Shutters are a great addition to any home exterior. They’re appealing enough to increase overall aesthetics and, by extension, the property value of any household. They are also energy efficient as an insulative barrier against outdoor temperatures. While there are many things to consider before installation, like color and shape, you should also ask yourself, “Can shutters be shorter than windows?”
Below, we’ll explain how to determine the appropriate measurements for custom home shutters in Oregon City, OR, depending on your window situation.
Determining Width and Height
Shutters should be slightly shorter than your windows’ overall height, matching the windows’ length without the trim or frames. Run a tape measure along the top of the window for the most accurate measurements. Since no windows have perfectly parallel sides, measure the bottom as well, which may yield a slightly different number, giving you the width.
Likewise, the heights of either side of the window may vary by a fraction of an inch, so measure the left and right as you did for the top and bottom. Once you find all your measurements, take the narrowest parts of the width and height and subtract half an inch so the shutters have a margin for closing.
Measuring Shutter Depth
Window shutter depth also matters since shutters with more depth than the window will have trouble swinging in and out with ease. The edges will be too thick, so measure from the window casing’s front to the back. You can then measure the depth of your window, and if the shutters are too thick, consider installing hinges.
Installing the divider
If your windows are less than 45 inches wide, you may only need one full-sized shutter to cover an entire window, meaning you won’t need to install a divider. However, the divider rail separates the top and bottom louvers for larger windows so they can function independently.
Considering a Radius
While the shutter’s classic look includes a rectangular frame with wooden slats, you can opt for a more modern look with a radius, especially if your window already has an arched top. Just as you would measure a rectangular window’s height, measure the space between the two farthest ends of the window. In this case, that would be from the bottom center to the highest point at the top’s middle.
Repeat the measuring process to get the height on the left and right sides of the window, also known as the short sides of these header styles. Take the width as you would with the rectangular window and subtract half an inch from all measurements for the closing margin.
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No matter what window treatment options suit your style, budget, and preferences, we have the textures, patterns, and colors for the widest selection.
To learn more about everything from sheer window fabrics and semi-sheer curtains to the value added by plantation shutters, The Custom Shade Company in Oregon City, OR, has it all. Contact our locally owned company at (503) 502 0930 for more answers to “Can shutters be shorter than windows?” and a free on-site consultation today!
