How to measure blinds for plastic windows - instructions

Light protection devices differ in their parameters. Before measuring blinds for plastic windows, you need to select the blinds according to the type of construction. For example, they can be horizontal or vertical, rolled or cassette, lamella or pleated.

Installing horizontal blinds requires careful measurements.

Blind mounting options

The size of the curtains and the method of calculation depend on how the roller shutters will be installed.

Mounting options and measuring rules:

1. On the slope. Determine the distance from the top point to the window sill and how many centimeters between the sides of the opening. Take the width at the smallest point, and the length, on the contrary, at the greatest. Subtract half a centimeter on the sides so that the blinds can move without touching the slopes.
2. On the wall. Measure the parameters of the opening at 3 points. Then add 10 cm to the largest numbers.
3. On the frame. Calculate how many centimeters from the edge of the handle to the slope on the side. Subtract 3 cm from this figure to leave a gap. For the side gap, subtract 5 cm. Take the length equal to the distance from the top point of the opening to the bottom.
4. On the sash. Using a steel tape measure, set the distance from the outer edge to the handle and remove half a centimeter so that the blinds do not break when the shutter is opened to the side. Subtract an additional 5 cm so that the canvas does not cling to the handle. Reduce the length by 2 cm.

Fasteners for blinds on plastic windows.

What you need to take into account

To ensure that the readings taken are as accurate as possible, several specific rules have been identified that can help every novice master:

• It is recommended to measure blinds using a steel tape measure. It is she who will show the most accurate indicators;
• You cannot round the result. The resulting figure must be written down exactly to the millimeter.
• The result is written in a certain sequence: 1 - width, 2 - length. This order is important when ordering, and this is the most common mistake.
• In order for the blinds to fit perfectly, dimensions must be taken at different levels for each parameter. Very often windows are uneven, and without taking this feature into account, the finished product may rise and fall poorly.

Window measurements for horizontal blinds

It is imperative to consider how the curtain will be installed.

On the window opening

This installation will visually enlarge the window. First of all, you need to determine the width and height of the opening.

The parameters should look like this:

• the width is equal to the distance between the side slopes of the frame with an addition of 1 cm;
• the height corresponds to the opening length with a 5 cm margin.

On the sash

In this case, the measurements are different:

• measure the distance between the beads at 3 points, write down the maximum value;
• do the same with height;
• add 1 cm to the original width measurement and 3 cm to the height measurement.

When the window opens, the control mechanism is placed opposite the handle.

Sample measurements for horizontal blinds.

Varieties

Among the varieties, everyone chooses at their own discretion.

Horizontal

This type is the most common and is often chosen by customers:

1. The slats are positioned horizontally.
2. The slats are connected by vertical parts that are attached to the cornice.
3. There are ropes running along the edge of the plates. With their help, it is easy to lower and raise the canvas.

Vertical

The planks in such structures are arranged vertically:

1. There is a chain running along the bottom edge of the entire canvas.
2. During control, the plates change their angle in different ways, so it is easy to regulate the penetration of light.
3. Vertical panels are more resistant to dust accumulation.

Curtains visually lengthen the room, especially suitable for rooms with low ceilings.

Cassette

The curtains got their name due to the fact that the assembled canvas is located in a special cassette. Blinds are found only with horizontally located plates. The slats can be adjusted in any direction.

Rolled

This type of blinds has a fabric base:

1. The material differs in density and texture. These qualities will affect light transmission, wear resistance and service life.
2. The canvases are pre-treated with special products that protect against bacteria and dust accumulation.
3. The canvas goes down and up along the guides, gathering into a roll. It is possible to fix the canvas at any height.

Pleated blinds

Blinds are made in the form of a fabric sheet, which, when closed, gathers into an accordion. Along the edges of the canvas there are cables that prevent sagging.

Roller blinds

These are compact roller blinds that are installed on the window frame. Control is carried out by tape, chain or cords. During lifting, the canvas is wrapped into a roll. The curtain can be fixed at any height.

Measurements for vertical blinds

Vertical roller shutters are mounted in or on the opening, depending on the shape of the window or design solution. In addition, if the width of the light-protective device is a multiple of 8 cm (for those that fold in one direction) or 16 cm (for those that fold in two directions), it will look more advantageous.

In order to hide the battery, it is better to use a mount on the opening. This method will mask window distortions. But if there are protrusions of more than 6 cm, you cannot do without an extended bracket.

At least 20 cm must be added to the width of the opening (10 cm on each side). If the blinds are mounted on the ceiling, the distance to the ceiling is added to the height of the frame. If on the wall, then 10 cm to the desired length of the product.

