Blinds Size and Cost Estimator
Use this calculator to determine the recommended blind dimensions for your windows, whether you're planning an inside or outside mount, and get an estimated material cost.
Inside Mount
Outside Mount
Calculation Results
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Choosing and installing the right blinds can dramatically enhance the look and feel of any room. However, getting the measurements right is the most critical step. Our Blinds Size and Cost Estimator is designed to simplify this process, helping you determine the ideal blind dimensions and providing an estimated material cost based on your window specifications.
Why Accurate Measurements Matter
Incorrect measurements are the leading cause of frustration when ordering blinds. Blinds that are too wide won't fit an inside mount, while those that are too narrow will leave unsightly gaps. Similarly, blinds that are too short or too long can look awkward and function poorly. This calculator takes the guesswork out of the equation by applying industry-standard adjustments based on your chosen mount type.
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount: What's the Difference?
The first crucial decision you'll make is whether to install your blinds with an inside mount or an outside mount. This choice significantly impacts the final dimensions of the blinds you need.
Inside Mount
- Definition: Blinds are installed inside the window frame, recessed within the window opening.
- Aesthetics: Offers a clean, custom, and integrated look, allowing decorative trim to remain visible.
- Measurement: For an inside mount, you measure the exact width and height of the window opening. The calculator then applies a small deduction (typically 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch) to the width to ensure the blinds fit without rubbing or getting stuck. This deduction accounts for the mounting hardware and allows for smooth operation.
- Considerations: Requires a minimum depth within the window frame for installation. May allow more light leakage around the edges compared to an outside mount.
Outside Mount
- Definition: Blinds are installed outside the window frame, covering the entire window opening and often extending beyond the trim.
- Aesthetics: Can make a window appear larger, hide unattractive window frames, or provide better light blockage and privacy.
- Measurement: For an outside mount, you measure the width and height of the area you want the blinds to cover. This usually means measuring the window opening and then adding several inches (e.g., 2-4 inches) to both the width and height to ensure adequate overlap. The calculator automatically adds a standard 3 inches to both width and height to provide good coverage.
- Considerations: Offers superior light control and privacy. Can be installed even if the window frame lacks sufficient depth for an inside mount.
How to Use the Blinds Calculator
- Measure Your Window:
- Width: Measure the width of your window opening in three places (top, middle, bottom). For an inside mount, use the narrowest measurement. For an outside mount, measure the desired coverage area.
- Height: Measure the height of your window opening in three places (left, middle, right). For an inside mount, use the shortest measurement. For an outside mount, measure the desired coverage area.
- Units: Ensure all measurements are in inches.
- Select Mount Type: Choose "Inside Mount" or "Outside Mount" from the dropdown menu.
- Enter Number of Windows: If you're calculating for multiple identical windows, enter the quantity.
- Enter Material Cost per Sq Ft: Input the estimated cost per square foot for your chosen blind material. This will help estimate the total material cost.
- Click "Calculate Blinds": The calculator will instantly provide the recommended blind dimensions, the area per window, total area, and an estimated total material cost.
Example Scenario
Let's say you have a window that measures 36 inches wide by 48 inches high. You want an inside mount, and the material you like costs $15 per square foot.
- Window Width: 36 inches
- Window Height: 48 inches
- Mount Type: Inside Mount
- Number of Windows: 1
- Material Cost per Sq Ft: $15.00
Based on these inputs, the calculator would recommend:
- Recommended Blind Width: 35.75 inches (36 – 0.25 deduction)
- Recommended Blind Height: 48.00 inches (no deduction)
- Blind Area Per Window: (35.75 * 48) / 144 = 11.92 sq ft
- Estimated Total Material Cost: 11.92 sq ft * $15.00 = $178.80
If you chose an outside mount for the same window, the results would be:
- Recommended Blind Width: 39.00 inches (36 + 3 addition)
- Recommended Blind Height: 51.00 inches (48 + 3 addition)
- Blind Area Per Window: (39 * 51) / 144 = 13.81 sq ft
- Estimated Total Material Cost: 13.81 sq ft * $15.00 = $207.15
By using this Blinds Size and Cost Estimator, you can confidently order your window treatments, knowing they will fit perfectly and you have a clear idea of the material costs involved.