For an inside-mounted zebra shade, we ask for at least 2 inches of flat depth inside the frame for the cassette to sit in. Measure the usable reveal with a tape measure and check for anything that interrupts that space. If the frame has less than 2 inches, choose an outside mount. Decide the mounting position before you take the width and height for your order.
How much depth does an inside-mounted zebra shade need?
Our inside-mount guide calls for at least 2 inches of flat depth inside the frame. The reveal is the recessed space within the window opening. You need to check how much of that space is flat and available for the cassette.
A deep-looking frame can still have a shallow usable reveal. Look at the surface where the brackets would attach. Check for trim, changes in level and anything projecting into the space the cassette would occupy.
Use the 2 inches requirement when deciding between an inside and outside mount. With less depth, we recommend an outside mount rather than leaving the cassette sticking out of the opening.
How do I measure the reveal and check the bracket space?
Use a tape measure and keep a pencil and paper beside you. At the top of the opening, measure the flat depth from the room-side edge of the reveal towards the window. Stop where the flat, usable surface ends. Write down that depth so you can compare it with our 2 inches requirement.
Check along the top of the opening, including the places where the brackets would attach. Keep the tape straight against the surface. A sloped edge or a raised piece of trim can make the available depth different from what you first see. Check the space with the window hardware in view, too.
The cassette needs at least 2 inches of flat depth for our recommended inside mount. A bracket that appears to fit on a narrow ledge does not settle the question of cassette fit. If you cannot tell where the bracket can be securely fixed, leave the mounting decision to an installer before ordering.
What width and height should I measure for an inside mount?
Once you have chosen an inside mount, measure the width first, then the height. Use a tape measure and record every measurement to the nearest 1/8 of an inch. If you are ordering for several windows, measure them all in one pass with the same tape. Give each window its own written measurements.
For the width, measure across the opening at the top, the middle and the bottom. Write down the narrowest of the three. That is the width we build to, because it is the only width guaranteed to clear the frame. Give us the exact opening measurement. We make the factory deduction ourselves, so do not subtract anything.
For the height, measure from the top of the opening down to the sill at the left, the middle and the right. Use the longest of the three so the shade covers the full drop. Keep the width and height labelled clearly when you enter them on the website. Avoid rounding to the nearest inch.
What should I do if my window frame is too shallow?
If you have less than 2 inches of flat depth inside the frame, choose an outside mount. It fixes to the wall above the opening and overlaps it. That overlap can hide an out-of-square frame and block more light. Make this decision before recording the measurements you will use to order.
Measure the width first, then the height, to the nearest 1/8 of an inch. For an outside mount, add at least 2 inches each side and 2 to 3 inches above the opening. Use your tape to check that the planned overlap has room on the wall.
Look at the proposed fixing position before committing to the size. If trim or another obstruction makes the mounting position unclear, ask for help with the installation. The outside-mount measurements need to match the position where the shade will actually hang.
Can I install the shade myself?
You can take the measurements yourself with a tape measure and a clear record for each window. Before taking on the fitting, you should also be able to identify a secure fixing surface for the brackets. Leave the installation to someone else if you are unsure about that surface or cannot safely reach the mounting position.
Our chain-operated shades use a continuous-loop chain, sold shrouded and anchored to the wall with a tension device. Include that anchoring position in your installation planning. You choose which side the chain hangs on when ordering, and our workshop sets the drop length to suit the window you measured. A motorized shade has no chain.
We install within 75 km of Elgin Mills and Yonge in Richmond Hill. Installation is $100 per window, minimum three. If you need help deciding how a shallow opening should be mounted, settle that question before confirming a custom order.
What to do next
Price your window on the website using the measurements for your chosen mount; as a chain-operated zebra shade example, 24 by 48 inches is $150.20 before tax, with shipping in Canada included. We make shades to order in Richmond Hill, Ontario, and dispatch within three working days of a confirmed order, with transit on top. Check your recorded measurements before confirming, because custom shades are final sale once the order is confirmed.
Made to measure in Richmond Hill and shipped free anywhere in Canada. Or ring us on (289) 210-3254.