Bay windows can add beauty, natural light, and architectural character to a home, but they often require special consideration when measuring for window blinds and shades. Because bay windows consist of multiple window sections joined at angles, proper measurements are important to ensure the custom window treatments fit correctly and operate without interfering with one another.
This guide explains how to measure bay windows for blinds and shades, how to determine the correct intersection points, and how product depth affects your measurements.
If you are still deciding which window treatment to use, visit our guide on Best Window Treatments for Bay Windows.
What Makes Bay Windows Different?
Unlike a standard window opening, a bay window consists of multiple windows joined together at angles. Because each blind or shade occupies physical space inside the window opening, you must account for product depth when measuring.
Without proper measurements, blinds may bump into one another at the corners, leaving larger-than-expected gaps or preventing proper operation.
Tools You'll Need
- Steel measuring tape
- Pencil
- Paper for recording measurements
- Cardboard strips
- Scissors or utility knife
Step 1: Choose the Blind or Shade You Plan to Order
Before measuring, determine which blind or shade you plan to install. Different products have different headrail depths and clearance requirements.
For example:
- Cellular shades typically require less depth.
- Real wood blinds and faux wood blinds often require more depth.
- Plantation shutters for inside require their own measuring process.
The product specifications will indicate the headrail depth needed for proper installation.
Step 2: Determine the Product Depth
The depth of the blind or shade determines where the treatments will intersect inside the bay window.
Locate the headrail depth in the product specifications and record the measurement. This dimension will be used to create your measuring templates.
Step 3: Create Cardboard Templates
Cut two strips of cardboard equal to the headrail depth of the product you are ordering.
These cardboard strips simulate the actual space the blinds or shades will occupy once installed.
Place one cardboard strip against each side of the bay window corner.
Where the two cardboard strips intersect represents the point where the blinds or shades will meet after installation.
Step 4: Mark the Intersection Points
Using a pencil, mark the intersection point created by the cardboard templates.
Repeat this process for each corner of the bay window.
These marks represent the maximum width available for each blind or shade section.
This step is critical because it prevents the blinds from interfering with each other once installed.
Step 5: Measure Each Window Section
Once the intersection points are marked, measure the width of each window section independently.
- Measure the left window from the frame to the first intersection point.
- Measure the center window between the two intersection points.
- Measure the right window from the second intersection point to the frame.
Measure the height of each section separately as well.
Record all measurements carefully and follow the product-specific measuring instructions when placing your order.
Example Bay Window Measurement Layout
A typical three-section bay window may be measured as:
- Left Window: 28 1/4"
- Center Window: 60 1/2"
- Right Window: 28 1/4"
Your measurements will vary depending on the angle of the bay and the depth of the selected product.
Common Bay Window Measuring Mistakes
Ignoring Product Depth
One of the most common mistakes is measuring the visible glass area instead of accounting for the depth of the blind or shade.
Using Product Measurements from Another Blind
Different products require different clearances. Always use the depth specifications for the exact product being ordered.
Assuming All Sections Are Identical
Many bay windows appear symmetrical but have slight differences in width or height. Measure each section independently.
Not Checking for Obstructions
Window cranks, locks, trim, and handles can affect installation and operation.
Best Blinds and Shades for Bay Windows
Most bay windows can accommodate a wide variety of window treatments.
Popular choices include:
- Cellular shades
- Roman shades
- Roller shades
- Wood blinds
- Faux wood blinds
- Plantation shutters
For product recommendations, visit: Best Window Treatments for Bay Windows
Need Help Measuring?
If you are unsure how to measure your bay window, our team can help review measurements and answer questions before you place your order.
Taking a few extra minutes to measure correctly can help ensure a smoother installation and a better fit.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you measure a bay window for blinds?
Measure each window section separately and account for the headrail depth of the selected product by determining the intersection points where the blinds will meet.
Do bay windows require special blinds?
Not necessarily. Many standard blinds and shades work well in bay windows when measured properly and ordered to fit each section independently.
Why is blind depth important when measuring a bay window?
Blind depth affects where the treatments intersect inside the bay window. Properly accounting for depth helps prevent blinds from interfering with one another.
Can each section of a bay window have a separate blind?
Yes. Most bay windows use separate blinds or shades on each section so they can operate independently and accommodate the window angles.
What are the best window treatments for bay windows?
Cellular shades, Roman shades, roller shades, wood blinds, faux wood blinds, and plantation shutters are among the most popular options for bay windows.
