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How to Measure for Exterior Shutters

Sizing Made Simple: Measure Before You Order

H0W TO MEASURE

Measuring for Shutters

Shutters can do more than just enhance curb appeal—they can also offer real protection and function. Decorative shutters are designed for aesthetics, adding character to your home without opening or closing. Functional shutters, on the other hand, can be opened and closed, providing shade, privacy, and even storm protection.

Once you’ve chosen the right shutters for your home, let’s go ahead and measure for the perfect fit. 

Fixed Mount
Measuring Instructions

Getting the right measurements for your exterior shutters is essential—whether you’re replacing existing ones or adding them to a new build or remodel. If you’re ordering fixed mount shutters (non-functioning shutters that don’t open or close), the process is straightforward.

Proper sizing ensures your shutters fit seamlessly and enhance your home’s aesthetic. If you’re just looking for an approximate size to get a quote—either from our site or our team—this is a great place to start.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To begin, you will need a tape measure, pencil and the attached worksheet to record your measurements.

Even if you think all of your windows are the same size, it’s important to measure them individually. For each window, add a label/description in the left-hand column of your worksheet (i.e. “North, left of door”).

Measure the width of each window opening from inside edge to inside edge to the nearest 1/4 inch, excluding any framing or molding. Take three measurements: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom of the window. Record the smallest measurement.

  • If the window will have shutters on both sides, this number is your “Pair Width”.
  • If the window will have only one shutter, this number is your “Shutter Width”.

 

Note: Since these will be fixed shutters (not designed to open and close), you have some grace with the measurements. Slight variations won’t affect the installation or appearance as they remain stationary

Take the final Pair Width measurement from Step 3 and divide it in half to calculate the width of each individual shutter. Record this number in the “Final Width” column on your worksheet.

If you are measuring for a window that only requires one shutter, you do not need to divide – simply use the Shutter Width from Step 3 as your final measurement.

This ensures each shutter is properly sized for a balanced and proportional appearance.

Measure the height of each window from the inner edge of the bottom sill to the top of the lintel. Take three measurements: one on the left side, one in the middle, and one on the right side of the window. Record the smallest measurement.

Since these will be fixed shutters (not designed to open and close) you do not need to subtract any clearance from your final measurement. Use this number as the final height for your shutters.

Measuring for shutters is usually straightforward, but once you have your measurements, it’s always a good idea to double-check before placing your order. If you need any help, feel free to email us at customersupport@monumentshutter.com or scheduling a call!

Download our printable measurement worksheet

Record your window measurements.

Download our measurement guide.

Check each measurement guide.

Functioning Mount Measuring Instructions All Materials (except Vinyl)

Before placing your order, follow the measuring instructions below to ensure that your new shutters are the perfect fit for your windows.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To begin, you will need a tape measure, pencil and the attached worksheet to record your measurements.

Even if you think all of your windows are the same size, it’s important to measure them individually. For each window, add a label/description in the left-hand column of your worksheet (i.e. “North, left of door”).

Measure the width of each window opening from inside edge to inside edge to the nearest 1/4 inch, excluding any framing or molding. Take three measurements: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom of the window. Record the smallest measurement.

If the window will have shutters on either side, this number is your “Pair Width”. For stand-alone windows that only require one shutter, this number is your “Shutter Width”.

Important Note: Substract 1/2 inch from your width measurement to allow for proper clearance when opening and closing.

Take the final Pair Width measurement from Step 3 and divide it in half to calculate the width of each individual shutter. Record this number in the “Final Width” column on your worksheet.

For windows that require only one shutter, use the “Shutter Width” from Step 3 as the final width without dividing.

Measure the height of each window from the inner edge of the bottom sill to the top of the lintel. Take three measurements: one on the left side, one in the middle, and one on the right side of the window. Record the smallest measurement.

Important Note: Substract 1/4 inch from the height measurement to ensure proper clearance when opening and closing. 

All Materials (except Vinyl) Video Coming Soon!

Measuring for shutters is usually straightforward, but once you have your measurements, it’s always a good idea to double-check before placing your order. If you need any help, feel free to email us at customersupport@monumentshutter.com or scheduling a call!

Download our printable measurement worksheet

Record your window measurements.

Download our measurement guide.

Check each measurement guide.

Fixed Mount Measuring Instructions | Vinyl

Before placing your order, follow the measuring instructions below to ensure that your new shutters are the perfect fit for your windows.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To begin, you will need a tape measure, pencil and the attached worksheet to record your measurements.

