Taking the correct measurements is the first step to ensuring your shutters fit your windows perfectly. Since windows are not always square, it’s essential to measure the width and height at least twice to avoid making costly mistakes. This article will walk you through measuring the inside and outside mounts.
Inside Mount Measurements
The first step in measuring the insight mount is to start with the window width opening at three points—the top, middle and bottom of the frame. Next, measure the height on the left and right sides. Record even the smallest width and height measurements, as this will help the shutters fit snugly, even if the window frames have irregularities. Next, check the window depth measurement from the front edge to the nearest obstruction.
If you have taller windows of around 84 inches, choose where you want to place the divider rails. They provide extra support and improve the design. Consider spacing them every 24-36 inches, though the exact placement will depend on the size and style of your window.
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Outside Mount Measurements
Outside-mount shutters are meant to cover the entire window and part of the wall. To begin, choose the amount of area the window will cover. Measure the width of the total coverage area. Take measurements from the top, middle, and bottom, using the largest measurement to ensure full coverage.
Measure the height of the coverage area you want, down to where the shutters will end. Measure both sides, using a large number to account for any unevenness.
Focus on details such as trim, molding, or sills that stick out from the wall. Measure the extent of the protrusion to ensure the shutter frame will clear them. If the window exceeds standard measurements, you may adjust the bottom measurement or choose another mounting option.
After everything is done, inspect the wall where the shutters will be installed. Check for unevenness; you may require special mingling hardware or frame adjustment for uneven areas to make sure the shutters fit securely.
Solving Common Problems
Even after thorough preparation, you may discover that there are still some complications. Fortunately, we have explained ways you can manage these challenges.
Working Around Obstacles
First, identify any obstacles around the window site. Check for problems such as locks sticking out of the frame, crank handles extending into the window openings, or security sensors mounted on the glass or frame. All these small details are important because they can impact how the shutters will operate. Ensure you clear any obstruction that will affect how your window functions properly.
Fixing Uneven Windows
It may be rare to find perfectly square windows, so minor variations in size are normal. But some unevenness is enough to draw attention. To evaluate these issues, measure the diagonals from one end to the opposite end. If the difference is ⅜ inches, the window is automatically considered uneven, and the ideal choice is an outside mount.
To confirm the unevenness measure diagonals gain while noting the difference of ⅜ inches. Measure the width at the top, middle, and bottom, as well as the width at the left, right, and centre. For inside mounts, use small measurements; for outside mounts, use the largest.
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The Shutters Dept
Shallow window frames are another issue you may encounter. If the frames don’t have enough depth for inside mount, the right choice is outside mount because the shutters are attached to the wall or are casing around the window. This will solve the depth problem and also hide all imperfections in the frame while providing a clear view once the shutters are opened.
When you switch from inside mount to outside mount, keep in mind that it will change the measuring process. Rather than focusing only on the window opening, you will need to measure the whole area the shutter is going to cover. Before starting, ensure you have enough flat wall space for the shutter installation and confirm the wall is strong enough to hold the shutters. Also, outside mounts are mostly easier to install and provide a clean, consistent look across different windows.
Conclusion
When you choose an inside mounting, you need to take the measurements accurately, especially the width, height and window depth. Fortunately, the outside mount is there to save the day in case there is too much unevenness that will be easily visible on the inside mount. What’s more, you can solve common problems like shutter depth and other small obstacles and still choose the mount you want.