How much longer should blinds be than window length?

Author: Felicita Lynch  |  Last update: Saturday, January 3, 2026

Measure both the width of the window and the height of the window. Consider adding an extra 3 inches to the width and height for optimum light control and privacy. Extending the blinds outside the window will also provide the space needed for the mounts and help the window appear larger than it actually is.

How much longer should blinds be than windows?

Measure the width to the nearest 1/8 of an inch between the outermost points where you'll place the blinds. For optimum light control, the blinds should extend 1-1/2 inches beyond the window opening on each side.

How far from the window should blinds be?

Optimal Distance for Inside-Mounted Blinds

For inside-mounted blinds, positioning them as close to the windowpane as possible enhances insulation and light control. A gap of approximately 25-50mm (1-2 inches) between the blinds and the glass is recommended.

Should blinds be flush with windows?

It's really up to you and how you want the window to look. It can be more clean to simply put them at the front of the window frame but depending on the depth you may want the room in front for.

What size blinds do I need for a 35 inch window?

The actual width of the 35" blinds are 34.5" (half inch narrower) to comfortably fit inside a 35" opening. So if your frame is exactly 34.5 inches, I would go with the 35" blinds. But first check that the width is the same through the whole length of the frame.

How to Measure For and Choose the Right Size Window Blinds

Is it okay if blinds are too long?

Yes, it is okay for blinds to be too long, but they mustn't be too long. Vertical blinds should ideally overlap the top of your window recess by at least an inch. And, if you do find your blinds are still too long and overlap at the bottom, you can still make slight changes to them afterward.

Should blinds touch the window sill?

Privacy: Blinds that touch the sill can improve privacy, especially in spaces like bathrooms or ground-floor rooms. Day and Night Blinds and Roman Blinds benefit from this setup as they prevent gaps through which people can see. Temperature Control: In colder months, blinds that touch the sill can help retain heat.

How much gap between blinds and windows?

Factory Deductions: Inside mounted products have a light gap between 1/8” and 1/4” on either side of the window – this gap is required in order for the product to operate properly.

Do blinds need to be exact?

Do blinds have to fit exactly? Yes, if you want to maximise their efficiency in terms of both blocking the light and insulating your window.

Should you shut blinds at night?

Aid in Better Sleep

This is especially important for light-sensitive sleepers or those living in well-lit areas. Closing your blinds ensures that your bedroom remains a sleep-friendly sanctuary, promoting healthier, more restorative rest.

Where is the best place to put blinds on a window?

Inside mounts are the most popular choice. They offer a clean, finished look because the blinds or shades are recessed and contained inside the window casing. Inside-mounted window treatments are NOT the best choice for you if: Your window frame is not deep.

How much should blinds overhang?

For horizontal blinds, we recommend a minimum of ¾ inch overlap on each side, for a total of 1.5 inches of overlap. For vertical blinds, you will want even more overlap: 1.5 inches on either side, for a total of 3 inches.

Why you should stop closing your blinds during the day?

The big argument in favour of keeping your blinds open is that it's healthier. According to a report in Science Daily in 2018, letting extra sunlight into a room kills bacteria in the dust. In tests conducted at the University Of Oregon, researchers discovered that bacteria prefer dark rooms.

Do blinds increase home value?

If you are looking for ways to increase your home value, adding custom window treatments is a perfect home project to do. From shutters to shades, draperies, and blinds, homeowners can choose the perfect window treatment design to complement their home's design and decor.

Does Home Depot cut blinds?

Once you have properly measured, bring your measurements in to the store. Our associates can cut your in-store bought blinds to the exact size needed, for free.

How much longer should blinds be than the window?

Measure both the width of the window and the height of the window. Consider adding an extra 3 inches to the width and height for optimum light control and privacy. Extending the blinds outside the window will also provide the space needed for the mounts and help the window appear larger than it actually is.

What size blinds for a 36 inch window?

Example: If the window opening is 36” wide, it might be helpful to order 40” if the space allows. This will provide 2” coverage on each side of the window. No deductions/additions will be made to the width ordered.

What size blinds for a 34 inch window?

Deductions will allow the blinds to fit properly and cover the window opening without obstructing any part of the window frame. You can find window blinds online at AffordableBlinds.com in 1/2 inch increments, so you should consider a 33 1/2 inch or a 33 inch blind for your 34 inch window.

Should blinds be flush with the wall?

It should be flush with the wall's surface.

How much of a gap should be between window and frame?

Gaps around windows and doors should be sized to allow for thermal movement and this will vary depending on the material of the frame. The maximum gap permitted for openings less than 3m should be 10mm. For openings more than 3m, the maximum gap permitted should be 15mm.

Should vertical blinds touch the window sill?

Yes, for your blinds to work to greatest effect and to achieve the right visual finish, window blinds should rest on the windowsill. The only exception to this is vertical blinds which require a small amount of clearance to prevent the louvres from dragging on the windowsill when operated.

How far from window should blinds be?

Exact Fitting

To minimize light leakage we recommend that the blind overlaps the window recess by at least 70mm at the top and 50mm each side. The overlap at the bottom of the blind is a matter of personal choice but please take into account obstacles such as radiators.

Should you close your blinds up or down at night?

When nighttime hits, placing your blind's slats in the down position is best.

Are you supposed to put curtains over blinds?

Pairing Curtains and Blinds

' The answer is, for the most part, 'yes' – when paired, the two can bring out a flexible décor and ensure adequate blocking of light and privacy control.

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