How To Measure Shutters

Everything you need to properly measure for your new shutters

Getting Started

What You Will Need

  • Steel Tape Measure
  • Step Ladder (if necessary)
  • Pencil

Basic Measuring Tips:

Using the steel measuring tape - measure to the nearest 1/8" of an inch, if the size is on 1/8.

Determining Inside or Outside Mount

Inside mount shutters:

  • Inside mount shutters are available with Z-Frame or L-Frame options (Requires more depth)
  • Finished frame look

Outside mount shutters:

  • Outside mount shutters will cover beyond your window opening in width and height L-Frame only
  • Mounts on trim or wall surface

Measure for Inside Mount

measuring for inside mount blinds or shades
  • Start measurement at the depth where your brackets will be installed
  • Measure width at the top, middle, and bottom of opening edge to edge
  • Record narrowest measurement of the 3 to the nearest 1/8" **Inside Mount Shutters will have a small deduction taken by the factory to fit inside the opening**
  • Start height 1 1/2" deep inside window opening in 3 places. Left, middle and right edge to edge
  • Record tallest measurement of the 3 to the nearest 1/8"

Measure for Outside Mount

measuring for outside mount blinds or shades
  • Check the window for squareness by measuring the diagonal points of the window.
  • Measure the depth of your window frame. You’ll need this measurement to ensure your window recess meets the minimum depth requirement for all louver sizes.
  • Check the mounting requirements on your interior shutters to ensure you have enough flat surface for mounting hardware.
  • Measure the width of each window opening. Record the width at the top, middle, and bottom of your window opening. Circle the widest measurement of the three – this is the number you submit for your window’s width.
  • Measure the height of your window opening in three places: left, center, and right. Circle the longest measurement – this is the number you submit for your window’s height.
  • If your window has trim, measure the flat surface of the trim. Your shutter will be mounted on the trim. Most shutter frames require at least 1 ½” of flat surface to be installed properly.
  • If your window has no trim, do not add to your window opening measurement.
  • Double check that your measurements follow the width by height format (W x H). Remember, with outside mount interior shutters, your product will be made with the proper added width and height measurements of the frame choice.