Custom curtains can very easily enhance the overall look of your space. But what is worse is that you have the right set of custom curtains, but they just don’t fit your windows. This is often the case in Dubai, where sliding doors and huge windows are quite common. Therefore, it is imperative to measure your windows properly for installing new custom curtains, as they can fit perfectly compared to store-bought sizes. In this blog, we will find out how to measure windows for custom curtains. So let’s get into it!
What Are The Tools That You Need?
Before you actually start to measure your windows for custom curtains, there are certain tools that you need. Here are some of the tools that you will be needing:
- Measuring tape (it can be of steel for optimal accuracy)
- A pencil and paper to note down the measurements
- Step ladder to reach the top of the windows
- Level (this ensures that curtain rods are installed evenly)
Pro Tip: Avoid using any type of cloth or flexible sewing tape
How To Measure Your Windows For Custom Curtains
Measuring windows for curtains is a step-by-step process. Here are all the steps for the measurement of windows for custom curtains:
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Identify Where Your Curtain Will Hang
So the first thing is to know where you will be hanging your curtains. Curtain tracks and rods will significantly affect measurements by determining the starting and ending points for length, the total width for curtain hardware, and also the type of heading style that you can use. There are several options for tracks, which include ceiling-mounted tracks that are best for modern Dubai apartments. You can also go for a wall-mounted curtain rod, which is best for traditional homes. Also, recessed tracks are best for villas.
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Measure The Width Of The Curtain
For custom curtains, it is very important to measure the width of your curtains and windows. Window width is the measurement of the window opening itself, including the outer edges of the trim. On the other hand, the width of the curtains is the total flat width of the fabric panels used to cover the window when fully extended. To measure the width of the curtain, measure the length of your curtain track or rod. Make sure that you are not measuring the finials since these are decorative end caps on the rod. Here is the formula for curtain width:
Curtain Width = Window Width X Fullness Ratio
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Measure The Curtain Drop
Height is another very important factor when customizing your curtains. Depending on the curtain height that you want, there are three main types of curtain styles that you can go for;
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Above The Sill
This curtain length finishes at a short length, typically 1-2 cm above the window sill. If you are a fan of a neat and informal look, then this one is for you. This also prevents the curtains from dragging on the sill, which is best for high-traffic and moisture-prone areas.
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Floor Length
This is when you measure the curtain at least 1-2 cm above the floor, which allows the fabric to gracefully graze on the floor. This also prevents the curtains from dragging.
Puddled Luxury Style
In this, the curtains are intentionally made longer. A lot of people go for this style as it adds a very dramatic and opulent look. In this, you can allow the excess of curtain to gather on the floor, as this style evokes a sense of grandeur.
Special Cases
Custom curtains vary for different types of windows. Here are some of these windows for which you can customize your curtains:
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Sliding Glass Doors
These are some of the most common types of doors in Dubai. You would see them installed in walking closets and bathrooms as well. Measure the width of the door, and then measure the height from the desired rod placement.
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Wide Panoramic Windows
These types of windows are installed in Dubai apartments, as they help in maximizing natural light. Make sure that you are taking at least three measurements so that you can account for potential irregularities.
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Bay Windows Or Curved Walls
Both bay windows and curved walls are very common in Dubai. They are common because they add modern and aesthetic appeal to a space. These can be measured just as any other window or wall.
Hospital And Clinic Privacy Curtains
Ceiling tracks are very common when privacy curtains are used in hospitals and clinics. These fabric dividers are suspended from ceiling tracks in healthcare settings to provide temporary visual separation between patients. They are used to protect the patient’s privacy during examinations, treatments, and shared rooms, and while also reducing the infection.
Double-Check Your Measurements
It is very important to double-check the measurements for your custom curtains because even a small error results in ill-fitting curtains that can compromise the overall functionality and aesthetics; this can lead to costly results. Ensure that your curtains are proportional and that they hang correctly. Also, do check if they are not making the whole place look very overwhelming. Similarly, do check if they do not let unwanted light come in and also that the operation is smooth.
When Should You Go For Custom Curtains?
There are certain conditions in which one should go for custom curtains. Here is when it is time for you to customize your curtains.
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Unusual Window Dimensions
If your windows are extra wide, tall, or have non-standard shapes like arches or bay windows, custom curtains are a good option since they can give a very seamless and polished look.
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If Multiple Rooms Need Matching Lengths
Imagine all of your rooms need the same curtain lengths; that is only possible if you customize curtains.
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Motorized Curtains
A lot of people these days go for motorized curtains, as they provide effortless control, smart home integration, and quiet operation. You can also customize motorized curtains.
Conclusion
It is very important that you measure your windows properly before customizing your curtains. This is to ensure that there is no ill-fitting, leading to a polished and neat lookk. With accurate measurements, your curtains are neither too short nor too tall; they are visually balanced and ensure that they cover the windows properly.
FAQs| Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the standard curtain length in Dubai?
The standard curtain lengths in Dubai are 63, 84, 95, 108, and 120 inches, which are based on the ceiling height and desired look.
- Should curtains touch the floor?
Yes, curtains should touch the floor to make a puddle; it will give a more dramatic and luxurious look to your space.
- What curtain width is best for privacy?
For optimal privacy, the total width of your curtains should be at least two to three times the width of your curtains or curtain rod.
