Measuring Instructions

This guide will help you measure your windows accurately and choose the perfect custom size for your Hestia blinds or shades.

First: Understand Window Size and Custom Size

Before measuring, let’s clarify what “Window Size” and “Custom Size” mean.

*Important: Your window size ≠ your custom blinds size. The size you enter on our site is the exact dimension of the blinds you’ll receive.

1.    Window Size

  • Window Depth: How deep your window recess is.
  • Window Width: The horizontal distance between the left and right window frame.
  • Window Height: The vertical distance from the top edge down to the window sill.

2.    Custom Size (Blinds Size)

  • Custom Width: The exact width you enter on our site – this is your blind’s final width. 
  • Custom Height: The exact height you enter – your blind’s final height.

Mount Types

There are two installation options: Inside Mount and Outside Mount. Your choice affects how you install the blinds and what custom size you should order.

An Inside Mount fits the blinds or shades inside the window frame. An Outside Mount places them on the wall outside the frame or trim, so they cover a larger area than the window opening.

inside mount vs. outside mount window shades and blinds

How to Measure for Inside Mount

If you’re choosing an inside mount, let’s start by checking your Window Depth:

measuring window depth for window coverings

To make sure your blinds sit flush and stay secure inside the frame, please look at the “Minimum Depth for Inside Mount” listed under “Mount Type” on the product page. Each style has its own depth requirement, so it’s best not to assume different styles are the same.

Once your window is deep enough for the style you like, you’re ready to measure:

measuring for inside mount blinds and shades

1. Measure Window Width: Measure the inside of the frame at the top, middle, and bottom. Round each number DOWN to the nearest 1/8" and use the SMALLEST as your window width.

  • Tip: You can print our Measurement Worksheet to jot everything down.
  • For roller, solar, sheer, and zebra shades, measuring across the top is enough to get your window width.

2. Measure Window Height: Measure the inside of the frame at the left, center, and right. Round each number UP to the nearest 1/8" and use the LONGEST as your window height.  

3. Choose Your Custom Size:

  • Custom Width = Window Width - 1/4"
  • Custom Height = Window Height

* Important: The shade needs a little clearance to fit inside the frame, which is why you need to subtract from your window width. We usually suggest taking off 1/4", but some products use a different deduction. For the exact amount, please check the “Custom Size” section on the product page.

How to Measure for Outside Mount

Measuring for an outside mount is much like an inside mount, with a few small differences. If you’ll be installing your blinds or shades on the wall outside the window frame or trim, follow these steps:

measuring for outside mount blinds and shades

1. Measure Window Width: Measure across the window (including any trim you want to cover) at the top, middle, and bottom. Round each measurement UP to the nearest 1/8" and use the LONGEST as your window width.

  • For roller, solar, sheer, and zebra shades, measuring across the top is enough to get your window width.

2. Measure Window Height: Measure from top to bottom at the left, center, and right. Round each measurement UP to the nearest 1/8" and use the LONGEST as your window height.

3. Choose Your Custom Size:

  • Custom Width = Window Width + 4"
  • Custom Height = Window Height + 4"

* Friendly note: Adding to the width and height gives you extra overlap for better light control and coverage. Want a bolder, more “framed” look? Feel free to go even wider and taller. Prefer something more minimal? Add just a little to the window size. 

Inside Mount or Outside Mount?

Not sure whether to choose an inside or outside mount? Here are a few tips to help you decide:

1. Based on your window type

Window Type Inside Mount  Outside Mount
Sliding Windows ✅ ✅
Outward-opening Windows ✅ ✅
Inward-opening Windows ❌ ✅

 

2. Based on your window depth

Shallow depth: Go with an outside mount. If the recess isn’t deep enough, the headrail or valance may stick out past the frame and affect the overall look.

Adequate depth: An inside mount can give a clean, built-in appearance. Please check the product page for the “Minimum Depth for Inside Mount,” as requirements vary by style.