Curtains Blinds

Every window treatment expert will insist that to get full functioning of any blind, shade, etc. you have to have the product installed correctly. These same experts will all agree that without proper measurements a proper installation is close to impossible. Novice window treatment shoppers often miss the obvious connection between the two.

Inaccurate or improper measurements of your windows will lead to shoddy installation. Shoddy installation will lead to a dissatisfaction with your window treatments purchase. Improper installation can leave noticeable gaps between the treatment and the window casing that are obvious even at 1/8 inch.

Being aware of the simple guidelines for proper measurement can avoid a lot of hassle post-installation. While the measurements are general in nature and will have to be adjusted and/or replaced for some specialty window treatments they are the perfect place to start as you consider a window treatment purchase.

If you aren’t yet sure what product you will be looking for you need two sets of measurements. One will be for products that mount above the window. The other set of measurements will be for those products that will be mounted inside the window frame/casing.

For the outside mount products you’ll need to pull measurements both vertically and horizontally. Take three in each direction. Make sure to measure to the 1/8 inch; even the smallest shortages or overages can make a noticeable difference in the final product. For horizontal blind installation you’ll add 3 inches to both the length and width measurements. For vertical product mount you’ll add 4 inches to the width and you’ll add 3 inches to the length; these adjustments will result in the proper fit during installation.

For interior mount products you will again take the three measurements running in each direction. And you will again be as specific in your measurements as possible (to the 1/8 inch). You’ll take your longest vertical measurement and your shortest horizontal measurement to use in your calculations and product ordering.

When mounting inside the window casing you’ll also need to take a depth measurement. This is so that your product will be able to mount and hang flush with the interior wall after installation. The depth measurement is taken between the interior wall and the window. You should be able to access depth requirements for any products you are considering easily on their list of specifications.

These basic measuring guidelines can’t guarantee that you’re installation will go smoothly and perfectly. But it can definitely get your search for the right window treatments off to the best start. You’ll have what you need for cost estimates and you’ll have the ordering and installation measurements you need for the majority of window treatment products out there.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.

Woven wood blinds are often called matchstick blinds. They can work in most decor schemes regardless of theme and/or style. Matchstick blinds are simple and provide a classic style to the windows of any space. Many find their unique ability to provide warmth and texture simultaneously very desirable.

Variances between weaves of matchstick blinds allow for altering levels of light filtration. The tightness of the weave varies from a privacy weave to an open weave with many levels in between. While the tightness of the weave is a definite aspect of the function of the blind…it is also a design element. The visual look of the product changes as the tightness of the weave changes. The tightness of the weave also controls the amount of natural light that is added to any design space.

Simple installation and operation make matchstick blinds advantageous. One simple movement is used to raise and lower the blinds. They are able to provide light control, privacy, design style and ease of use all simultaneously.

Bamboo is a popular material for matchstick blinds. The term matchstick is applied to the product because of the shape of the pieces compiled to create the blind. A number of matchstick-like pieces of wood/bamboo are bound together into a unified, flat surface. This surface is then used as a window covering; fulfilling the function of blinds.

There are several different names used to refer to the products known by many as matchstick blinds. Some call them woven (woven wood blinds or woven wood shades). They are also sometimes called bamboo shades. It doesn’t matter what phrase people use to refer to the product. Matchstick blinds always provide a great combination: low price tag, ease of use, and style.

Designers enjoy working with matchstick blinds because they covet the natural design additions that come with the unique texture and adaptable color variations. They add warmth to an interior space that many window covering products lack in today’s market. The fact that matchstick blinds are made from natural materials makes them even more desirable in the eyes of many.

Any reputable dealer will offer matchstick blinds products. The accessibility only increases with the demand. And matchstick blinds are definitely in demand. Reviews of matchstick blinds products are increasingly popular and reviews reflect high levels of customer satisfaction. They are capable of providing access to natural light as they provide provide privacy. They offer an ambience that is available in only a few window coverings products. The fact that they come with low price tags makes them even more desirable.

Matchstick blinds are often said to be perfect for any decor; and that is something that can’t be said about many window coverings products. They are a popular option due to their versatility and adaptability for any size window. They accommodate the needs of almost any design space and accent a variety of decor schemes. They are a prudent financial choice that comes with the additional benefit of being a beautiful addition to any room.

Chris Stanley is a window treatments expert at Blinds Chalet. Blinds Chalet has over 25 years of experience in the window coverings industry and strives to educate consumers about purchasing and installing window blinds before they buy. Focusing on high quality, company tested and approved window treatments at affordable prices, Blinds Chalet is a resource for all things window blinds related.