How To Select Appropriate Hardware For External Shutters?

The choice of exterior shutter hardware is crucial for their functionality and aesthetic appeal. There are various installation methods available, each with its unique benefits and functionalities. The direct mount method is the simplest and most commonly used approach for mounting shutters. High-quality shutter hinges and hardware are essential for maintaining and working properly. Atlantic Premium Shutters offers various architecturally correct and historically accurate hardware options in various styles and installation methods.

When there isn’t enough depth within your window frame, an outside mount may be the best exterior shutter securing option. If no window frame will show when closed, a surface mounted hinge, such as plate or strap hinges, is more suitable. Exterior shutter hinges come in four main shapes and sizes: Straight Strap, L (Angle), Strap, Plate, and Mortised (Edge Mounted).

When selecting the right shutter hardware, consider visibility from the front or back. For front-exposed hardware, a strap hinge will look more appealing. Surface mounted hinges are best for shutters that won’t show a window frame, and they can be broken into two groups: surface mounted and edge mounted. Surface mounted hinges are typically installed on the frame.

When selecting the correct shutter hardware, remember basic rules such as the offset of the pintle and the offset of the shutter strap. With this guide, you can confidently choose and install your own exterior shutter hardware, ensuring your shutters last a lifetime.

How to measure for exterior shutter hardware?

To measure shutters, take two measurements at the top and bottom of the window, as each window is not created equal. Match the opening along the top and then along the bottom. If you want to match existing shutters on your home or buildings, take additional measurements to measure rail dimensions (A), stile dimensions (B), and panel configuration/existing rail placement (C). If there are multiple rails, measure the distance from the top of each rail. It’s common for the various rail and stile dimensions to differentiate within a single shutter. Customizing these elements for these situations is common.

How to choose shutter hardware?

To ensure the appearance of your shutter, consider the visibility of your hardware, whether it’s front-exposed or back-exposed. For front-exposed hardware, a strap hinge is more appealing than an L hinge, especially if the shutter has three hinges. If exposed to the rear, the hinge style is less important. For tall shutters, consider adding acorn holdbacks behind the shutter to anchor it and prevent movement and potential scratching. Atlantic shutter hardware, made of 304 stainless steel, doesn’t require much maintenance but can be cleaned of pollen and dust when necessary with mild soapy water and a soft cloth.

What is the most popular color for exterior shutters?

Popular exterior shutter colors include white, charcoal slate, black, and black forest green. These colors are used in house painting to create a stunning result and are often incorporated extensively. Outdoor paints are grouped into three or four colors: base, trim, and accent. The base color is applied to the primary surface of the building, while the trim color highlights windows, doors, and rooflines. Accent colors are used on additional surfaces, including custom exterior shutters, outside doors, and garage doors.

It is essential to have a plan or structure to determine all colors in the overall color scheme, as selecting and painting one area without considering the future color selection for another segment is unwise.

Should your front door color match your shutters?

Shutter and door colors should complement a home’s architecture, exterior materials, and color palette. Key considerations for a cohesive color scheme include natural home-exterior materials like brick, stone, stucco, and wood, which offer a variety of colors and unique tones. Brick exteriors, which can accommodate a spectrum of colors from classic black to cherry red, should be assessed based on their undertones. By considering these factors, homeowners can create a cohesive color scheme for their shutters, doors, and home facades.

Should all exterior shutters be the same width?

For decorative installation, it is recommended to find a single width for all windows, typically 25 to 33 of the window’s width, including the window frame. To choose the correct shutter width, measure the shutters as if they were closed, including the window trim and the opening where the window recesses into the brick. Window widths may vary, so measure at the top, middle, and bottom of the window for the most accurate measurement. If measurements are different, use the SMALLEST of the three measurements. To get the required shutter width, divide the smallest window width measurement by 2, such as 35″ for a 17. 5″ width.

How do you match front door shutters?

To augment the aesthetic appeal of one’s domicile, it is recommended to consider harmonizing the color of one’s shutters with that of the front door. This can be achieved by selecting a hue that is either one shade lighter or darker than the existing color, or by choosing a hue that is either one shade lighter or darker than the existing color. Black is a popular choice for this purpose, as it is a color that has enduring appeal and suits traditional architectural styles, including brick, stucco, and stone exteriors.

What is the most popular size of shutters?

Most people order 3 ½” shutter slats for plantation shutters, as they are the most popular choice due to their ability to let in light and fit any style of home décor. These horizontal blades rotate to provide a better view. The best-selling slat size is 3 ½” slats, which are not too big or too small, making them “just right”. However, it is important to consider that one size does not fit all, and there are several factors to consider when choosing the best shutter louver size.

How to pick exterior shutter color?

Shutters enhance a home’s exterior by adding a pop of color. To find the perfect shutter color, start by considering your home’s siding and trim color combination. Use the Home Visualizer Tool to explore different colors of siding, trim, and shutters. For example, for white houses, choose bold red or black shutters, or softer powder blue or seafoam green shutters. Experiment with different styles and colors to find the perfect match. For more inspiration, check out James Hardie homes with their favorite siding and shutter color combinations.

How do you fit exterior shutters?

The process entails the drilling of pilot holes for the shutter, which is then installed. If the screws are fastened with sufficient force, the shutter can be considered fully assembled.

How to determine the size of exterior shutters?

Shutters should measure the same height as the inside of the window frame, with the bottom installed even with the top of the window sill. For door shutters, measure inside the frame from the top of the threshold to the bottom of the top jamb. Arch Top shutters are an option for Custom Louvered and Custom Board-n-Batten shutters. When ordering Arch Top shutters, two height measurements are needed: the overall shutter height (the tallest point) and the shorter height measurement (the arch radius).

The standard arch drop is a 1:1 ratio, meaning the difference in height from one side of the shutter to the other is equal to the width of the shutter. If the ratio works for your application, only the overall height (tallest side) of the shutter is needed.

What is the rule of thumb for shutters?

In order to ascertain the requisite dimensions for shutters, it is first necessary to measure the width and height of the window. It is then essential to verify the width before adjusting the height. It is imperative to verify the accuracy of the measurements. In the event that the dimensions do not correspond, it is necessary to utilize the smaller of the two values.