Blindster's Blog
How to Measure for Exterior Solar Shades
Exterior solar shades are the ideal window treatments for outdoor spaces such as sunrooms, decks, porches, garages, workshops, and other areas where you need high visibility of the outdoors.
If you're thinking about purchasing exterior solar shades from Blindster, it's important that you provide us with the most accurate measurements possible. To get the right dimensions for your order, you must first accurately measure either the inside of your window frame or the area you wish to cover with the shade itself.
Inside Mount Installations vs Outside Mount Installations
Before you begin taking measurements, note that there are two main mounting options for exterior solar shades: inside installations and outside installations. Use the table below to learn the differences between these two options before you decide which one is right for your home.
| Inside Mount Installation | Outside Mount Installation |
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After you've used the pros and cons above to decide on the right type of mounting option for your windows, it's time to begin measuring. Use the instructions below to get the most accurate measurements possible before you place an order for your new exterior solar shades.
Measuring for Inside Mount Installations
Step 1: Measure the interior width of the window opening where you plan on mounting the shade in three separate locations—the bottom, middle, and top. Take the smallest of these three measurements—this is the measurement you will use when placing your order with Blindster. Note that the factory will make slight deductions of around 1/8" when you place your order.
Step 2: Measure the interior height of the window opening where you plan on mounting the shade in three separate locations—the left side, the middle, and the right side. Take the largest of these three measurements—this is the measurement you will use when placing your order with Blindster.
Note: Roller shade fabrics are manufactured and shipped roughly 1" to 1/2" narrower than the ordered width to allow room for mounting brackets. If this will result in a large gap that allows too much light in, consider choosing an outside mount installation option instead.
Measuring for Outside Mount Installations
Step 1: Measure the full width of the area you wish to cover with your exterior solar shades. If space allows on your walls, add an extra 1" to 1 1/2" to each side of your measurement to reduce the amount of light leakage from the sides of the shade. Use this measurement plus any additions when you place your order with Blindster.
Step 2: Measure the full height of the area you wish to cover with your exterior solar shades. When measuring, include the height of the flat surface mounting area necessary for the brackets in your final dimensions. Note that the factory will make your shade, including the roller or cassette valance if ordered, to the height you specify. Also note that 3" to 4" of height should be added to your order if you want to mount your shade above your window frame and cover any molding or framework.
Note: When the factory makes your exterior solar shades, note that the shade material will be 1" to 1/2" narrower than the measurement you provided to allow room for brackets. If you need your shade to fit a specific measurement or width, add 1" to 1/2" to your ordered width to get the correct width.
Got your measurements and ready to start shopping? Check out Blindster's Exterior Solar Shades to see the great selection of colors, styles and options to help you get the perfect shade for your home.
