Installing Interior Window Shutters
Installing shutters is not a difficult process. Working with
shutters that are specifically custom built for each individual
window opening in conjunction with detailed installation instructions
is the key. Many companies install shutters tell customers that
shutters need to be installed by a "certified shutter installer".
This term has been invented to discourage homeowners from attempting
to install interior shutters, and allow them to increase the
cost of their products. Thousands of homeowners have proven
the "professional installers" wrong by installing
shutters themselves. For further proof, see customer
comments from Horizon Shutters.
Measuring shutters to fit your windows
Properly installing shutters to a window opening
starts with the measuring process. First determine if the shutters
will be mounted to the inside or outside of the window
opening.
Inside Mount Installation
Mounting shutters directly to the window jamb
inside the window opening is generally the preferable method
for installation. This method is somewhat cleaner than mounting
to the outside of the window opening and does not require additional
hang strips or frame strips. The window must be fairly square
and have a solid jamb to attach the screws.
 To
determine depth of the window, measure from the front plane
of the window back to the nearest obstruction that will prevent
the louvers from rotating. The company from which you order
your shutters can tell you the necessary depth for the style
of shutter you wish to order.
Occasionally a shutter supplier will offer
a second inside mount method that uses rear hang strips
concealed behind the shutter panels allows adjustment up, down,
left, and right for easier alignment. This method is good if
the window is out of square of if the window has a drywall opening
without a solid wood jamb. WARNING:
An installation that uses side hang strips
that attach to the window jamb is an amateur technique resulting
in an undesirable appearance. The side hang strips decrease
the width of the individual shutter panels and the amount of
louver area causing a reduction in visibility through the louvers.
Side hang strips used for an inside mount is a sure sign of
customized shutters.
Review the measuring guidelines set out by
your shutter supply company to see if you have sufficient depth
for an installation to the inside of your window.
If you do not have sufficient depth within
the window opening for an inside mount, the next option is to
use an installation to the outside of the window opening.
Outside Mount Installation
An outside mount installation uses a frame
that attaches to the wall or existing trim just to the outside
of the window opening. Generally, the frame surrounds the shutter
panels on three or four sides,
depending on if a lower sill exists. If you opt for a cafe
type shutter, hang strips are used on either side of the
shutter panels. The frame or hang strips screw directly to the
wall or trim, and the shutters hinge to the frame or hang strips.
Again, check with the measuring guidelines from your shutter
supplier to determine how to measure for an installation the
the outside of your window opening.
Always measure with a steel tape measure which
will give you the most accurate measurement. Do not attempt
to measure with a fabric tape, yard stick, or folding wooden
ruler. The shutter company from which you order should require
measurement to the 1/16 inch. Anything greater will increase
your chance for a poor installation.
Shutter Tip #9
1. It is sometimes difficult to read
the a tape measure when measuring the inside of a window.
Measure from one side of the window and make a faint mark
on the window sill at 10 inches. Then, measure from the
opposite side to the same mark. Naturally, add 10 inches
to that figure for the final measurement.
2. Nervous about recording the correct
measurements? We suggest measuring yourself, then have
a second person measure. Compare figures and re measure
if you have differences. It never hurts to head the oldest
rule in construction. |
Installing shutters to your window
A complete set of installation instructions
for custom shutters should
be provided to you by the shutter company you selected. Custom
shutters made to the 1/16 inch will result in a better fit and
easier installation, plus such features as mortised hinges will
allow for a tighter fit.
View complete measuring instructions for traditional
and plantation shutters at Horizon
Interior Shutters.
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Horizon Custom Interior
Shutters