5 Reasons Why Made to Measure Blinds Are Perfect for Your New Home

Moving into a new home is an exciting milestone, filled with endless possibilities for making your space truly your own. One of the first decisions you'll face is how to dress your windows. Whilst off-the-shelf blinds might seem like a quick solution, made-to-measure blinds offer numerous advantages that make them the superior choice for your new home.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore five compelling reasons why custom-made blinds are the perfect investment for your new property, along with practical advice on measuring, budgeting, and choosing the right options for each room.

1. The Perfect Fit Every Time

The most obvious yet significant advantage of made-to-measure blinds is right there in the name – they're made to fit your windows precisely. This might seem like a minor detail, but the difference between a perfectly fitted blind and an ill-fitting one is substantial.

Why Perfect Fit Matters

When blinds are manufactured to your exact window measurements, you benefit from:

• No light gaps – Ready-made blinds often leave gaps at the sides, top, or bottom where light seeps through. Made-to-measure blinds eliminate these gaps completely, providing superior light control and privacy.
• Enhanced aesthetics – Perfectly fitted blinds look intentional and professional, contributing to a polished, finished appearance throughout your home.
• Better insulation – Gaps around poorly fitted blinds allow heat to escape in winter and enter in summer. Custom blinds create a proper seal, improving your home's energy efficiency.
• Improved functionality – Blinds that fit properly operate more smoothly and are less likely to catch or jam.

The Reality of "Standard" Sizes

Many homeowners assume that windows come in standard sizes, so standard blinds should work fine. However, even in new builds where developers use similar window sizes, variations of just a few millimetres can make a significant difference. Windows that appear identical often have subtle differences in:

• Width and height measurements
• Recess depth
• Frame protrusion
• Sill configuration

Made-to-measure blinds account for these variations, ensuring each window receives a perfectly tailored treatment.

Common Mistakes with Ready-Made Blinds

When homeowners attempt to use ready-made blinds in new homes, common issues include:

• Blinds that are too narrow, leaving unsightly gaps at the sides
• Blinds that are too wide and won't fit in the recess
• Blinds that are too short, failing to provide adequate privacy
• Blinds that are too long, bunching at the bottom or hitting the windowsill

These problems aren't just aesthetic – they directly impact the blind's functionality and your home's appearance.

2. Unlimited Variety of Styles, Materials, and Finishes

When you choose made-to-measure blinds, you're not limited to whatever happens to be in stock at your local shop. Instead, you have access to an extensive range of styles, materials, colours, and finishes that can be perfectly tailored to your interior design vision.

Style Options

Made-to-measure services typically offer the full spectrum of blind types:

• Vertical blinds – Ideal for large windows and patio doors, available in numerous fabrics and materials
• Roller blinds – Sleek and contemporary, perfect for minimalist aesthetics
• Roman blinds – Elegant fabric folds that add sophistication to any room
• Venetian blinds – Classic horizontal slats in wood, faux wood, or aluminium
• Pleated blinds – Lightweight and practical, excellent for conservatories
• Perfect Fit blinds – Innovative designs that clip into UPVC windows without drilling

Material Choices

The material you choose impacts not just aesthetics but also functionality:

• Fabric – Soft, textured, and available in countless patterns and colours. Options range from sheer and light-filtering to blackout materials.
• Wood – Natural warmth and character, ideal for traditional or rustic interiors. Real wood adds luxury and timeless appeal.
• Faux wood – The look of wood with added durability and moisture resistance, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.
• Aluminium – Modern, practical, and easy to maintain. Available in numerous colours and finishes.
• PVC – Affordable and highly moisture-resistant, ideal for high-humidity areas.

