Roller blinds are the most compact of the existing ones. They allow you to decorate a window opening with a minimum of funds, while at the same time reliably closing the room from prying eyes and sunlight. When making blinds, some companies offer clients a discount if they measure the window size themselves.
Before buying roller blinds, you need to measure the dimensions of the windows
How to measure a window opening for vertical blinds?
Vertical blinds bring sophistication to the interior. If you have chosen the right material and color of the blinds, you can be sure they will fit perfectly into the room.
Vertical blinds can be installed on the opening and in the window opening. The choice of installation option depends on your preferences and which method best reflects the design idea.
Blinds will look excellent if their width is a multiple of 8 cm (for one-way opening) and 16 cm (for two-way opening).
Measurements for vertical blinds
How to determine the size of roller blinds for windows?
Classic cut curtains are always relevant. But they do not always suit the interior of the room or are not to everyone’s taste. In such a situation, the only correct solution is roller blinds. This type of curtain is a piece of fabric that is attached to the top of the window on a shaft. Basically, it spins from top to bottom. The main lifting mechanisms in such products are mechanical and automatic. An automatic lift is more convenient than a mechanical one, but, unfortunately, it is much more expensive.
Before you buy roller blinds, you need to correctly measure the dimensions of the window.
Roller blinds come in two main types:
The mechanism of open roller blinds is much simpler, since it does not have a shaft on top that protects the fabric. They cost an order of magnitude cheaper, but they also get dirty more often. Closed curtains have a protective roller and most often they are equipped with an automatic lifting mechanism. The cost of roller blinds depends on the quality of their components. In addition, this type of product may differ in color and type. It is very difficult to make roller blinds yourself and therefore it is better to order them, taking into account the size of your window.
They can be multi-colored or plain. The materials from which they are made are very different. In a separate group there are curtains called “Day-Night”. They consist of two strips of fabric. When closed they look like a single unit.
Types of window openings and their descriptions
Standard ready-made roller blinds come in two main types:
- closed;
- open.
You can understand how to choose roller blinds for plastic windows if you know their main differences. Blinds, which belong to the open variety, are a standard model, fixed on an open shaft. This is the simplest type, which includes fabric and the fastening itself. The roll itself is placed on top of the window. The fastenings are not covered by anything. The advantage is that there is no need to drill the frame or carry out other manipulations. The appearance of the window opening will be preserved if you decide to remove the blinds.
Open roller blinds are mounted on large windows either on the frame or on the opening itself. Products of this variety are usually not very large in width, and magnets are used to fix them. They are installed on the sides and help keep the curtains from sagging and from damage when the doors are opened.
Velcro can be used to attach small items. Additionally, even if you were unable to select the correct width, blinds can in most cases be trimmed at the edges.
Control occurs using a chain mechanism. The fabric is wound on a shaft, so you can adjust the required height. The disadvantage of such decorative elements is considered to be incomplete blocking from light, since they can allow sunlight to pass through on the sides. The advantages include ease of installation and low cost.
Large roller blinds usually require the installation of closed-type fasteners. They provide reliable fixation and, moreover, look more interesting in the interior. The shaft is placed in a closed box, which can be made of plastic or metal. Along the edges of the fabric there are special retaining strips that provide reliable fixation.
This type of product is chosen by those who strive for minimalism. Since all fasteners are hidden under a single-color frame, the effect of completing the window opening is created. You can additionally use tulle in the interior.
Minimalism in the interior with roller blinds
The advantage of this variety is also that it provides complete protection from sunlight. The guides thoroughly fix the fabric, so light will not penetrate into the room. In addition, there are double roller blinds (day - night). They alternate light and dark fabric. If desired, you can completely darken the room or make it bright. To do this, you only need to move the strips relative to each other using a control mechanism. It can be manual or automatic.
Measurements with installation in front of the opening
If the method of installation on the wall in front of the opening is best suited for your window, then you have more opportunities to choose the height and width of the curtain according to your own needs. You can choose roller blinds that cover only the outline of the window, or you can purchase a model that will hide part of the wall around it. Using this type of installation, Blackout products are often installed, which provide the greatest protection from sunlight. Read more : Features of choosing Blackout Blackout roller blinds
Criterias of choice
When it comes to replacing old windows with new ones in a house, the question involuntarily arises about decorative components, more precisely, about curtains or blinds. With the advent of plastic windows, it has become fashionable to use roller blinds in the interior. They are much more practical and modern. You need to choose roller blinds for your room based on a number of criteria:
- is your side sunny?