For a cramped room where furniture is located under the windows, it is recommended to use the method of fastening in the opening. But it will not work for uneven windows.

Measurements for vertical blinds.

Advantages and disadvantages of roller shutters

Like every object or product, roller shutters have two sides: pros and cons. Let's look at them in detail.

Advantages	Flaws
A unique, distinctive look distinguishes it from the usual curtains and blinds	High price
Take up little space, compact, space-saving windows	Delicate care: hand wash only or gently wipe with sponge
Universal, suitable for different types of premises	When cleaning windows you have to remove roller blinds
Protect from sunlight and dust	Cheap rolls have an unreliable lifting/lowering device
Simple and convenient to use
Multifunctional: can be installed together with classic curtains
Easy and quick to install or dismantle

Rolls have many more advantages than disadvantages. This is why they are so popular now.

Measurements for roller blinds

The system is easy to install with your own hands, overlapping, in an opening and on a wall. It is better to add 5 cm to the height for the cornice.

Into the opening

The dimensions of the Roman blind correspond to the parameters of the window opening. But if the window is distorted, it is better to refuse such an installation.

overlap

First you need to determine the width and height of the window, and then add at least 10 and 20 cm to the measured value, respectively.

On the wall

Select the highest values ​​after measuring several points, and then, just as with the overlap method, add 10 and 20 cm to these values.

It’s easy to take measurements for roller blinds yourself.

Main types of roller blinds

The classification of roller shutters is given in the table:

Selection by parameters	Types of roller blinds
Based on materials	Wooden, bamboo, fabric - dimout, blackout
By type of construction	Open, closed
By adjustment mechanisms	Chain, spring, electric drive

Before choosing roller blinds, you need to find out what they are.

Rolls can be made to order - according to various parameters. For example, roller blinds “day/night” or “zebra” - chain, two-fabric with different light transmission. Denser stripes completely darken the room, while lighter ones filter ultraviolet rays and create coolness in hot weather. These roller shutters are expensive because they are difficult to manufacture.

Universal cassette rolls are of good quality and easy to use. These multifunctional curtains are often used in the design of plastic windows.

Mini - curtains attached with thick double-sided mounting tape or with latches without drilling are popular due to their relatively low price. Installed on the window sash.

Models with electric drive are more expensive. This innovative device has found fans among those who are looking for new products with remote control.

Blackout fabric rolls have a high density and do not transmit light, which ensures quality sleep even on a sunny day.

Light-transmitting fabrics provide comfortable diffused lighting and create a cozy interior.

Roller blinds made of bamboo and wooden slats are chosen by lovers of natural materials. The advantage of these types:

• practicality;
• strength;
• ease;
• moisture resistance;
• resistance to fading;
• aesthetics.

Window measurements for pleated curtains

These curtains are installed overlapping and on the window sash. In this case, the length of the blinds is equal to the height of the opening with glazing beads with a 4 cm margin. The width is taken to be a similar parameter of window clearance (also taking into account glazing beads).

If the window is flat and the glazing bead is at least 18 mm deep, then it is permissible to attach curtains to the opening.

It is advisable to carry out professional measurements, because... this type of blinds is considered one of the most expensive.

Measurements for pleated curtains.

What fabric density is needed?

Thick fabrics are used for roller blinds:

• cotton;
• linen;
• bamboo;
• viscose;
• polyester;
• nylon;
• elastane;
• fiberglass.

The most popular:

• blackout – due to reflective fibers it creates pitch darkness;
• dimout - lets in the sun's rays and blocks the heat of ultraviolet radiation. Creates coolness on hot days;
• “day/night” textiles – a combination of blackout and dimout.

Every room needs its own level of illumination. Roller blinds not only decorate windows, but also protect from the sun.

We select the level of fabric density, and therefore light transmittance, for each room:

1. in the kitchen - roller shutters made of dimout fabric let in light, hide it from strangers, and cool the room on a hot summer day. The fabric is protected with a special compound from dust and moisture;
2. for the bedroom - thick day/night rolls; they provide good sleep even on a hot sunny day, and at night they protect from the light of street lamps;
3. in the nursery - medium-density curtains, for example, made of jute fabric. They diffuse and soften the sun's rays, making the interior more comfortable;
4. in the living room - roller blinds made of blackout fabric. They allow you to watch TV or work on a computer without sun glare.

Decorate windows located on the sunny south side with rolls of thick material.

