Measure For Exterior Composite Shutters
Composite shutters install to the side of a window opening in a fixed position. Clear polycarbonate brackets are included with every shutter ordered for a quick and efficient installation. Measuring for stationary composite shutters is easy and straightforward. Follow the step-by-step written guide or view the instructional video to acquire the necessary measurements to price and order.
Outdoor Composite Shutter Width
Exterior shutters installed in a fixed position should replicate the appearance of operable shutters. Ideally, the width of the shutter should be half of the window measurement. This simulates the look of working shutters that cover the window opening. Composite shutters are built to the quarter inch in both width and height to achieve this objective.
Understandably, some exteriors can’t accommodate shutters that are half the width of the window. The window could be too large or available wall space limited. If the composite shutter needs to be narrower, it is best to reduce the width to a third or a quarter of the total window. This gives the appearance that the shutters are stacked and would traverse the window with three or four shutters.
Measure Composite Shutter Height
There are two ways to approach measuring the height of composite shutters. Historically, exterior shutters were made to nest inside of the window opening when closed. So, many shutters are made to the height of the window opening. However, in the modern era, fixed shutters look more proportional when they align with the top and bottom of the window casing. Both methods are correct and homeowners should select what looks best for their house and surrounding area.
Arch Top Composite Shutters
Arch top shutters replicate the curve of a window with a rounded top. Composite shutters can be made with an arch with one additional measurement. The springline is measured from the top of the shutter down to the start of the arch.
Functional Exterior Shutters
Wood shutters and solid PVC shutters can be installed with functional shutter hinges to swing open and closed if operable exterior shutters are needed for your project.
Time needed: 10 minutes
Measure for Window to Determine Shutter Sizes
- Measure window width
Inside of trim on the left to the inside of trim on the right if aligning to the window opening. Or, from outside of trim to outside of trim if aligning with the window casing.
- Divide window width by two for the approximate shutter width
Ideally, the width of the shutter should equal half of the window.
- Measure window height
Inside of trim on the top to the inside of trim on the bottom if aligning to the window opening. Or, from outside of trim to outside of trim if aligning with the window casing.
- Measure for divider rail
Specify the division point from the bottom of the shutter to the desired center of the divider rail.
- Measure for arch top (if applies)
From the top of the shutter down to the start of the arch.
Measurements for exterior fixed shutters are slightly more forgiving than for shutters that actually function. However, it is suggested to measure every window, even if they appear to be the same size. Use the helpful tips within each order entry section for a full definition of what is required.
Composite shutters require about 4-6 weeks to manufacture. After they are complete, shipped and delivered, our installation instructions for composite shutters are helpful to complete the project.
