Have you ever admired a home with perfectly fitted exterior shutters and wondered how they achieved that seamless look? Ill-fitting shutters can detract from a home's curb appeal and even diminish its value. Properly measured shutters, on the other hand, can dramatically enhance a home's style, offering a classic, sophisticated touch while providing functional benefits like light control and weather protection. Taking accurate measurements is the crucial first step in ensuring your shutters look their best and function exactly as intended.
The correct size shutters not only look better but also contribute to the overall integrity of your home's exterior design. Shutters that are too small can appear awkward and out of place, while shutters that are too large can overwhelm the window and create an unbalanced aesthetic. Moreover, accurately measured shutters make the installation process much smoother and prevent frustrating issues down the line. By taking the time to understand the measuring process, you'll save yourself time, money, and a considerable amount of stress.
What are the most common mistakes people make when measuring for exterior shutters?
How do I determine the correct shutter width for my windows?
To determine the correct shutter width for your windows, aim for shutters that, when closed, would appear to completely cover the window opening. Therefore, measure the width of the window opening (the visible glass and frame) and divide that measurement in half. The result is the ideal width for each individual shutter.
When measuring for exterior shutters, accuracy is key. Use a metal measuring tape for the most precise results, and measure each window individually, as slight variations are common. Always measure the window opening at its widest point, typically across the middle. Don't assume all windows of the same size are exactly identical in older houses. Keep in mind that functional shutters, designed to close, require a width that precisely covers the window opening when paired. Decorative shutters, however, offer more flexibility. You might choose slightly narrower shutters for a more understated look, as their primary purpose is aesthetic. If you plan to install hardware that extends beyond the shutter's edge, factor that into your width calculations to ensure a proper fit and visual balance.Should I measure the window opening or the window casing?
You should measure the window casing (the trim surrounding the window) when determining the correct size for your exterior shutters. This is because shutters are typically mounted onto the casing, not directly into the window opening itself.
To elaborate, measuring the window opening would provide dimensions that are irrelevant for shutter installation. Shutters are designed to appear as though they could close and cover the window when shut, even if they are fixed in place. Therefore, the width and height of the shutters should correspond to the dimensions of the window casing, providing that visual effect. You'll want to measure the outside edges of the casing to get the most accurate figures. When measuring, take note of any decorative elements or obstructions around the casing that might interfere with shutter installation or operation. These might include light fixtures, pipes, or unusually thick trim. Account for these obstructions when determining the optimal shutter size. In situations where precise measurements are critical, consider consulting with a professional shutter installer to ensure accurate measurements and a perfect fit.What's the best way to account for potential obstructions around the window?
The best way to account for potential obstructions like light fixtures, pipes, or window hardware is to carefully measure the distance between the window edge and the obstruction. Reduce the planned shutter width or height by at least that distance to ensure the shutters can fully open and close without interference. Note these measurements clearly during your initial assessment to avoid issues during installation.
Accurately identifying and measuring any obstructions is crucial for a successful shutter installation. Overlooking even a small pipe or protruding light fixture can prevent the shutters from operating smoothly or even being installed at all. It's always better to err on the side of caution and leave a little extra clearance to ensure a comfortable fit. Consider the type of obstruction when determining the necessary clearance. For example, a flexible electrical wire may require less space than a rigid pipe. For light fixtures, consider the full range of their movement, especially if they can swivel or extend outwards. It's also a good practice to take photographs of the window and surrounding area, highlighting potential obstructions. This visual record will be a valuable reference point during the shutter selection and installation process.How do I measure for decorative versus operable shutters?
Measuring for exterior shutters hinges on whether they are purely decorative or intended to be functional. Decorative shutters are sized to visually appear like they *could* cover the window when closed, while operable shutters require precise measurements to ensure they actually fit within the window opening and function smoothly.
For decorative shutters, the primary goal is aesthetic balance. Measure the height of the window opening (including any trim) and choose shutter heights that match or are very close. The width of each decorative shutter should be roughly half the window width (including trim). This creates the illusion that the shutters would cover the window if closed. Slight variations are acceptable based on personal preference and architectural style; a narrower shutter, for example, can highlight the window more.
