Measuring for Exterior Shutters

Accurate measurements for Vinyl exterior shutters is quite simple - whether you're replacing existing ones or purchasing for a new construction or renovation project. When ordering fixed mount shutters (non-functioning, i.e. shutters that don't open and close), you are able to get close to your measurements of the window and still achieve the aesthetic desired. 

To assist you in determining the appropriate width per shutter based on your window size, here's a handy chart:

Window Width

Window Width

Shutter Width (Per Shutter in the Pair)

10" - 24"

7" | 7.75" |  9.25" | 10.5" | 12"

24" - 28"

12” | 14" | 14.5"

28” - 40”+

16.25" | 16.5" | 17.5" | 18" | 21.25"

 

To assist you in determining the appropriate height per shutter based on your window size, here's a handy chart:

Window Height:

Window Height
Shutter Height (Per Shutter in the Pair)
18" - 26"
25”
30” - 32”
31”
35” - 37”
36”
38" - 40"
39”
42”- 44”
43”
47” - 49”
48”
51” - 53”
52”
54” - 56”
55”
59” - 61”
60”
63” - 65”
64”
66” - 68”
67”
71” - 73”
72”
74” - 76”
75”
79” - 81”
80”

Scenario: 

  • Kristen is buying fixed mount (non-operable) shutters for a large window that will need a shutter on either side of the window.
  •  She measures her window width at the top, middle and bottom. The smallest measurement of the three is 24".
  •  She then divides this number in half to get the individual shutter width (24 / 2 = 12). Her final shutter width is 12".
  •  Next, she measures the height of her window (from sill to lintel) at the left side, middle and right side and the smallest measurement is 36"
  •  The shutter size she needs to purchase is 12" x 36".

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To begin, you will need a tape measure, pencil and our measurement sheet/blank paper to record your measurements.


Step 2: Identify Your Windows

Even if you think all of your windows are the same size, it's important to measure them individually. For each window, add a label/description in the left-hand column of your worksheet (i.e. “North, left of door").

Step 3: Measure Each Window Width

Measure the width of each window individually from inside edge to inside edge to the nearest 1/4 inch (not including framing or molding). Take a measurement at the top, middle and bottom of the window. Record the smallest number. If your shutters will be operable (meaning you want them to open and close), subtract 1/2 inch from your width measurement to allow for clearance. Consider the size of the trim around the windows when gathering measurements for your exterior shutters. If you have a large trim (4"+) it could result in your shutters appearing smaller, so you may want to add a few inches to the width/height.

Step 5: Measure Each Window Height

Measure the height of each window from the inner edge of the bottom sill to the bottom of the lintel (see diagram below). Take a measurement at the left side, middle and right side of the window. Record the smallest measurement. Again, if you intend for your shutters to open and close, subtract 1/4 inch from your final height measurement. And that's it–you're done!