Measuring Instructions for Deluxe Blackout Solar Shades

Let's make sure you have what you need!  

• A metal tape measure
• Pen and paper to record all measurements
• Check if you have sufficient depth: Measure inside the window opening from the front to the back of the opening where the blind would mount. The depth you need depends on if you want a cassette valance. You must have a minimum depth of:
  • 2 ¼" without a cassette valance
  • 3 ¼" with a cassette valance*
• For a flush mount (fully recessed), you must have a minimum depth of:
  • 3" without a cassette valance
  • 3 ¼" with a cassette valance*
• *With a cassette valance, you can only top/ceiling mount
• If your depth is not sufficient please see our outside mount instructions.

How to Measure:

Let's start with the Width:

• Inside of the window opening/frame measure from left to right at the top of the opening. If rounding is necessary, round down to the nearest 1/8”.  That is your ordering width.

Now, let's do the Height:

• Inside of the window opening/frame measure from the top of the opening to the bottom of the opening/sill on the left-hand side, the middle, and on the right-hand side. Write down all 3 measurements and circle the tallest. That is your ordering height.

Note: When ordering solar shades, the fabric will always be made approximately 1 ½" narrower than the width ordered, If concerned about the resulting light gap, please see our outside mount instructions.

Let's make sure you have what you need!  

• A metal tape measure
• Pen and paper to record all measurements
• Check if you have sufficient surface area:
  • You will need a minimum flat surface of:
    • 2 ¼" without a cassette valance
    • 3" with a cassette valance

How to Measure:

Let's start with the Width:

• Measure the width of the area you wish to cover. If space allows, we recommend adding 2-3" (1"- 1 ½" on each side) to this measurement to help eliminate light seepage. That is your ordering width.

Now, let's do the Height:

• Measure the height of the area you wish to cover. That is your ordering height. The factory will make your shade (including the roller at the top or the cassette valance, if ordered) to the height ordered. Generally, 3" - 4" added to the height of your opening (including molding or framework you wish to cover) will allow you room to mount above the window frame.

Note: Solar Shade fabrics will be approximately 1 ½” narrower than your ordering Width to allow for the hardware and operation (approximately ½" - ¾" on each side of the shade). 

This shade is not suitable for installing on a door.  The motion could cause the fabric to shift and telescope off the tube which will result in the material fraying on the edges.