Here I'm going to show you how to measure up for curtains and blinds, so take a look if you want to know how to do it properly.
HOW TO MEASURE UP FOR CURTAINS
Measuring length of curtains
When it comes to the length of your curtains, there are a few things to take into account. How long do you want them to be? Use this method to determine the length of your curtains:
Floor length: with this type of length it is important to know that your curtains should be able to float above the floor. It means that they had better finish a half inch above the surface. That's approximately 1.25 cm.
Below sill: if your goal is to have medium height curtains that will help keep light away when closed, then use this method. Here your curtains should float about 6 inches (or approximately 15 cm) below the window sill.
Sill length: Leave your curtains about a half inch (or approximately 1.25 cm) above the window sill.
Note that if you use radiators in the room, they should be taken into consideration. Make sure you leave your curtains about an inch above the radiator. It will keep them from burning when the heat is on. Furthermore, it's important to keep in mind that if the curtains are spread below your radiator, they may block the heat, preventing it to spread to the other parts of the room.
What kind of curtains are you planning to use: eyelet rings, pencil pleats or tab tops? Here is how you should measure each type of curtain:
- Tab tops require that you start measuring at the top of the item (how long our curtains will be depends on your preferences). This type of curtain is only available for poles.
- Pencil pleats: for curtain poles: start measuring at the bottom of the item and finish at the point where you want the curtain to end; curtain track: start measuring at the top of the item.
- Eyelet rings: start measuring at the top of the item. Then add an inch.
Measuring width of curtains
Since you probably want the best for your curtains and windows, you should always place the curtain pole higher than the window. Ideally, it should be installed to a height of approximately 6 inches (15 cm). Another thing to take into account is width. Make sure the curtain pole is at least 6 inches wider than the window.
Now, it also matters whether you use poles or tracks. How do you measure the length of a curtain track? You measure everything from beginning to end. On the other hand, when it comes to curtain poles, you should omit the finials. Measure only the length of the pole.
Once you measure the length of the curtain track or pole, how do you know the width and length of your curtains? Well, it's very simple indeed. Use the following method to measure the width of the curtains to use:
- Curtain track or pole width must be multiplied by 1.5 if using tab tops.
- Curtain track or pole width must be multiplied by 2 if using eyelet rings.
- Curtain track or pole width must be multiplied by 2 if using pencil pleats.
Note: it might be a good idea to add another inch to the width of your curtains. This is 2.5 cm. The basic idea is that when you close the curtains, they will overlap. Adding another inch to the measurement will help you achieve this effect.
HOW TO MEASURE UP FOR BLINDS
The first step is to choose whether you want to install the blinds outside or inside the window frame.
Inside mounted blinds: What you need to do is measure the distance from the inside of the left frame to the inside of the right frame. Do this in three places: on the bottom, middle and top of the window. Write down the smallest length. In three different places of the window, measure inside the frame from top to bottom and record the longest length. However, if you're planning to buy vertical blinds, you need to write down the shortest measurement.
Outside mounted blinds: Measure the distance you want the blinds to cover. Record the width and height.
Tip: unless you want to buy the wrong size of blinds, make sure you measure twice. Also, keep in mind that every product is specific, therefore you need to consult the manufacturer for further directions and tips on how to measure up for blinds correctly.
The article is provided thanks to TenancyCleaners Deptford
