Getting the right measurements for your new shutters is really important. If you measure wrong, your shutters won’t fit properly. Don’t worry though – measuring for shutters is actually quite simple when you know what to do.
What You’ll Need
Before you start measuring, make sure you have the right tools. Having everything ready means you won’t have to stop halfway through:
- A metal tape measure (at least 3 metres long) – metal is much better than fabric because it won’t stretch or sag
- A pencil and paper to write down every measurement
- A step ladder if your windows are high up – safety first
- Someone to help you hold the tape measure, especially for large windows
- A torch or phone light if your window openings are dark
- A calculator to double-check any maths
Step 1: Measure the Width
Start by measuring the width of your window opening. This is the space inside the window frame where the shutters will sit.
Put your tape measure at the left side of the opening. Stretch it across to the right side. Make sure you’re measuring the narrowest part – sometimes window frames aren’t perfectly square.
Take three measurements:
- Top of the opening
- Middle of the opening
- Bottom of the opening
Write down the smallest measurement. This is your width.
Step 2: Measure the Height
Now measure from the top of the window opening down to the bottom sill. Again, take three measurements:
- Left side of the opening
- Centre of the opening
- Right side of the opening
Write down the smallest measurement. This is your height.
Step 3: Check How Deep Your Window Is
Measure how deep your window opening is. This tells us how much space we have for the shutter frame.
Put your tape measure at the front edge of the window opening. Measure back to where the glass starts. Most windows need at least 60mm of depth for shutters to fit properly.
Step 4: Look for Any Obstacles
Check if there’s anything that might get in the way of your shutters:
- Window handles that stick out
- Radiators underneath the window
- Curtain rails or blinds you want to keep
Make a note of where these things are and how far they stick out.
Different Types of Shutters Need Different Measurements
The type of shutters you choose affects how you measure:
Full height shutters cover the whole window from top to bottom. You’ll need the full height measurement for these.
Café style shutters only cover the bottom half of your window. For these, decide how high up the window you want them to go, then measure that height.
Top Tips for Accurate Measuring
- Always measure twice to make sure you’re right
- Use millimetres rather than centimetres – it’s more accurate
- If your measurements are different in different places, always use the smallest one
- Take photos of your windows – they help us understand your situation better
- Don’t guess or round up your measurements
What About Unusual Window Shapes?
Some windows aren’t rectangular. You might have:
- Arched windows
- Bay windows
- Angled windows
These need special measuring techniques. It’s often best to get a professional to measure these types of windows to make sure everything fits perfectly.
Why Accurate Measuring Matters
When shutters don’t fit properly, several problems can happen:
- Gaps that let light through
- Shutters that don’t open and close smoothly
- An unprofessional finished look
- Extra costs to fix the problems
According to research from Building Science Corporation, proper measurement and installation are critical because “the condition of the sill is critical to the performance of the measure” and improper fitting can lead to water damage and reduced energy efficiency. Getting your measurements right the first time saves time, money, and frustration.
What Happens Next?
Once you have your measurements, you can start choosing your shutter style and materials. Remember that at VIP Shutter Co, we always double-check measurements before making your shutters. We want to make sure everything fits perfectly.
Still Not Sure?
Measuring windows can feel tricky, especially if you’ve never done it before. If you’re not confident about measuring yourself, don’t worry. We offer free measuring services across Kent and the surrounding areas. Our experienced team will come to your home and get all the measurements exactly right.
We’ve been helping families get beautiful shutters for over 20 years. We know that every window is different, and we’re here to help you get the perfect fit.
Ready to transform your windows with beautiful shutters? Get in touch with us today for expert advice and a free quote.
