If you’re shopping for new cellular shades, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is: What size cellular shade should I get?
The short answer? The right size depends on your exact window measurements. While many hardware stores often sell cellular shades in a handful of stock sizes, custom-sized cellular shades are designed specifically for your windows, giving you a cleaner look, better light control, and easier installation. Shades cut exactly to the specifications of your windows will also maximize energy savings year round.
So… what size should you get? Here’s everything you need to know to figure that out.
Why Window Size Matters
Unlike curtains, cellular shades fit directly inside or over your window opening. Even being off by a fraction of an inch can affect how they look and perform.
A properly sized cellular shade will:
- Open and close smoothly
- Minimize light gaps
- Improve insulation
- Look clean and professionally installed
This is why measuring accurately, and choosing the exact right size, is so important.
Standard Sizes vs. Custom Cellular Shades
Many retailers sell stock-sized shades in common widths, including:
- 23 inches
- 27 inches
- 29 inches
- 31 inches
- 35 inches
- 36 inches
The problem is that most windows aren’t built to these exact dimensions.
If your window measures 34 ⅝ inches wide, for example, a 35-inch stock shade won’t fit correctly inside the frame. A smaller stock size may leave noticeable gaps along the sides.
Custom cellular shades eliminate this compromise by being manufactured to your exact measurements.
Benefits of Custom Cellular Shades
Instead of settling for the closest available size, custom shades offer several advantages:
- A precise fit for nearly any window
- Better insulation and energy efficiency
- Improved room darkening and privacy
- A more polished, built-in appearance
- No need to modify or trim stock shades
For unusually sized windows, tall windows, narrow windows, or oversized picture windows, custom sizing is especially valuable.
How to Measure for Cellular Shades
The measurements you’ll need depend on whether you’re installing an inside mount or outside mount shade. For more information on measuring for cellular shades, refer to our resource on the subject.
Inside Mount
For an inside mount:
- Measure the width in three places (top, middle, and bottom).
- Measure the height in three places (left, center, and right).
- Use the smallest width and the tallest height.
- Measure to the nearest 1/8 inch.
Please note that you can rely on our team to make adjustments or take deductions, rather than doing that yourself!
Outside Mount
For an outside mount:
- Measure the area you’d like the shade to cover.
- Add several inches beyond the window opening on each side whenever possible.
- Include extra height if you’d like the shade to stack above the window when fully open.
Outside mounts can provide better light blocking and help make windows appear larger.
What If My Windows Aren’t Standard?
That’s actually very common. Many homes, especially older homes, have windows that vary slightly from room to room. Even windows that appear identical may differ by ¼ inch or more.
Custom cellular shades are manufactured for each individual window, making sure your shades fit each window in your home.
Choosing the Right Cellular Shade
Once you’ve determined your measurements, you can also customize features like:
- Light filtering or blackout fabric
- Single-cell or cell-in-cell construction
- Cordless or motorized operation
- Colors and fabrics that complement your décor
Choosing the right size is just the first step toward creating comfortable, energy-efficient windows.
With any additional questions about measuring for custom cellular shades, don’t hesitate to get in touch! Our Shade Gurus will walk you through the ordering and measuring process, as well as guide you through the features available.