- what density of fabric is required;
- type of fastening - on the sash, window frame, on the wall, in the slope or ceiling;
- open or closed system;
- choice of fabric color.
All these points must be taken into account when choosing roller blinds.
Read also: Swirl drum, what is it?
Subtleties in calculations
The most practical way to position the control system is so that the cord does not collide with the window handle during operation. The length of the lace of the mechanism is set at the request of the customer.
It is very important to take correct window measurements when choosing roller blinds, especially if they will be attached with self-tapping screws. The products are completed with a box for the upper part and guide elements - at the request of the buyer. If the curtain box is decorative, it is secured with special fasteners. Measuring roller blinds for plastic windows is not at all difficult. You need to follow the advice of experts, and you will do all the calculations as quickly as possible.
The main thing is maximum care; you need to measure very carefully. In this case, the result will not disappoint you - the curtains will fit the window opening just perfectly.
Conclusion
Measuring a frame for blinds is not a difficult process, but it must be approached very carefully. An error will result in the work having to be redone, which will incur additional costs. When the position of the handle on the frame is not taken into account or the blade is slightly longer than necessary, the owner, feeling the inconvenience of the mistakes made, will want to get rid of them: he will have to spend money again.
The main thing is maximum care, then the result will not disappoint you
If difficulties arise, the window has a complex shape - it is better to immediately invite a specialist. This will save time, money and nerves.
Dimensions of cassette curtains
Measurements of “cassette” type roller blinds are made somewhat differently. They come in two standard sizes UNI1 and UNI2, depending on whether they are intended for installation on an opening window sash or on a non-opening window. The method of attaching them to the plastic profile is also different. In the first case, the mounting brackets are L-shaped and snap onto the upper end of the window frame and are additionally fixed with double-sided foam tape. And UNI2 curtains, instead of L-shaped brackets, are equipped with flat fasteners, which are fixed to the PVC profile only with double-sided tape.
The second difference between “cassette” roller blinds and “Mini” curtains is the presence of two guides along which a weight bar attached to the end of the curtain slides, thereby preventing sagging in any position of the window or the curtains being rolled up by the wind or draft.
For windows with straight glazing beads, measurements are made in the same way as for “Mini” - according to the size of the window glass. The guides are attached to the inner surface of the side beads and the curtain fits very tightly to the glass.
If the glazing bead is beveled, then the width of the roller blinds of the “cassette” type UNI2 is determined by the outer edges of the side glazing beads, since the guides in this case are glued to the front plane of the glazing bead. The length is also determined by the outer, frontal length of the side beads.
We install the structure without drilling
The roller blinds are assembled according to the same principle as described above. The main difference is the method of attaching the brackets. Without screws or drilling, they are glued to the sash, or attached to special hooks to the upper edge of the sash.
Hooks are applicable if the width of the sash and the seal allow this. The bracket is assembled according to the manufacturer's instructions. The shaft is mounted on the installed brackets similar to the drilling method. In this method, it is important not to forget to check that the bracket latches do not interfere with closing the window.
As for fasteners with an adhesive layer, everything is simple. The first step is to thoroughly degrease the surface where the structure will be glued. Then everything follows according to the instructions. By the way, the adhesive base can be additionally lubricated with glue - this will be more reliable.
What errors occur during measurement?
Instructions on how to measure curtains are needed in order to avoid common mistakes. Many people think that it is enough to measure the frame across and along, but the windows are not the same over their entire area, so you need to take three measurements at different distances. Indicate in the order the smallest value obtained. If there is excess width/length, the curtain may not fit into the opening.
Important! It is necessary to take into account the dimensions of the roller blind itself, which holds the curtain.
Roller blinds come in open and closed types. Open-type structures are cheaper, but they get dirty quickly. Closed-type mechanisms are more expensive, but much more convenient.
Roller blinds come in two types - open (pictured on the left) and closed (on the right)
Mechanical or automatic control is available. The overall width of the roller blind is 0.3-0.5 cm larger than the size of the curtain itself due to the mounting fasteners/plugs at the edges. If you do not take into account the difference, the canvas may extend beyond the frame - it will have to be trimmed during installation.
When choosing electric curtains, it is better to give preference to compact models, the dimensions of which are slightly larger than their manual counterparts.
The depth of the mechanism is 3.5-4 cm (the design and its dimensions must be clarified with the manufacturer). Due to the differences in mounting methods, it is recommended to entrust preliminary measurements to professionals who know the intricacies of various devices for mounting and controlling such curtains.
