Grab your tape measure and let’s get started…
In order to buy custom replacement blind slats to repair your blind, an accurate measure is needed of the route holes. Blind route holes are measured from the left of the slat when facing the blind. For accuracy, we will be measuring to the 1/16th of an inch. Measuring in 16th’s of inches is not usually a common fraction to measure to. But, for our application, measuring blind slat route holes, measuring down to the nearest 16th is necessary for proper function of the blind.
On most metal tape measures, every inch is denominated in 1/2’s, 1/4’s, 8th’s, 16th’s, and even 32’s. In the following example, 16th’s are highlighted: 
Also, note which fractions are named in 16th’s and those that are not. Like we learned in grade school of fractions, the lower, or simplest of the fraction is expressed as a rule. Or, as an example, 1/8″ instead of 2/16″, 1/4″ instead of 4/16″, and so on.
As you can see, an 16th of an inch is an inch divided in sixteen parts. Getting to know these in order to be proficient at measuring is a good skill to master, especially when you need to accomplish do-it-yourself projects from time to time.
When measuring blind slat route holes that need to be annotated in 16th’s, follow these steps:
- From the last complete inch, count the number of sixteenths to the one nearest the left side on the first route hole. Write this measurement down.
- Do this for the second route hole, and all subsequent route holes.
Here’s an illustration of this process:
Route holes in blind slats are usually laid out in a symmetrical sequence. In other words, the holes adjacent to each end (left and right) will be the approximately the same distance in from the end. If the slat has 3 holes, that hole will be in the middle. Other holes will be similarly spaced as well. Keep in mind that these measurements may be off +/- 1/8″. Of course these slight differences either way do not effect the function or appearance of the blind.
Always remember when measuring, always double check your measurements!
For more measuring instruction, visit our Instructions Page.
To order replacement blind slats, please visit our Products Page.
