How to Measure For Vinyl Shutters

Time needed: 10 minutes per window

Step-by-step instructions on how to measure for vinyl shutters to be installed on exterior windows.

1. Width:

   Vinyl shutter width depends on the space available around a window, as well as desired appearance. For the look of functioning shutters, panel width should be about half the width of the window. However, non-functional decorative exterior vinyl shutters will never be closed over windows and are installed only as decorative accents to improve the appearance of the home or building.

   

   Widths of vinyl shutters are offered in a limited set of pre-established sizes. This chart can help decide the best size. Sizes are nominal, and the actual width received may vary by 1/4 inch more or less than ordered.
   
   

   Window Width	Single Wide Shutter Width	Double Wide Shutter Width
   16″ or smaller	7″	–
   17″ – 22″	9″ or 10″	–
   23″ – 31″	12″ or 14.5″	13″
   32″ – 40″	14.5″, 16.25″ or 17.75″	14.875″ or 19″
   41″ – 45″	–	19″ or 20.875″
   46″ – 53″	–	23.875″ or 25.75″
   54″ +	–	27.5″ or 29″

   
   Large or bay windows are often too wide to use panels that appear to be functional, so often a smaller panel is appropriate.

2. Height

   Measure the height of each window or door (sash) and order the vinyl shutters the same dimension. Shutter height is the distance from the lowest to the highest part of the panel. It is acceptable to install stationary shutters the full height of the window trim, which in some cases appears more symmetrical.
   
   Vinyl shutters are offered in a range of heights in quarter inch increments. Sizes are nominal, and the actual height may vary by 1/8 inch more or less than ordered.

3. Top Profile

   Select either “Straight” or “Arch”. A standard straight top has square corners and horizontal top. Arched top shutters have a straight edge on one side and a curved slope on the other.

   A springline dimension is required to order arch top shutters. Ascertain the springline by measuring from the top of the window down to the start of the arch. Many arch tops have a 1-to-1 (1:1 drop) where the springline equals the shutter width.

   

4. Configuration

   Each exterior vinyl shutter style has a number of configuration options. The divider rail designs are shown on the specific style page.

5. Color

   Choose from 19 standard molded-through exterior vinyl shutter colors. If none of the colors meet your project requirements, select the DIY paintable version to finish yourself.

6. Installation and Hardware

   Vinyl shutters can be installed with either metal screws or vinyl spikes. Screws are suggested for soft material like wood and vinyl siding. Spikes are recommended for hard surfaces like masonry, brick, stucco or hardboard. Only screws can be used with board and batten shutters.

   

   Siding	Spikes	Screws
   Aluminum	Best	Fair
   Vinyl	Best	Fair
   Wood Shingles	Good	Best
   Hardboard	Best	Requires Wall Anchors
   Brick	Best	Requires Wall Anchors
   Stucco	Best	Requires Wall Anchors
   Concrete	Best	Requires Wall Anchors
   Stone	Best	Requires Wall Anchors