Looking for a quick, convenient way to accurately measure your window for honeycomb blinds to ensure a perfect fit, smooth operation, maximum insulation, and optimum light control and privacy? Here’re a few easy to follow steps to ensure fit to the fraction (1/8th) of an inch!
Measuring a window means recording its dimensions, like width, height, and depth (w x h x d) that you’ll use to order a window treatment.
For an outside mount, exactly measure the outside width of the window across the top, and write it down. Add 3” (76.2mm) to 4” (101.6mm) on each side of the window measurement taken. This will ensure your honeycomb blinds will provide maximum coverage of the window and unobstructed raising and lowering.
To determine the height, measure the window opening from top to bottom on the top left, then the middle of the window, and finally the top right to the bottom of the sill.
For inside-mount cellular shades, record values inside the frame at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the shortest measurement when ordering new blinds. Also, measure the depth from the front of the opening to the glass and make sure it matches the minimum depth requirement.
Precise measurements will lead to a perfect fit. Honeycomb blinds, also called cellular shades, are window treatments that boost the energy efficiency and decorative appeal of your windows.
Scroll on to learn a few-step, easy to follow guide about how to exactly measure a window for honeycomb blinds.
Why Accurate Window Measurements Matter for Honeycomb Blinds
When it comes to installing honeycomb or cellular blinds on windows in your home-office, or other building, taking accurate measurements is essential to maximize their functional potentials, such as insulation, energy efficiency, light filtering, privacy, and blackout feature.
Properly measured cellular blinds ensure a seamless fit and enhance the curb appeal of your space.
Tools You’ll Need to Measure a Window for Cellular Blinds
Before you start measuring the dimensions of your window’s frame, gather the essential tools that will facilitate precise measurements:
Steel Tape Measure
Choose a reliable steel tape measure with sufficient length to reach the entire width and height of your windows.
A retractable tape measure is usually recommended for ease of use.
Pencil and Paper
Keep a pencil and a piece of paper to jot down your measurements. Use the width x height (w x h) format to prevent any confusion or mixing up values during the process. Prefer inches over millimeters when recording values.
Notepad or Worksheet
Consider using a small notepad or worksheet for your window size measurements.
Ladder or Step Ladder (for Tall Windows)
If the top of your tall windows is so high that it is hard to reach, you’ll need to use a ladder or step ladder to measure the width at the top.
4 Steps to Exactly Measure Windows for a Perfect Fit with Honeycomb Blinds
Step 1: Decide Inside or Outside Mount
Before you start measuring, determine whether you need to install the honeycomb blinds inside or outside the window frame. This choice will affect the measurements you take.
Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds
For a sleeker, more recessed look, and better functionalities, choose an inside mount for your cellular shades.
The window blinds will be installed within the window frame itself, providing a clean and streamlined appearance.
For this type of mount, you will need to ensure that your window frame has enough depth. In the case of insufficient depth, you will have to opt for an outside mount.
Also, if you prefer your cellular blinds to cover a larger area, including the window frame, go for an outside mount.
This option is ideal when you want to give your window a bigger look.
Step 2: Measure Width
For an Inside Mount
- Measure the width (w) of the window opening at the top, then the middle, and then the bottom.
- Take the smallest value as your actual width to ensure a proper fit. This accounts for slight variations in the window frame.
For an Outside Mount
- Measure the width of the window opening at three points.
- Add extra width to the recorded measurement to allow for better coverage. We recommend adding 3 to 4 inches on each side (total 6 to 8”).
Step 3: Measure Height
For an Inside Mount
- Measure the height (h) from the top of the window frame to the windowsill at the left, middle, and right side.
- Take the longest measurement as your height to accommodate any slight variations in the window height.
For an outside mount
- Measure the height from the desired top to the desired bottom position.
- Add extra height to the recorded value to allow for the desired overlap. Adding 2 to 4 inches is usually recommended.
Step 4: Measure Depth (Optional)
If you go for an inside mount, measure the depth or recess of the window frame.