Even if you think all of your windows are the same size, it’s important to measure them individually. For each window, add a label/description in the left-hand column of your worksheet (i.e. “North, left of door”).

Measure the width of each window opening from inside edge to inside edge to the nearest 1/4 inch, excluding any framing or molding. Take three measurements: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom of the window. Record the smallest measurement.

Consider the size of the trim around the windows when gathering measurements for your exterior shutters. If you have a large trim (4” +) it could result in your shutters appearing smaller, so you may want to add a few inches to the width/height.

Measure the height of each window from the inner edge of the bottom sill to the bottom of the lintel. Take a measurement at the left side, middle and right side of the window. Record the smallest measurement.

Measuring for shutters is usually straightforward, but once you have your measurements, it’s always a good idea to double-check before placing your order. If you need any help, feel free to email us at customersupport@monumentshutter.com or scheduling a call!

Download our printable measurement worksheet

Record your window measurements.

Download our measurement guide.

Check each measurement guide.

Functioning Mount Measuring Instructions | Bahama/Bermuda

Before placing your order, follow the measuring instructions below to ensure that your new shutters are the perfect fit for your windows.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

To begin, you will need a tape measure, pencil and the attached worksheet to record your measurements.

Even if you think all of your windows are the same size, it’s important to measure them individually. For each window, add a label/description in the left-hand column of your worksheet (i.e. “North, left of door”).

Bahama shutters are designed to fit over the window opening, so it is important to add 3” to the width and height of the window opening when measuring.

This allows overhang and provides room to attach the tilt arms to the shutter.

Note: If there is a windowsill, please take this into account for proper closing. For example, shutter height can be 1 1/2” taller than window opening rather than 3” taller.

Bahama/Bermuda Video Coming Soon!

Measuring for shutters is usually straightforward, but once you have your measurements, it’s always a good idea to double-check before placing your order. If you need any help, feel free to email us at customersupport@monumentshutter.com or scheduling a call!

Download our printable measurement worksheet

Record your window measurements.

Download our measurement guide.

Check each measurement guide.

FAQ

Need Help?
We’ve Got You Covered

Dive into our FAQ section to learn more about the benefits, features, and usage of our products to better meet your house’s needs.

For the best fit, measure your window opening carefully and use the smallest width and height measurements. If your shutters will be operable, subtract ½ inch from the width and ¼ inch from the height for clearance. For decorative shutters, order them at the full measured size. Check out our measuring guide for details, or contact us for help!
We recommend using a tape measure for the most accurate results. Phone measuring apps can be convenient, but they may not provide precise measurements needed for a proper fit. For best results, follow our measuring guide or contact us for assistance!
Yes, if you’re ordering a pair of shutters for a window, divide the total measured width in half to determine the width of each individual shutter. For single shutters, order at the full measured width. Check out our measuring guide for more details or contact us for help!
Accuracy is important for the best fit, especially for operable shutters. If your measurements are slightly off, it may affect the look and functionality. We recommend double-checking your measurements and following our measuring guide to ensure the best results. If you need help, feel free to contact us!
When measuring for shutters, do not include any framing or molding—measure only the inside edges of the window opening. If your shutters will be operable, subtract ½ inch from the width for clearance. For more details, check out our measuring guide or contact us for assistance!
Measure the window from the outside, focusing on the inside edges of the window opening. Do not include any trim or molding in your measurements. For step-by-step instructions, check out our measuring guide or contact us for help!
While builder or contractor-provided dimensions can be a helpful reference, we recommend measuring yourself to ensure accuracy. Even small variations in window sizes can affect the fit of your shutters (for functioning shutters), and measuring directly helps prevent issues. Taking your own measurements also allows you to account for any unique features of your windows. If you have any questions, we’re happy to help!
Your measurements should be as precise as possible to ensure the best fit. We recommend measuring to the nearest 1/4 inch and always double-checking your numbers. If your shutters will be operable, be sure to account for clearance by subtracting ½ inch from the width and ¼ inch from the height. Accuracy is key, but if you need help, we’re happy to assist!
If you need to make adjustments, contact us as soon as possible, and we’ll do our best to accommodate if the order hasn’t entered production. Since each order is custom-made, we recommend double-checking your measurements before placing your order to ensure the perfect fit.

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