How to measure for a bay window
Bay windows are a prominent architectural feature, often seen in Georgian properties, such as the regal townhouses of Cheltenham and Bath. Nicola helps many clients to dress their bay windows, either in person or via a virtual appointment.
There is no denying that measuring for curtains in a bay window can be tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the process. But Nicola has a tried and tested formula that has helped homeowners around the country to get to grips with their bay window measurements. Here are her top tips:
Understand your bay window type
Before measuring, it's important to identify what type of bay window you have, as this will determine how you measure and what kind of curtain track or pole you’ll need. The most common types include:
1. Right-angle bay: This typically consists of three sections meeting at 90-degree angles.
2. Splayed bay: This features corners that are angled, rather than sharp 90-degrees.
3. Arc bay: A curved window that requires a flexible or curved track.
4. Multi-section bay: Bays usually have 3 sections, but they can have more, creating a more complex scenario.
Book a virtual appointment with our curtain experts
At Just Fabrics, we offer virtual measuring appointments to ensure your measurements are as precise as possible. When you book an appointment, we will send you:
1. A detailed measuring form with comprehensive diagrams and descriptions showing you exactly what sides and angles to measure and how to do it.
2. An angle measurer so you can accurately measure the angles of your bay window.
During the virtual call, you will be guided step by step, so that you get every measurement correct. You can also ask for advice about fabric choice, curtain length, curtain headings, and linings.
Measure for a bay window curtain pole or track
If you’re wondering how to measure a bay window for a curtain pole or track, follow these key steps:
1. Decide on the track position
Determine if the track or pole will be mounted on the ceiling or further down on the wall. This will affect where you take your measurements.
2. Measure each section of the bay
Use a metal tape measure to record the width of each window section in cm (A-B, B-C, C-D and so on), measuring as close to the frame or wall as possible. Measure the cross diagonal lengths from the edge of the window to each of the internal corners in cm.
3. Measure each of the internal angles
Note down the angle of each corner using the angle measurer provided by Just Fabrics. This becomes more complicated the more internal bends there are. It is not essential to provide both the angle and cross diagonal measurements, although supplying both does help us cross-check.
Consider how the curtains will stack
If the windows don’t come to the edge of the bay window and you have walls here, then your track needs to come as far as it can to the front of the bay to allow for the curtains to be stacked as much as possible away from the window.
If you are fixing the track onto the window frame (and not the wall) around most of the bay, then allowances need to be made for the brackets to be stacked out on blocks on the wall part of the bay, so they are level with the frame.
If the windows or frames do come to the edge of the bay, then the curtains will have to stack partly over the windows. Or you could consider having returns where the track will continue around the corners into the main part of the room allowing the curtains to stack back nicely in the room. If you choose to have returns, you need to allow at least 30cm on each side.
Types of tracks and poles for bay windows
Once you’ve taken your measurements, we work with our trusted supplier to custom-make your curtain track or pole. Each is precisely bent to match the angles of your bay window, ensuring a perfect fit.
At Just Fabrics, we offer six styles of Silent Gliss curtain tracks, made from durable metal, not plastic, plus a range of poles. These include Silent Gliss Metropoles, Hallis ARC collection and Cameron Fuller bay window poles. Please get in touch if you’d like to find out more.
Choosing the right curtains for your bay window
During your virtual appointment, we can also advise you on how to choose the right fabric to create the right look and feel for your bay window. This will involve:
1. Curtain length: Consider whether you want floor-length curtains or if you want them to sit above the radiator or under the window sill.
2. Headings: There is a lot of choice of curtain headers for bay windows, from pencil pleat to pinch pleat to wave. However, it does depend on whether you need a ceiling track or, if you have a wall track, whether you have enough space for the curtain header.
3. Lining options: Depending on the room and its function, you might like to consider single lined or interlined curtains for a more sumptuous look. Blackout and thermal linings are also good options depending on your needs. You might be interested to read more in our blog about how thermal linings can save on energy costs.
How long does it take to receive your curtain track?
Once your measurements are confirmed and paid for, your made-to-measure curtain track will be crafted and delivered within 10 days. You can choose to install it yourself, or if you're local to our showroom, our team can provide a professional fitting service.
Book your virtual appointment today!
If you're still unsure about how to measure a bay window for curtains, don’t worry – our expert team is here to help! Visit our website to schedule your virtual appointment or call us to learn more.