This measurement ensures that your honeycomb blinds will properly fit without obstructing any window components, such as handles or cranks.
Measure from the front of the window frame to the nearest obstruction.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Measuring Windows for Honeycomb Blinds
While measuring for honeycomb window coverings, it’s crucial to be aware of common pitfalls that can lead to wrong or inaccurate measurements. By avoiding these errors, you can ensure an accurate fit.
Here are some additional DIY tips to help you avoid measurement errors:
Consider Obstructions
Identify any obstructions within the window region, such as window handles, locks, and other protruding objects, that might affect the installation or operation of your blinds.
Measure around the obstructions to ensure an accurate fit.
Consider the Size of Mounting Brackets
If you’ve opted for an inside mount, consider the size of the mounting brackets.
Note their dimensions when determining the correct width measurement to avoid any fitting issues.
It’s essential to account for the space needed for the mounting brackets without interfering with the blind’s functionality.
Double-Check Measurements
Before placing an online order or proceeding with installation, double-check all your recorded measurements.
Mistakes can be costly, so it’s necessary to ensure accuracy by reviewing the values of your measurements.
Measure twice, or even thrice, to confirm that your values are consistent and precise.
Consult Manufacturer Guidelines
Different manufacturers might have specific guidelines for measuring for honeycomb blinds.
Review the manufacturer’s instructions or consult their website or customer care department if you have any questions or need clarification on their recommended measuring procedure.
By following this short yet comprehensive DIY guide and avoiding common measurement pitfalls, you can accurately measure your window for honeycomb blinds.
This will result in a perfect fit, allowing you to enjoy the full benefits of these functional and stylish window coverings.
How to Measure Bay Windows for Cellular Blinds
A bay window usually consists of multiple windows installed side by side to form a bay-like structure. You need to identify the number of windows in the bay.
This will help you to understand the overall layout and help in measuring each window separately.
FAQs
How do you cut honeycomb blinds to size?
To cut the honeycomb blinds to size, follow these steps:
- Use a steel tape measure and a pencil to draw a line along the edge, marking the extra fabric to be trimmed.
- Use a chop saw with a high grade blade to cut through the rail and the honeycomb fabric at the same time. When shortening the cellular fabric, make sure the insulating cells remain intact.
- After tailoring the fabric to the length and width, hem or tape the ends.
How much clearance do you need for cellular shades?
The amount of clearance you’ll need for cellular shades usually depends on the design and size of the mounting hardware. The minimum depth requirement (for an inside mount) typically ranges between ½” to 2”. For clearance around the window frame, we recommend 3” overlap on each side (6” total) to ensure optimum light control and privacy. Similarly, there should be clearance of 3” to 4” on each top and bottom.
For an inside mount, you’ll need to make deductions for clearance. Manufacturers usually take a ⅜” deduction off the overall width of the cellular blinds for the perfect fit.
How do you measure recessed blinds for windows?
Follow these steps to measure recessed blinds for windows:
- Width: Measure the width of the inside of the window from wall to wall in three places at each end and in the middle. Record the smallest measurement for ordering recess-fitted blinds.
- Length: Measure the length on both sides from the top of the recess to the bottom of the skylight.
What size blinds do I need for a 35 inch window?
For an Inside Mount
If you want to install the blind inside a 35 inch window, order a blind measuring 34 ⅝ inches (⅜” inch narrower) to comfortably fit inside a 35” opening. Meanwhile, make sure that the width is the same through the whole length of the frame.
For an Outside Mount
Consider adding 3” to 4” to both width and height for optimum light control, privacy, insulation, and noise cancellation, ordering 38” to 39” blinds. The extra fabric will also help your window look larger than it actually is.
Need Further Assistance?
Still unsure how to exactly measure windows for honeycomb blinds for perfect fit and best functionality? Contact our professionals using 24/7 live chat or give us a ring at (800) 863-6109 for expert advice and custom solutions.