Measuring Windows for Curtains Before Moving In
How to Measure Windows Correctly for Curtains
Measure the width of the window frame from outer edge to outer edge, then add 15–20 centimeters on each side for proper curtain coverage and light blocking. For the length, measure from where the curtain rod will sit — typically 10–15 centimeters above the frame — down to your desired endpoint: sill, below the sill, or floor length.
In Montreal, window sizes vary wildly between building eras. Victorian-era homes in the Plateau often have tall, narrow windows, while mid-century apartments in Côte-des-Neiges have wider, shorter ones. Never assume standard sizing — always measure each window individually, as even windows in the same room can differ by a few centimeters in older buildings.
Where to Shop for Curtains in Montreal
For budget-friendly options, IKEA in the West Island or online carries a solid selection of standard curtain sizes. Bouclair and HomeSense at Marché Central offer mid-range panels that are often in stock. If your windows are non-standard — and in Montreal they frequently are — custom curtains from local shops like Rideaux Montréal on Jean-Talon or Tissu MG in the Chabanel district run $80–$200 per panel with a two-week turnaround.
Order or buy curtains after measuring but before your actual move date. This way you can hang rods and curtains immediately, giving you privacy from the first night. Living without window coverings in a ground-floor Plateau apartment is not ideal.
Curtain Rod Installation Tips for Montreal Apartments
Tension rods require no drilling and work well for renters, but they only support lightweight curtains. For heavier blackout curtains — essential if your bedroom faces a busy Montreal street — use wall-mounted brackets anchored into studs or with drywall anchors. In older Montreal buildings with plaster walls, use plaster-specific anchors to avoid crumbling.
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If you are renting, check your lease before drilling. Most Montreal landlords accept curtain rod holes as normal wear and tear, but confirm to be safe. Ceiling-mounted tracks are another option for high ceilings and provide a modern look that works especially well in converted loft spaces in Saint-Henri and the Old Port.
