Finding the perfect window treatments can completely transform the look and feel of your home. Whether you are moving into a new house or updating a single room, custom blinds and shades offer a level of precision and style that off-the-shelf products simply cannot match. This guide will walk you through the process of selecting, measuring, and ordering the ideal window coverings for your space.
Custom window treatments allow you to choose the exact dimensions, materials, and operating systems that fit your lifestyle. By following a few simple steps, you can ensure that your new blinds look professional and function perfectly for years to come. From understanding different styles to mastering the art of the measuring tape, here is everything you need to know about upgrading your windows.
Why Choose Custom Window Treatments?
Many homeowners start their search at big-box retailers, only to find that standard sizes don’t quite fit their unique window frames. Custom-made blinds are manufactured to your specific measurements, often down to the nearest eighth of an inch. This eliminates unsightly gaps and ensures maximum light control and privacy.
Beyond the fit, custom options provide a much wider range of materials and colors. You can coordinate your window coverings with your existing furniture, paint, and flooring. Additionally, custom products often feature higher-quality components, such as sturdier headrails and more durable fabrics, which lead to a longer lifespan for your investment.
Enhanced Safety and Technology
One of the biggest advantages of modern custom blinds is the availability of cordless and motorized systems. If you have children or pets, cordless options are the safest choice as they eliminate dangling strings. Motorization allows you to control your shades with a remote, a smartphone app, or even voice commands, making them ideal for hard-to-reach windows.
Popular Types of Window Coverings
Before you place an order, it is important to understand the different types of treatments available. Each style offers unique benefits regarding light filtration, insulation, and aesthetics.
- Faux Wood Blinds: These are highly durable and resistant to moisture, making them perfect for kitchens and bathrooms. They provide the classic look of real wood without the risk of warping.
- Cellular or Honeycomb Shades: Known for their energy efficiency, these shades have a unique cell structure that traps air, helping to insulate your home against heat and cold.
- Roller Shades: These offer a clean, minimalist look. They are available in a variety of opacities, from sheer light-filtering fabrics to complete blackout materials.
- Roman Shades: These provide a soft, elegant look similar to drapery but with the functionality of a shade. They fold up neatly when raised.
- Wood Blinds: Made from real North American hardwoods, these add warmth and natural beauty to living rooms and bedrooms.
How to Measure Your Windows Accurately
Accurate measurements are the most critical part of ordering custom blinds. You will need a steel measuring tape, a pencil, and paper to record your findings. Never use a cloth tape measure, as they can stretch and lead to inaccurate results.
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount
First, decide if you want an inside mount or an outside mount. An inside mount is the most common choice; the blinds are installed inside the window casing for a sleek, integrated look. An outside mount is installed on the wall or the window molding, which is useful if your window depth is too shallow or if you want to hide unattractive trim.
Measuring for Inside Mount
For an inside mount, you must measure the width in three places: the top, the middle, and the bottom. Write down the smallest of these three measurements. This ensures the blinds won’t rub against the sides of the window frame.
Next, measure the height in three places: the left, the center, and the right. For most blinds, you will use the longest measurement to ensure full coverage. However, for some specific shade types, the shortest measurement is preferred. Always check the specific manufacturer’s instructions before finalizing your numbers.
Measuring for Outside Mount
For an outside mount, measure the exact width of the area you want to cover. It is generally recommended to add two to three inches to each side to minimize light leakage. For the height, measure from where you want the top of the headrail to sit down to the windowsill or slightly below it.
Choosing the Right Material for Each Room
Not every blind is suitable for every room. Consider the environment and the primary function of the space before making your selection.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
In bedrooms, light control is usually the top priority. Blackout shades are an excellent choice for sleepers who are sensitive to morning sun or streetlights. For living rooms, light-filtering cellular shades or elegant Roman shades can provide privacy while still allowing a soft glow to enter the room.
Kitchens and Bathrooms
These rooms often experience high humidity and temperature fluctuations. Real wood can warp or crack in these conditions. Faux wood blinds or synthetic roller shades are much better suited for these environments because they are easy to wipe clean and won’t absorb moisture.
The Ordering and Customization Process
Once you have your measurements and have selected your style, it is time to look at the finer details. Most custom retailers offer a variety of upgrades that can improve the functionality of your blinds.
- Valances and Cornices: These decorative toppers hide the headrail and give the window a finished, high-end look.
- Privacy Slats: Some horizontal blinds offer “no-holes” designs, where the cord holes are hidden to prevent tiny points of light from entering the room.
- Continuous Cord Loops: For large or heavy shades, a continuous cord loop makes it much easier to raise and lower the treatment with minimal effort.
- Sample Swatches: Many providers allow you to order free samples. It is highly recommended to see the fabric or material in your own home’s lighting before committing to a full order.
Simple Installation Tips
Most custom blinds are designed for easy DIY installation. When your order arrives, it will typically include mounting brackets and screws. You will generally only need a power drill, a screwdriver, and a level.
Start by marking the location of your brackets based on your measurements. Ensure they are level so the blinds hang straight. Once the brackets are secure, the headrail usually snaps into place with a simple clicking mechanism. Test the operation of the blinds immediately to ensure they raise and lower smoothly.
Conclusion
Upgrading to custom window treatments is one of the most effective ways to improve your home’s comfort and aesthetic appeal. By taking the time to measure carefully and choose the right materials for your specific needs, you can achieve a professional look without the professional price tag. Whether you prioritize energy efficiency, child safety, or modern style, there is a custom solution perfectly suited for your windows.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on home improvement, interior design trends, and simple DIY repairs to keep your living space looking its best.