Whether you want exceptional light control, more privacy or you’re just looking for a stylish window covering, installing shutters on your windows adds a touch of elegance to any home.
Available in PVC, timber and aluminium, a new set of shutters should be measured accurately and precisely to ensure you can get an accurate quote for your installation. In this blog, we’ll walk you through a step-by-step guide to measuring windows for shutter installation — for indoor shutters including standard, bay & corner windows. Read on!
Understanding the different types of shutters
Before we dive into the measuring process, let’s briefly discuss the main type of shutters commonly used for window installations — interior plantation shutters.
Interior plantation shutters
Plantation shutters are fitted shutters that are made to measure, providing a seamless and stylish look to your windows. These shutters can be mounted either on the inside (recess) or outside of your windows, depending on your preference and the design of your window frames. A recess or reveal mount is the more popular choice as it has a neater, more stylish look. External or face mounts are generally only required if you don’t have enough clearance from the window, which can happen with older-style sash windows or louvre windows.
Plantation shutters are generally available in three types of materials: PVC shutters, aluminium shutters and timber shutters.
Inside mount shutters are fitted within the window recess, creating a clean, streamlined look. The minimum clearance required for recess shutters depends on your frame and blade size of choice, as well as any handles or locks attached to the window. Outside mount plantation shutters are fitted to the architrave surrounding the window or on the wall if you have a square set window.
Measuring inside mount shutters
Inside mount shutters are installed within the window recess, providing a clean and seamless look. Here’s how to measure your windows for inside mount shutters:
Step 1: Measure the width
Start by measuring the width of your window opening. Take three measurements: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom. Note down each measurement and choose the smallest one. This ensures that your shutters will fit perfectly within the window recess.
Step 2: Measure the height
Next, measure the height of your window opening. Again, take three measurements: one on the left side, one in the centre and one on the right side. Record all the measurements and select the smallest one. This guarantees that your shutters will be the perfect height for your windows.
Step 3: Check for obstacles
Before finalising your measurements, check for any obstacles within the window recess that may affect the installation of your shutters. Obstacles can include window handles, locks or any other protrusions.
Measure the recess depth at different points to check your clearance. The minimum clearance required for recess shutters depends on your frame and blade size of choice. A professional installer can check prior to installation.
Measuring outside mount shutters
If your windows do not have a suitable recess, outside mount shutters are a great option. These shutters are fitted to the architrave surrounding the window or on the wall if you have a square set window. While less neat than traditional recess mount shutters, they still add the stylish look and feel of a plantation shutter to your windows. Here’s how to measure for outside mount shutters:
Step 1: Measure the width
Measure the width of your window from left to right. Take three measurements: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom. Record all the measurements and choose the largest one. This ensures that your outside mount shutters will fully cover the window opening.
Step 2: Measure the height
Measure the height of your window from top to bottom. Take three measurements: one on the left side, one in the centre and one on the right side. Note down all the measurements and select the largest one. This ensures that your outside mount shutters will completely cover the height of your window.
Step 3: Consider architraves and sills
If your window has architraves or a sill, it’s important to consider them when measuring for outside mount shutters. This is why we recommend using your measurements as a guide for getting a quote, rather than for DIY installation.
Measure from the outside edges of the architraves or the sill to ensure that your shutters fit – then, get in touch with a professional installer who can double check your measurements.
Corner and bay window shutters
Measuring for shutters can be slightly more complex if you have corner or bay windows — which is why it’s always best to get a second set of measurements from a professional installer. Here’s how to measure these types of windows accurately:
Step 1: Measure the width of each window
For corner windows, measure the width of the left-hand window or recess at two different points. Then, measure the width of the right-hand window or recess, starting from the corner and measuring to the right-hand edge of the window. Record all the measurements.
Step 2: Measure the height of each window
Measure the height of each window individually. Take three measurements for both the left and right-hand windows, and choose the smallest measurement for the height.
Step 3: Get your measurements checked
No matter what shape your windows are, the best way to ensure your shutters are installed correctly is by chatting with a professional shutter installer. A professional installer will measure each window correctly and account for any obstacles or architectural features that may affect the installation of your shutters.
Should you install your own shutters?
While measuring your shutters is a great way to get a more accurate quote, we recommend always getting a professional to design and install your new plantation shutters.
While ordering shutters online can be more affordable, the risks far outweigh the potential savings.
- A professional installer will ensure all your measurements are correct and design your shutters to the exact height and width required.
- They’ll also take into account any potential issues with your window’s shape or design.
- Plus, a professional installer will ensure your shutters are perfectly fitted for long-lasting durability — so you won’t need to worry about potential issues down the track.
Measuring tips and tricks
Now that you have measured your windows, here are some additional tips and considerations to keep in mind:
- Only use your window measurements as a guide for getting a quote from a professional shutter installer. DIY shutter installations can be tricky, especially if you’ve ordered your shutters online rather than through a professional installer. While your measurements may seem correct, it’s essential to get a real installer to ensure the perfect fit.
- If you’re measuring your shutters yourself, use a metal tape measure for the most accurate results.
- Measure each window individually, even if they appear to be the same size. Some windows can have slightly different widths or heights that are hard to spot with the naked eye.
- Take your time and double-check your measurements to avoid any costly mistakes.
- Consider the style and design of your shutters. Choose a material, colour and louvre size that complements your home’s aesthetic.
Tip: We recommend PVC shutters for their durability, style and moisture resistance. They also provide better insulation than timber shutters thanks to their advanced polymer construction, which is also resistant to chips, cracks, splits and warps.
Contact a professional shutter installer to ensure the perfect fit for your windows.
Tip: At Pazazz Blinds & Shutters, we’ll come directly to you to ensure all measurements are correct — so you can put the tape measure away and save the hassle!
About the shutter installation process
At Pazazz Blinds & Shutters, we’ve made our process simple so you can enjoy making your space beautiful.
Getting started with us is easy and fun! Here’s what we do:
Step 1: Let’s talk design
Come see us at our Warners Bay showroom or contact us to book a visit at your home or business. This way, you can see how each type of shutter material will look in your home.
Our team will listen to what you want, look at your space and give you expert advice on how to make it look beautiful with a new set of shutters.
Step 2: Free measuring and quote
After we chat about your design, we’ll measure your windows to give you a quote for your shutters. We always take exact measurements before installing your custom shutters, so you can be sure you’re getting the perfect fit.
Step 3: Hassle-free installation
We take care of everything from start to finish. Our team will put in your new shutters carefully and clean up after ourselves once the installation is complete. Plus, we offer a 20-year structural warranty and a 5-year colour warranty on our PVC shutters, so your shutters will keep your place looking great for longer.
Looking to add a set of PVC shutters to your home? From brand-new blinds to awnings, curtains, security doors and more, we’ve got everything you need at Pazazz Blinds & Shutters. Contact us today to set up a consultation with our team.
We’re the local choice for stylish, expertly crafted shutters
Ready to install a new set of shutters in your home? At Pazazz Blinds & Shutters, we provide a personalised journey from start to finish. We listen to your needs to provide time-saving, cost-effective and stylish solutions to suit your space, so you can find the perfect finishing touch for your space while sticking to your budget.
Led by Paul and Yazz Plenty, our team brings over 32 years of industry experience, ensuring expert guidance, craftsmanship and attention to detail. Contact Pazazz Blinds & Shutters online or call us on (02) 4971 0404 and add a touch of flare to your space today.
