My Direct Blinds · Measuring guide
Measure for vertical blinds
Find your fit. Record the right dimensions. Check before you order.
Before you measure
Use a metal tape measure, pencil and worksheet. Record width first, then drop, in exact millimetres (mm). Do not round, use a cloth tape or copy dimensions from house plans. Measure every window separately, even when windows look identical.
If measuring with someone else, repeat each reading aloud as it is written down. Check every measurement and order detail twice, then a third time. For ordinary recess measurements, do not make factory deductions yourself. Special-window instructions must be read with the product guide; ask us to resolve any conflict before ordering.
Choose the fit
Recess / inside fit sits within the window opening. It gives a clean appearance, shows attractive architraves and can make the window look slimmer and the wall more spacious. Face / outside fit sits on the architrave or the wall above a window without architraves. It can reduce light gaps, improve privacy, make a window look larger and hide a crooked or unattractive opening.
Check winders, knobs, handles, inward-opening windows and any other obstruction. Check the intended drop against protruding sills, desks, beds and furniture. Choose face fit when the recess cannot provide the clearance the product needs.
Check recess clearance
For 89 mm vanes, 100 mm recess depth is sufficient; the minimum is 65 mm, with vanes projecting when open. For 127 mm vanes, 135 mm is sufficient; the minimum is 80 mm, again with open vanes projecting.
Check that vanes can turn around winders, knobs and handles. Some winders can fold in. The bottom vanes have no connecting chains, so a bottom chain cannot catch an obstruction; still check actual vane clearance.
Measure a recess fit
Measure inside width at the top of the reveal where the track will sit. Measure drop from inside recess top to sill or floor in three places: left, centre and right. Use the smallest drop. Do not make deductions or allowances.
Measure a face fit
Face fit is the most popular mounting choice for vertical blinds. Measure width between the outer architrave edges and drop from architrave top to the chosen finish. Ordered dimensions include the track and brackets.
On a short window without a protruding sill, extend 50-100 mm below the sill. For full-height windows, measure to 10 mm above the floor. For privacy and light control, add 40-100 mm beyond each architrave side (80-200 mm overall), if space permits.
Without architraves, measure opening width and add at least 120 mm. Measure from opening top to the chosen finish and add at least 70-100 mm for mounting above the opening. Check that upper space is available.
