Tips for Getting the Perfect Fit with Made to Measure Plantation Shutters

Installing new custom-made plantation shutters should be an exciting milestone. After weeks of measuring and ordering, eagerly awaited window treatments finally arrive ready to transform your home’s look and function.

But nothing deflates that eager anticipation faster than shutters showing up with poor fitment and gaps. Suddenly, the investment feels wasted on subpar products.

Don’t settle for imperfectly fitting made to measure shutters. Follow these pro tips and techniques to achieve close-as-possible window alignment for flawless aesthetics and performance.

Adjusting Shutters for Precise Sizing

Even with meticulous do-it-yourself measurements, slight size variances between your windows and cut panels can occur:

DIY tools and methods may lack pro precision
Windows can be slightly out of square
Old home settling may alter openings
Complex windows prove challenging to measure exactly

Thankfully, reputable shutter companies build in a tolerance for adjustment. Before permanently installing shutters:

Dry fit panels to identify any sizing gaps
Use a utility knife to carefully shave or widen wood panels
Sand down spots, don’t just force into place
Check fit and make micro trims until aligned evenly
Seal edges so trimmed areas don’t allow light leaks

Test fit and tweak to optimization. Don’t leave gaps in the name of preserving size. The goal is seamless alignment.

Using Levels for Precise Shutter Positioning

Installing shutters askew even 1⁄4 inch looks obviously off, leaving irregular light gaps. But our eyes can’t visually identify perfect alignment alone. Use levels:

Place a 4+ foot level vertically against the window side
Adjust shutter position until it aligns squarely to the level’s edge
Affix a level horizontally across the top of the shutter
Tweak position until the level shows perfect straightness

Check plumb and level from multiple points on the frame. Realign individual shutters to match uniformity across the total width.

Levels don’t lie! Trust them to find true alignment.

Adjusting Irregular Window Frames

Some homes have window openings that settled out of square over time. Shutter panels cut square can’t fit:

Inspect frame corners for gaps indicating distortion
Use tapered shims to fill where frame angles don’t join correctly
Build up with wood putty in sunken or warped areas as needed
Sand down high points and protrusions preventing even shutter contact

Frame irregularities must get repaired for proper fitting shutters. Check for level too.

Avoiding Misassembly and Misalignment During Installation

Careful installation prevents built-in flaws:

Review manufacturer’s instructions before starting
Assemble window-width panels sequentially without skipping
Use assembling blocks and spacers to align shutter section edges
Affix panels only once completely assembled and pre-fitted
Check for smooth operation periodically during install
Make alignment adjustments before permanently securing

Rushing the assembly and install process leads to mistakes. Allow ample time to fit, test, and adjust shutter placement for a precision finish.

Inspecting the Final Fit and Sealing Gaps

After securing shutters in place, scrutinize the final alignment:

Check even spacing between the shutter and window edges on all sides
Ensure consistent contact with the window frame to prevent future sagging
Look for any light leaks or visibility gaps allowing exterior visibility
Operate shutters to confirm smooth movement without friction or rubbing
Use thin wood strips or vinyl weather seals to fill any minor fit gaps

Don’t consider the job done until you’ve verified seamless fit without flaws. Air tight shutters also enhance insulation.

Maintaining Good Fit Over Time

Proper ongoing care sustains lasting fit:

Routinely inspect shutters for sagging, warping, or damage
Periodic cleaning keeps operational movement smooth
Address leaks, humidity, and termites which compromise materials
Refasten loose hinge screws immediately to prevent shutter drop
Consider pro tension adjustments if fit worsens slightly over decades

Well-made shutters should hold perfect alignment for 15+ years with basic maintenance. Stay attentive so minor issues don’t become major.

Follow these pro tips starting from measurement through installation and care to gain custom-made plantation shutters with beautiful flawless fit showcasing craftsmanship. Don’t tolerate imperfections!

Contact Our Experts for Measurement and Install

Achieving shutters with perfect window alignment requires care during measurement, sizing, assembly, installation, and maintenance.

If any phase feels daunting, take advantage of our team’s expertise. We handle the entire process from precision measurements to quality shutter recommendations to expert installation and tweaking for a beautiful end result.

Contact us for a free quote. We’ll review your windows, discuss needs, take measurements, and schedule professional installation for picture-perfect alignment.

Get peace of mind knowing your investment resulted in a custom shutter look too good to believe.