aluminium venetian blinds sizes

Unlock the Perfect Fit: Your Comprehensive Guide to Aluminium Venetian Blinds Sizes

Thinking of enhancing your home with the sleek, modern elegance of aluminium Venetian blinds? Fantastic choice! They offer incredible control over light and privacy, and their durability makes them a long-lasting addition to any room. But before you can enjoy their benefits, there’s one crucial step: getting the right size.

Don’t let the thought of measuring intimidate you! This detailed guide will walk you through everything you need to know about aluminium Venetian blinds sizes, ensuring a perfect, professional-looking fit every time. We’ll break down the process, share expert tips, and help you avoid common pitfalls.

Why Accurate Measuring for Aluminium Venetian Blinds Sizes Matters

Imagine ordering a beautiful set of blinds, only for them to arrive and either be too small, letting in light around the edges, or too big, crumpled and unable to fit the window recess. Frustrating, right?

Accurate measurements are the foundation of a perfectly functional and aesthetically pleasing window treatment. Getting it right means:

• Optimal Light Control: No pesky light gaps.
• Enhanced Privacy: Full coverage when you need it.
• Sleek Appearance: Blinds that look custom-made for your windows.
• Smooth Operation: Blinds that raise, lower, and tilt effortlessly.
• Saving Time & Money: Avoiding the hassle and cost of returns or re-orders.

Understanding the Two Key Fit Types: Recess Fit vs. Face Fit

Before you even pick up your tape measure, you need to decide how you want your blinds to be fitted. This is the most critical distinction when determining aluminium Venetian blinds sizes.

1. Recess Fit (Inside Mount):

   • What it is: The blind is designed to fit inside your window frame or recess. It sits snugly within the opening.
   • When to choose it:
     • When you want a clean, minimalist look.
     • When your window recess is deep enough to accommodate the blind’s depth (typically around 6-7cm, but check with your supplier).
     • When there are no obstructions (like window handles) that would prevent the blind from operating freely within the recess.
     • Important Note: Your blind supplier will typically make small deductions from your recess measurements to ensure the blind fits perfectly without snagging. You provide the exact recess size, and they do the maths!

2. Face Fit (Outside Mount):

   • What it is: The blind is fitted outside the window recess, usually on the wall above the window or directly onto the window frame itself.
   • When to choose it:
     • When your window recess is too shallow for an inside mount.
     • When there are obstructions inside the recess (e.g., handles, vents) that would interfere with a recess fit blind.
     • When you want the blind to block out as much light as possible, as it can extend beyond the window opening.
     • When you want to make a window appear larger.
     • When you have an attractive architrave (decorative frame) around your window that you want to remain visible.

Tools You’ll Need for Accurate Measuring

Gather these simple tools before you start:

• A metal tape measure: Fabric tape measures can stretch, leading to inaccuracies. A metal one ensures precision.
• Pen or pencil: For noting down measurements.
• Paper or a notebook: To keep your measurements organised.
• A step stool or ladder (if needed): For safely reaching the top of your windows.

Step-by-Step Measuring Guide for Aluminium Venetian Blinds Sizes

Let’s get down to the practical steps! Always measure in millimetres (mm) for the most accurate results.

Step 1: Prepare Your Window Area

• Clear the space: Remove any existing blinds, curtains, or objects that might obstruct your measuring.
• Check for obstructions: Note anything that might get in the way of the blind’s operation once installed (handles, latches, vents, dado rails, skirting boards, etc.). You’ll need to consider these for your chosen fit type.

Step 2: Measuring for a RECESS FIT (Inside Mount)

Crucial: Provide the exact internal recess measurements. Do NOT make any deductions yourself.

1. Measure the Width:

   • Measure the exact width of the inside of your window recess in three different places: top, middle, and bottom.
   • Write down the smallest of these three measurements. This is your recess width.

2. Measure the Drop (Height):

   • Measure the exact height of the inside of your window recess in three different places: left, middle, and right.
   • Measure from the top of the recess down to the window sill.
   • Write down the smallest of these three measurements. This is your recess drop.

3. Check for Obstructions:

   • Ensure there’s enough depth in your recess for the blind’s headrail (usually around 6-7cm, but check with your supplier).
   • Check for any window handles or other protrusions that might prevent the blind from operating smoothly. If there are, you might need to reconsider a face fit, or use “hold-back” brackets if available.

Step 3: Measuring for a FACE FIT (Outside Mount)

Crucial: You decide the exact size you want the blind to be, including any overlap.

1. Determine Your Desired Width:

   • Decide how much you want the blind to overlap your window opening on each side. A common overlap is 5cm to 10cm (50mm to 100mm) on each side beyond the window frame or architrave, to effectively block out light.
   • Measure the width of your window opening (or the outer edges of your architrave).
   • Add your desired overlap to this measurement. For example, if your window is 100cm wide and you want a 5cm overlap on each side, your total blind width would be 100cm + 5cm + 5cm = 110cm.
   • Write down your total desired blind width. This is your face fit width.

2. Determine Your Desired Drop (Height):

   • Decide where you want the top of your blind to be (e.g., 10cm above the window frame/architrave) and where you want the bottom to finish (e.g., at the window sill, just below the sill, or to the floor).
   • Measure from your chosen top point down to your chosen bottom point.
   • Write down your total desired blind drop. This is your face fit drop.

