If you’re thinking about getting shutters for your home in Kent, you might be wondering what actually happens during the fitting process. The good news is that it’s much simpler than you might think. At The VIP Shutter Co, we’ve been fitting shutters for over 20 years, so we’ve got the process down to a fine art.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly what to expect when you choose made-to-measure shutters for your home.
What Are Made to Measure Shutters?
Made-to-measure shutters are window coverings that are built specifically for your windows. Unlike ready-made options you might find in shops, these shutters are created to fit your exact window dimensions. This means they fit perfectly, look better, and work more smoothly.
This custom approach is especially important if you have unusual window shapes. Our bespoke-shaped shutters are designed to fit arched windows, circular windows, or any other non-standard shapes you might have in your home.
The Fitting Process: What to Expect
Getting shutters fitted is a straightforward process that happens in four main stages. Here’s what you can expect from start to finish:
| Stage | What Happens | Time Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Home Survey | We visit your home to measure your windows and discuss your options | Around 1 hour |
| 2. Design Consultation | You choose your shutter style, colour, and finish | Included in the survey |
| 3. Manufacturing | Your shutters are made to your exact measurements | 6-8 weeks typically |
| 4. Installation | Our fitters install your shutters with care and precision | 1-2 hours per window |
Stage 1: The Home Survey
The first step is a home visit from one of our team. During this visit, we’ll measure your windows carefully. We take precise measurements because even a few millimetres can make a difference to how well your shutters fit and work.
We don’t just measure the window opening. We also check the depth of your window recess, look at any obstacles like handles or vents, and assess the wall or frame where the shutters will be fitted.
Stage 2: Design Consultation
Once we’ve got your measurements, we’ll talk through all your options. This includes choosing:
- The type of shutter (full height, café style, tier-on-tier, and others)
- The louvre size (these are the horizontal slats)
- The colour or wood finish
- Any special features you might want
If you have windows that aren’t standard rectangular shapes, we’ll discuss how custom-shaped shutters can be designed to match your home’s unique features.
Stage 3: Manufacturing
After you’ve made your choices, your shutters are manufactured to your exact specifications. Each shutter is built individually, which takes time but ensures a perfect result.
During this stage, you don’t need to do anything except wait. We’ll keep you updated on progress and let you know when your shutters are ready.
Stage 4: Installation Day
This is the exciting part! Our experienced fitters will arrive at your home with your new shutters. Here’s what happens:
- Preparation – We protect your floors and furniture near the windows
- Frame fitting – The shutter frame is carefully secured to your window recess or surrounding wall
- Panel hanging – The shutter panels are attached to the frame
- Adjustment – We fine-tune everything so the louvres open and close smoothly
- Final check – We make sure you’re completely happy with the result
The whole installation usually takes between one and two hours per window, depending on the size and complexity.
Why Professional Fitting Matters
You might wonder why professional fitting is so important. After all, shutters are just panels that cover windows, right?
Actually, proper fitting makes a huge difference. Well-fitted shutters:
- Open and close smoothly without catching or sticking
- Sit flush against the frame with no gaps
- Look neat and professional
- Help keep your home warmer by reducing heat loss through windows
According to the Energy Saving Trust, keeping heat in your home is one of the best ways to reduce energy bills. Properly fitted shutters can help with this by providing an extra barrier against heat loss, especially during the winter months.
What About Different Window Types?
One of the benefits of made-to-measure shutters is that they work with almost any window type. Whether you have:
- Standard rectangular windows
- Bay windows
- French doors
- Arched or circular windows
- Angled or triangular windows
There’s a shutter solution that will work. Our team has fitted shutters to all sorts of unusual windows across Kent and the surrounding areas, so nothing fazes us.
After Your Shutters Are Fitted
Once your shutters are in place, looking after them is easy. A quick wipe with a damp cloth now and then is usually all you need. Unlike curtains, shutters don’t need washing or dry cleaning, and they won’t fade in the sun as fabric blinds can.
If you ever have any questions or concerns after installation, our team is always happy to help. We believe in looking after our customers long after the fitting is complete – that’s what being a family business is all about.
Ready to Get Started?
If you’re in Kent or the surrounding areas and you’re thinking about made-to-measure shutters for your home, we’d love to help. With over 25 years of carpentry experience and 20 years in the shutters industry, you can trust us to deliver quality products fitted with care.
Get in touch to arrange your free home survey and take the first step towards beautiful new shutters for your home.