The depth of the mechanism determines whether the window sash can open normally
Sometimes roller blinds are installed so that they cover only the glass itself inside the frame. In this case, the structure is mounted exclusively on frames with a rectangular bead.
Curtains with guides are good because they completely block sunlight
When this element has a rounded shape, the curtains are made a little larger and placed higher in the window opening. Large blinds are placed outside, and roller blinds are attached to the wall or ceiling.
Pay attention to the location of the handles for opening the frame! The open roll should not block access to them.
It is more practical to position the control system so that the cord does not collide with the handle
If the curtain touches something during use, then there is a high probability of tearing the structure out of place. The lower edge of the guides, touching the window sill, gets dirty and wrinkled.
Useful tips
Professionals shared practical tips for installing roller blinds. Study them carefully:
- the same curtain will be of different lengths depending on the chosen attachment option.
- When attached to the ceiling, it is easier to model curtains. It’s okay to make a mistake of 1-2 cm, since the fabric will cover the window opening. Take the roller shutter fabric 10 cm wider than the window frame, and as long as you need;
- when mounting to the wall, take into account the box size of about 5 cm;
- when installing in a window frame, the material should be 4 cm narrower than the window niche;
- The width of the fabric for roller blinds with PVC guides should be equal to the width of the glass. In this case, the guides are attached to the glazing beads;
- for Mini roller blinds, canvas = glass width + 3 cm: one for the glazing bead at the window handle, two on the hinge side;
- if the roller blind has a guide string, then the width of the material should be equal to the width of the glass plus 3 cm so that there are no gaps;
- Before installation, measure the length of the bracket. It should be sufficient so that the shaft does not touch the wall;
- with any type of fastening, the uncovered section of the chain mechanism must be directed downward. If you place it incorrectly, the roller blind will not work;
Measurement Rules
To select and buy suitable roller blinds, you need to measure the window correctly. To do this, you need to find out the following parameters:
- Width. For correct measurement, indicate the width from the joint of the bead to the frame on one side, and the joint of the bead to the frame on the other side - this will be the width of the fabric. In roller blinds with an open type mechanism, the overall width of the roller blind will be 38 mm larger than the width of the fabric due to the upper side mounting fasteners. The roller blind measured in this way completely covers the double-glazed window and the window bead, which ensures maximum overlap of the opening.
- Height. To correctly measure a fabric roller shutter, indicate the size from the joint of the bead to the frame at the bottom to the joint of the bead to the frame at the top. The size of the roller shutter mechanism is added to the height of the fabric and is about 70mm (36mm roller shutter +34mm bottom space).
Related article: Lubricant for rubber seals of plastic windows
It is worth paying attention to the depth of the roller blind mechanism, which is approximately 36 mm. It is necessary to take into account the distance from the edge of the roller shutter mechanism to the slope. The opening angle of the window depends on this distance.
Peculiarities
Roller blinds easily regulate the lighting in your home. They can completely darken a room or gently diffuse light. Main advantages of the products:
- protection from the sun, noise and prying eyes;
- compact design – space saving;
- simplicity and ease of control;
- great design possibilities;
- durability - do not wear out over time and do not lose their aesthetic appearance;
- do not attract dust, do not fade in the sun;
- fabrics and mechanisms do not contain harmful substances;
- reasonable price - depends on the size of the window, fabric and system.
Differences from other species
Roller blinds (fabric roller shutters) can be classified as blinds for the home, since they have a similar fastening system and control mechanism. However, this decor does not have lamellas; instead, a single fabric surface is used.
In addition, the method of controlling the canvas is different: the slats rise, tightly compressing each other, and in roller blinds the material is wound onto a shaft and a neat roll is obtained (hence, in fact, the name).
Roller shutters combine the positive qualities of all options:
- due to the variety of colors and materials, they will fit well into any interior;
- they can be combined with traditional curtains;
- provide protection from the sun and prying eyes;
- the treatment of the fabric gives it a dirt-repellent effect, and therefore the products do not require special care.
If you decide to give up fabric curtains and are wondering what to choose: roller blinds or better blinds, then don’t hesitate - take the former. They are more practical to maintain and look more advantageous, while blinds add a certain touch of office style.
Before you go shopping, watch a video that talks about mistakes when choosing roller shutters.
Roman curtains
How to take measurements correctly for classic Roman blind designs? They start by determining the location of the canvas. This can be a solution “into” the opening or from the outside – “on” it. The first option requires more careful measurements, otherwise it will not be possible to install this way.
