How to Measure Bamboo Shades

When it comes to eco-friendly designs that are both beautiful and natural, you can't beat bamboo shades. These window treatments are not only highly effective at increasing privacy and blocking out the sun's rays, they also add an elegant look to any room in your home. Bamboo shades are easy to install, but before you place your order with Blindster, you should first measure your window or the area you wish to cover with the shades. Taking accurate measurements is vital for the shades to fit properly.

To precisely measure your windows and receive shades that fit perfectly, follow the instructions below.

Choosing Between Inside Mounts and Outside Mounts

There are two main ways that you can mount your shades: inside your window frame or outside your window frame. Both have pros and cons and choosing one over the other depends on your own personal preferences as well as the dimensions of your window frame.

Consult the table below to learn the major differences between these two mounting options:

Inside Mount

Outside Mount

Inside mount installations place the shades directly inside the window frame and require precise measurements for a proper fit
When mounted inside the window frame, bamboo shades have a sleek, built-in look
This is the best option if you want to leave intricate or detailed woodwork exposedRequires at least 1/2" of depth in window frame for a secure mount
Inside flush mount requires at least 2" for standard and top-down/bottom-up shades, 3" for continuous loop
If your window frame doesn't provide enough depth, use the outside mount option instead

Outside mount installations place the shade outside the window frame and make it possible to cover the entire window
This installation can be mounted to the wall, ceiling, or molding, making it highly versatile for a variety of window types and sizes
Outside mounts are perfect for hiding unattractive windows or making windows appear larger
There are no minimum depth requirements, but a minimum flat surface of at least 1" is required. Always include the mounting surface area when measuring the area you want to cover with the shade

No matter which installation option you choose, your shade will function equally well when it comes to protecting your privacy and blocking out sunlight.

How to Measure Your Windows before Ordering Bamboo Shades

After you've decided which mounting option you prefer, it's time to measure your window. Use the instructions below to get precise measurements for both inside and outside mount installation options.

Measuring for Inside Mount Installations

Step 1: Measure the interior width of the window and window frame in three separate locations—the top, middle, and bottom. Take note of the smallest of these three measurements, as it's the number you'll provide to Blindster when you place your order. Note that the factory will make necessary deductions of around 1/2".
Step 2: Measure the interior height of the window and window frame in three separate locations—the left side, middle, and right side. Take note of the largest of these three measurements, as it's the number you'll provide to Blindster when you place your order.

Measuring for Outside Mount Installations

Step 1: Measure the full width of the area you wish to cover with the bamboo shade. If there's enough room to do so, add an extra 2" to 3" to your total width to help eliminate light leakage from the sides of the shade. Use the original measurement plus the extra width when placing your order, as your shade will be made exactly as specified when ordered.
Step 2: Measure the full height of the area you wish to cover with the bamboo shade. As mentioned above, take into account at least 1" of flat mounting surface when doing your measurements. In addition, note that adding at least 3" to 4" of height added to your shade will allow you to mount it above the window frame.

Ready to start shopping? Blindster has a great assortment of bamboo woven wood shades with many colors and customizable options to choose from. Double check our complete How to Measure for Bamboo Shades page on our main site for specific instructions for each shade we offer to make sure you get the perfect fit.