Custom Shades Measuring & Installation Guide Tips for Accurate Measuring

Custom Shades Measuring & Installation Guide

• Always use a steel tape measure for the most accurate results.
• Round each measurement to the nearest 1/8 inch. Do not round up or down to the nearest whole inch.
• Always write down the width first, then the height.

1. Choose Your Mount Type

Your shade can be installed in different ways depending on your window style, available space, and preferred look.

Inside Mount
An inside mount means the shade is installed inside the window frame. This creates a clean, built-in look and keeps the shade neatly within the window opening.

Outside Mount
An outside mount means the shade is installed outside the window frame, either above the window or directly on the wall. This option helps reduce light gaps along the sides, makes the window appear larger, and is a good choice when handles or window openings limit the space inside the frame.

Sash Mount / On-Sash Mount
A sash mount, also called an on-sash mount, means the shade is installed directly onto the window sash. This option is especially useful for inward-opening windows or windows where there is not enough recess depth for a traditional inside mount.

2. Measuring for an Inside Mount

Before choosing this mount type, make sure the depth of your window frame is sufficient to accommodate the shade mechanism.

Measure the inside width of the window frame in three places: top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest measurement.

Then measure the inside height of the window frame in three places: left, center, and right. Use the largest measurement.

Please do not deduct any inches yourself. A small side clearance is required to ensure the shade operates properly, and the necessary technical adjustments will be taken into account during production.

Shade Height = Total window height, including glass and frame

Please Note:
If there are significant differences between your measurements, or if the window frame is not perfectly straight, an outside mount may be more suitable.

3. Measuring for an Outside Mount

Measure the full width and height of the area you would like the shade to cover. No deductions are needed.

For better light control and to help reduce light gaps on the sides, we recommend allowing the shade to extend beyond each side of the window.

If you plan to install the shade higher than the window, please make sure to account for any nearby obstacles, such as a radiator, a protruding handle, or anything else that may interfere with the shade when it is lowered.

3.1 Outside Mount - Ceiling Installation

This option is suitable when the shade is mounted under the ceiling or under a horizontal surface above the window.

Shade Width = Total width of the area you want to cover

Shade Height = Window height + distance from the top of the window to the ceiling

Before choosing this installation type, make sure there is enough space for the shade stack when the shade is fully raised. Since stack height varies by product style, fabric, mechanism, and final size, we recommend contacting our customer service team before placing your order.

3.2 Outside Mount - Side Installation

With this option, the shade is mounted on the wall or on both sides of the window opening, depending on your window structure.

The measuring method is the same as for a standard outside mount. For better window coverage, we recommend allowing the shade to extend beyond each side of the window.

4. Measuring for a Sash Mount / On-Sash Mount

This installation is made directly on the window sash.

Shade Width = Glass width + 3/4 inch

Shade Height = Glass height + 2 3/8 inches

Please leave at least 3/8 inch of clearance from the handle or any other obstacle.

This option is ideal when you want the shade to sit as close as possible to the opening part of the window.

5. Shade Stack Height

The stack height of a shade varies depending on the SKU, fabric, mechanism, and final product dimensions.

Because of this, there is no single standard stack height that applies to every shade.

To confirm the stack height for the custom shade you have selected, please contact our customer service team at: contact@sophoradeco.com

6. Important Advice

If your window is not perfectly square, has a protruding handle, opens in a special way, or if you are unsure which mounting option to choose, we recommend sending us a photo of your window along with your measurements. Our team will help you choose the most suitable installation method before your shade goes into production.