting the sizes correct. I haven’t even mentioned Round Bays, 45 degree bays etc.
Let’s face it. When you are measuring for you window blinds, you don’t really want some sort of general information, but you may need specific information which relates to your type of window.
At Contour Blinds we have be supplying and fitting blinds for 25 years, so I reckon we have come across you type of Bay Windows before.
So Here’s The Deal! If you require any help when it comes to measuring for your blinds, just send us a message via our Contact Us Page. We will be happy to call you at a time that is convenient to discuss any issues you may be having. It might also be a good idea to send us some images of the window in question. Feel free to send them to sales@contourblinds.co.uk Remember, there is no such thing as a stupid question and the more information we receive the easier it will be to overcome the issues.
Just One Word of Warning. We pride ourselves in providing great customer service and will go the extra mile to be of assistance. However, we cannot accept the return of the Goods if the measurements you have provided to us are incorrect.