How to Measure for Zebra Blinds – Mistake-Proof Guide (Inside & Outside Mount)

Measuring for zebra blinds is not difficult — but the smallest error ruins the fit. Retail websites gloss over the details, skip deductions, and hide depth requirements.

This guide fixes that. Follow it step-by-step and you'll get a perfect fit every time.

Step 1 — Decide: Inside Mount or Outside Mount?

Inside Mount

The blind sits inside the window frame. Clean, modern, minimal.

Requires:

Frame depth: 2" minimum (varies by brand)
Square, even window openings
Willingness to accept small light gaps on the sides

Outside Mount

The blind is mounted on the wall or on the window trim. Best for bedrooms or uneven frames.

Benefits:

Better light blocking
Ideal for blackout setups
Hides uneven window edges

Step 2 — The Golden Rule: Measure 3 Times

For every dimension (width + height), take measurements at:

Top
Middle
Bottom

Use the smallest number for inside mount. Use the largest number for outside mount.

How to Measure for Inside Mount Zebra Blinds

1. Measure the Width (Top, Middle, Bottom)

Record all three widths. Use the smallest width — otherwise the blind may scrape the frame.

Manufacturers automatically take small deductions so the blind fits. Do not reduce the width yourself.

2. Measure the Height (Left, Center, Right)

Take three measurements and use the largest height.

3. Check Your Depth

Zebra blinds require enough depth for:

The cassette headrail
The fabric roll
The bottom rail movement

Most zebra blinds need 2" to 3.5" depth depending on model.

Tip: If you don't have enough depth, switch to outside mount.

How to Measure for Outside Mount Zebra Blinds

1. Measure the Width

Measure the exact width you want the blind to cover.

For best privacy/light control:

Add 2–4 inches on each side of the window
Add width until the fabric fully overlaps the frame

2. Measure the Height

Measure from the top mounting point to the desired bottom point.

For bedrooms, extend the blind several inches above the frame for better light blocking.

3. Consider the Cassette

The cassette headrail adds extra height at the top. Retailers rarely mention this.

For a clean look, mount high enough that the cassette sits above the window frame and does not block daylight.

Common Measuring Mistakes (Avoid These!)

Choosing inside mount even when the frame is too shallow
Measuring only once (windows are rarely perfectly square)
Forgetting to include desired overlap for outside mount
Not considering obstructions: window cranks, handles, security latches
Not accounting for cassette height

Printable Measuring Checklist

Decide inside vs outside mount
Measure width ×3
Measure height ×3
Check frame depth
Check for obstructions
Note cassette height

If You're Ready to Buy

Cordless zebra blinds are the most popular style in the U.S., especially for modern bedrooms and living rooms.

View Zebra Blinds at JoyDeco →