Browse Shutter Guide
General
- Our Plantation Shutters
- Imported vs Local Plantation Shutters
- Why Choose Plantation Shutters?
- How Much Do Plantation Shutters Cost?
- Where Did Plantation Shutters Originate?
- Plantation Shutters vs Blinds
- Choosing the Best Shutter Material
- Plantation Shutters for Kitchens
- Are PVC Shutters Safe?
- How to Photograph Your Windows
Performance
Care
Frames
- Complete Guide to Shutter Frame Types
- Inside Z-Frame
- Inside L-Frame
- Outside L-Frame
- What Is an Inside Mount?
- What Is an Outside Mount?
Customisation
- Choosing the Right Shutter Colour
- A Guide to Shutter Panels
- Choosing the Right Panel Configuration
- Should Shutters Match Your Window Trim?
Mounting
- Inside vs Outside Mount Plantation Shutters
- What Type of Window Do I Have?
- What Is a Window Recess?
- Should I Inside or Outside Mount My Shutters?
- A Guide to Architraves
- What Is a Window Sill?
Tricky Windows
Getting Started
- Quick Measuring for a Shutter Quote
- How to Measure a Window Recess for Shutters
- Complete Guide to Measuring for Plantation Shutters
Midrails
Custom Panels
Inside Mount
- How to Measure Your Window Recess
- Measuring for an Inside Mount
- Measuring an Inside Mount Window with a Sill
- Managing Window Obstructions
Outside Mount
- Measuring for an Outside Mount
- Outside Mount Measuring with a Decorative Architrave
- Outside Mount Measuring for a Square-Set Window
Corner & Bay Windows
Our Service
- Our Plantation Shutters
- Why My DIY Blinds?
- What Does Our Shutter Warranty Cover?
- Our Plantation Shutter Product Guarantee
Quotes
Ordering & Product Setup
- Getting Started with Your Shutter Order
- How Shutter Product Recommendations Work
- Uploading a Photo of Your Window
Delivery
- Where We Deliver Plantation Shutters
- How Your Plantation Shutters Are Delivered
- What to Expect on Delivery Day
Measure Guarantee
Self Review
How to Measure Your Window Recess
Before measuring the final shutter size, check the usable depth of the recess and whether anything occupies that space.
In this article
- Measuring for an Inside Mount
- Find the front reference point
- Examples of obstructions
- Check several locations
- Operate the window
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with an Architrave
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window with a Sill
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with a Sill and Architrave
Check your recess depth before measuring
As a simple guide, allow approximately 70mm of clear recess depth for an inside-mounted plantation shutter. Check the shallowest usable depth and measure to the first obstruction that could interfere with the shutter, such as a handle, winder, lock, key, flyscreen or other window fitting.
If you have around 70mm or more of clear space, you can generally continue with the inside-mount measuring instructions.
Have less than 70mm, or an obstruction in the recess? An inside mount may still be possible depending on the frame choice and where the obstruction sits. See our Managing Window Obstructions guide for the detailed clearance requirements.
Measuring for an Inside Mount
Once you have confirmed that an inside mount is suitable, take the final shutter width and drop measurements. Windows are rarely perfectly square, so measure in multiple positions rather than relying on one width and one height.
You will need a metal tape measure, something to record each measurement and a pen or pencil. Do not make your own manufacturing deductions.
Find the front reference point
Measure from the front face of the recess inward toward the window. Use the same reference plane around the whole opening.
Examples of obstructions
Security boxes, locks, winders, and handles.
Measure to the first obstruction
Stop at the first handle, lock, flyscreen, mullion or moving window part that could conflict with the shutter. This is the usable depth.
Check several locations
Measure near the top, centre and bottom on both sides. Use the shallowest clear measurement when checking frame suitability.
Operate the window
Open the sash and use the handle or winder. Make sure the moving parts do not enter the space you are counting as clear depth.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window
- Measure the drop in three places: left, centre and right.
- Measure the width in three places: top, middle and bottom.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with an Architrave
The architrave does not become the measuring point for an inside mount. Measure the opening inside the recess.
- Measure the drop in three places.
- Measure the width in three places.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window with a Sill
- Measure the drop in three places from the top surface of the sill to the inside top of the recess.
- Measure the width in three places inside the recess.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with a Sill and Architrave
- Measure the drop in three places from the top of the sill to the inside top of the recess.
- Measure the width in three places inside the recess.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Before ordering: if your recess is less than approximately 70mm deep, or contains handles, winders, locks, flyscreens or other obstructions, check our Managing Window Obstructions guide before finalising your inside-mount measurements.
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