- 1). Measure the window. Use a steel tape measure to measure the width (horizontal) and the length (vertical). Measure from frame to frame in both directions. Hold one end of the tape to the inside edge of the frame and pull it over to the opposite side. Note the exact measure where the tape meets the inside of the frame. Follow this procedure for both the width and the length. Write these measurements down.
- 2). Determine whether you want an inside mount or outside mount. To mount your wood blinds inside the framework, determine the depth of your windowsill. You will need at least a 2 1/2 inch depth on your window frame for blinds with two-inch slats. For an outside mount, add four inches to your width and four inches to your length.
- 3). Decide if you want to purchase wood blinds off the shelf at your local home improvement or home goods retail outlet, or if you want custom made. For in-stock blinds, the sizes will be listed on the box, width first, then length. The slat size will be 2 inches.
- 4). Check the quality of the in-stock wood blinds. Run your fingernail along the edge of one of the slats. If you see an indentation, the blind is made from pressed wood and will likely deteriorate within two years. Check the inside of the head rail, which should be constructed of a thin metal. If the lift and tilt mechanisms are plastic, they will likely crack within two years. Mechanisms made of metal are more durable.
- 5). Check with an associate about "cutting to size". Some outlets provide this service with purchase of in-stock blinds. Though in-stock blinds come in varying widths, you may need to have the width adjusted. A store associate can cut down the width of the blind to fit your measurements. However, store associates cannot adjust the length of the blinds, usually 64 or 72 inches. Depending on the manufacturer, you may be able to remove slats after purchasing.
Should you have wood blinds cut to width in the store, you will see exposed wood on the ends of the slats. The slats have been stained and the saw cuts off the ends, therefore, the ends will be exposed wood. - 6). Consult with an associate about ordering custom blinds. Custom-made blinds will be more expensive. Basswood is commonly used for construction of custom blinds, though poplar and aspen are used as well. Custom blinds should not be made from pressed wood; ask the associated what type of wood is used in any of the wood blinds they offer.
- 7). Consider the options available. Custom wood blinds offer a greater variety of color; in-stock blinds are generally available in white and a dark tone of stain. Other options include decorative tapes, choice of valance profile and cordless blinds. Cordless blinds are raised and lowered by pushing up or pulling down the bottom rail.
- 8). Review your window measurements with the sales associate. Explain how you took the measurements and whether you want an inside mount or outside mount. Custom blinds are made exactly to your specifications, both in width and length, so they fit exactly as you expect them to on your window.
For inside mounts, the manufacturer will make the width of the blind 1/2-inch shorter than your measurement. This allows room for the brackets for installation of the blind. There may be approximately a 1/4 to 3/8 inch gap to each side of the blind after installation on an inside mount. - 9). Ask the associate about the manufacturer's warranty. A warranty should cover mechanical failure of the lift and tilt mechanisms and guarantee replacement if the slats should bow or bend.
Warranties are usually limited lifetime warranties; this is commonly a five-year warranty guaranteeing against manufacturer's defects and wear from normal use. Normal use does not include damage from pets or children. - 10
Read the agreement carefully before purchasing the wood blinds. You may be liable if the blinds do not fit properly, and be unable to return or exchange them. Work with the sales associate to ensure you took the measurements properly. If you are not confident in your measurements, ask the associate about installation services. The service will provide a guarantee of properly fitting window treatments.
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