Expert Tips

How to Measure for Shades: Inside Mount vs Outside Mount Without Mistakes Ordering custom shades is one of the most effective ways to upgrade your home's aesthetic and functionality in 2026. Unlike curtains, which offer a bit of leeway in sizing, shades require exact precision. Whether you are eyeing modern roller shades or classic roman shades, the first decision you must make is the mounting style: Inside Mount or Outside Mount. Each requires a different measuring technique, and getting it right is the key to a professional-looking installation. Inside Mount: The Clean, Integrated Look An inside mount means the shade is installed within the window frame or casing. This is the most popular choice in 2026 for those who want a sleek, minimalist look. It allows your window trim to remain visible, which is ideal if you have beautiful woodwork. Inside mounts are also great for layered looks, where you might have a shade for privacy and curtains for decoration. The main requirement for an inside mount is 'window depth.' Your window frame must be deep enough to accommodate the shade's mechanism. To measure for an inside mount, you must measure the width of the window opening at the top, middle, and bottom. Use the *smallest* of these three measurements for the width. For the height, measure at the left, center, and right, and use the *largest* measurement. Do not make any deductions; at Joydrape, we take care of the necessary clearances to ensure the shade fits perfectly within your frame. Outside Mount: Flexibility and Maximum Light Blocking An outside mount involves installing the shade on the window molding or the wall above the window. This is the best solution if your window frames are shallow or if you want to hide unattractive window trim. Outside mounts are also superior for light control, as you can order the shade wider than the window to eliminate 'light gaps' on the sides—a must-have feature for blackout requirements in bedrooms. When measuring for an outside mount, you are in control of the dimensions. Determine exactly where you want the shade to sit. We generally recommend adding at least 2–3 inches of overlap on each side of the window opening to ensure full coverage. For the height, measure from where you want the top of the headrail to be down to the window sill or slightly below it. This style is very forgiving and can even make a small window appear much larger than it actually is. Measuring Depth for Inside Mounts A common mistake in 2026 is forgetting to check for 'mounting depth.' Different shades have different requirements. For example, a motorized roller shade might need 3 inches of flat space inside the frame, while a cordless roman shade might only need 2 inches. You also need to watch out for obstructions inside the window frame, such as crank handles, window locks, or even the glass itself if it doesn't sit flush. If you don't have enough depth for a fully recessed mount, your shade will protrude slightly from the frame. This is known as a partial inside mount. While functional, it might not provide the look you want. Always check the specific depth requirements for your chosen style on our shades measuring page before finalizing your order. Measuring Overlap for Outside Mounts For outside mounts, the 'overlap' is your best friend. To truly block out light, especially with roman shades in a nursery or bedroom, you want the fabric to extend well beyond the window opening. In 2026, the standard for maximum privacy and light control is a 4-inch overlap on all four sides if space allows. This prevents light from 'leaking' around the edges and creates a much more finished appearance. If you are mounting the shade to the wall above the window, make sure you are measuring to a point where you can hit a stud or use heavy-duty anchors. Shades can be surprisingly heavy, and a secure installation is just as important as an accurate measurement. If you're unsure about the fabric's weight or color, don't forget to order free swatches before committing to your custom dimensions. Final Checklist Before Ordering Your Custom Shades Before you hit 'submit' on your order, go through this quick checklist: Did you use a metal tape measure? Did you measure width first, then height (W x H is the industry standard)? Did you double-check the measurements for every single window? If you are doing an inside mount, did you use the smallest width? For an outside mount, did you account for the overlap? Taking ten extra minutes to re-measure can save you weeks of hassle and the cost of replacement. At Joydrape, we want your home to look its best. For more detailed diagrams and video tutorials, visit our comprehensive shades measuring guide. Once you have your numbers ready, explore our beautiful selection of roller shades to find the perfect match for your 2026 home renovation.