What Size External Shutters Am I Looking For?

Exterior home shutters are often seen as decorative window frames that add character and depth to a home’s facade. However, their size is crucial for their authenticity and proper finishing. To measure the appropriate size for exterior vinyl shutters, it is essential to consider the width and height of your window opening. This will ensure smooth installation and a great end result.

When planning your project, it is important to measure for exterior shutters to help you plan your budget. The standard size for shutters is half of your total window width, but vinyl shutters come in various sizes. Special tips for matching existing shutters include measuring rail dimensions, stile dimensions, panel configuration/existing rail placement, and window height.

For operable shutters, it is recommended to measure both width and height at three different points because many windows are not perfectly square. Recommended shutter widths for windows range from 18″ or less to 24″, 9-1/4″ to 12″, and 18″ to 24″. Premium wood shutters require a void of 1.5 inches, while pine shutters need 1 inch. The width that works best for decorative shutters is between 25 and 33 of the total width of your window, including the window trim.

To determine the height of the shutter, measure from the top of the window reveal/lintel down to the top of the windowsill. By following these guidelines, you can easily spruce up your home with exterior shutters and achieve an authentic look.

Are exterior shutters in or out?

Exterior shutters are a durable and beneficial architectural element, offering a multitude of features and advantages.

What size should outdoor shutters be?

When selecting exterior shutters, consider the window’s width and the distance between windows. A single width is best, typically 25-33 of the total window width, including the window trim. If shutters are not functional, choose the desired width and length using the table and pictures provided. For operable shutters, find a width close to 50 of the glass and window frame size, excluding the window trim.

Measure the window vertically and horizontally to find the correct size. Decorative shutter height is most appropriate from the top to the bottom of the window trim. If there is a sill at the bottom, exclude its height to maintain shutter closure.

Should shutters be the same length as the window?

Shutters were originally designed to protect windows or doors from storm damage, sun, or intruders. They have become more of a decorative item, but it is essential to size them correctly. Shutters should be the same size as the window opening, and should fit as if they were going to be closed. A pair of shutters should not be installed on a double window unless each will cover a window.

After determining the correct size, select the type of shutters you want, such as louvered, solid panels, or board and batten. These shutters are appropriate for homes built in the 1920s and 1930s, with the board and batten style being more of a Craftsman look. Solid panel shutters often have cut-outs of themes in the top panel.

Not all homes had shutters, and some Tudor Revivals had shutters on the second story but not on the first. To determine if your house originally had shutters, look at the trim surrounding the windows and look for signs of former screw holes that secured the shutter hinges.

Do shutters make a house look bigger or smaller?

Window shutters are a great way to make a room appear spacious by creating a blank space around the window frame area. They are fitted externally, eliminating any space inside the room. They also allow ample natural light to enter the room, creating a seamless monochromatic effect through natural light. Opting for light shades or neutral tones, or a shade that matches the color of your walls, can help blend the shades together, making the room appear light and airy. Overall, window shutters are an effective solution for creating a more spacious and visually appealing room.

How do you calculate shutters?

To measure window width for wood exterior shutters, measure from the inside left of the window opening to the inside right, survey three places, and record the narrowest dimension. Deduct ¼ – ½ inch for adequate margin when closing. Divide this by two for the individual exterior shutter width. Measurements for functional exterior shutters require precision and time, taking about 5-10 minutes per window. For stationary outdoor shutters, screws, bolts, or brackets can be used to approximate window size. Decorative panels can still look functional with dummy shutter hardware.

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 do you measure shutters DIY?

To measure the width and height of a recess for an inside mount shutter, follow these steps: 1) Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom of the recess, then select the smallest measurement. 2) Measure the height on the left, middle, and right of the recess, then select the smallest measurement. 3) Apply deductions. To fit inside mount shutters, the window must sit within a recess, which is the distance between the windowpane and the wall edge. Choose an L frame or a Z frame for an inside mount.

How do you calculate square footage for shutters?

The pricing details for a window installation include measuring the window’s width and height, adding the frame size, rounding up fractions of an inch, multiplying the width by height, dividing by 144, and multiplying by $22. 00 to get the standard cost. The inside opening of a window is 30 1/4 x 60 5/8, and if there are four sides, 1 3/16″ is added to each side. This results in a window opening of 32 5/8 x 63″, which is then divided by 144 to get a square footage of 2079 sq.

Inches. The standard cost is then calculated by rounding up to 15 sq. ft., which is then divided by $22. 00 to get a standard cost of $330. 00. Any surcharges or freight charges should also be included.

When should you not use exterior shutters?

Shutters are not necessary for every window, as they should cover the entire window when closed. Double-mulled, picture, bay, and most dormer windows should not have shutters. If shutters aren’t affordable, adding shutter hardware can be a simple detail. Mismatched windows can appear sloppy, especially with differing muntin patterns. Some muntin patterns are endemic to certain architectural styles, so “Prairie” muntins should be avoided unless the house is of the Craftsman, Arts and Crafts, or Prairie style. Adding shutter hardware can add a touch of elegance to a house.

What is the rule of thumb for window 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.

How do you know what size louver to buy?

When choosing a shutter louver, it’s important to consider the size of the louvers. Larger louvers are generally better for larger windows, while smaller louvers can dominate smaller windows. For windows under 36″, a 2 ½” louver is recommended. If the window sill has limited clearance, the louver size should be sufficient to tilt the louvers without hitting the window pane. The smaller the louver size, the less clearance space is needed.

The 3 ½” louver size is the most popular choice for medium and large windows, providing a clean, contemporary look. Both louvers work well with different windows and can be adjusted to suit specific needs.