Measurements for lamella curtains

The values ​​need to be calculated taking into account the type of fastening:

1. When installing through an opening, first measure the upper part of the window and subtract 2 cm from the resulting number. This is the width of the future curtain. Then its height is determined - the length of the window niche minus 2-3 cm. It is important that nothing obstructs the passage of the shutters, otherwise their service life will be reduced.
2. When wall mounted, 10 cm is added to the width of the frame, and 5 cm to the height. When the window sill protrudes and interferes with the movement of the roller shutters, the length of the product corresponds to the height of the opening.
3. When installing on a ceiling, first measure the distance from the ceiling to the end point of the curtain. If there are no protruding areas, you can lower the curtain to the floor, leaving a gap of 2 cm so that the canvas does not slip on the covering.

Several measurement options.

Color solutions

High-tech methods of applying paints and coatings make it possible to produce blinds in a wide variety of colors. Bamboo and wood slats are coated with non-toxic varnish; silver and gold plating are used less frequently. Intertwined textures are painted in different colors or ornaments are applied to them using special stencils.

More often, gilding and silvering is applied to iron slats: they are black, brown or silver-white. A large number of colored blinds can be found among products made of paper or woven fabrics. As for the currently fashionable photo print, each material allows you to apply it manually over the main tone.

Modern designers have created several basic principles for selecting color shades:

• the color is selected in accordance with the tone of the walls: lighter or a little darker by several shades, which is an unmistakable decision;
• the color is chosen based on the overall gamut of the decor: the design turns out to be non-standard and attractive;
• shades based on contrasts, but they are appropriate only if the entire furnishings as a whole are kept neutral and in a monochromatic color palette - in this case, the blinds will involuntarily become the center of attention;
• white color is the most common and in demand.

Methods for removing excess length of blinds

Construction stores have a large selection of ready-made curtains. If the product you like turns out to be larger than necessary, then it is not difficult to shorten it on your own. To do this, you need to measure how many centimeters the canvas is in length, remove the plugs, and remove the clamps.

Then the excess slats are removed and the fasteners are returned to their place. After this, you need to cut the cords, put on the bar and return the plugs.

To narrow the blinds, you will first have to remove the side slats, then adjust the canvas using a hacksaw, which is used to cut metal.

Cut lamellas cannot be restored, so manipulation should be carried out only after careful calculations.

On vertical curtains, removing the length is a little more difficult. Before measuring, you need to prepare a hacksaw, screwdriver, metal tape measure, iron and scissors or knife.

The work is carried out in the following order:

1. Place the blinds on a flat surface and remove the side strip.
2. Remove the runners from the slats.
3. Measure the excess length of the fabric.
4. Leave 0.2-0.25 cm so that it is convenient to tuck and trim.
5. Glue the edges together or connect them using a heated iron. This will prevent the fabric from fraying. Otherwise, the service life of the product may be greatly reduced.
6. In the middle of each plank you need to make holes for the runners, and then assemble the structure.

Trim off the excess width.

Beautiful design solutions for the room

A huge variety of types, colors, materials, ultra-fashionable design have allowed blinds to occupy an important place in the interior of any apartment, house, room, room:

• A combination of protective and decorative qualities, ease of use and practicality, as well as trendy design and a variety of materials.
• Wooden products matching the color of the furniture are very popular in classic interiors.
• Young apartment residents will like colored aluminum models.

• The large windows of a chic living room will be adequately decorated with horizontal blinds combined with Japanese curtains.
• Neat vertical curtains in pastel colors will have a calming effect on you in the bedroom.

Common Measuring Errors

When taking measurements on their own, buyers make several common mistakes:

1. In the order form, in the “Width” column, indicate the height value.
2. They forget to remove 1.5-2 cm from the width when installing roller blinds inside the opening.
3. Do not subtract 2 cm from the height when hanging blinds to the windowsill.

As a result, the product does not fit correctly. It has to be adjusted to fit the frame or completely redone. Additional work entails considerable costs. Therefore, it is recommended to use the services of a specialist.

The measurer will tell you which blinds are best to choose, and then install them correctly. During the warranty period, he will be responsible for installation.

Fabric selection

Fabrics for roller blinds can be divided into four groups according to material density:

The first group is light translucent fabrics. They do not provide significant darkening, but play more of a decorative function. These fabrics should be used when it is necessary to achieve a slight darkening effect and use the product only as an element of window decoration. Translucent fabrics are produced mainly with patterns.

The second group is dense fabrics that provide significant darkness in the room. They can be either patterned or plain. They should be used in moderate sun. They have both a decorative and sun protection function.

