Measuring & Installation Guide

How to Measure for Blinds & Shades: Complete Installation Guide

💡 Having trouble measuring or worried about calculations?

For inside mount, measure width at three points, use the narrowest, then subtract 0.5 cm (3/16") for smooth installation; measure height at three points and use the longest. For outside mount, no width adjustment is required for installation — add width only if extra light blockage is needed. Always use a steel tape measure and submit raw measurements without deductions.

Not sure whether to choose inside mount or outside mount? See our Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds guide for a full comparison of appearance, light control, and when to use each.

For a complete step-by-step measuring walkthrough with diagrams, see our dedicated guide: How to Measure Your Windows for Cellular Shades. And if you want to understand how a precise fit affects insulation performance, see our guide to insulated cellular shades: how they work and which to choose.

Don't worry, measuring yourself can be tricky! Every single order can be checked with us first before you complete your purchase. Feel free to reach out to our team anytime at support@uamblinds.com, and we will guide you through the exact measurements to ensure a perfect fit for your windows!

Before You Start

This guide offers a general introduction to install blinds and shades. Your installation instructions may vary depending on the specific product you have.

Please consult the installation instructions specific to your product for accurate guidance.

Helpful Tips Before Starting:

Use a steel tape measure for precise measurements.
Ensure your window measurements are appropriate for either an inside mount or an outside mount. An inside mount fits inside the window recess for a neat appearance, while an outside mount covers the entire frame.
Double-check the contents of your package to ensure you have the correct number of screws, mounts, and hardware required for installation.

Tools You Will Need

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

Measuring Tape
Level tool
Screwdriver
Drill
Step Ladder (if necessary)

Installation Steps

To access complete instructions on how to install blinds or shades, select your customized installation category below.

How to Install Inside Mount Blinds or Shades

These general steps offer an overview of the process for inside mount blinds installation.

Place the first bracket at the upper corner of the window frame, aligning it with the wall surface. Refer to your product's instructions for exact bracket placement, especially if using a decorative valance.
Mark screw locations with a pencil.
Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the second bracket in the opposite corner of the window frame. If mounting into drywall without studs, use drywall anchors.
Use a steel tape measure or level tool to confirm even bracket placement.
Drill pilot holes smaller than your screws at the bracket marks, then screw the brackets in place.
Install the blinds by sliding the headrail into the brackets and secure it by closing or snapping the brackets, depending on the style.
Test the blinds by lowering, raising, and rotating them to ensure functionality.

If you need, you can contact us for the relevant installation video.

Not sure which mount type is right for your window? See our Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Blinds: Complete Comparison for a full breakdown of appearance, light control, and when each option works best.

How to Install Outside Mount Blinds or Shades

These general steps offer an overview of the process for outside mount blinds installation.

Position the first bracket in the upper corner of the window frame so that it's flush with the wall's surface. Refer to your product's instructions for exact bracket placement.
Mark screw locations with a pencil.
Repeat steps 1 and 2 for the second bracket in the opposite corner of the window frame. If mounting into drywall without studs, use drywall anchors.
Use a steel tape measure or level tool to confirm even bracket placement.
Drill pilot holes smaller than your screws at the bracket marks, then screw the brackets in place.
Install the blinds by sliding the headrail into the brackets and secure it by closing or snapping the brackets, depending on the style.
Test the blinds by lowering, raising, and rotating them to ensure functionality.

If you need, you can contact us for the relevant installation video.