What Is Exact Size for Blinds? Meaning, Measuring & Guide
Definition
Exact size means a blind is manufactured to the exact width and drop you provide, with no factory deduction made for fitting clearance. This measurement option is usually used when fitting a blind outside a window recess, over a door, or into a space where you have already allowed for any required clearance.
What Does Exact Size Mean?
Exact size refers to the finished size of the blind itself. If you order a blind as 120 cm wide by 140 cm drop, the blind will be made to those stated dimensions as closely as the product specification allows.
Unlike recess size, where the manufacturer makes small deductions so the blind fits neatly inside the window opening, exact size puts the responsibility for clearance and overlap on the person measuring.
Why Exact Size Matters
Choosing exact size is important because it controls how the blind sits around the window. It is commonly selected when you want the blind to overlap the recess, cover more glass, reduce light gaps or align with surrounding fixtures.
- Greater control: You choose the finished blind dimensions yourself.
- Better coverage: Useful for fitting outside the recess to minimise side light gaps.
- Flexible positioning: Suitable for walls, doors, conservatories and awkward spaces.
- Neater alignment: Allows blinds to line up with frames, tiles, architraves or other furnishings.
- Ideal for face fixing: Works well when brackets are fitted to the wall or window frame rather than inside the recess.
Exact Size vs Recess Size
| Measurement Type | What It Means | Best Used For | Allowance Made |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exact Size | The blind is made to the exact width and drop supplied. | Outside recess fitting, doors and custom spaces. | No fitting deduction is normally made. |
| Recess Size | The window recess is measured wall to wall and top to sill. | Inside recess fitting. | A small deduction is usually made for clearance. |
| Fabric Size | The stated measurement refers mainly to the fabric width. | Some roller blind specifications. | Overall bracket-to-bracket width may be wider than the fabric. |
When Should You Choose Exact Size?
Exact size is usually the right option when the blind is being fitted outside the window recess. This is often called face fixing because the brackets are fitted to the wall, frame or surface in front of the window.
It is also useful where there is no recess at all, such as glazed doors, patio doors, French doors or certain modern window designs.
Common Applications for Exact Size Blinds
- Roller blinds fitted outside a recess for improved coverage.
- Roman blinds mounted above the window to help preserve daylight.
- Venetian blinds fitted to doors or window frames.
- Vertical blinds covering wide windows or patio doors.
- Blinds fitted around obstructions such as handles, tiles or architraves.
How to Measure for Exact Size
To measure for exact size, decide where the blind will be fitted and measure the finished width and drop you want the blind to cover. For outside recess fitting, it is common to add extra overlap at the sides and bottom to improve privacy and reduce light leakage.
Always use a metal tape measure and record measurements in millimetres where possible. Measure carefully at least twice before placing an order.
Child Safety Considerations
Exact size can affect where controls, cords and chains sit once the blind is fitted. For blinds with looped cords or chains, the control must be installed with suitable safety devices and positioned in line with UK child safety requirements.
Blinds supplied and installed in the UK should follow BS EN 13120, the standard covering internal blind safety. Professional fitting helps ensure control lengths, tensioning devices and cord safety components are correctly installed.
Expert Tip from Homefair Blinds
When choosing exact size, think about the finished look as well as the measurement. A little extra overlap outside the recess can make a blind look more balanced while helping to reduce light gaps and improve privacy.