Customisation Features

Beyond basic style and material, made-to-measure blinds can include:

• Motorisation – Electric operation via remote control or smart home integration
• Special coatings – UV protection, water resistance, or flame retardancy
• Thermal backing – Enhanced insulation properties for energy efficiency
• Decorative trims and valances – Finishing touches that elevate the overall look
• Coordinating elements – Match blinds across rooms for a cohesive design

Matching Your Interior Design

For a new home, creating a cohesive interior design scheme is crucial. Made-to-measure blinds allow you to:

• Perfectly match or complement your paint colours
• Coordinate with furniture and soft furnishings
• Create visual flow between rooms
• Express your personal style without compromise

3. Superior Privacy and Light Control

One of the primary functions of any window treatment is to provide privacy and control natural light. Made-to-measure blinds excel in both areas, offering precision control that ready-made alternatives simply cannot match.

Enhanced Privacy

In a new home, especially a new build development where properties are close together, privacy can be a significant concern. Made-to-measure blinds provide:

• Complete coverage – No gaps means no sight lines for curious neighbours or passersby
• Appropriate opacity levels – Choose the right level of privacy for each room, from sheer in living areas to blackout in bedrooms
• Consistent privacy across the home – Ensure all windows provide adequate privacy from day one

Precise Light Control

Different rooms require different light management strategies:

• Living rooms – Balance natural light with glare control, especially for TV viewing. Adjustable blinds like verticals or venetians offer flexibility.
• Kitchens – Bright, functional spaces benefit from light-filtering blinds that provide privacy whilst maintaining brightness.
• Bedrooms – Blackout blinds ensure quality sleep by blocking external light completely, crucial for shift workers or light-sensitive sleepers.
• Bathrooms – Moisture-resistant blinds that offer complete privacy whilst allowing some natural light when needed.
• Home offices – Manage screen glare and create productive environments with adjustable light control.

The Impact of Gaps on Light Control

Ready-made blinds often leave gaps that undermine their light-blocking capabilities. Even small gaps can:

• Allow disturbing light into bedrooms during early mornings
• Create visible sight lines that compromise privacy
• Cause glare on television and computer screens
• Reduce the overall effectiveness of the blind

Made-to-measure blinds eliminate these issues by fitting precisely to your window dimensions.

4. Exceptional Durability and Longevity

When you invest in a new home, you want furnishings that will stand the test of time. Made-to-measure blinds are built to higher standards than mass-produced alternatives, offering superior durability that translates to excellent long-term value.

Quality of Construction

Custom blinds typically feature:

• Premium materials – Higher quality fabrics, woods, and mechanisms that resist wear and degradation
• Robust mechanisms – Commercial-grade operating systems designed for thousands of cycles
• Superior finishing – Properly hemmed edges, reinforced stitching, and professional detailing
• Appropriate specifications – Correctly sized components that won't strain or fail prematurely

Resistance to Common Issues

Quality made-to-measure blinds are less susceptible to:

• Sagging – Proper sizing prevents the weight-related sagging common in oversized ready-made blinds
• Warping – High-quality materials maintain their shape even in sunny or humid conditions
• Fading – UV-resistant finishes protect colours from sun damage
• Mechanism failure – Properly specified components matched to blind size and weight

Expected Lifespan

With proper care, made-to-measure blinds typically last:

• Fabric blinds – 7-12 years
• Wooden blinds – 10-20 years
• Faux wood blinds – 8-15 years
• Aluminium blinds – 10-15 years

By contrast, cheap ready-made blinds often need replacing within 2-5 years due to mechanism failure, material degradation, or aesthetic deterioration.

Warranties and Guarantees

Reputable made-to-measure blind suppliers typically offer:

• Guarantees on mechanisms (often 3-5 years)
• Fabric warranties against manufacturing defects
• Installation guarantees
• After-sales support and replacement parts

This level of backing provides peace of mind that your investment is protected.

5. Adding Value to Your Property

Quality window treatments are more than just functional items – they're an investment that can enhance your property's value and appeal, particularly important if you plan to sell in the future.

Enhanced Kerb Appeal

The exterior view of your home matters. From the street, well-fitted, coordinated blinds create:

• A polished, finished appearance
• Visual uniformity across the facade
• An impression of quality and attention to detail
• Professional presentation that suggests a well-maintained property

Mismatched or poorly fitted ready-made blinds, by contrast, can make even a new home look unfinished or neglected from the outside.

