Remodeling your home: when to measure and order your curtains

In a remodel, curtains are almost always left for last. It's a logical choice, but it carries a risk: if you wait too long, you end up with bare windows for weeks. And if you measure too early, you may have to measure again.

The key isn't rushing or going slow, but knowing what you can decide early and what should wait. Here's how to coordinate your project schedule so you order your curtains at just the right time.

A custom curtain depends on several things that a remodel can change:

• The width and height of the window or wall section. If frames, moldings, or trim are changed, the final measurement changes.

• The height of the finished floor. A new floor that is thicker or thinner than the old one changes the distance between the track and the floor.
• The clearance around the window. A built-in cabinet or a new shelf can get in the way of the curtain's path.

That's why it's best to measure once those variables are settled.

It's not time to measure yet, but it is time to choose. Decide which fabric you want in each room and whether you prefer professional installation or to do it yourself. That way you reach the final phase without second-guessing.

You can order free fabric samples now and see them in the real light of your home, dust from the work included. Even better: look at the samples next to the paint and flooring you've already chosen.

While frames, moldings, closets, or floors are being installed, the measurements can still shift. Measuring at this stage is the most common way to end up measuring twice.

What you can do is confirm with your contractor the final floor height and whether there will be new moldings above the windows. Write it down.

This is usually the sweet spot. Frames, moldings, and floors are already in place, so the measurements are final. The paint may still be on its last coat, and that doesn't affect the measurements.

If you have questions about how to take each measurement, check our complete measuring guide or the interactive measuring guide. You can also request a technical visit so a professional can take the measurements, which helps when the project is large or the windows are unusual.

Once the measurements are confirmed, place your order in the configurator. Custom curtains take time to make, so there is a production lead time. We can't promise an exact timeline from this article, since it depends on your order. The wise move is to order with some margin and not leave it until the week the house is handed over.

While the curtains are being made, your contractor can finish the painting and final cleaning. When the curtains arrive, the space will be ready to install them without dust or fresh paint.

Installation comes at the close of the project. You can hire professional installation or do it yourself by following our installation guide. In either case, it's best to wait until the final cleaning is done: construction dust is the enemy of any fabric.

A remodel is a good time to rethink how you want each space to feel. Here are the three Ripple Fold fabrics and when each one makes sense:

• Sheer: almost see-through, it lets light in. It's a good fit if you've just invested in new windows, a nice view, or light paint you want to show off in natural light. Keep in mind it offers little privacy.
• Light Filtering: filters and softens light while maintaining privacy. It's the most versatile option for newly remodeled living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens, where you want brightness without direct sun.
• Blackout: blocks light. It works well in bedrooms, media rooms, or home offices with screens, where darkness is a priority.

If you're torn between two, a video call is a good way to decide. And remember: South Florida sun is intense, and a fabric that looks perfect in the sample may look different in afternoon light.

• Measuring before the moldings are installed. It's the most frequent cause of measurements that have to be redone.
• Forgetting the finished floor. If you measure over the old floor, the curtain's drop may not match the new one.
• Leaving the order for the last day. Because curtains are custom-made, production takes time.
• Choosing fabric without seeing the room's real light. Samples help a lot.
• Installing with fresh paint or construction dust. Wait until everything is dry and clean.

Yes, as long as the trim, moldings, and floors are already set. Paint doesn't change the measurements in any meaningful way, although it's best to install once it's fully dry.

Since these are custom curtains, manufacturing time varies by order. That's why we don't give fixed timelines here. If your project has a delivery date, reach out through our contact page and we'll help you plan.

Let us know as soon as possible, ideally before you confirm your order. Changes to the frame, molding, or floor height can affect the measurements. That's why it's best to measure once the carpentry and flooring are complete.

No. Curtains help with light, privacy, and comfort, but they don't protect against hurricanes or replace certified hurricane shutters. If your renovation includes windows or shutters, that's a separate decision.