Measurement Guide

How to Measure for Roman Shades?

Perfect window treatments start with precise measurements. Based on the structural characteristics of your windows and your aesthetic preferences, there are two main installation methods: inside mount and outside mount.

Below is a professional measurement guide to help you achieve a perfect fit with ease.

I. Determine the Installation Method: Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount

Inside Mount — A minimalist, flush-mounted design that highlights the beauty of the window frame

  • Visual Effect: Installing window treatments inside the window frame creates a clean, custom-tailored, minimalist look while perfectly showcasing the frame’s original decorative lines.
  • Installation Requirements: The window frame must have sufficient internal space. Typically, the frame depth must be at least 2 inches to securely conceal the mounting brackets and the drapes.

Outside Mount— Complete Coverage, Enhancing the Room’s Aesthetics

  • Visual Effect: The window treatment is mounted on the wall or trim surface outside the window frame. This method effectively conceals any imperfections in the window frame and visually makes the window appear larger and more dramatic.
  • Installation Advantages: Highly versatile, not limited by window frame depth, and suitable for almost all window types (even those with very shallow sills).

II. Key Measurement Steps

1. Inside Mount Measurement Rule (Take the smallest width, take the largest height)

  • Measuring Width: Measure the width of the window frame’s top, middle, and bottom. Be sure to record the “smallest value” among these three measurements. This ensures the window treatment fits smoothly into the frame and does not rub or jam against the sides when raising or lowering.
  • Measuring Height (Height): Measure the height inside the window frame at the left, center, and right sides. Please record the “largest” of these three measurements. This ensures the window treatment fully covers the entire vertical space of the window when lowered, leaving no gaps.
  • Verifying Depth (Depth): Double-check the actual depth of the window frame to ensure there is sufficient space to accommodate the top mounting hardware.

2. External Measurement Guidelines (Extend Appropriately for Enhanced Light Blocking)

  • Measure Width: Measure the total width you wish to cover. For optimal light blocking and privacy, we recommend adding an extra 6 inches to the actual width of the window (i.e., extending 3 inches on each side).
  • Measuring Height: Measure vertically downward from the top position where you plan to mount the brackets to the desired bottom edge of the curtain (such as above the windowsill or lower). To effectively block light leakage from the top, it is recommended to set the top mounting point at least 3 inches above the window frame.

💡 Expert Measurement Tips

  • Prefer a Steel Tape Measure: Be sure to use a rigid steel tape measure. Soft fabric measuring tapes used by tailors are prone to stretching and deformation, which can lead to significant measurement errors.
  • Accurate to 1/8 of an Inch: Details determine the final fit. Record measurements accurate to 1/8 of an inch; never round off or estimate.
  • Troubleshoot Obstructions: Inspect the window structure in advance, paying attention to protruding hardware such as window handles, latches, and cranks to ensure they do not obstruct the normal operation of the window treatments.
  • Verify Mounting Space: Especially when choosing exterior installations, be sure to confirm that the wall above the window frame is flat and sturdy, with sufficient space to secure the mounting brackets.