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Window curtain sizing


How to Measure for Curtains – Curtainshop.com 541 Main St. New Rochelle NY 10801 1.866.940.1200

Are you wondering, "How do I measure for curtains?"  Measuring for curtains is easy, just follow our simple steps!

Curtain or Valance sizes:

All sizes are stated WIDTH (left to right) by LENGTH (top to bottom).

The width of rod pocket or grommet top curtains is stated as the flat-out width. You would never use the curtain flat out, so keep in mind that a 60" wide panel will not look good if you try to cover a 60" window with it. You need to provide fullness by using multiple panels for a window that size. Certain rod pocket curtains are used "flat out", or close to it, and we will state that in the product description. On most curtains & window treatments, it takes two to three times more material/curtain to provide the proper fullness in appearance when installed/hanging on your rod than the actual window width.

Pinch pleated drapes on the other hand have the fullness sewn in. So, a pair of 48" wide drapes can cover 48". You need to factor in the overlaps which we usually consider as 12” (center area where the left and right panel should overlap each other when closed) and returns (the "wrap around" part which returns from the face of the rod to the wall) so a 48” pinch pleat pair really covers about 36” of area. 

Measuring Your Window: Width

Measure the width of the rod from left to right. A common rule for displaying curtains properly says the curtains finished width should be at least 2 times the width of your window (if not more) to achieve a look of proper fullness.

Example: If your window measures 36" wide (window width x 2 = 72"), you need curtains that will give a minimum width of 72". In this case 2 panels will give about 100" to 120" of width which will look nice and full. Always round up to the next full number.

Common Fullness multipliers:

Standard fullness multiply by 2

Deluxe Fullness multiply 2. 5

Ultra-fullness multiply by 3 

Measuring Your Window: Length

Measure the length of the window or area you are covering from top to bottom. Overall curtain length, anywhere from the sill to the apron or to the floor, is a personal preference and need not be exact.

Helpful hint: By moving your rod up or down a bit, you can adjust the position of the curtain at your window.

If sill length is desired, just below the bottom of the sill is correct. Floor length curtains typically hang about 3/8” above the floor, ideal for frequent operation. Other hanging styles bring the curtain to the floor plus 6”-12” extra to “puddle", which is not recommended for frequent operation.

Common Curtain Lengths:

Sill length (standard sized window) 63”

Floor length (standard sized window) 84”

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How to measure for curtains? custom made curtain size vs window sizes – Loft Curtains

How to measure for curtains? custom made curtain size vs window sizes – Loft Curtains

How wide should curtains be?

To ensure that curtain panels look ample when closed, they should have a combined width that is 2 to 2. 5 times the width of the window/rod. That means if you are ordering Grommet style or Rod-pocket style, the total drapery width should be at least 2 times the window/rod widths. 

French pleat and Tailored pleat style panels have 2:1 to 2.2:1 fullness built-in, so if you are ordering French pleated or Tailored pleat heading style, you should order the panels that fit your window(rod) width. They will cover your window with a nice fullness. 

Ripple fold style curtains have 1.6x to 2.4x fullness built-in, you can order Ripple fold style in the ripple fold custom curtains page. Be sure to enter the coverage width (the track/rod width). 

Exceptions: If you’re hanging curtains just to frame a window and don’t intend to shut them, you can round down to 1.5 times the width. 

Stack Back Width

Stack back is the amount of space the curtains occupy when in the fully open position. We made a stack back calculator for your reference: Click here for the Stack Back Calculator 

How long should curtains be?

There is no right and wrong answer to this question. A rule of thumb is that it is always better to go higher and to go full length, no matter what sizes are your windows. 

Where should curtains tops be?

Tracks look the best when they are mounted directly to the ceiling. They work perfectly with full height curtains. Rods are usually mounted between ceiling and window. If you find it hard to decide where to go. Go with the rule of thirds. 

Where should curtain bottoms be?

All linen fibers stretch over time. We recommend puddling (1"-3") to hide any variance in your finished curtain length.

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673

12/03/2022

Great product!

Excellent experience from start to finish! The curtains are exactly what I was looking for and the measurements were spot on! Really happy about the quality of the product too. This is my second purchase with loft curtains and both the product and service have definitely met my expectation each time! Thank you to loft curtains!

Christophe E.

11/29/2022

Excellent All Around

I'm so happy I took a chance on Loft Curtains. My drapes are awesome - perfect length, well-made, and easy to hang. My handy man installed the track for me and then I measured per Loft's instructions and purchased a set of lined, 9ft. tall curtains. Three weeks later my curtains arrived and they fit perfectly. I had an estimate from a shade company but my DIY solution was 50% less. Thank you LOFT!

