How to Measure Windows for Motorized Roller and Zebra Shades

Ensure a perfect fit for your custom shades with our easy-to-follow measuring guide. Ideal for inside and outside mount installations.

What You’ll Need

  • measuring_tape

    Measuring Tape

    For accurate window dimensions

  • note_alt

    Pencil and Paper

    To record your measurements

  • group

    A friend to help

    Assist with measuring

    3 Easy Steps for Inside Mount Measurements

    When installing your shades inside the window frame, accurate measurements are key. Follow these 3 simple steps to get the perfect fit.

    Measure Recess Depth

    Step 1: Measure the Window Recess Depth

    Before you measure the width and height of your window, it’s important to check the recess depth to ensure there’s enough space for the motorized blinds to fit inside.

    Minimum recess depth required: 2 ½" (6.3 cm) for proper installation.

    How to measure: Start at the front edge of the window recess (the part farthest from the window) and measure to the shallowest point within the recess.

    Tip:

    1. For smooth shade operation, your window recess should be at least 2 ½" (6.3 cm) deep. If the recess is under 3 3/8" (8.5 cm), the headrail may extend slightly.
    2. For recess depths under 2 ½" (6.3 cm), choose an outside mount. See our Outside Mount Measurement Guide for details.

    Watch for Obstructions

    Common window obstacles include:

    • Window handles
    • Locks or latches
    • Cranks or winders
    • Trim or frame details

    Even with a deep window frame, these obstacles may prevent the shade from closing properly.

    Measure with Obstacles

    Even if your window recess is deep, handles, locks, or cranks can interfere with installation or stop your shades from closing properly.

    To determine the unobstructed recess space, follow these steps:

    1. Measure the total recess depth — from the front edge of the window opening to the window glass.
    2. Measure the obstacle depth — from the window glass to the front edge of the obstacle (like a handle or lock).
    3. Subtract the obstacle depth from the total depth to find the clear recess space.

    Tip:

    1. To ensure smooth operation, your window recess needs at least 2 ½" (6.3 cm) of unobstructed depth.
    2. If the unobstructed depth is under 3 3/8" (8.5 cm), the headrail may extend slightly.
    3. For unobstructed depth under 2 ½" (6.3 cm), choose an outside mount. See our Outside Mount Measurement Guide for details.

    Step 2: Measure the Inside Width

    Because most windows aren’t perfectly square, measure the width in three different places:

    • Top of the window recess
    • Middle of the window recess
    • Bottom of the window recess

    Record the narrowest measurement.

    This ensures your roller or zebra shades will fit snugly inside the window frame.

    Step 3: Measure the Inside Height

    Now measure the height (length) of your window recess in three spots:

    • Left of the window recess
    • Middle of the window recess
    • Right of the window recess

    Record the shortest measurement.

    This guarantees your shade fits perfectly from top to bottom without rubbing the frame.

    How to Measure for Outside Mount Shades

    Outside mount roller and zebra shades are installed on the wall or window frame instead of inside the recess. This option gives you better light coverage and makes windows look larger.

    Step 1: Measure the Width

    Decide how far you’d like your shades to extend beyond the window opening.

    For best light control, add 2"–3" (5–7.5 cm) on each side.

    Example: If your window is 30" wide, order a total width of 34"–36".

    Step 2: Measure the Height

    Measure from the top of where you’ll mount the shade (above the window frame) to the bottom of the window sill or where you want the shade to end.

    For maximum privacy and blackout performance, add 2"–4" (5–10 cm) above and below the window opening.

    Measuring tape straight in window recess to avoid angled measurements or bent tape

    Avoid These Common Measuring Mistakes

    • Fabric tape: Use a steel measuring tape instead of a fabric one for accurate results.
    • Glass-only measurement: Measure the full window recess, not just the glass area.
    • Self deductions: Don’t make your own size deductions — we’ll adjust during production.
    • Missed obstructions: Always check for handles, locks, or trim before taking final measurements.
    • Angled measurements: Always measure straight along the window recess, not at an angle.
    • Bent tape: Keep the measuring tape flat and straight for precise readings.

    Ready to Order Your Custom Shades?

    Now that you’ve got accurate measurements, you’re ready to design your perfect shades!

    Shop our motorized roller shades or motorized zebra shades and enjoy effortless smart control with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit.

    Shop Now

    FAQs

    A: Measure the width and height inside the recess in three spots each, and record the smallest size.

    (measure roller shades inside mount, window recess width)

    A: You’ll need at least 2½ inches (6.3 cm) of unobstructed depth for proper installation

    (minimum window depth requirement, measure window recess)

    A: Measure from the glass to the obstacle’s front edge and subtract that from the total depth.

    (window handle measurement, obstruction clearance)

    A: Yes! Great for shallow windows or full blackout coverage. Add 2–3" to each side for full light blocking.

    (outside mount roller shades, zebra shades blackout)

    A: A steel tape, pencil, paper (or phone notes), and A friend. Avoid soft fabric tapes.

    (tools to measure window shades)

    A: No. Enter the exact measurements—our team will adjust for the best fit.

    (shade measurement deduction, order custom size)

    A: Measure to the nearest ¹⁄₁₆ inch (1.5 mm). Precision matters for smooth operation and a perfect fit.

    (accurate window measurement, measure shades correctly)

    A: Always measure the entire recess or opening, not just the glass.

    (measure window opening, inside mount coverage)

    A: Same steps—roller shades use single fabric, zebra shades use dual light-filtering layers.

    (roller vs zebra shades measuring difference)

    A: Yes! Email your measurements to service@kurlax.com for expert confirmation.

    (measurement verification, customer support)

    A: Contact us right away. We can adjust your order before production starts.

    (wrong shade size, fix measurement error)

    A: For total blackout, choose outside mount. Inside mount gives a sleek, built-in look

    (blackout roller shades, light gap control

    A: Yes—just make sure you have enough depth for the motor headrail.

    (motorized roller shades measuring, smart shades guide)

    A: No. Follow this guide and you’ll be done in under 10 minutes!

    (DIY window measuring, easy home measurement)

    A: Visit our Installation Guide for step-by-step setup instructions.

    (install motorized roller shades, zebra shade setup)

    A: Measure inside the trim-to-trim distance or mount outside the trim for full coverage

    (measure windows with trim, trim mount roller shades)

    A: Yes, just measure each section separately. Bay window shades are best as outside mounts.

    (bay window zebra shades, bay window measuring)

    A: Yes, even similar windows can vary by ⅛ inch. Always measure each one.

    (measure multiple windows, custom window shades)

    A: Add at least 2 inches on each side and 3 inches above for best coverage.

    (outside mount overlap, prevent light gaps)

    A: Measure each section separately and consult us for custom sizing advice.

    (corner window shades, angled window measurement)

    Customer receiving guidance for window measurement from support team

    Need More Help?

    If you’re unsure about your measurements, our support team is here to guide you through the process.
    Contact us at service@kurlax.com
    or visit our Installation Guide to see how easy it is to set up your new motorized shades.

    Get Expert Assistance