Expert Tips for Measuring Windows to Get the Perfect Custom Shutters

Installing custom shutters that fit your windows flawlessly requires getting highly precise measurements. Even small errors of 1/8 inch or a few millimeters can result in poorly fitting shutters with light gaps, misalignment issues and an unprofessional finished look.

To get things right the first time, it’s advisable to have an experienced professional take measurements. They have the right tools and skills for this specialized task. However, if you decide to DIY, this comprehensive guide provides expert tips on properly measuring windows for tailor-made shutters.

Why Precision Window Measurements Are Crucial

Custom shutters are made to order based on the exact dimensions provided to the manufacturer. Any inaccuracies in those measurements get translated directly into the finished product. The importance of precision cannot be overstated for these reasons:

Shutters cut slightly too small won’t cover the window fully. This leaves ugly light gaps and hurts privacy.
Shutters cut slightly too big must be forced into the opening. This can damage the shutters and window framing.
Louvers end up uneven when measurements aren’t square. They won’t align parallel from top to bottom.
Small errors multiply significantly the larger the window. A 1/8 inch mistake on a large window results in a 1 inch gap!
Imprecise measurements make installation incredibly difficult if not impossible. Shutter panels won’t hang straight or close correctly.
Replacing poorly fitting custom shutters ends up costing more time and money. It’s vital to get it right from the start.

Having an experienced specialist with the proper tools take measurements eliminates guesswork and uncertainty. But DIYers can also succeed with careful attention to detail.

Tips for Measuring Window Openings Accurately

Follow these proven techniques to get highly precise measurements for custom shutter projects:

Use the Right Measuring Tools

Steel tape measure – Avoid cloth types which can stretch and yield inaccurate numbers. Get a 25 foot model.
Carpenter’s level – Essential for determining plumb and square. A 4 foot level is generally sufficient.
Measurement pencil – Features thick, flat lead that won’t wear down quickly.
Spray adhesive – Temporarily affixes paper to the wall for marking measurements. Removable.
White eraser – Cleans off measurement markings without damaging painted walls.
Flashlight – Illuminates inner window corners for better visibility.
Ladder – Provides access to high windows to take overhead measurements. Use safely.

Quality tools are critical for precision. Avoid cheap, faulty or worn out measuring implements.

Measure Each Window Twice from Inside Edge to Inside Edge

Position the tape horizontally along the inner window frame edges. Measure left to right, then repeat right to left.
Measure vertically from upper inside frame down to lower inside frame surface. Record the dimension.
Take both sets of height and width measurements twice more, three total times.
Compare the numbers for consistency. If any vary more than 1/8 inch, re-measure until you get matching dimensions.

Measuring inner edges avoids variances in exterior trim and sills which don’t affect interior fit. Always measure at least twice to confirm accuracy.

Check for Perfectly Square Windows

Place the level vertically against inner window frame edges on opposing sides. Adjust until exactly plumb.
Stretch tape measure horizontally between the vertical level. The width should match previous numbers.
Repeat by placing level horizontally. The height with the vertical tape should match too.
If numbers differ, calculate an average for the height and width. Also make note for the manufacturer.

Many windows are slightly out of square. Measuring in both directions identifies any variance.

Note Any Unique Window Shapes

For arched windows, measure the height at the center point as well as the outer edges.
For angular bays or unique shapes, supplement with additional corner-to-corner measurements.
Measure radius dimensions for rounded windows.

Providing the extra data needed for shaping custom shutters ensures proper fit for non-rectangular windows.

Check for Obstructions

Note any protruding sills, handles, cranks or trim that will interfere with shutter operation.
Verify window hardware doesn’t intrude into the interior opening space. Deduct any width or height reductions.
Ensure sufficient space for hinges when windows open outward. Deduct for clearance.

Accounting for irregularities like obtruding sill noses or window mechanisms affects interior fit.

Photograph Each Window

Take pictures showing the full window exterior for reference.
Photograph any special installation challenges or irregularities.

Photos provide helpful visuals to the shutter company to double-check clearance issues and mounting options.

Create Detailed Sketches

Draw a rectangle for each window showing inner edge measurements.
Note which direction the windows open.
Mark any special shapes or radius dimensions.
Indicate placement of locks, handles and other hardware.

Thorough sketches eliminate ambiguity and serve as useful supplements to written measurements.

Measuring for Depth Clearance

In addition to taking horizontal and vertical window opening measurements, shutter depth must also be considered:

Measure the window frame depth from outside to inside edge.
Typically add at least 1/4 inch clearance beyond the frame depth for each shutter.
For windows that open outward a greater clearance of 3/4 to 1 inch is advisable.
Account for any necessary trim or jamb extensions that protrude.

Adequate depth allows shutters to open and close freely without rubbing against window frames. Insufficient depth results in serious operating issues.

Measuring for Light Gaps

Some tiny yet important “reveal” dimensions include:

Most shutters have 1/4 to 1/2 inch gaps on each side for light to shine through. Measure and specify the size desired.
For specialty shutter designs with thicker wood dimensions like raised panels, plan for proportionately larger reveal gaps.
Note any windows where minimal or no reveal gaps are preferred for total light blockage.

Knowing the precise reveal gaps wanted allows finishing each window attractively with no unsightly large or uneven spaces between shutter and wall.

Measuring for Divider Rails

Divider or mid rails are horizontal pieces added to split very tall shutter panels:

Determine ideal rail height based on the overall window height. Aim to divide the height into equal thirds.
Take separate height measurements above and below the planned rail location.
Note the exact rail location dimension from the bottom of the window.

