How to measure your window.

How to obtain a price quote for fitting that window with top grade solid wood plantation window shutters.

Before we will accept an order we will have performed our own on-site measurement, so there will be no risk to you or us. We begin, however, with your basic measurements and this advises you how to take them.

The size of the area to be covered with shutters impacts the final price, but not on a flat square footage basis. The larger the space the more they will cost, but only slightly. We believe it is unfair to price on a flat square footage basis.

• Special Windows: Certain windows are more complicated such as French door glass sections, patio doors, bay windows, unusually shaped windows and really large windows. These may require more specific discussions face-to-face. If you have such windows you may want to take a photograph of them, take some basic measurements, and then come into our Showroom for more specific discussions.

"Inside" versus "Outside"

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• Most windows are fitted with shutters using the basic locations of either "inside mount" or "outside mount." Then each mount location has several mounting methods by which they can be attached for the best appearance, function and durability.

• Inside Mount means to attach them to the inside of the window jamb. The window jamb is that part of the window that "goes through the wall" and is the inside of the window itself. To mount the shutters to this surface will result in a slightly smaller shutter system and cost slightly less. The inside face of the jamb must have at least 3/4" of flat space near the front edge. The preference is for at least 1-inch.The mounting is some version of what is called a "throw hinge mount." The hinge is made in such a way that the panel can swing out and back, clearing any window trim, to fold back against the wall. The drawback is that this method does not work well with crank out windows. Other drawbacks are the system does not look as well fitted to the window as it can with an outside mount, the side of the hinges may show, the panel top and bottom rails and the side stiles further restrict how much view you'll have or light that can come into the room. Those who sell shutters based primarily on price usually suggest only this method of mounting, even though at slightly more cost you can have a much better fit and function with an outside mount.

• Outside Mount means to attach the shutter system to the face or outside of the window's wall trim. The wall trim is covered totally on both sides and the top of the window. It also covers the bottom if you do not have a window sill. If you have a sill the system fits above the sill. The result is a much better fit and function than with an inside mount. Other benefits of an outside mount are that cranks and latches are not in the way, the system looks like it is better fitted to the window, irregular untrue windows are concealed, and because the panel can go up and out over the trim the panel size and louver area is larger allowing more light and view. The cost difference is minor.

• Tele-Quote: When you call us with your measurements we suggest you start with the slightly larger outside mount measurements. When we perform onsite specific measurements we will suggest the smaller inside mount if it works best or well for you. When we provide you a Tele-Quote we ask some clarifying questions and then assume what you will likely need based on our experience. We have available at that point the full range of options for your window based on the size (# of panels, type of finish, etc.) and if you would like that fuller information, just ask us to mail it to you.

• How to Measure: With a tape measure, yard stick or cloth tape simply measure the total width including trim and the total height from the top molding down to the sill or bottom of bottom molding. Always record and state the width first and the height second.

• The Number of Panels: The number of panels also slightly impacts the final cost. If you have a single window of moderate or minor width then a single panel is best. If you have a larger wider window then multiple panels are likely. Our panels are so strong that they can be up to 37" wide plus outside mounting trim of 4" so we can cover up to 41" with a single panel. You may want to divide such a wide window into 2 panels for function, appearance or strength.

• The Mid-Rail Option: Any panel can have a fixed mid-rail located in place of a louver and it can be located basically wherever it is needed. The reason to have a mid-rail is for function, such as keeping the lower louvers closed while opening the upper louvers for light, privacy or pet control. They are also sometimes recommended for strength if you have a really wide window with two or more wider panels involved from one side. They have no cost impact.

• The Finish Option: Shutters that are stained to match your window woodwork cost slightly more because of the extra efforts that are required. Shutters that are painted are usually painted with oil trim paint, not latex. If you are doing, or have recently done, other paint work then we can use your supplied paint and that way we all know it will match exactly. We provide you a price credit accordingly. It is the recommended method. If we supply the paint we must be provided with the exact brand and color mixture. We will not mix to match since the risks are too widespread including fading from age.

SHUTTER MOUNTING METHODS
Based mostly on your existing window trim