Window Blinds provide privacy in a room and since they can be closed easily and also block out sunlight, which helps to reduce energy costs in the home. Most blinds work manually, but there are other more expensive varieties that are motorized or remote controlled. Remote controlled blinds are often computer operated and can be set to function even when your not home. When it comes to blind selection it is very important to measure your windows before making any decisions, as the blind styles available can be affected by the size of blinds you may need. Keep in mind there are two ways of installing blinds, inside the window and outside the window. To measure your windows you will need a pen or pencil and paper as well as a steel measuring tape. It is very important to use a steel measuring tape for this as you need exact measurements. Fabric tape measures may not give you proper measurements, meaning you could accidentally wind up with blinds that are too large or too small for your windows.

1. Have a pen and paper handy to write on near you. You will start measuring with the width of your windows.
2. Measure in three spots inside the window frame, from left to right. Write down each measurement as you go. You will want to use the narrowest width measurement you get. Make sure to keep the tape measure straight because it if is on an angle, the measurement may be affected.
3. Next you want to measure the height of the window. Again inside the window frame from top to bottom take three measurements. Write down each measurement as you go. You will want to use the longest measurement you get. Note: If you are planning to use vertical blinds or window shadings you will want to go with the shortest height instead of the longest.
4. Take the measurements and start your window blind shopping.

1. Have a pen and paper handy to write on near you. You will start measuring with the width of your windows.
2. Measure in three spots from the outside left window frame to the outside right window frame edge. Write down each measurement as you go. You will want to use the narrowest width measurement you get.
3. Next you want to measure the height of the window. Again from the outside top window frame edge to the outside bottom window frame edge take three measurements. Write down each measurement as you go. You will want to use the longest measurement you get. Note: Outside window mounts are often used where inside mounts do not fit or to hide ugly windows. To get the minimum light gaps between the slats of the blinds and for maximum privacy you may wish to add about 4 to 5 inches on each measurement if your going to use vertical blinds. If you are going to use horizontal blinds add about 1 to 1 1/2 inches to each measurement. Keep in mind the mounting brackets and hardware will add to your measurements too.
4. Take the measurements and start your window blind shopping.