Rachel N.

11/29/2022

Beautiful right out of the box!

Highly recommend!

Sonia O.

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Roller blinds for the window: how to determine the dimensions yourself?

What is the difference between roller blinds and traditional fabric curtains? The main difference lies in the design of both the curtains themselves and the system for their fastening. The material in such curtains is wound on a roller in the form of a roll. Hence the name. At the bottom, the canvas is stretched onto a special bar, which is a weighting agent and prevents uneven sagging of the fabric. Thanks to this bar, the canvas is twisted without deformation.

Roller blinds - a modern solution for the design of metal-plastic windows

The composition of the fabric can vary: natural and synthetic, depending on the purpose and individual preferences. The most common material for the manufacture of roll curtains is rigid polyester. To change the structure of the fabric, inclusions of cotton or linen are allowed.

Fabric roller blinds perfectly protect the room from the penetration of sunlight.

Curtains can be controlled by chain, spring or electromechanical mechanism. nine0003

Height adjustment of the curtain on the window is possible by means of a lock control chain

Fabric roller blind with a spring mechanism for automatic winding

Roller blinds with an electric control system - an expensive, but very convenient option both folded and unfolded. This type of curtain has its origins in commercial blinds. Gradually, such curtains began to "move" to residential buildings and rooms. Now this is the same option for decorating and decorating windows, like other types of stalls. nine0003

The roller blind is wound on a plastic shaft, which is attached to the window frame. Due to the special impregnation, dirt is repelled.

Roller blinds for plastic windows are manufactured in standard sizes, corresponding to the standard in the manufacture of plastic windows. There are both ready-made curtains and made to order. Standard roller blinds and sizes on them will be considered below. nine0003

Contents

Roller curtains for plastic windows: standards

With this fastening, the fabric of the curtains directly covers the glass of the window, which makes it possible to use the canvas more economically. nine0003

Roller blinds of overall dimensions are the most widespread, but the demand for small curtains has also increased markedly. Many manufacturers offer their products for small windows, so there are plenty to choose from.

Depending on the type of roll system, measurements are carried out differently

In the construction of typical urban housing, generally available standards for window and door openings are used. Builders are guided by the current state standards.

Standard sizes of roller blinds for plastic windows can vary from 68 cm to 4.5 m in width. For a window in a city apartment, curtains measuring 200 cm by 175 cm are standardly used. If you need to purchase a roll porter for each sash separately, the standard in this case will be 500 by 110 cm.

For a more accurate understanding of the standard sizes of roller blinds, you need to understand the standards by which plastic windows are made. Experts pay attention to the fact that the concept of "standard" for double-glazed windows is rather vague. Over the years, different standard sizes for windows have been used.

GOSTs and SNiPs are subject to change from year to year, and already built houses are standing, and the windows in them are different! Nevertheless, let's take a look at which buildings, which standards were applied and are currently in effect. nine0003

If we talk about panel houses, then the size of plastic windows here is 120/120 cm, less often 130/140 cm and more. The window is divided into two or three sashes 60-70 cm each. For a window with three sashes, the standard dimensions will be 2.04 m by 1.5 m. If there are two sashes - 1.45 m by 1.5 m. Windows with small window sills are also found in houses of this time. The dimensions in this case are as follows: 1.3 by 1.35 m or 2.4 by 1.35 m.

Most of the plastic windows for rooms in private houses or industrial premises are ordered according to individual measurements, so to purchase roller blinds you need to know exactly what window size to focus on. The maximum size of a non-standard plastic window can be made by the manufacturer in dimensions of 420 by 420 cm. Below is a step-by-step instruction on how to take measurements from double-glazed windows for different designs of roller curtains as accurately as possible. nine0003

We calculate the dimensions ourselves

To avoid possible discrepancies between the sizes of your windows and roller blinds, you need to carefully measure. Only then the product you have chosen will match the window slot as much as possible and will allow you to install the curtains on the frames as accurately as possible.

The easiest way to make the necessary measurements is with a handy measuring tape. It is best to measure the frame at several points in order to take into account all the uneven places and small distortions. nine0003

Important! Before starting measurements, it is necessary to take into account which curtain system will be used, as well as the method of its fastening.

We make measurements.

  1. If the installation will be made on the wall, measure the width of the opening, add 1 cm on all sides. This will avoid the occurrence of gaps on the sides of the slopes.

    Calculate the required size of the roller blind

  2. In the same way, we measure the height of the opening, add another 5 cm to the result obtained. If the window has a protruding window sill, then the canvas should not touch it, take this into account. nine0002 Measuring the width and height of the glass and sash

  3. If the roller shutter will be fixed in the opening, then from the obtained measurements it takes 1-2 cm in height and width.