The third group is very dense fabrics. The products are best used in very strong sun, for example, if you have a south-facing window or a large window. In addition to their sun protection function, they are also used as a decorative window design element. These fabrics come in patterned and plain colors.

The fourth group is blackout fabrics, or complete blackout. They come with a pattern and plain ones. When a roller blind made of this fabric is lowered, even in the middle of the day when the sun is shining, your room will be completely dark.

We select the material (plastic, fabric, wood, bamboo, aluminum)

Plastic blinds are made from PVC or UV polymer. They contain substances that resist exposure to direct sunlight. They are often white, but can have different colors or imitate other materials (natural wood, metal or textiles). Decorators use curtains with photo prints or patterns to decorate rooms.

Aluminum blinds are more durable than plastic sunshade systems. Sometimes the slats are coated with a polymer layer that imitates wood.

Interesting are the perforated aluminum models, which create a pleasant atmosphere in the room. Even with the slats completely closed, they allow some light to pass through the small holes. But you need to keep in mind that the material heats up, so you shouldn’t hang them on the sunny side of the apartment.

Beautiful fabric blinds, reminiscent of ordinary curtains, are made of polyester, jacquard or fiberglass. Compared to plastic or aluminum, they have wider lamellas, impregnated with compounds that repel moisture and dirt, and increase resistance to fading.

The very first models of horizontal blinds had wooden slats ranging from 3 cm to 15 cm in width. The individual lamellas were connected and assembled together using ropes or narrow ribbons. Wooden models are highly valued by decorators. These light-protection systems add solidity to any room, be it a living room or a bedroom, and go well with furniture and small design elements.

Wooden slats are coated with compounds that protect them from destruction and fading. Blinds made of this material can only be maintained dry (sweep or wipe with a brush).

Light and thin light-protection systems made of bamboo are compact and take up very little space when folded. Bamboo slats allow light to pass through even in a completely closed (strictly vertical) position. The golden yellow color creates the illusion of a sunny day indoors.

But it is undesirable to use systems made of this material to cover large window openings. Bamboo is elastic, which means the slats can bend under their own weight.

To the kitchen

Practical horizontal blinds made of plastic are suitable for the kitchen: they do not absorb odors, are not afraid of humidity and temperature changes, and are easy to clean.

If you want an interesting color and texture, you can choose a fabric option. Due to impregnation, such blinds will not absorb odors, grease and moisture. And curtains with photo printing can become the main accent of the kitchen.

Aluminum models are appropriate in a high-tech kitchen. But we must not forget that they heat up in the sun and rattle in a draft.

You can save space on the kitchen window sill by installing cassette blinds, which are completely assembled into the upper cassette.

The classic white color of the blinds allows you to notice and remove dirt in a timely manner and harmonizes with kitchen appliances and furniture. This design looks neat and fresh and perfectly complements modern styles: minimalism, contemporary, Scandinavian.

To the bedroom

The bedroom is a place of rest and relaxation, where there should be no harsh tones, loud or unpleasant sounds. Therefore, practically silent fabric blinds (roller, pleated) of horizontal and vertical designs are most appropriate here.

Models made from natural materials (cotton, jacquard) are suitable for the bedroom. Often fabric slats are impregnated with a special solution, which makes the fabric completely impenetrable to light.

Rolled fabric Vertical fabric

Advice from Mr. Build: for a bedroom in Provence, shabby chic, country, or eco-style, we recommend choosing wooden blinds. For a room in a minimalist or Japanese style - made of bamboo.

Peculiarities

They started selling blinds a long time ago. A long time ago, Eastern men covered the windows of their houses with wooden strips, which allowed sunlight to enter the room, but everything inside was hidden. Since then, blinds have been used, differing in variety.

Modern options are presented in the form of a set of plates that are controlled mechanically or electronically. For the former, laces or chains are used, for the latter, an electric drive is used. This option is convenient when windows are placed high. The products protect the room from light from outside.

For a loggia or balcony

For a loggia, which often serves as a complete and cozy room for work or relaxation, there are also rules for selecting blinds.

• For aluminum and sliding frames, only hinged structures are suitable, preferably with vertical slats. For casement windows, choose horizontal models with sash mounting.

• For the south side it is better to choose curtains made of thick fabric; for the north side, light translucent designs are suitable.

• On a small balcony, short models with an attic type of fastening look better.

• Curtains with wooden slats are combined with plants and outdoor furniture, are resistant to gusts of wind, create a comfortable environment, and fit into any style.

• Bamboo blinds are good for a balcony in eco- or ethnic style, chalet, oriental.