3. Check for Obstructions:

   • Ensure there’s enough clear wall space above your window for the headrail brackets.
   • Check that the blind won’t interfere with furniture, skirting boards, or other architectural features when lowered.

Key Tips for Measuring Success

• Always use a metal tape measure. Seriously, it makes a huge difference.
• Measure in millimetres (mm). This provides the highest level of accuracy.
• Measure in at least three different places (top, middle, bottom for width; left, middle, right for height) for recess fits. Window recesses are rarely perfectly square!
• Always take the smallest measurement for recess fit. This ensures your blind will fit without snagging.
• Double-check everything! Measure each window twice, or even get a second person to verify your numbers.
• Clearly label your measurements. Note which measurement is for which window (e.g., “Kitchen Window – Recess Fit – Width: 1250mm, Drop: 1500mm”).
• Consider any obstructions carefully. Window handles, vents, and wall art can all impact the fit and function of your blinds.
• Don’t deduct for recess fit blinds. This is the manufacturer’s job. Just provide the true recess size.
• For face fit blinds, remember to add your desired overlap. You are specifying the exact size you want the finished blind to be.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring Aluminium Venetian Blinds Sizes

1. Measuring only once: This is the quickest way to get an incorrect size. Always measure at least twice, preferably three times.
2. Using a fabric tape measure: They stretch and give inaccurate readings.
3. Confusing recess fit with face fit: This is the most common and costly mistake. Understand the difference before you start.
4. Making deductions for recess fit blinds yourself: This leads to blinds that are too small. Provide the true recess size.
5. Forgetting to add overlap for face fit blinds: This results in blinds that are too narrow or too short.
6. Rounding up or down significantly: Always provide the exact measurements you take.
7. Not checking for obstructions: A blind that doesn’t operate smoothly because of a handle is useless!
8. Not specifying the fit type to your supplier: Always state whether your measurements are for a “Recess Fit” or “Face Fit” blind.

What to Do After Measuring

Once you’re armed with your precise measurements, you’re ready to order! Your chosen blind supplier will ask for these exact numbers and the fit type (recess or face). They will then manufacture your aluminium Venetian blinds to your specifications, making any necessary deductions for recess fit or building your face fit blind to your exact desired dimensions.

Conclusion

Measuring for aluminium Venetian blinds sizes doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By understanding the difference between recess and face fit, following our step-by-step guide, and heeding our expert tips, you’ll feel confident in taking precise measurements. A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your new blinds not only look fantastic but also function perfectly, providing years of beautiful light control and privacy in your home. Happy measuring!

FAQ

Q. How do I accurately measure my window for aluminium venetian blinds?
A. To accurately measure for aluminium venetian blinds, you first need to decide if you want them inside the window recess (recess fit) or outside the recess, overlapping the window (exact fit). For a recess fit, measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the window recess, and the drop at the left, middle, and right. Use the smallest width and smallest drop measurements. For an exact fit, decide how much overlap you want (usually 5-10cm on each side and top/bottom) and measure from where you want the blind to start to where you want it to end.

Q. Are aluminium venetian blinds available in standard sizes, or are they custom-made?
A. While some budget or ready-made retailers might offer a limited range of standard or pre-cut sizes, the vast majority of aluminium venetian blinds, especially those providing a high-quality finish, are custom-made to your exact window dimensions. This ensures a perfect fit, avoids light gaps, and provides optimal light control and privacy. Always confirm whether you are purchasing made-to-measure or off-the-shelf sizes.

Q. What are the typical minimum and maximum size limitations for aluminium venetian blinds?
A. The minimum and maximum size limitations for aluminium venetian blinds can vary significantly between manufacturers and depend on the slat width chosen. Generally, minimum widths can be around 300mm (12 inches) and minimum drops around 400mm (16 inches). Maximum widths can range from 2400mm to 3000mm (8 to 10 feet), and maximum drops from 2500mm to 3000mm. Very wide blinds might be manufactured in two sections on a single headrail for stability and ease of operation.

Q. When measuring for a recess fit, how much deduction should I make from the window width?
A. For a recess fit, it is standard practice to make a small deduction from the smallest measured width of your window recess. This deduction, typically between 10mm to 15mm (or 0.5 inches), ensures the blind fits comfortably within the recess without snagging and allows for smooth operation. Most manufacturers will specify their recommended deduction amount or will apply it automatically if you state “recess fit” when ordering.

Q. Do the stated dimensions for aluminium venetian blinds include the headrail and brackets?
A. When you order “made-to-measure” aluminium venetian blinds, the width you specify almost always refers to the overall width of the headrail, which is the top mechanism part, and the width of the slats themselves. The mounting brackets are typically external to this measurement and will add a small amount to the total projection from the wall or window frame once installed. It’s always best to confirm with your supplier if their stated width is the blind’s total width including hardware, or just the blind unit itself.

Q. How do different slat widths (e.g., 25mm, 35mm, 50mm) affect the overall size and appearance of the blind?
A. While the slat width doesn’t change the overall width or drop you order for your window opening, it significantly impacts the blind’s appearance and the size of the ‘stack’ when the blind is fully raised. Smaller slat widths (e.g., 25mm) offer a more compact, detailed look and are often preferred for smaller windows or a subtle aesthetic. Larger slat widths (e.g., 35mm or 50mm) provide a bolder, more contemporary statement, are excellent for larger windows, and allow for a clearer view when open. Larger slats will also result in a deeper stack when the blind is pulled up, meaning more of the window will be obscured at the top.