Interior Presentation

Inside your home, quality blinds contribute to:

• Cohesive design – A thought-out interior scheme that flows room to room
• Quality perception – Custom features suggest quality throughout the property
• Move-in readiness – Fully dressed windows are one less thing for potential buyers to worry about
• Lifestyle appeal – Modern features like motorised blinds appeal to tech-savvy buyers

Quantifiable Value Addition

Whilst difficult to measure precisely, quality window treatments can positively impact your home's value by:

• Improving energy efficiency ratings, which increasingly matter to buyers
• Reducing the perceived work needed to make the house "move-in ready"
• Contributing to a positive first impression during viewings
• Justifying a slightly higher asking price due to quality fixtures and fittings

Estate agents frequently note that well-presented homes with quality fixtures typically sell faster and for better prices than comparable properties lacking these finishing touches.

Measuring Tips for Made-to-Measure Blinds

To ensure you get perfectly fitted blinds, accurate measuring is essential. Here's a comprehensive guide to measuring your windows correctly:

Tools You'll Need

• Steel tape measure (fabric measures can stretch and give inaccurate readings)
• Notepad and pencil
• Step ladder if windows are high
• Spirit level (optional but helpful)

Recess vs Face Mounted

First, decide how you want your blinds fitted:

Recess (Inside Mount):

• Blinds fit inside the window recess
• Creates a neat, streamlined look
• Best for windows with adequate recess depth (minimum 25mm)
• Measure the width and height of the recess at three points (top, middle, bottom for height; left, centre, right for width)
• Use the smallest measurement to ensure the blind will fit

Face Mounted (Outside Mount):

• Blinds attach to the wall or ceiling above/around the window
• Better light blocking as the blind overlaps the frame
• Ideal for shallow recesses or when you want to make windows appear larger
• Measure the total area you want to cover, typically 10-15cm beyond the frame on each side

Step-by-Step Measuring Guide

For Recess Fitting:

1. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the recess
2. Record the smallest width measurement
3. Measure the height on the left, centre, and right of the recess
4. Record the largest height measurement
5. Check the recess depth to ensure adequate space for the blind mechanism

For Face Mounting:

1. Decide how far beyond the window frame you want the blind to extend (typically 10-15cm each side)
2. Measure from your chosen left point to your chosen right point for width
3. Measure from your chosen top point to your chosen bottom point for height
4. Ensure there's adequate space above the window for the blind mechanism

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

• Measuring in only one place – Windows often aren't perfectly square, so multiple measurements are essential
• Rounding up measurements – Be precise to the nearest millimetre
• Forgetting window handles – Protruding handles may interfere with some blind types
• Ignoring obstacles – Check for radiators, shelves, or other items that might impede blind operation
• Assuming all windows are the same size – Even in new builds, measure each window individually
• Using old measurements – Always measure directly, never rely on builder specifications or old records

Room-by-Room Recommendations

Different rooms have different requirements when it comes to blinds. Here's a guide to choosing the right made-to-measure blinds for each space in your new home:

Living Room

Best options: Vertical blinds, Roman blinds, or Venetian blinds

• Choose light-filtering fabrics for ambience whilst maintaining daytime privacy
• Consider motorisation for hard-to-reach windows
• Coordinate colours with your sofa and décor
• For large windows or patio doors, vertical blinds offer easy operation

Bedrooms

Best options: Blackout roller blinds, Roman blinds, or vertical blinds

• Blackout materials essential for quality sleep
• Consider thermal backing for energy efficiency
• Noise-reducing materials can help in noisy areas
• Cordless options are safer if children will be in the room

Kitchen

Best options: Roller blinds, Venetian blinds, or faux wood blinds

• Choose moisture and stain-resistant materials
• Easy-clean surfaces are essential
• Avoid fabric blinds that can absorb cooking odours
• Position blinds to avoid interference with taps and sinks

Bathroom

Best options: Waterproof roller blinds, faux wood blinds, or PVC Venetian blinds

• Moisture resistance is non-negotiable
• Complete privacy is essential
• Mould and mildew resistant materials
• Consider frosted glass as an additional privacy layer

