Installing-shutters

Installing Shutters

Installing your shutters isn't a difficult process

at all. The key here is to work with shutters that

are specifically built for each individual window

opening in conjunction with detailed instructions.

Many companies that install shutters will tell

customers that the shutters need to be installed

by a certified installer. This isn't the case,

as you can install your shutters like a pro with

no experience at all.

Measuring your shutters

To properly install shutters to a window opening,

you'll need to measure. First, you'll need to

determine if the shutters will be mounted to the

inside or the outside of the window opening.

Inside mount installation

The preferred means of installation is to mount

shutters directly to the window jamb inside of the

window opening. This method is generally cleaner

than mounting to the outside of the window and

it doesn't require additional hang strips or frame

strips. Keep in mind, the window must be somewhat

square and have a solid jamb for you to attach

the screws to.

To determine the window depth, measure from the

front plane of the window back to the nearest

obstruction that'll prevent the louvers from

rotating. If you prefer, the company you are

ordering from can also tell you the window depth

for the style of shutters you order.

On occasion, a supplier of shutters will offer

a second inside mounting method that uses rear

hanging strips concealed behind the shutter

panels that will allow adjustment up, down, left,

and right for easier alignment. This method

is ideal if the window is out of square or if

it has a drywall opening without a solid wood

jamb.

Outside mount installation

Outside mount installations use frames that attach

to the wall or existing trim just to the outside

of the opening of the window. Normally, the

frame will surround the shutter panels on three

or four sides, depending on if a lower still

exists.

If you go with a cafe type shutter style, the

hang strips are used on either side of the

shutter panels. The frame or hang strips will

screw directly to the wall or trim, and the

shutter hinge to the frame or the hanging strips.

Always play it safe and measure with a steel tape

measure, which will give you the most accurate

measurements. Don't attempt to measure with a

fabric tape or yard stick - as this will lead

you to a poor installation.

(word count 405)

PPPPP