Operable shutters, on the other hand, demand precision. Measure the inside width of the window casing or opening where the shutters will sit. Divide this measurement by two to determine the ideal width of each shutter panel. The height should be the exact inside height of the window opening, ensuring a snug fit when closed. Consider any obstructions like window hardware or protruding sills that might interfere with the shutter's operation. Accurate measurements are crucial because even slight errors can prevent the shutters from closing properly or from swinging freely. Poorly fitted, operable shutters not only look bad but also compromise their functionality of providing light control, privacy, and storm protection.
What if my windows are not perfectly square – how does that affect measuring?
If your windows aren't perfectly square, accurate measuring is crucial to ensure your exterior shutters fit properly and function correctly. The discrepancy in squareness will impact the shutter size needed, potentially leading to gaps, binding, or an inability to close the shutters fully. You'll need to account for the window's unique dimensions when ordering your shutters, focusing on the smallest opening rather than assuming a uniform size.
When windows are out of square, measure the window's height on both the left and right sides, and measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom. Note the smallest measurements for both height and width. Use these minimum measurements when calculating the appropriate shutter size, especially if you're planning on the shutters appearing to cover the entire window when closed. This will guarantee the shutter fits within the smallest dimension of the window opening. Consider the type of mount you're planning for your shutters. If you plan an inside mount (shutters fitting inside the window casing), precise measurements are absolutely critical, and accounting for the out-of-squareness is paramount to avoid installation issues. For an outside mount (shutters affixed to the wall around the window), you have slightly more leeway, as the frame can visually compensate a little for discrepancies. However, even with an outside mount, significant out-of-squareness will be noticeable and might require shimming or adjustments to the shutter hardware to achieve a visually appealing and functional installation.Where should I take measurements from (top, middle, bottom) for accuracy?
You should take measurements from the top, middle, and bottom of your window opening when determining the correct size for your exterior shutters. Windows, especially in older homes, are often not perfectly square, and relying on a single measurement can lead to shutters that don't fit properly.
Measuring at three points ensures you capture any variations in the window's dimensions. Record each measurement separately; don't just assume the middle measurement is an average of the top and bottom. These individual measurements allow you to identify the smallest dimension, which is the most critical when ordering or fabricating your shutters. Ideally, you want the shutters to fit snugly within the opening (or slightly overlap, depending on your mounting style), but you definitely want to avoid ordering shutters that are too large.
For height, measure from the top of the window casing to the bottom of the window casing on both the left and right sides, as well as in the middle. For width, measure from the left side of the window casing to the right side of the window casing at the top, middle, and bottom. Comparing all of these measurements will give you a clear picture of your window's actual dimensions, allowing you to order or create shutters that will provide a professional and aesthetically pleasing fit. Remember to account for any obstructions or design preferences when finalizing your measurements.
How do I factor in the desired overlap for closed shutters?
To factor in the desired overlap when measuring for exterior shutters, determine how much you want the shutters to cover the window frame when closed, typically 1-2 inches per side. Subtract this overlap amount *per shutter* from half the total window width to find the ideal shutter width. For shutter height, measure the window height and usually order shutters that match this measurement for a clean, closed appearance.
The overlap is crucial for both aesthetic appeal and functionality, particularly for operable shutters. The standard overlap helps ensure that the shutters effectively block light and provide privacy when closed. Consider the style of your home and the overall look you want to achieve. A larger overlap might suit a more traditional aesthetic, while a smaller overlap can work well with modern designs. Remember to measure accurately, as even small discrepancies can impact the final fit and function of your shutters.
When calculating, keep in mind that the overlap applies to both sides of the window frame. If you desire a 1-inch overlap on each side, you'll subtract a total of 2 inches from the overall width the *pair* of shutters will cover. Since each shutter covers half of that space, subtract 1 inch from what would be half the total window width. For example, if your window is 36 inches wide and you want a 1-inch overlap per side, each shutter width should be (36/2) - 1 = 17 inches wide. The height measurement remains simpler, usually matching the window height for a seamless look when closed.
And that's all there is to it! Measuring for your exterior shutters might seem a little daunting at first, but with these tips, you'll be well on your way to finding the perfect fit for your home. Thanks for reading, and we hope this guide has been helpful. Feel free to swing by again soon for more DIY tips and tricks!