To make measuring your windows as easy as possible, you can either watch our quick measuring video below, or follow the detailed, step-by-step instructions beneath it. Both options will walk you through the process to ensure you get precise measurements for your custom ShadeCort blinds.
Buying custom blinds online ought to feel straightforward, and that’s the seamless experience ShadeCort delivers for you.
THE ShadeCort FIT PROMISE
Free measurement guarantee
Our ShadeCort blinds are custom-made to your exact measurements. If they don’t fit upon delivery, we’ll remake them to your revised measurements and reship via express delivery at no extra cost. If the remade blinds still don’t fit, we’ll arrange a free return pickup for you.
30-night home trial
Install your ShadeCort blinds and live with them for up to 30 nights. If they don’t fit perfectly or feel right for your space, you can initiate a return—even if you’ve customized them to your exact measurements, color, and opening direction.
Free pickup returns
Returns couldn’t be simpler with ShadeCort. Our dedicated return partner will collect your blinds directly from your doorstep—no need to repackage a thing or make a trip to the post office.
Outfitting multiple windows
At ShadeCort, we get it—outfitting your whole home with custom blinds can feel like a big commitment. That’s why we encourage you to start small with just one window. If anything doesn’t quite fit or needs adjustment, we’ll fix it or issue a full refund—no strings attached—before you decide to outfit the rest of your windows.
Still unsure about your window
At ShadeCort, we get it—older windows, slightly out-of-square frames, or concerns about depth constraints, existing shutters, or sliding door setups can make ordering custom blinds feel tricky. If you’re facing any of these, reach out to us before you place your order at info@shadecort.com. Our team will help you confirm the perfect fit and compatibility for your space.
What you will need
Three steps to measure for ShadeCort
Step 1: Measuring Your Window’s Recess Depth
Before measuring your window’s width and height, please check the recess depth first to ensure there is enough space for your ShadeCort blinds to be installed properly.
- Minimum recess depth required: 1.18 inches (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.
Watch for Obstructions
Common obstructions within your recess space include:
- Window handles
- Latches
- Locks
- Winders or cranks
Measuring with Obstructions
Even if your window recess is deep, obstructions can prevent the blinds from closing properly. To ensure a perfect fit for your ShadeCort blinds:
1.Measure the recess depth from the front of the recess to the window.
2.Measure the obstruction depth from the front of the window to the front of the obstruction (e.g., a handle).
3.Subtract the obstruction depth from the recess depth to find your unobstructed recess space.
Important: You need at least 1.18 inches of unobstructed recess space to install your ShadeCort blinds securely.
Step 2: Measuring the Width
Since windows are often not perfectly square, you’ll need to measure the width in three different places to account for any unevenness:
- Top of the window recess
- Middle of the window recess
- Bottom of the window recess
Record the smallest of these three measurements. This ensures your ShadeCort blinds fit perfectly at the narrowest point of your window.
Step 3: Measuring the Height
Next, measure the height of your window recess. Once again take measurements from three locations:
- Left of the window recess
- Middle of the window recess
- Right of the window recess
Just like with the width, record the smallest of these three measurements.
Avoid Common Measuring Mistakes
To get the most accurate measurements, avoid these common errors:
- Measuring at an angle: Always keep your tape measure straight and level.
- Bending the tape measure: Maintain a straight tape to guarantee precise results.
- Rounding incorrectly: round to the nearest sixteenth of an inch (tenth of a centimeter) where necessary.
Final Tips for Accurate Measurement
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Key Measuring Guidelines
- Be precise: Use exact measurements, rounding to the nearest sixteenth of an inch (tenth of a centimeter) if needed. This ensures the best possible fit for your ShadeCort blinds.
- Allow us to make the deductions: Provide your exact width and height, and we will handle all necessary adjustments during production.
- Measure at the front of the recess: This is where your ShadeCort blinds will be fitted, so accurate measurements at this depth are essential.
- Uneven windows are welcome: ShadeCort blinds are engineered to accommodate up to 0.39 in (10 mm) of unevenness using our integrated weather strip and brush strip. If the fit is still not right, you are fully protected by the ShadeCort Fit Promise.
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What If I Make a Mistake?
If you believe you’ve made an error when measuring, contact us immediately at info@shadecort.com, and we’ll work with you to correct the measurements before your ShadeCort blinds go into production.
Common measuring mistakes
Only measuring once!
📏 Always measure twice (or more) to avoid errors.
Not checking for obstructions!
Handles, locks, or window cranks can block proper blind movement.
Forgetting to Measure Recess Depth
you need enough depth for the blind to fit without sticking out or hitting obstructions.
Frequently Asked Questions
ShadeCort features a unique track system that eliminates gaps between the blinds and the window frame to ensure total darkness. The dual-layered honeycomb fabric combines non-woven polyester with a reflective thermal barrier to block light, insulate against heat, and reduce noise.
ShadeCort is designed to fit most standard window types, but there are a few considerations.
ShadeCort won’t fit windows that are not square. Additionally, the blinds require at least 1.18 inches of unobstructed recess space for proper installation. If your window doesn’t meet these criteria, ShadeCort may not be suitable for you.
Here’s a list of compatible and incompatible window types to help you determine if our product is the right fit for your home:
✅ Compatible window types (ShadeCort):
- European Windows
- Tilt-and-Turn Windows
- Fixed Windows
- Sliding Windows
- Casement Windows
- Hung Windows
- Sash Windows
- Bay Windows
- Awning Windows
- Skylights
❌ Incompatible window types (ShadeCort):
- Arched windows
ShadeCort is low-maintenance. The non-woven polyester fabric resists dust and stains, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. No special cleaners or treatments are necessary.
The interior of your ShadeCort blinds matches your fabric choice, while the exterior is always Quartz to reflect light. For example, if you select Graphite, the interior side will be Graphite, but the exterior will remain Quartz. This design ensures a uniform appearance from the outside and is intended to reflect light.
To ensure correct measurements, please read our Measuring Guide. It’s important that your measurements are accurate and precise, as they are crucial for your ShadeCort blinds to fit properly. Incorrect measurements will result in your ShadeCort blinds not fitting your windows.
To install your ShadeCort blinds, follow our step-by-step instructions in our Installation Guide.