    We measure the depth of the glazing bead in order to determine which roller blind system suits us best

  4. When installed on a window frame, the measuring points should be at the outer edges of the glass. Add another 4 cm to the height.
  5. If a floor-length vertical roller blind with a ceiling mounting system is planned, then it is necessary to measure the height of the wall to the ceiling, it is advisable to take into account the width of the cornice, if present. Do not forget that 1-2 cm will have to be subtracted from this size in order to avoid contact of the canvas with the floor and its deformation. nine0002 Standard blade length 160-170 cm cut to desired length on site

  6. If it is necessary to fasten the roller curtain to only one window sash, measure it in width from the outer edge to the handle. We subtract half a centimeter from the obtained value, this is necessary so that the edges of the canvas do not break when the sash is opened. One or two centimeters must be subtracted from the length of the sash.

    Determining the size of a roller blind on a window with a handle

    When choosing a finished roller blind for a balcony door, please note that its standard size is 68*215 cm

In order for roller blinds to fit perfectly and last for a long time, several important factors must be taken into account.

Most of these criteria are easy to find out, just look carefully at the product catalog provided by the curtain store. You can also take measurements yourself. But if you are not confident in your abilities, it is better to involve specialists in measuring manipulations.

When it is necessary to visually elongate the room, roller blinds are installed from the ceiling

Roller blinds: types, types, examples

Basic roller blind systems

Roller blind systems are divided into:

  1. open;
  2. closed;
  3. mini cassettes;
  4. oversized;
  5. cassette;
  6. attic system;
  7. zebra system.

The first system fits the standard plastic window size 180 x 200 cm. nine0003

Open mechanism - the fabric in the twisted state is visible

The closed type of construction has a more complex structure. In addition to the main components of the roller curtains (cloth, winding shaft and lower sheer bar), the design includes a metal box that hides the twisted fabric from the eyes and external contaminants.

Closed type mechanism - the shaft with the fabric is located in a special decorative box - cassette

The advantages of this structure are:

Mini cassettes are mounted inside the window on the frame. Such shutters are reflective structures. The roller, on which the fabric is wound, is in a protective aluminum case, and has a diameter of 1.5 cm. A guide system is located along the edges of the structure, which protects the fabric from deformation and sagging. The peculiarity of the mini-cassette is that it has the ability to open together with the window sash, as it is attached directly to it. nine0003

Roller Blind System Mini - great for installation separately on each PVC window sash

Larger roller blinds can be up to 3.5 meters wide and up to 4.5 meters high. The diameter of the roller of this design is from 3.5 to 7 cm. Rolled canvases of this size are used in industrial buildings, large offices, theaters and cinemas.

For panoramic and display windows there are special designs of huge sizes

Systems - cassettes are similar to mini-cassettes in their design, but there are several differences: they do not have a protective metal case for the roller and side guides for the canvas. This design looks more attractive in terms of cost. Cassettes are installed either on the frame itself (with this method, holes are drilled), or using brackets. The second method is only suitable for installation on an opening window. nine0003

Installation options for roller blinds closed (cassette)

Roller blinds for the attic are also arranged according to the cassette principle, only they are twisted not by a chain, but by means of a spring mechanism. More powerful guides are installed on the sides of the canvas. Even weighted materials are suitable for such a design. Dense fabrics are ideal for obtaining the effect of "total eclipse".

Roof window roller blinds have stronger guides and magnets to prevent sagging

Zebra roller shutters are designed in such a way that they regulate the level of lighting in the room in one movement, without the need to twist or unfold the curtain. The fabric in this system is cut into longitudinal strips arranged in two rows. With the help of a chain mechanism, the strips are shifted, allowing you to choose the right lighting.

Roller blinds "day-night" (curtains "zebra") allow you to adjust the level of illumination of the room according to the type of blinds

Whatever systems, types, types of roller blinds you choose, they will perfectly emphasize any design and style of the room. It is only important to correctly determine the size. Tight-fitting roller blinds always look attractive. If even a little deviate from the given measurements, the curtains will be deformed, allow gaps or break in the process of opening windows. nine0003

Video: How to determine the size of a roller blind? Sizes of roller blinds for plastic windows.

50 photos of roller blinds in standard and non-standard sizes in the interior:

Roller blinds are available in various sizes. They are perfect for ordinary and panoramic windows. Unlike blinds, roller blinds close windows completely, according to the blackout system. They can also create soft twilight in the room - it all depends on the choice of fabric. A large selection of materials and a wide range of colors allow this type of curtains to be relevant for any design. nine0003

Contents of the article

What makes roller blinds different?

