Window Shutters
Consumer Window Shutter Information
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Installation and Measurement
Sizing:
Whatever style you choose, correctly sizing the shutter to your window is critical! A few manufacturers will build shutters to your specifications, so make sure your measurements are accurate. Whether your shutters will be functional or not, size them as if they would be. Always measure from where the shutter would sit in the opening -- often the window casing or brick molding, not the actual brick or stone opening.
Choosing a reputable, skilled installer is your safest bet for proper installation. That being said, there are some important details you should take into account:
Measuring:
ALWAYS take two measurements. As each window is not created equal, the measurement you take at the top of the window will vary slightly from the one taken along the bottom. Therefore, measure the opening along the top of the window, then measure along the bottom. Similarly, the height on one side of the window will probably be different from the other. Take a right-side measurement and a left-side measurement to ensure complete accuracy in measurement.
Hint: A pair should be equal to the width and height of the window itself, and fit snugly within the exterior casing. Even if you don't plan to open and close them, they should look as if you could.
- Rail and Stile Dimensions:
The dimensions of the stiles and rails should be proportionate to the overall size of the shutter. The center rail should be offset to the sash line. - For Window Frame-Mount Hinges:
Measure from the window frame to the back of the wood. This dimension is considered your offset and is used when selecting hinge offset. - For Jamb-Mount Hinges:
Measure from the back of the window frame jamb to the back of the wood, and then add the thickness of the shutter. This dimension will tell you how many "inches open" you need when ordering leaf-style hinges. - For Radius Top Shutters:
If you are replacing radius top shutters, the "high point" of a radius shutter is the measurement taken from the base of the shutter to the apex of the radius. The "low point" of a radius shutter is the distance from the base of the shutter to the lowest point on the radius, or the start of the radius' curve. If you're ordering a circle top shutter, follow directions for radius top shutters, unless you know for sure that the top of your window is a perfect circle. If it is, each shutter will be exactly one quarter of a circle. In this case, you simply need the pair width as that will automatically give you the circle's radius.
Hints:
- Unless your shutters will be used functionally, the slight measurement variations (1/4" or less) commonly found in historic homes aren’t major concerns.
- Make sure the window frames are free of rot & decay.
Priming & Painting:
Proper surface preparation and priming ensures a beautiful and long lasting painted finish for your shutters. Either latex or oil-based high gloss paints can be applied over paintable shutters.
As mentioned above, hiring a skilled installer will alleviate many of the issues frequently encountered in shutter installations.