Home Office

Best options: Venetian blinds, vertical blinds, or roller blinds with adjustable opacity

• Excellent light control to reduce screen glare
• Privacy if conducting video calls
• Energy efficiency for all-day comfort
• Consider dual blinds (sheer and blackout) for ultimate flexibility

Conservatory

Best options: Pleated blinds, solar reflective blinds, or roof blinds

• Heat management is crucial in glass rooms
• UV protection prevents furniture fading
• Consider specialist conservatory blind systems
• Motorisation may be necessary for roof windows

Budget Planning for Your New Home

Understanding the costs involved in furnishing your new home with made-to-measure blinds helps with budgeting and decision-making.

Typical Cost Ranges (per window)

• Roller blinds: £80-£250
• Vertical blinds: £100-£300
• Venetian blinds: £90-£280
• Roman blinds: £150-£400
• Wooden blinds: £200-£500
• Motorised options: Add £100-£300 per blind

These ranges vary based on window size, material quality, and additional features.

Whole-Home Budget Estimates

Two-bedroom flat: £800-£2,000

Three-bedroom house: £1,500-£3,500

Four-bedroom house: £2,000-£5,000

Money-Saving Strategies

• Phase your purchases – Start with key rooms and add others over time
• Mix and match – Use premium blinds in main living areas and more affordable options in utility spaces
• Watch for promotions – Many suppliers offer discounts during quieter periods
• Consider value materials – Faux wood and quality PVC can look excellent at lower price points

Don't Compromise On

• Measuring accuracy – mistakes are costly to rectify
• Installation quality – poor fitting undermines the benefits of made-to-measure
• Key room priorities – bedrooms and living areas merit investment
• Child safety features – these are worth the additional cost

Installation Options

Once you've chosen and ordered your made-to-measure blinds, you'll need to decide on installation.

Professional Installation

Advantages:

• Guaranteed correct fitting
• Professional finish
• Usually covered by warranty
• Saves time and effort
• Tools and expertise for any complications

Typical costs: £25-£50 per blind, often included or discounted when ordering multiple blinds

DIY Installation

Advantages:

• Saves installation costs
• Install at your convenience
• Satisfaction of completing the job yourself
• Learn skills for future adjustments

Requirements:

• Basic DIY skills and confidence
• Correct tools (drill, screwdrivers, spirit level, etc.)
• Time and patience
• Understanding of wall/ceiling types in your home

Making the Decision

Consider professional installation if:

• You're not confident with DIY tasks
• You have many blinds to install
• Your windows are difficult to access
• You want warranty protection
• You have expensive or complex blind systems

Warranties and Guarantees

Quality made-to-measure blinds should come with comprehensive warranties that protect your investment:

What to Look For

• Mechanism warranty – Typically 2-5 years covering operating systems
• Fabric/material warranty – Usually 1-3 years against manufacturing defects
• Installation guarantee – If professionally installed, fitting should be guaranteed
• Measurement guarantee – If measured by the supplier, incorrect measurements should be rectified free

Questions to Ask

• What exactly is covered under warranty?
• What voids the warranty (e.g., incorrect installation, cleaning methods)?
• How do you make a warranty claim?
• What's the process for repairs or replacements?
• Are there any costs associated with warranty work?

Conclusion: The Smart Choice for Your New Home

Investing in made-to-measure blinds for your new home offers numerous advantages that far outweigh the modest additional cost compared to ready-made alternatives. The perfect fit, unlimited customisation options, superior privacy and light control, exceptional durability, and added property value make custom blinds a smart long-term investment.

When you move into a new home, you're making countless decisions about how to make it truly yours. Window treatments are one area where spending slightly more upfront pays dividends for years to come. Made-to-measure blinds provide the quality, functionality, and aesthetic appeal that turn a house into your dream home.

By taking the time to measure correctly, choose appropriate styles for each room, budget sensibly, and opt for quality installation, you'll enjoy beautiful, functional window treatments that enhance your home's comfort, appearance, and value.

Ready to find the perfect made-to-measure blinds for your new home? Contact our expert team for personalised advice and a free, no-obligation quote.