How do you measure a window for curtains?
Measure the width the track will cover, not just the glass, and the drop from where the track will sit down to where the curtain should finish. Your own figures are enough for an estimate. The curtains are made from the retailer's final measure, taken at your window once the track position is decided.
A made to order curtain is made for one window, so two measures happen. Yours, to get a rough idea and a first quote. Then the retailer's check measure, which is the one that goes on the order.
For a first estimate
- Use a metal tape and write every figure in millimetres.
- Width. Measure the full width of the window, including the frame or architrave. Note how much wall there is on each side, because the track usually runs wider than the window so the open curtains clear the glass.
- Drop. Measure from the ceiling to the floor, and from the top of the frame to the floor. Which one is used depends on whether the track is ceiling fixed or face fixed.
- Check more than one spot. Floors and ceilings are rarely level, so measure the drop at the left, the middle and the right.
- Note what is in the way: handles, sills, heaters, vents, power points, cornices and furniture.
- Take photos of the whole wall. They answer questions a number can't.
Why the final measure is the retailer's
The finished drop of a curtain is not the ceiling to floor measurement. It is worked out from where the track is installed, the track and bracket type, the heading, how the hooks sit on the runners (gliders) and the floor clearance you want. Fabric also settles after hanging, and makers allow for that. The retailer is responsible for the measure on the order, which is why they will measure again even if your figures look right.
Things to decide before the measure
- Ceiling fix or face fix.
- Where the curtains stack when open: on one side, or split to both.
- Whether the curtains clear the floor, touch it or puddle.
- Whether there is a sheer and a blockout on two tracks, which needs more depth.
Send your rough sizes and photos to a curtain retailer for a quote, then let them do the final measure. Speedy Blinds does not measure, quote or install for homeowners.
Other ways people ask this
How do I measure curtain width?
Measure the width the track will cover. The retailer adds what is needed for the stack and any returns.
How do I measure curtain drop?
From the track position to where the curtain should finish, at several points across the window.
Can I measure for curtains myself?
For an estimate, yes. The order is made from the retailer's own measure.
When should windows be measured in a new build?
Once the floor coverings, ceilings and window frames are finished, because each one changes the drop.
This answer is general information. For your own windows, your retailer's advice and your order with them come first.
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