How to Measure for Custom Zebra Shades (Inside vs Outside Mount)
Custom zebra shades add style and light control to any room, but the right fit starts with the right measurements. You only need a steel tape measure and about five minutes to get the numbers right the first time. This guide walks you through inside mount and outside mount measuring, plus the three mistakes that trip up most buyers.
What Tools Do I Need to Measure for Zebra Shades?
You do not need fancy equipment. A few household items are enough.
Steel Tape Measure
A steel tape measure is the only tool you should use. Cloth measuring tapes stretch, and that tiny bit of give can throw off your order. Bringnox builds custom zebra shades to an accuracy of 1/8 inch, so your measurement needs to be just as exact. Pick a tape that locks in place so it does not snap back while you are reading numbers above your head.
Step Stool and Notepad
Grab a sturdy step stool for tall windows. You want both feet planted so your hands stay steady. Write down every number as you go. A simple sketch of the window with spots for top, middle, and bottom widths keeps you organized and prevents mix-ups.
What's the Difference Between Inside Mount and Outside Mount?
Inside mount installs the shade within the window recess. Outside mount attaches the bracket above or around the frame. Your choice depends on the window depth and the look you want.
| Inside Mount | Outside Mount | |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Window frames with at least 2" depth | Shallow frames or maximum light blocking |
| Measure | Inside the frame at three points | Frame plus added overlap |
| Look | Clean and built-in | Larger, covers more wall space |
| Light gap | Small gap on each side | Minimal to none if sized right |
If your frame is deep enough, inside mount looks cleaner. If the frame is shallow or you want to cover trim and reduce light leaks, outside mount is the better pick. Bringnox offers both options across the full custom size range of 20" to 110" wide and 20" to 120" high.
How Do I Measure for Inside Mount Zebra Shades?
Inside mount is the most common choice for custom zebra shades. Measure carefully, and the shade will sit flush inside the frame.
Width Measurements
Measure the exact width inside the window frame at three places: the top, the middle, and the bottom. Windows are rarely perfectly square, so these three numbers may differ. Record the smallest width. Bringnox uses this number and applies a small factory deduction so the shade operates without scraping the sides. Do not round up or down; give the exact measurement down to 1/8 inch.
Height Measurements
Measure the height inside the frame at the left, center, and right. Record the largest height. The shade needs to reach the sill even if one side is slightly shorter, so the maximum number keeps the coverage consistent.
Depth Check
Check the depth of the window frame from the front of the opening to the glass. You need at least 2 inches of depth for the shade and the hardware. Anything less, and the bracket or the cassette will stick out into the room. If your depth is under 2 inches, switch to outside mount.
Factory Deduction
Some brands ask you to subtract a fraction of an inch yourself. Bringnox does the deduction at the factory. You send the exact measurement; we handle the fit. This removes the guesswork and prevents a shade that is too loose or too tight.
How Do I Measure for Outside Mount Zebra Shades?
Outside mount gives you more coverage and works on almost any window, including French doors and shallow frames.
Width and Overlap
Measure the width of the window frame from outside edge to outside edge. Then add at least 3 inches total, or 1.5 inches on each side. This overlap reduces side light leaks. For bedrooms or media rooms where you want near-total darkness, add even more overlap if wall space allows. Record the final number as your ordering width.
Height and Placement
Measure the height from where you will mount the bracket to the bottom of the sill or the floor, depending on your preference. Add 2 to 3 inches to the top measurement. Mounting the bracket slightly above the window frame makes the window look taller and hides the roll better. Use the total height when you order.
What Are the Most Common Measuring Mistakes?
Most measuring errors are easy to avoid once you know what to watch for.
One-Time Measurements
Measuring once at eye level is not enough. Window frames bow and shift over time. One buyer measured the middle of his frame, ordered a perfect 36-inch width, and found the bottom of the frame was actually 35.5 inches. The shade scraped every time it moved. Measure three times, write down the range, and use the correct extreme.
Mixed-Up Width and Height
Always record width first, then height, in the format W x H. It sounds basic, but reversing the numbers is one of the top reasons for remakes. When you write down your numbers, label them clearly.
Window Obstacles
Look for handles, locks, alarm sensors, or outlet covers that sit inside the frame. These can block the shade or push it out of alignment. If an obstacle sits where the shade needs to travel, you may need outside mount or a small spacer to push the bracket forward.
Rounded Numbers
Custom sizing means custom. Do not round 35 and 3/8 inches up to 35.5 or down to 35.25. Bringnox fabricates to the exact 1/8 inch you provide. Rounding in either direction creates a shade that is either too loose or too wide.
What Should I Remember Before Ordering Custom Zebra Shades?
Getting the right measurements for custom zebra shades comes down to a few simple habits. Use a steel tape measure so your numbers stay exact. Measure width at the top, middle, and bottom of the frame, and always use the smallest width. Measure height at the left, center, and right, and always use the largest height. Choose inside mount if your frame has at least 2 inches of depth; choose outside mount if it is shallower or if you want to block more light. Record your numbers in W x H format down to 1/8 inch, and let Bringnox handle the factory deduction. If you want to see the fabrics in person before deciding, you can always order fabric samples to compare colors in your own light.
FAQ
Do I need a professional to measure my windows?
No. You can measure any standard window in under five minutes with a steel tape measure. Follow the three-point width and height method above, and you will get the same result a professional would.
What if my window measurements are not standard?
That is exactly why custom zebra shades exist. Bringnox builds every shade to your exact dimensions within a 1/8-inch precision. Non-standard sizes are normal, not a problem.
Can I install zebra shades without drilling?
Yes. Bringnox offers a no-drill spring and twist-lock system for inside mount installations. It grips the frame without screws or adhesives. Browse the no-drill zebra shades to see compatible options.
How much depth do I need for inside mount?
You need at least 2 inches of frame depth. This leaves enough room for the bracket and the shade cassette. Anything less, and you should choose outside mount.
What if my window is slightly out of square?
That is common in older homes. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the smallest number for your order. Measure the height at the left, center, and right, and use the largest number. The factory deduction compensates for small irregularities.