To install Roman curtains, you need to measure h and b of the window. The resulting indicators must be adjusted in the following way:
- to b add 15 cm;
- add 20 cm to h.
Upon completion of installation work, b and h will become 0.8 cm smaller.
Roman curtains
Professional help
Practice shows that when measured, standard windows are not rectangular; their size varies slightly at different fixation points. For large sizes, roller blinds are needed specifically for panoramic glazing, the measurement of which is best entrusted to a specialist. For large-scale structures, it is necessary to take into account several attachment points and take measurements several times.
Unfortunately, window openings are often uneven, as are the windows themselves, even plastic ones.
For window openings of non-standard shape, only a specialist can determine the size measurement algorithm. For options with a rounded top part, it will be difficult to make blinds due to the way the roller blinds are attached. Measurements include determining the parameters of the circle, choosing a fastening method - this cannot be done without knowing exactly what tools and technologies the company has.
Decorating an arched window using roller blinds is quite difficult
Important! Such designs are created only on an individual basis; it is impossible to find them in the catalog.
Perhaps the best solution would be to abandon roller blinds in favor of other models that allow you to design non-standard window openings, for example, pleated curtains look good in an arch
It is difficult to figure out how to install blinds in a bay window - it is better to invite a specialist to take measurements. He will offer several options for placing roller blinds so that there are no gaps at the edges, and all the windows look like a single composition.
It is important to choose the option that is optimal for each window in the bay window
Depending on the availability of free space for the fastening mechanism, the following designs are used:
- open or closed type;
- mechanical or automatic;
- a professional selects the shape of the guides.
Method one
This option is suitable if installation is planned on a window frame:
- First of all, you need to measure the window opening in length and width. Subtract 2 cm from the smallest width. Leave the height as is. Please ensure that the roller blind does not overlap the window handle.
Method two
These instructions are intended for those who plan to attach fabric roller shutters to the wall. They can be installed above the window opening or inside it. Before carrying out work, it is necessary to check whether the blades can move freely. They should not be interfered with by window fittings or elements of engineering communications. To take measurements, follow our instructions in the picture.
Method three
Installation of lifting curtains is carried out on the window frame. The distance between the opposite edges of the junction of the frame and the glass is measured. A system of rack and pinion guides for the movement of the web will be installed here. When taking measurements, follow the instructions in the figure.
Types of roller blinds
In the traditional version, roller blinds are a fabric made of woven material based on polyester. The fabric may contain flax or cotton fibers. Thanks to special impregnation, the fabric acquires the necessary rigidity and dust-repellent properties. At the bottom of the structure there is a weighting bar that prevents deformation.
When the curtain is raised, the fabric is wound on a special shaft. The web movement control mechanism can be one of three types:
- spring; chain; electromechanical.
Roller blinds differ in size, installation method, cost and other criteria. You can choose an option for a window of any size. We propose to consider the main types of roller blinds and their properties.
Standard models
These systems are equipped with a shaft with a diameter of 25-30 millimeters. The width of the product is within 1.8 meters, the height is no more than two meters. Fasteners and fittings are available in white, black, bronze, silver and transparent. Standard roller blinds are installed on double-leaf windows of a standard configuration. The product can be installed in a window opening or attached to a wall.
Lux models
The difference between these products and standard ones is their increased length and width. This group includes roller blinds with a shaft diameter of 35-70 millimeters. The maximum width of the product is 3.5 meters, height – up to 4.5 meters. Window openings of this size are rarely found in residential buildings. They can be seen in modern office and industrial premises.
Uni systems
Such curtains are called mini-cassette. They are installed on window sashes made of PVC, wood or aluminum. Mini-cassette roller blinds have the smallest shaft. Its diameter is only 15 mm. The shaft with the wound fabric is hidden in a cassette - a semicircular box made of aluminum. Thanks to this design feature, the canvas is protected from dust and looks neat.
Uni roll systems are an excellent solution for the home. After installing the structure, the swing-out flaps can be opened without removing the curtain. The window sill remains free, its space can be used as an additional work surface.
Roller blinds Mini
Mini systems are similar to Uni. The products are also attached to window sashes using self-tapping screws or special brackets. The bracket is mounted to the end of the sash without drilling. This option is suitable for tilt-and-turn windows. If the sash is blind, self-tapping screws are used for fastening.
Roller blinds “Mini” are called open. They do not have a roll cassette and guides. The advantage of Mini systems is their low price compared to cassette analogues.
