Step-by-step Guide on How to Measure Bay Windows
Fitting your bay window poles or tracks is not as daunting as it seems. It is easier than you think.
And to make your job even more trouble-free, we have developed a detailed step-by-step guide on how to measure bay windows.
In addition, we also cover which brackets, connectors, and other accessories you’ll need to complete the job.
Correct Way to Measure Bay Windows for Curtain Poles
Step 1
First, take your tape measure and determine the distance between the top of your window and the ceiling.
If it’s 15 cm or more, you can fix the curtain pole using a wall or ceiling bracket. However, if it’s less than 15 cm, you’ll need to use a ceiling bracket as it will be too tight for a wall bracket.
Step 2
Start from left to right. Measure the width of the initial window in your bay until it meets the angle of the next bay. Measure all bays like this. Note all the measurements in centimeters.
Add 20-30 cm to the first and last sides of your bay windows. This will allow you to tuck curtains back without blocking windows.
When you combine the lengths of all sides, you will obtain the overall measurement for your bay window.
Step 3
Final step.
Find out your curtain drop’s length. Take the measurement starting from where you plan to mount the pole and extend it to the desired position where you want your curtains to hang.
Your choice will vary based on whether you want the curtains to lightly touch the floor or hang a few inches above it.
How Many Brackets are Required for Bay Windows?
The quantity of sides on the bay window determines the necessary brackets and elbow connectors for curtain poles.
For instance, 3-sided angled bay windows will require the following:
- One 2.5-meter pole combined with two 1.5-meter poles cut into smaller sections, five wall brackets or five ceiling brackets, and two bay bend brackets or two elbow connectors.
Bay Bend Bracket
The bay bend bracket is used to join two poles of the same diameter. They are ideal for curved windows as they are easy to bend with hands. It is available in two sizes: 19mm and 28mm.
Correct Way to Measure Bay Windows for Curtain Tracks
Step 1
Start by measuring the width of your initial bay window from the left side to the right until you reach the angle where the next bay begins. Similarly, measure all bays and note the dimensions in centimeters.
Add an extra 20-30 cm to the first and last slides of your bay window to avoid blocking windows when tucking curtains back.
Calculate all sides’ total length, which will be your complete bay window measurement.
Step 2
Determine the desired location for your curtains by measuring the distance between the installation point of the curtain track and the desired position for your curtains to hang. This will depend on whether you want curtains to graze the floor or to sit a few inches above.
Curtain Poles or Curtain Tracks: Which is Better for Bay Windows?
Whether to choose curtain poles or curtain tracks depends on different factors. Some common factors include the weight of curtains, your home style, and how easy you want the job to be!
Each has its advantages and disadvantages.
Curtain Poles
Curtain poles provide an opportunity to create a more impactful and striking effect. You can select from various wooden or metallic materials, each offering multiple styles and finishes.
Curtain poles can hold more fabric, resulting in a fuller and weightier appearance. This makes them an ideal choice, especially when using heavy curtains like our blackout curtains.
Curtain Tracks
Curtain tracks offer a more inconspicuous appearance compared to curtain poles. Curtain tracks are ideal if you desire a straightforward, subtle option that seamlessly complements the room’s style.
For instance, coil tracks are easy to bend and shape to fit your window, or Thira tracks can be cut to size; you can get them.
Conclusion
In conclusion, following the above step-by-step guideline, you can measure bay windows independently. However, you can hire a professional if you are still trying to decide whether to do it yourself.
Frequently Asked Question
1. What is the difference between a bow and a bay window?
A bay window typically consists of multiple windows with different angles. On the other hand, a bow window comprises several window panels of the same size arranged in a smooth curved shape.
2. What angle are bay windows?
The typical measurement for the angle of a three-sided bay is 135 degrees, although it can range from 120 to 140 degrees. On the other hand, in a bay with five sides, the angles are generally larger, varying from 150 to 175 degrees.
