What You Need to Know About Made to Measure Plantation Shutters

Plantation shutters are a classic window covering that suit both traditional and contemporary home styles. With their adjustable louvers, plantation shutters control light, increase privacy and add architectural detail to a room.

One of the biggest advantages of plantation shutters is the ability to have them custom-made to fit any window size and shape. Made to measure plantation shutters result in a flawless fit and finish for your windows.

In this guide, we’ll cover what you need to know about ordering and installing made to measure plantation shutters in your home.

How Made to Measure Plantation Shutters Work

Plantation shutters feature adjustable slats or louvers within a frame. This allows control over light and privacy. The entire shutter panel also opens, much like a door.

Made to measure shutters are individually crafted and sized for each window opening. The frame and louvers are cut to custom specifications so the shutters fit seamlessly into the window space.

Pros and Cons of Custom Made to Measure Shutters

Compared to prefabricated stock sized plantation shutters, made to measure custom shutters offer some unique benefits:

Pros

Perfect fit without light gaps or visible hardware
Can accommodate any window shape and size
Louvers sized proportionately for the window
Consistent look across all windows
Durable hardwood construction

Cons

More expensive than stock sizes
Require professional measuring and installation
Longer lead time for manufacturing

The unparalleled fit and appearance of made to measure plantation shutters make them well worth the extra cost and wait times for many homeowners.

How to Order Made to Measure Shutters

Getting started with ordering custom plantation shutters for your windows involves just a few simple steps:

Step 1: Request an In-Home Consultation

An experienced consultant will visit your home to take detailed measurements of each window requiring shutters. They can advise you on the best shutter styles and options.

Step 2: Select Shutter Design and Materials

Decide on the louver size, frame type, wood species and color that match your home’s style and architecture. Popular choices include basswood, alder, poplar and composite materials.

Step 3: Place the Order

After finalizing design selections, a 50% deposit is usually required to start the custom manufacturing process. The final balance is due upon shutter delivery and installation.

Step 4: Shutter Manufacturing

Artisans will craft your shutters one by one to the exact specifications for each window. Manufacturing usually takes 2-6 weeks.

Step 5: Installation

Professionals will deliver and install the completed custom plantation shutters, making any final adjustments for optimal fit and appearance.

How Much Do Custom Shutters Cost?

As a general guideline, made to measure basswood plantation shutters average $400 – $800 per window, installed. The final cost depends on:

Type of wood or material used
Number and size of shutters needed
Optional upgrades like divider rails or hidden tilting rods
Accessibility of the windows

Larger windows, higher grades of wood, and abundant architectural details will increase the final cost. Obtaining quotes from several reputable shutter companies is advisable.

Key Measurements Needed for Custom Shutters

To ensure proper fit, several precise measurements are taken of each window when ordering custom shutters:

Width – Exact window opening width from inside edge to inside edge.
Height – Distance from window sill up to the underside of the top jamb.
Depth – Minimum depth for shutter clearance when closed.
Reveal – How much frame to leave visible on each side for light gaps.
Shape – Arched or specialty windows need shaping calculations.

Skilled specialists account for all the subtleties needed to gain flawless fit. DIY measuring often leads to imperfections.

How to Choose the Right Louver Size

Louvers come in standard widths of 2 1/2”, 3 1/2” and 4 1/2”. Wider louvers give a more unobstructed view when open. Narrower louvers overlay more for privacy.

Interior designers recommend the following louver sizes for various window heights:

Under 40” tall – 2 1/2” or 3 1/2” louvers
40-80” tall – 3 1/2” or 4 1/2” louvers
Over 80” tall – 4 1/2” louvers

The proportions of the louvers to overall shutter size should compliment the window, not appear too large or small.

Popular Frame Styles

Plantation shutters come with several frame design choices:

Full Height – Panels extend from top of window down to the sill. Offers maximum height and visibility.

Tier on Tier – Two panels are stacked, one above the other. Allows louvers to open independently.

Café Style – Solid panels cover the bottom portion, with louvers only across the top. Provides privacy while allowing light in.