Accurately planning for divider rails results in good proportions and allows the upper and lower shutter sections to operate independently.

Measuring for Hidden Tilt Rod Option

Hidden tilt rods eliminate visible handles for a cleaner exterior look:

Determine which edge of the frame to conceal the tilt rod behind – typically the bottom.
Measure the exact placement from frame edge for the concealment channel holes that allow the tilt rod to operate.
For windows with obstructions, calculate placement to avoid interference.

Recording the precise hidden tilt rod location ensures smooth shutter operation. Wrong measurements can hinder function.

Measuring Angled Bay Windows Accurately

Bay windows require extra care to measure the variable angles correctly:

Follow the standard inside frame edge method for the center main panel.
Use an angle finder tool to gauge the sharpness of the bay side panels. Usually 15 to 30 degrees.
For angled bays, take diagonal corner-to-corner measurements for the shutter cutouts.
Note any special clearance issues for opening and closing bay shutters.

The complexity of angled bays demands exact numbers and details for shutters to work around the multi-dimensional contours.

Measuring Arched Windows

Arched windows have curved tops requiring careful measurement:

Measure the base width and side heights normally from edge of frame.
Determine the center point height from sill up to the peak of the arch.
Measure the radii size from edge to peak at both the left and right sides. Draw radii lines on sketches.
Use a flexible tape measure to follow the arch contour for the most accurate curved measurements.

Getting altitude, width, radii and other arch specifics correct allows proper shutter shaping and curvature.

Measuring Specialty Shaped Windows

Unusual geometric window designs require some creative measuring:

Follow the standard inside edge frame method for basic rectangular areas.
Draw overall shape outlines and mark all interior angle measurements.
For dramatic angles, take diagonal measurements corner-to-corner.
Use flexible curve rulers to estimate any arcs or circular elements.
Note or photograph any unknown shapes for interpretation by the shutter company.

With non-standard windows, comprehensive notes and dimensions give shutter makers the details they need for fabrication.

Measuring Guidelines for Door Shutters

Doors often get overlooked as candidates for shutters. Measure them with these tips in mind:

Account for hardware clearance. Typically 1 1/2” minimum from door edge for hinges and 1” for knobs.
Check for any trim, casing or jambs that may interfere with shutter operation.
Measure shutter reveal or overlap to avoid blocking hardware operation or impeding door swing.
For French doors, measure the vertical stiles and cross rails individually for a custom divided shutter design.

Adapt shutter measurements to the unique spacial challenges doors present. Clearances must ensure trouble-free operation.

Measuring for Layered and Divided Shutter Treatments

Creative shutter designs involve taking measurements for each component:

Layered shutters:

Measure for the exterior full size shutters that span the entire window normally.
Measure again for the slightly smaller interior layered shutters to sit back behind the outers.

Divided shutters:

Take measurements for the upper shutters from the top of the window down to the divider rail height.
Measure from rail to sill for the lower shutter section height.
Measure divider rail length and indicate exact desired placement height.

Measure and specify each layered or divided shutter piece individually for proper fabrication.

How to Record Measurements

Keep a systematic log of all window measurements:

Create a table with separate columns for each measurement such as width, height, depth, etc.
Label each row with the corresponding window name – Bathroom 1, Living Room 2, etc.
Record every measurement dimension precisely in the correct column row.
Note any special details like arch radii or divider rail specs in a separate Notes column.
Transfer all final approved measurements to the order form for the shutter company.

Thoroughly logged measurements help eliminate miscues when ordering multiple custom shutters for big projects.

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

While DIY custom shutter measuring looks straightforward in theory, these common mistakes occur easily:

Measuring from outside frame edges rather than inside – results in undersized panels.
Measuring just once rather than double or triple checking numbers.
Using loose tools like worn tape measures and low quality levels.
Failing to account for out of square or out of plumb windows.
Not allowing adequate depth clearance for shutter operation.
Forgetting to measure light gap reveals on the side.
Measuring right over window hardware or protrusions rather than deductions.
Assuming windows are standard sizes rather than physically measuring.

Attention to detail is mandatory for accurate custom shutter measurements. Having an expert measure eliminates most pitfalls.

Hiring a Professional For Your Measurements

While DIY measurement is possible with diligence, hiring a professional has some significant advantages:

Correct Tools and Experience

They have top quality measurement tools and expertise using them from countless jobs. You avoid tool rental hassles and learning curves.

Eye for Detail

A good pro will spot tiny issues you could miss like out of square windows or insufficient clearance depths. Their extra diligence results in greater accuracy.

Efficiency

A professional can measure all your windows efficiently in a single site visit. DIY measuring drags out over multiple days.

Greater Precision

Experts know all the special measurement tricks and allowances needed to gain truly perfect measurements for custom work.

Reduced Costs

Although hiring a pro adds upfront cost, it minimizes expensive remakes and corrections that come with DIY miscues.

For most homeowners without carpentry expertise, bringing in a professional for measurements is money well spent.

Conclusion

Achieving excellence with custom shutters requires extremely precise window measurements. Small inaccuracies can ruin the final fit and appearance.

Careful technique using quality measurement tools coupled with diligent double-checking allows even DIYers to get the vital numbers right. However, hiring an experienced professional is generally the smartest approach for flawless measurements.

With our depth of custom shutter knowledge, we can dispatch a skilled specialist to your home to perform all necessary measurements to the strictest tolerances. Contact us today to get the process started so you can enjoy perfectly fitted custom shutters.