How to Measure for Roman Shades Easily at Home: Best Tips

Accurate measurements affect how well your Roman shades control light and privacy. A well-fitted treatment not only enhances functionality but also improves the overall aesthetic of your home.

Tools You’ll Need to Measure for Roman Shades

These are some basic tools that you should have prepared in advance. It is much more accurate when you have the correct tools and are spared the trouble of having to repeat the same task again.

• Steel measuring tape: Flexible but firm so that it can read accurately.
• Pencil and paper: To write down all the measurements in a nice manner.
• Step stool or ladder: To be able to reach much higher windows.
• Level tool (optional): This tool ensures that your marks are straight.

Measurements should be made to the nearest 1/8 inch, and you will be guaranteed good results.

Understanding Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount Roman Shades

In determining the measurement in the calculation of Roman shades, the first thing to do is to determine whether to have an inside mount or an outside mount. This option is going to transform the appearance and use of your shades.

Inside Mount

Roman shades are fitted tidily in your window.

Benefits:

• Sleek, clean appearance.
• Keeps trim visible.
• Perfect in the minimalist contemporary room.

Remember: The mounting brackets should be sunk in at least 1½ deep in the frame.

Outside Mount

Outside mount shades are those that are fitted on the wall or mold of your window.

Benefits:

• Perfect for shallow frames.
• Increases the additional blockage of light.
• Enhances the size of small windows.

When you are deciding on the mounting style, then you are able to make precise measurements that suit your design objective.

How to Measure for Roman Shades: Inside Mount Method

You would like a close, fitted appearance, then here is how to cut Roman shades to an inside mount:

Step 1: Measure Window Width

Measure the width of the framing at three points—top, middle and bottom of the window frame—with your tape measure.

Record the smallest width (to the nearest 1/8 inch). This makes sure that your shades do not rub the sides.

Step 2: Measure Window Height

Measure then to the bottom sill of the frame at the top of the inside of the frame. Once again, record a reading on the left, center and right.

Record the longest height.

Step 3: Check Window Depth

Measure the distance between the front of the casing of the window and the glass.

Make sure that it is of the correct minimum depth required on the shade manufacturer's list (usually 1 to 2 inches).

How to Measure for Roman Shades: Outside Mount Method

An outside mount is better in case you want more control over the lights or you simply want to conceal the window trim. In this case the Roman shades can be measured as follows:

Step 1: Measure Width

Measure the precise width of the window aperture, and increase it by 3-4 inches on every side.

This overlap assists in blocking the extra light and also enhances privacy.

Step 2: Measure Height

Begin measuring where the top trim is (where you will put the shade) 2-3 inches above and 2 inches below the sill or as low as you want the shade to be hung.

An addition of height will make your windows look more complete and taller.

Step 3: Mark Mounting Points

Draw a horizontal line where the brackets are going to be with a pencil and a level. Straight-line maintenance gives the lines a smooth installation and a steady movement of the shade.

For a complete step-by-step guide on taking precise window measurements, visit Bringnox’s guide on how to measure windows for shades.

Inside vs. Outside Mount: Which Is Right for You?

Not certain as to the type of mount to choose? Here's a quick breakdown:

Select what suits your room in terms of design and lighting requirements and then take measurements.

How to Measure for Roman Shades on Special Windows

Windows come in various shapes. Here's how to measure for Roman shades on non-rectangular windows:

• Bay Windows: Measure each section and record the angles.
• Arched Windows: Measure to cover the upper part of the arch; shades may not cover the entire rectangle.
  
• French Doors: Use outside mount dimensions, adding 1 inch around to cover completely.
  

For unique windows like showcases, custom fabrication may be needed, but accurate measurements are essential.

How to Measure for Roman Shades for Different Rooms

All the rooms in your house might need a minor variation in measuring:

• Living Room: Provide more width in order to block the sunlight and eliminate glare.
• Bedroom: The Bedroom should be lined with blackout and full outside mounts as much as possible.
• Kitchen: Have shades well above counters or sinks so that they are easy to clean.
• Bathroom: Make sure it fits well to retain privacy and keep the dampness away.

It is better to measure, taking into consideration room-specific conditions that guarantee better performance and style.

Measuring for Multiple Windows of Different Sizes

In case your home has multiple windows, which are different in size, label them:

• "Living Room: Left Window"
• "Living Room: Right Window"
• "Bedroom 1: Center Window"

Group similar sizes with the ease of ordering. You may even cut off to the nearest 1/8 inch when there is a slight difference in the size of two windows.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Roman Shades

It is not difficult to learn how to measure for Roman shades when you know what to avoid. Minor errors result in ill-fitting and ill-hanging shades.

• Failing to measure in three positions: Windows are not necessarily always square. Measures at varying points at all times.
• Rounding numbers: Rounding down to width and up to height is always good in order to obtain the best fit.
• Stones to disregard: Be watchful of cranks, handles, or locks on the windows that may have an influence.
• Frame depth check omission: Especially in inside frame mounting, a lack of sufficient depth may render installation impossible.

These errors are time- and money-saving.

Tips for Getting Professional-Looking Results

Your shades can appear as though they have been installed by a professional even though you are doing it yourself. These are some of the fast tips to come up with a project that stands out:

• Apply regular methods of measurement to all the windows.
• Mark measurements with labels (i.e., Living Room Left Window).
• Never place any order without checking twice.
• Select fabric styles and colors that go with your room decoration.
• Consider the lining options in the event that you require a blackout or light-filtering control.

With these little tips, it is easy to make your Roman shades look polished and smooth.

Double-Checking Your Measurements Before Ordering

Always look at what you have recorded before you place your order.

Check this shortlist:

• Did you take the three points of the width and height?
• Do you remember what type of mount you are on?
• Was it rounded off properly (down when it was wide, up when it was high)?
• Have you recorded the depth of inside mount windows?
• Were you able to label every location of the window?

An end-of-line check is a guarantee that makes your shades fit perfectly upon delivery.

Conclusion

Everything depends on proper measurements to get the window appearance really right. Once you understand how to measure for Roman shades, you get spaces that are harmonious, intimate, and elegant.

We bring you at Bringnox the perfectly fitting Roman shades that align with the personality of your home. This is because of our professional designs and simple customization, which guarantee elegance and comfort in any room. Place your custom Roman shades now and introduce long-term style and accuracy to your windows!

FAQs

1. What is the best mount type for small windows?

Outside mount effectively creates an appearance of larger windows and prevents more light entry, so it can be used with small ones.

2. Can I install Roman shades myself after measuring?

Sure, Roman shades are simple to install. Most homeowners can install the majority of them within minutes with the help of proper measurements and mounting brackets.

3. Should I deduct anything from my measurements for inside mounts?

No need. Manufacturers of the shades automatically deduct a small amount so that the shades fit.

4. Do Roman shades need the same depth as zebra blinds?

Most of the time yes, however, scrutinize the specifications of your product. The standard Roman shades require 1½ inches of frame depth.

5. Can I use the same measurement method for all window types?

It works the same way only that specialty windows (such as bay or arched) can cause some special changes or require professional assistance.