Gap-Free Shutter Installation: Tailored Fit Minimizes Light Leakage

When having new shutters installed, one key goal is minimizing gaps that let in light. Even small gaps around the edges of shutters can be surprisingly disruptive. Stray beams of light leakage can ruin the privacy, noise control, and light filtering benefits shutters provide. That’s why a meticulous gap-free installation is so important.

In this guide, we’ll cover professional techniques for tailoring shutters to fit your windows flawlessly with barely perceptible gaps.

Causes of Shutter Gaps

Common causes of bothersome shutter light gaps include:

Improper sizing or measurements
Settling of walls or window frames
Hanging out of plumb or level
Warping of shutter materials over time
General wear allowing movement and separation

Preventing gaps starts with proper measuring and sizing.

Precision Measurements Matter

Taking meticulous window measurements is crucial for cut-to-size shutters that fit like a glove with minimal gaps.

For interior mounts:

Measure inside frames at top, middle, and bottom for height and width. Use the smallest dimensions.
Account for any obstructions by windows.
Deduct 1/8 to 1/4 inch for easy insertion into the frames.

For exterior mounting:

Measure outer window dimensions edge to edge.
Include any casing, trim or siding.
Allow 1/16 to 1/8 inch gap for caulking if needed.

Having a second set of eyes verifies numbers. We re-check our measurements on site before final cuts.

Pro Custom Shutter Sizing

With measurements in hand, our woodworking specialists expertly craft your shutters to match each window’s dimensions perfectly.

Each window gets individually sized shutters, even if they appear the same.
State of the art equipment cuts materials with incredible accuracy.
Any mullions, divided lights, or special shapes are accounted for.
Minimal sanding or trimming needed during installation.

This precision manufacturing minimizes the gaps that lead to light leakage.

Level, Plumb Hanging

Proper shutter hanging also prevents problematic gaps:

We check for level and plumb during mounting.
Tapered shims fine-tune alignment gradually.
Uneven underlying frames or walls get compensated for.
Hinges and panels are adjusted until orientation is perfect.

Shutters hung true eliminate gaps from crooked positioning.

Lightproof Caulking and Sealing

For exterior shutters, caulking and seals keep gaps from forming:

We apply waterproof exterior caulk around the perimeter.
Quality caulk resists cracking or shrinking over time.
Flexible seals compress when closed to block light infiltration.
Seals stand up to weather expansion and contraction.

Caulk and seals provide extra insurance against gaps.

Adjustments, Maintenance, and Repairs

Even after careful installation, shutters may require occasional adjustments:

Hinge tweaks can realign shutters that settle over time.
Fresh caulk renews any seals that deteriorate.
New panel guides get sliding shutters back on track.
We can replace individual damaged or warped louvers.

Proactive adjustments maintain a tight light-blocking fit.

Custom Tailored Shutters = Minimal Gaps

With extensive experience installing hundreds of shutter projects, we have gap prevention down to a science. Let us provide you with perfectly fittedshutters to eliminate light streaming in around the edges. Contact us today to get started with a free consultation!