Updated: May 20, 2026 Architectural diversity is one of the most rewarding aspects of Canadian home design. From the sprawling floor-to-ceiling windows of modern Toronto condos to the charming, arched alcoves found in historic Montreal townhomes, unique windows give a property its character. However, while these features are visually stunning, they often present a significant challenge when it comes to privacy and light control. Standard, off-the-shelf window treatments simply won't suffice for a window that is ten feet high, perfectly circular, or angled to follow a roofline.
At Blinds Concept, we believe that "unusual" should never mean "uncovered." Finding the right custom shades involves more than just measuring width and height; it requires an understanding of structural integrity, fabric weight, and mounting possibilities. Whether you are dealing with a skylight, a bay window, or a transom, this guide will walk you through the complexities of outfitting non-standard windows with precision and style. How do you measure irregular shaped windows for shades?
Measuring a standard rectangular window is straightforward, but irregular shapes require a more technical approach. For arched windows, for example, you cannot simply measure the peak; you must also measure the height of the vertical sides (the "leg") to determine where the curve begins. Similarly, for triangular or trapezoid windows, the angle of the slope is critical to ensure the shade operates without catching on the frame. We often recommend creating a physical template using butcher paper for highly complex shapes like circles or octagons.
By tracing the inner edge of the window frame, you provide our manufacturing team with a 1:1 blueprint. Precision is the difference between a shade that looks like part of the architecture and one that looks like an afterthought. If the measurement is off by even a few millimetres, you may experience light gaps or mechanical failure. The Importance of Professional On-Site Measurement Because unusual windows often have deeper or shallower casings, "inside mount" versus "outside mount" decisions become complicated. A professional in-home consultation is the best way to avoid costly errors.
Professionals use laser-level tools to ensure that even if your house has settled and the window is slightly out of square, the shade will hang perfectly level. Can you get blinds for windows that are too wide? Wide expanses of glass, such as those found in modern sunrooms or "great rooms," are a hallmark of contemporary Canadian architecture. However, many ready-made shades have a maximum width of 72 to 96 inches. When a window exceeds these dimensions, a single shade can become too heavy for the lifting mechanism to handle, leading to bowed headrails or snapped cords.
For extra-wide windows, we typically suggest one of three strategies: Coupled Shades: This involves placing two or three shades under a single decorative valance. This allows you to operate sections independently while maintaining a seamless look. Vertical Solutions: Products like sliding glass panels or modern vertical cellular shades are designed specifically for wide spans, moving horizontally rather than vertically.
High-Performance Hardware: For those who insist on a single continuous shade, we utilize heavy-duty commercial-grade tubes and high-torque motorized blinds systems that can lift heavy fabrics across spans as wide as 14 feet. What are the best window treatments for very tall windows? Tall windows—often seen in loft conversions or double-height entryways—pose two main problems: accessibility and weight. If a window is 15 feet off the ground, a manual cord is not only unsightly but also physically difficult to use.
Furthermore, the sheer volume of fabric required for a tall window can put immense strain on the mounting brackets. Cellular (honeycomb) shades are an excellent choice for tall windows because they are incredibly lightweight. Their hollow structure provides insulation without adding unnecessary bulk. For a more sophisticated aesthetic, roller shades with specialized "tall-drop" hardware prevent the fabric from telescoping (moving sideways) as it rolls up.
In almost every case involving heights over 10 feet, we recommend motorization to ensure the longevity of the treatment and the convenience of the homeowner. Are there shades for arched or circular windows? Arched windows are beautiful architectural features, but they are notorious for letting in unwanted heat and UV rays that can fade flooring. There are two primary ways to treat an arch: 1. Stationary Fans: The most common solution is a non-operable cellular shade that fans out from the centre of the arch.
This provides permanent light filtration and a soft, pleated look that complements the curve. 2. Moveable Arches: Some specialized cellular shades are now engineered to be fully operable, allowing you to raise the shade into the curve. This is a feat of engineering that requires custom tracks installed along the perimeter of the archway. For circular (porthole) windows, the solutions are more limited but highly effective. Custom shutters or stationary fabric inserts are the most popular choices, providing a "built-in" look that preserves the unique geometry of the window.
You can read more about specific aesthetic choices in our companion piece on choosing the right fabric for your home's aesthetic . What do you use for slanted or skylight windows? Skylights and slanted attic windows are subject to gravity. A standard shade would simply sag in the middle, leaving gaps and looking unkempt. To solve this, we use "cabled" or "track-guided" systems. These systems involve thin, tensioned wires or side channels that hold the fabric taut against the glass, regardless of the angle.
Because skylights are the primary source of solar heat gain in the summer, we often recommend blackout fabrics with a reflective outer coating for these windows. This helps keep your Canadian home cool during those humid July afternoons. For tips on managing these high-heat areas, check out our guide on energy-efficient window treatments . Manual vs. Automated Control While manual wand-operated skylight shades exist, they can be cumbersome. Modern solar-powered motors are the gold standard for skylights.
They require no wiring (the battery is charged by a discreet solar panel facing the glass) and can be programmed to close automatically when the sun is at its peak, protecting your interior without you having to lift a finger. Why Choose Custom Over Store-Bought for Unusual Sizes? The "big box" store approach to window treatments relies on mass production. If your window doesn't fit the mold, you end up with "light leakage"—the annoying slivers of sun that creep in around the edges of a poorly fitted blind. Custom shades are manufactured to the sixteenth of an inch.
Beyond the fit, custom shades provide access to higher-quality components. When dealing with unusual sizes, the internal springs, motors, and clutch systems are under more stress than usual. Custom manufacturing ensures that the hardware is rated for the specific weight and dimensions of your window, preventing the "sag and drag" common in cheaper alternatives. Elevating Your Space Unusual windows are often the focal point of a room. Investing in high-quality custom shades doesn't just solve a practical problem; it enhances the architectural value of your home.
By selecting fabrics that complement your wall colour and furniture, you turn a difficult window into a design statement. At Blinds Concept, our team of experts specializes in solving the "impossible" window. From the initial measurement to the final installation across Canada, we ensure that your custom shades operate smoothly and look spectacular. Ready to find the perfect fit for your unique windows? Schedule a professional complimentary consultation today or request a quote online to see how we can transform your space.
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