The market offers fabric roller blinds in large sizes, but there are also models for small windows. They are simple and easy to use. Dense curtains do not accumulate dust, they are easy to clean, they do not cause allergic reactions.

With the beginning of the use of double-glazed windows for glazing, roller blinds appeared on plastic windows. Their specificity is that the canvases are attached directly to the frames and the fabric covers only the glass. This reduces material costs and makes them easier to care for. nine0003

Curtains of this type are durable. This is facilitated by the simplicity of the control mechanism and the strength of the material used. It is treated with impregnations that prevent the fabric from fading in sunlight, repel dust and improve the stiffness of the fabric.

You can buy ready-made roller blinds or order them in individual sizes on the website Textile.shop.

Distinctive characteristics:

What are roller blinds?

Roll-up curtain design is a sheet cut to fit a window from a rigid fabric. They are made from high quality polyester. Sometimes cotton or linen is added to it. At the top, the canvas is wound on a shaft, at the bottom the curtain is equipped with a weighting bar-plumb. Its purpose is to twist the canvas easily and without deformation. The control mechanism can be chain, spring or electromechanical. nine0003

The industry produces roller blinds of different systems:

Open systems Standard equipped with shaft ø25-30 mm. They are installed on a window of standard sizes. The width of the canvas is 170-180 cm, the height is 200 cm. The product has 2 types of attachment:

Open Systems Standard available in white, black, silver, bronze and clear shades.

Mini cassette curtain systems are called light filters. They are mounted directly on the sashes of windows made of plastic and wood. They are equipped with a shaft with a diameter of 15 mm, which is hidden in a semicircular aluminum box. From the sides, the system has guides for the correct tension of the fabric. They prevent it from sagging. nine0003

Minicassette blinds open together with the window sashes, leaving the window sill free. Products are convenient for use in small rooms to save space.

Large roller blinds complete with shaft ø35-70 mm. It allows you to hold panels with dimensions: width 3.5 m, height 4.5 m. This system is used for heavy opaque fabrics of the Blackout brand. This curtain system is applied to cinemas, offices, industrial premises. nine0003

Cassette roller shutters are similar to mini-cassette systems. Their difference is in the absence of a special box above the shaft and side guides. This system is cheaper than minicassette blinds.

Cassette roller shutters are installed on windows in two ways: with frame drilling and on plastic brackets (brackets). The method with brackets is suitable for use on opening doors. In other cases, the systems are mounted on self-tapping screws.

Roof window curtains work on the same principle as mini-cassette systems. The difference between them is the use of a spring mechanism and improved guides. This allows the Blackout fabric to be used to almost completely darken the room. nine0003

The Zebra system uses two-layer striped fabrics with transparent and translucent inserts. With the help of a chain, the strips are shifted, and thus the degree of illumination of the room is regulated.

Selecting roller blinds

Before choosing, you should solve the problem of how to measure roller blinds. Properly performed manipulations allow you to make accurate calculations of the cost of products and avoid problems with installing curtains.

Perform procedures using a measuring tape. First you need to choose a curtain system, under which measurements will be taken and the method of installation. Measurements are taken in several places to take into account all possible slope irregularities. nine0003

When installing on a wall, measure the width of the opening and add 10 mm on each side to prevent sunlight from penetrating the sides of the panel. Add 50 mm to the height of the opening. If the window sill protrudes from the wall, then the fabric roller shutter is made not reaching it.

When installing in an opening, subtract 10 mm or more from its width and height. When installing on a frame, the width and height are measured between the outer edges of the glazing beads. Add 40 mm to the height.

How to choose the right size roller blinds for your window so that they fit and work well? There are several criteria to consider:

The first 2 criteria for roller blinds can be determined from catalogs or directly in the store. If they depend on the desire and imagination of the buyer, then it is better to involve specialists in order to obtain window measurements.

The choice is influenced by the following parameters:

Particular attention is paid to the fabrics used for sewing panels. According to the level of light penetration, they are of the following types:

They can be plain, with patterns and prints. Panels of the first type are chosen for windows with curtains and tulle. Patterned fabrics are used for windows that will only have roller blinds.

The market offers many different patterns and prints for plastic window filters. For interior decoration, transparent and translucent fabrics are used as tulle. They have transparent stripes or perforations, while protecting the room well from the sun's rays, allowing you to see everything that happens outside the window. True, they have one drawback - the selected material, when the electricity is on, does not close what is happening in the room from prying eyes.

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