How to Measure For Roller Blinds?

Step-by-Step Guide – How to Measure For Roller Blinds

Perfectly fitted roller blinds that look neat, function well, and adequately manage the lighting in your space, you must get the right blind-to-window measurements. It’s not difficult to measure roller blinds. However, wrong measurements can deeply affect the functionality of your roller blind, make them lop-sided, leave space on the sides or below that affects their light control feature, cause damage due to obstruction in their path, and so on. Therefore, this guide will walk you through exactly how to measure your windows for roller blinds — the right way.

What is meant by Inside or Outside Recess Installation?

The first decision you need to make is whether your roller blinds will sit inside the window recess or outside of it. Here’s what each option means:

Roller Blinds – Inside the Recess (Recess Fit)

The blind sits neatly within the window frame are called recess fit. It lends a modern and chic look to your home. It allows a small amount of light from the sides even when fully rolled down. It works best with deep seated windows that provide enough space for awnings without any obstructions in the path, front-rolling blinds are used for recess fit installation. Sunscreen fabrics are preferred for recess fit. 

Roller Blinds – Outside the Recess (Face Fit)

The blind sits outside the window frame, overlapping the edges. This blind is an excellent choice for completely blocking out light or covering an uneven recess. Ideal for bedrooms or where you need completely blocked-out natural light. Therefore, light blocking fabrics are used for outside recess installation. Moreover, back-rolled blinds are used for face-fit installations to cause the least obstruction and minimise friction.

Your choice affects how you measure, so decide before reaching for the tape measure. Also, choose your chain side before measuring because you want your chain side to be easy to access and obstruction-free. 

What Are the Tools Needed for Measuring Roller Blinds?

Before measuring roller blinds, grab these essentials:

• A self-retracting steel measuring tape with press-release locking mechanism. 
• A pencil and paper (or phone) to record your measurements
• A sturdy step stool if your windows are high up

Pro Measuring Tip: To ensure accuracy in measurement, always take the readings in millimetres. Also, even if two windows seem identical, measure them separately. 

How To Measure For Roller Blinds Inside Recess Fitting?

If you want your blind to sit snugly inside your window frame, follow these steps:

1. Measure the Width

Measure the width of the recess at the top, middle, and bottom of the window. Record the smallest measurement — this ensures the blind fits comfortably without catching.

2. Measure the Drop (Height)

Next, measure the height of the recess from top to bottom in three places: left, centre, and right. Again, note the shortest measurement.

The supplier will usually make a small deduction from your recess width to ensure a smooth fit — no need to adjust for this yourself.

How To Take Measurements for Outside Recess Fitting?

If you want your blinds to sit on the wall above or around the window frame:

1. Measure the Width

Decide how far you want the blind to extend beyond the window frame on either side — typically 50–100mm on each side to reduce light leakage. Measure the total width you’d like the blind to cover.

2. Measure the Drop

Measure from where you want the top of the blind to start (usually 50–100mm above the window) down to the desired finishing point — typically a little below the windowsill. If you’re covering a door or floor-length window, measure all the way to the floor but leave around 10–20mm clearance.

Final Measurement Tips

• Double-check all your measurements to avoid costly mistakes.
• Use a self-retracting steel tape for accurate measurements. A fabric tape will warp and mess up your readings.
• If you’re ordering multiple blinds, label each set of measurements clearly by room or window.

Need Help Choosing the Right Blinds?

If you’re still unsure or want expert assistance, A One Curtains and Blinds is here to help. With years of experience in custom window solutions and professional installations, their team can guide you in choosing, measuring, and fitting the perfect roller blinds and motorised roller blinds for any space. From contemporary sunscreen styles to complete blackout options, trust A One Curtains and Blinds for a seamless, stylish, and functional upgrade to your windows.