Solve It: Guide to Measuring and Choosing Window Treatments

Introduction

The right window treatments can change how a room looks, feels and functions.

They can control light, add privacy, soften a room and make windows look larger.

They can also be surprisingly easy to get wrong.

A panel that is too short, too narrow or mounted in the wrong place is a surprisingly expensive way to learn that “close enough” is not a measurement.

Start with what you need the window treatment to do. Then measure carefully and choose the style that fits both the window and the room.

What to Consider

Function
Decide what matters most: privacy, light control, insulation, softness, decoration or some combination.

Light
Consider how much natural light you want during the day and how much you want to block at night.

Mounting
Curtains can be mounted inside or outside the window frame. The choice affects both appearance and coverage.

Fullness
Curtains usually need more fabric than the exact width of the window to create natural folds when closed.

Length
Decide whether you want panels to end at the sill, below the window or closer to the floor.

Hardware
The rod or other hardware is part of the finished look. Its length and placement also affect how the window appears.

Style
Choose a treatment that works with the architecture, furniture and overall feeling of the room.

How to Measure

Measure carefully before ordering.

Width

Measure the width of the window or the area you want to cover.

If you are mounting outside the window frame, account for additional coverage on each side.

Height

Measure from the point where the treatment will be mounted to where you want it to end.

For floor-length panels, measure from the rod position to the floor.

Multiple Windows

Measure each window individually, even if they appear identical.

Windows can vary slightly. Those small differences can matter when the treatments are installed.

Write It Down

Record width and height separately and note whether each measurement is inside or outside the frame.

Measure twice. Future you will appreciate this.

Understanding Your Options

Option	Best For	Keep in Mind
Curtains & Drapes	Softness, style and flexible light control	Width and length matter
Roman Shades	A tailored, structured look	Mounting and window depth matter
Roller Shades	Clean lines and simple light control	Fabric and opacity affect the look
Cellular Shades	Light control and insulation	A practical choice for energy-conscious spaces
Woven Shades	Natural texture and warmth	Light filtering varies by material
Sheer Panels	Softening light and adding privacy	Usually paired with another treatment for stronger light control

Our Expert Tips

• Measure before you shop. It sounds obvious. It is still the step most worth getting right.

• Think beyond the glass. The treatment may need to cover more than the window itself.

• Mount thoughtfully. Mounting a curtain rod higher and wider can make a window feel larger.

• Consider the view. If the window is a focal point, choose a treatment that frames it rather than competes with it.

• Think about the whole room. Window treatments are a large visual element. Fabric, color and texture should work with the rest of the space.

• Plan for how the treatment will operate. Make sure panels, shades or blinds can open fully and work with nearby furniture.

• Do not forget the hardware. Rods, brackets and finials are visible parts of the finished installation.

Good to Know

Curtain fullness affects how much fabric you need. A single panel that is exactly the width of the window will not create the same look as a fuller treatment.

Light-filtering and room-darkening are not the same thing. Check the product specifications when light control matters.

Some window treatments require specific mounting conditions or hardware. Confirm compatibility before ordering.

If privacy is important at night, check the treatment from outside after dark. A window that looks private during the day may look very different once the lights are on inside.

Shop Window Treatments

Curtains & Drapes
Window Shades
Blinds
Curtain Hardware

Get the Measurement Right

Start with the function. Measure carefully. Then choose the style that works with the room.

The right window treatment should look good, work the way you need it to and make the room feel finished.

And unlike paint, you really do want to get it right the first time.