To measure blinds for a door, you typically measure the visible glass area and add extra inches to ensure proper coverage.
Step-by-Step Measurement Guide for Door Blinds
Measuring correctly is crucial for your blinds to fit well and function properly. The method described below is common for an outside mount, where the blind covers the window and slightly overlaps the door surface around the glass.
Here's how to measure based on common practice:
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Measure the Width:
- Measure the width of the visible glass area inside the trim or frame.
- Take three separate width measurements: one across the top, one in the middle, and one across the bottom.
- Record the largest of these three width measurements.
- To determine the width you should order for your blind, add 2 to 3 inches to this largest width measurement. This overlap helps block light around the edges.
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Measure the Height:
- Measure the height of the visible glass area inside the trim or frame.
- Take three separate height measurements: one on the left side, one in the middle, and one on the right side, measuring from the top to the bottom of the glass.
- Record the largest of these three height measurements.
- To determine the height you should order for your blind, add 2 to 3 inches to this largest height measurement. This ensures the blind covers the full glass area and slightly beyond.
| Measurement Area | Measurement Points | Value to Use | Final Adjustment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Width | Top, Middle, Bottom | Largest | Add 2-3 inches |
| Height | Left, Middle, Right | Largest | Add 2-3 inches |
Why Measure at Multiple Points?
Measuring at the top, middle, and bottom (for width) and left, middle, and right (for height) accounts for potential variations in the door frame or glass area. Using the largest measurement ensures that the blind will cover the entire opening without being too narrow or short at any point. Adding 2-3 inches provides overlap, minimizing light leakage and enhancing privacy.
Essential Tips for Measuring Door Blinds
- Use a metal tape measure for accuracy. Cloth tapes can stretch.
- Measure at least twice to confirm your numbers.
- Clearly note down your measurements immediately.
- Consider potential obstructions like door handles or knobs that the blind might need to clear when operating or hanging. You may need spacer blocks or hold-down brackets to manage this.
- Decide if you need hold-down brackets at the bottom of the blind, which are highly recommended for doors to keep the blind from swinging when the door is opened or closed. These brackets affect how the blind hangs and can sometimes influence height measurement slightly (though the standard method above accounts for the blind itself).
Following these steps will help you get the correct measurements for ordering blinds that fit your door properly and provide the desired light control and privacy.
