A new set of window blinds can add a fresh touch to any room, control the amount of light coming in, and provide privacy. But the installation process depends on precise measurements.

The most important thing to measure is the depth of your window frame. If the frame isn’t deep enough to hold your window treatment, installing outside mount blinds is best.

Measure the Window Frame

The frame of your windows is one of the most important components. It affects their visual appeal, energy efficiency, and maintenance needs.

Window frames are made of some materials, including wood, fiberglass, vinyl, and aluminum. Understanding the options can help you choose the best framing material for your home and needs.

Window frames also significantly impact energy-related properties, such as the U-value, heat loss rate, and solar gain coefficient. The better the frame’s thermal resistance, the lower the window’s heat transfer rates and air-conditioning costs.

Measure the Window Width

Measuring the window width is important if you’re installing cluster blinds Michigan for maximum protection. This can be done with a tape measure or extendable slide rule.

First, take a rough horizontal measurement across your frame from top to bottom on the left, middle, and right sides. Take note of the smallest of the three values and use it as a guide when buying replacement windows.

You’ll also want to measure the height of your window inside. This includes the sill, the central horizontal board on which the sash rests when closed.

Measure the Window Length

It is essential to get the measurements for your window correct. The wrong window size can lead to drafts, increased energy bills, and poor indoor air quality.

To measure the width, use a tape measure to extend from the jamb on both sides of the window opening. Do this three times to get three measurements.

Depending on the manufacturer you are ordering from, and they may want to deduct some of this for tolerance to allow for natural shifting of the frame. Be clear about what you have measured and ask how much they will take from your measurements to help you determine the best window size for your home.

Measure the Window Height

The window height greatly affects how your cluster blinds will look. It can affect whether you install the products inside or outside your window frame.

To get the proper height, measure in three places – on the left, middle and right sides of your window opening. Then take the longest measurement to avoid a skewed result.

Add about 3 inches of extra room for the width to provide optimal light control and privacy. You can even add an extra inch on each side for maximum coverage.

Measure the Window Sides

When installing cluster blinds, it’s important to understand how to measure the window sides. This will ensure a proper fit and a smooth installation process.

To determine the width of your window, start by measuring the distance between the jambs as close to the top as you can. Next, measure the distance between the jambs at the bottom and in the middle.

In addition, you’ll need to determine how high the window is. If it’s above the ceiling, consider adding 3 inches to the width and height for optimum light control and privacy.

Measure the Window Bottom

A cluster blind can be a great way to add protection and privacy to a window. However, measuring the window bottom first is important before installing them.

To do this, you’ll need to open the window and measure the bottom frame where the sash (the part of the window that moves and contains the glass) sits. This is called the window sill, and it’s not the horizontal board extending from the wall, as many think.

Measure the Window Top

The window top is the height of the frame on each side of the window opening. You’ll need to measure this to know the window’s overall width and height for replacement windows.

To do this, raise the sash and measure the jambs on the left and right sides. Record the shortest of these measurements as the height.

You also need to measure the depth of the window opening. This is important because a replacement window might only fit if the opening is shallow enough.