
Measure & Install
How To Measure Roller Shades
2 min read

Functional, versatile, and private.
Whether you’re creating the perfect sleep environment or want to control your home’s temperature, roller shades are a smart option. They provide optimal privacy and lighting, all while looking good, too.
Let’s start things off easy
Our guide will help you through the process of measuring your window, making it easy to order the perfect shades for your home. Before getting started, consider these three important factors.
1. Placement
Where will your roller shades fit? Assess your window to decide whether an inside or outside mount best complements your space.
2. Environment
What surface will your shades be mounted on? Roller shades can be installed on most surfaces, including wood, aluminum, wall studs, and drywall. Ensure you have the right tools for the surface you’ll be working on.
3. Size
What size is your window? Our roller shades can be installed on any window from 24” to 118” wide and 24” to 120” high.
Prep your tools
What you’ll need:
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Metal Tape Measure
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Pencil or Pen
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Paper
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Step Ladder
Time: Around 2-5 minutes per window
Quick prep: Clear your window area, check for obstructions like handles or locks.
Important: Measure each window individually - even identical-looking windows can vary!
What’s your type?
Pick what works best for your window:
- Inside Mount
- Outside Mount
- Outside Mount - Frameless
Inside Mount
Mount your roller shade inside the window frame for an integrated and seamless look.
Ensure there are no obstructions, as these can prevent your shade from fitting properly. If the window is at least 2” deep and free of obstructions, then you’re all set!
Check the depth
Now for the fun stuff. Grab your measuring tape and measure the inside of your window frame. You need at least 2” between the window pane and the front edge of the window frame. This will allow the brackets to fit properly inside.

Have less than 2” of clearance? Consider mounting your shades outside instead.
Measure the width
Skip the deductions and measure the exact width of your window. With your measuring tape, measure inside your window frame across the top. Jot down your width measurement.
Measure the height
Measure the exact height inside of your window from top to bottom. Jot down your height measurement.

Choose your control side
Make a mental note of what side you want the roller shade control to sit on. For easy access, choose a side with no obstructions for the chain to hang.
If you’re ordering motorized roller shades, your roller shades will need to be charged. We recommend you choose a side easily accessible at the top of the window where your charging port will be located.
Place your order
Don’t forget to double-check all your measurements! Now, you can confidently order your roller shades. Make sure to browse our selection of fabrics & colors and request free samples to find the perfect shades for you. Hold tight to your measurements. You’ll need to enter them in our customization tool.
One last thing before you go
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Take measurements to the closest 1/8in. Round down for inside mounts and round up for outside mounts.
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Use a metal tape measure for accurate results.
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Be mindful of any obstructions, such as door handles, skirting boards, or tiles within a reveal.
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When you’re working with heights, please use a suitable ladder safely.
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If controlling the tape measure feels tricky, especially on a ladder, be sure to ask someone for help.
Questions? Email us at hello@shadeit.com, and we’re happy to help. No shade.










