RISE SHADE LAB

How to Measure for Custom Window Treatments

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a flawless fit. Because all RISE Shade Lab products are custom-manufactured to your exact specifications, following a precise measuring process ensures seamless operation and modern aesthetics.

Before you begin, please review our essential tips, tools, and step-by-step instructions below.

  • Use a Metal Tape Measure: Cloth or plastic tape measures can stretch, leading to inaccurate sizing. Always use a rigid steel tape measure.
  • Measure to the Nearest 1/8 Inch: Do not round to whole inches or half inches.
  • Record Format: Always write down your dimensions as Width × Height (W × H).
  • Do Not Deduct for Inside Mount: Provide us with the exact inside dimensions of your window frame. Our factory will apply the precise manufacturing deductions required for operating mechanisms and brackets.

Step 1: Choose Your Mounting Style

Inside Mount

A. Inside Mount (Recommended for a Sleek, Built-In Look)

An inside mount sits entirely within the window casing or frame, highlighting your home’s architectural trim.

  • Best For: Windows with adequate frame depth and level casings.
  • Depth Requirement: Ensure your window frame has at least 2 inches of clear depth to accommodate mounting brackets and headrails (or up to 3–4 inches for cassette/fascia hardware).

Outside Mount

B. Outside Mount (Recommended for Privacy & Shallow Windows)

An outside mount covers the entire window opening and mounts onto the surrounding wall, trim, or ceiling.

  • Best For: Windows with insufficient frame depth, non-square frames, or where maximum light blocking and privacy are desired.
  • Benefit: Covers light gaps on the sides of roller and dual shades.

Step 2: How to Measure

Inside Mount

A. Inside Mount Instructions

  1. Measuring Width (Left to Right)
    1. Measure the inside width of your window frame in 3 places: top, middle, and bottom.
    2. Record the narrowest (smallest) measurement of the three to the nearest 1/8″.
  2. Measuring Height (Top to Bottom)
    1. Measure the inside height of your window frame in 3 places: left, center, and right.
    2. Record the tallest (longest) measurement of the three to the nearest 1/8″. (This ensures full bottom-rail coverage).
  3. Checking Window Depth & Squareness
    1. Measure the clear depth from the glass to the front edge of the frame.
    2. Measure diagonally from top-left to bottom-right, and top-right to bottom-left. If the two diagonal measurements differ by more than 1/2 inch, we recommend choosing an Outside Mount.

Inside Mount

B: Outside Mount Instructions

  1. Measuring Width (Left to Right)
    1. Measure the exact width of the area or trim you wish to cover.
    2. Add 3 to 6 inches total (1.5 to 3 inches of overlap on each side) beyond the window opening.
      • Note: Adding extra width minimizes light gaps on the edges of the shade fabric.
  2. Measuring Height (Top to Bottom)
    1. Determine your top mounting position (at least 2.5 to 3 inches above the window frame/trim for bracket installation).
    2. Measure down to your desired end point:
      • To the Sill: Measure to the top of the window sill.
      • Below the Sill: Add an extra 2 to 4 inches below the sill for full coverage.

Product-Specific Measurement Notes

Roller & Dual Shades:

Important Light Gap Notice: On inside mounts, the fabric width will be approximately 1″ to 1.25″ narrower than your total ordered headrail width to make room for operating mechanisms and side brackets.

Motorized Systems:

Ensure adequate clearance for power cords, battery tubes, or hardwired connections near the upper mounting brackets.

Multiple Windows in One Room:

Measure each window individually, even if they appear identical. Label each measurement clearly (e.g., “Living Room – Window 1”).

Become an Authorized RISE Shade Lab Dealer

Ready to expand your product offerings with premium custom window treatments? Partner with RISE Shade Lab today and gain access to our complete wholesale catalog, technical resources, and exclusive dealer pricing.

Address: 1351 N. Miller St. Suite 201, Anaheim, CA 92806
Phone: (714) 646-9600
Email: shademestore@gmail.com

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