Roller blinds for roof windows
Specially designed roller blinds are used to decorate windows on attic floors. They are similar in design to mini-cassette ones. The roll is hidden in a special box, and guides are installed on both sides of the frame. They prevent the fabric from sagging. The curtain is controlled using a spring mechanism.
Double-layer roller blinds “day-night”
Such models are known on the market under the name “Zebra”. Unlike all other options, the product consists of a two-layer fabric. It alternates stripes of different transparency. Thanks to this, you can adjust the degree of darkening of the room by moving the strips relative to each other.
Day-night roller blinds can have an open design or be equipped with a cassette for the box. The “zebra” is attached to the frame using double-sided tape, the window sill remains open, and you can save on the purchase of a cornice!
The curtains look original and allow you to adjust the level of illumination using a regular chain. The canvas moves smoothly and silently. Thanks to antistatic impregnation, dust does not accumulate on the surface. To remove dirt, wiping with a sponge is sufficient.
Measurements for installing horizontal blinds on the sash
Mounting on the sash is the most convenient and ensures maximum efficiency of the blinds as light filters. When opening the window, the blinds do not have to be rolled up, which makes them much easier to use; Also, with this fastening, the window sill is completely free, and flowers and interior details can be placed on it.
So how do you measure under the blinds on the sash on plastic windows?
- Measure the width and height of the sash in several places, select the largest value;
- Add 1 cm to the width;
- Add 3 cm to height;
- Determine the location of the control mechanism; it should be located on the side opposite the handle.
Measurements of the window sash should be carried out along the boundaries of the glazing bead
Device
The curtains include:
- Fabric fabric wound on a metal iron or aluminum tube with a diameter of 19, 25 or 32 millimeters.
- A chain control unit consisting of a roller with a gear on which 2 or 3 torsional springs are placed, a bushing with a groove for fixing the ends of the springs, a protective bushing with protrusions for fixing a metal tube in the grooves.
- Supporting sleeve with protrusions for fastening the second end of the tube with the blade.
- Two brackets for fastening the curtain to the window.
- Two boards for attaching brackets to the window frame using tape.
- Two upper brackets-clamps with a fixing mechanism for attaching the brackets to the tilt-and-turn sash of the window with tape.
- Two crosspieces with protrusions for fixing the chain control unit and support sleeve in the brackets.
- Guides in the form of a fishing line.
- Guides in the form of a PVC profile with an adhesive composition.
- Two tensioners for fishing line guides.
- Boards for attaching tensioners to tape.
- Brackets for attaching tensioners to the bottom strip of the sash.
- Fabric weighting material with end caps.
- Magnets with fastening to fabric weighting agent.
- Round magnets with fastening to the bottom strip of the window.
- Chain cord with spherical links.
- Screws for fastening.
- Scotch tape for fastening.
Models with electric drive also include a remote control unit for curtains, an electric motor and fasteners.
Window measurements for vertical blinds mounted on the opening
Mounting on the opening helps to hide the distortions of the window, cover the radiator and pipes. However, if you have chosen this method of installing vertical blinds, you need to remember that the window sill and radiator protrude from the common plane of the wall, and the blinds must be positioned so that they open without touching these parts of the room.
So how to correctly measure the space for vertical blinds on the opening of plastic windows?
- Measure the width and height of the window;
- Add 20 cm to the width;
- Add the required number of centimeters to the length if you are installing blinds on the ceiling, this will be the height from the top of the window to the ceiling; if installation will be carried out on the wall, add 10 or more centimeters;
- Add to the resulting length the distance from the bottom edge of the window opening to the place where the blind slats should end.
Placing roller blinds on the window frame
The disadvantage of screwing blinds in one of the most common ways is the lack of access to the window and restrictions on opening and closing it. There are mini-cassette blinds that are mounted directly on each section. The canvas is rolled up and stored in a box located on top of the frame of the opening element. Manufacturers offer another modification of such curtains - UNI 2. This type differs in that the guides are installed on both sides of the glass.
How to measure a roller blind when attaching it to a sash? It is important to know two values - horizontal and vertical size. The width corresponds to the distance between the glazing beads framing the glass. To determine the vertical value, the entire sash is measured.
Roller curtains installed in fragments most often have to be ordered from a specialized organization. In addition to the dimensions, it is important to decide on which side the closing mechanism should be located and choose the material.
Roman blinds are a modern solution for owners of double-glazed windows. First you need to determine the location of their placement and measure it. And also decide on accessories and fabric. If all the steps are completed correctly, then the chosen option will please you for a long time.