Arch Top – Follows the contours of arched windows. Requires expert carpentry.

Track Style – Panels don’t fill the entire frame so more light comes through sides.

Consider room use, light needs, window dimensions and personal taste when selecting the frame style.

Ideal Wood Types for Shutters

Wood plantation shutters are generally made from these superior materials:

Basswood – Affordable, straight grained and stable. Takes paint and stain well.

Poplar – Versatile wood that’s easy to machine and drill. Dents somewhat easily.

Alder – Lightweight but strong. Has consistent grain patterns ideal for staining.

Teak – Exotic hardwood that is durable and moisture resistant naturally. Adds rustic flair.

Cedar – Aromatic red cedar naturally resists rot, pests and humidity. Stains to a lovely patina.

Mahogany – Prized for its rich red-brown coloration and intricate grain patterns. A luxury choice.

Talk with experts to determine which wood species best suits your needs, preferences and budget. Composite faux-wood shutters are also durable and cost effective.

Hidden Tilt Rod Versus Standard Tilt Bar

The tilt mechanism that adjusts louvers can be either exposed or hidden:

Standard tilt bar – A slim rod with hanging handle is attached below the louvers. Simple and functional.

Hidden tilt – The tilt rod is concealed within the window frame. Allows uninterrupted lines and smoother exterior.

Hidden tilt rods cost more but provide a seamless designer look. Visible tilt bars are more affordable and easy to operate.

Special Considerations for French Doors

French doors present a few challenges for made to measure plantation shutters:

Mount shutters on door surround instead of directly on door. Eliminates swing clearance issues.
Use two narrower shutter panels rather than one wide panel for easier size accommodations.
Allow sufficient depth for hardware, hinges and knobs to avoid interference.
Choose a sturdy wood like mahogany to handle repeated opening and closing.
Opt for a standard tilt bar since hidden rods are prone to damage.

With good measurements and carpentry, plantation shutters can be adapted to work beautifully on French door installations.

Should You Add an Mid Rail?

A mid rail is a horizontal divider placed across the lower portion of tall windows. Reasons for adding a mid rail include:

Breaks up the vista of a long expanse of shutters for better proportions.
Allows the upper and lower louvers to tilt independently for light control.
Reinforces large shutter panels and reduces sagging.
Provides a decorative accent band across the window.

Typical recommendations for mid rail placement:

Around 60” or lower for 8 foot high shutters
Above 42” for 6 to 7 foot high shutter panels

Discuss options with your installer to decide if mid rails would enhance the look and function of your tall shutters.

Common Problems With DIY Made to Measure Shutters

Attempting to create custom plantation shutters yourself often leads to disappointments:

Inaccurate measurements resulting in poor fit
Subpar materials that warp or discolor
Uneven louvers that don’t align correctly
Losing natural wood tones with improper priming and painting
Crooked installation and gaps from lack of carpentry skill
Hardware falling out of flimsy wood causing louvers to dislodge

The precision carpentry and assembly involved in crafting made to measure plantation shutters makes DIY attempts inadvisable for all but the most skilled.

Maintaining the Beauty of Your Custom Shutters

Follow these tips to keep plantation shutters looking pristine:

Dust lightly with a soft brush or microfiber duster to prevent buildup on louvers.
Wipe down shutters with mild soap and water. Avoid harsh cleaners.
Use the tilt rod regularly to evenly distribute natural oils in wood shutters.
Touch up paint nicks immediately to avoid damage from moisture.
Have pros make repairs if louvers become cracked or damaged.
Clean stained wood shutters annually with wood cleaner and re-apply protective coating if needed.

With minimal care, quality custom plantation shutters will enhance your home’s beauty for a lifetime.

Conclusion

Made to measure plantation shutters are a prime choice for windows when personalization, quality craftsmanship and a flawless fit are priorities. Though more costly than stock sizes, custom shutters reflect the architecture of your home beautifully when properly designed and installed.

The expertise of an experienced specialist is highly advised for measuring and tailoring plantation shutters to your exact window specifications. Contact our team of experts if you’re interested in learning more about made to measure plantation shutters for your home.