How to Measure for Bay Windows
Don't let your bay windows throw you for a curve! You can have beautifully dressed bay windows by following these easy steps to get the exact measurements you need. It’s all about finding the right angles to start from.
How you’ll measure also depends on the number of windows in the bay, the area that protrudes out from the room’s walls, and whether or not they actually overlap or collide with one another. Most bay windows have at least three: a middle window and two angled ones on either side if your windows are all self-contained.
The key with hanging bay window treatments if the windows do “touch” is to make sure there’s enough room where they intersect so the headrails don’t overlap or interfere with each other when using them. That’s why determining the depth of your windows (and of your product’s headrail) is also important.
For the best look and functionality, we recommend an inside mount, which attaches to the inside top of your window. While an outside mount is an option, they can stick out further, potentially covering decorative trim and increasing the chance of blinds colliding when raised or lowered. Keep it simple and sleek with an inside mount for bay windows.
So Let's Get Started
1. Under the Product Info tab at the bottom of the product page for the blind or shade you're ordering, find the minimum flush mount depth in the Specifications Chart. (You can also find it under the Measure & Install tab.) Be sure you use the correct depth measurement for the type of lift system (cordless, top down bottom up, motorized, etc.) you've selected.
2. Cut out 2 pieces of cardboard the same size as the minimum flush mount depth. (Regular-size business cards work too.) You'll use these as placeholders to show where the headrails for each shade will go and to make sure they won't overlap or interfere with each other when installing and operating your window coverings.
3. Position the pieces of cardboard so the front edges meet in the adjoining corners and tape them in place, as shown below.
4. With a pencil, lightly mark each end of the cardboard pieces where they come to an angle and meet in the middle window. Measure between the marks to get the measurement of the middle window.
5. Starting from each center corner marking in the middle window, measure the width of the window to the right and then out to the end of the window on the left.
6. Double-check all of your measurements, rounding the width of each window up or down to the nearest 1/8". (Automatic deductions are taken on inside mounts at the factory to ensure a proper fit.)
7. Measure the height of each window.
8. Repeat these steps as needed, depending on the number of windows you have.
Pro Tip: After measuring, keep the marks where your windows meet. They’ll come in handy when it’s time to install your blinds.
Have questions? Our Customer Care Team is ready to help! Reach out anytime for support.