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Measuring and Specifying Clearly nothing is more important or daunting. However it is just not that difficult. The order form has many options but it also provides you a guideline. We'll go through the order form one step at a time but first let's outline the steps. Be sure you want shutters!
Although we clearly believe shutters offer the best long term value to your home they may not be right for you. Shutters are beautiful and functional but they are a permanent decision. It is unlikely that you'll ever replace them. They provide more light control and privacy than most other window coverings and they are energy efficient. However, they are sometimes considered to be a "heavy" treatment. Soft roman shades or woven woods provide a completely different design appeal. Screen rollershades provide a view but excellent shading. Most people that step up to shutters from wood blinds are happy they did. Although shutters are the best investment you can make in your home they are not always the best design choice.
- Frame type
Most people want their shutters framed for the finished look.
The most popular frames are "z" frames and Outside Mount Deco frames
Hanging strips are most economical for budget applications. Direct Hinge is available
as needed.
see frame options and beware of obstacles such as window handles or moldings - Frames sides
4 Sided is used where there is no window sill.
3 sided is used where there is a window sill (can be reversed for Cafe' look)
2 sided may be used with outside mount hanging strips
1 sided may be used with outside mount hanging strips
inside mount hanging strips provide the "frameless look". - Panel configuration
Panels can open to the left or to the right and they can be mounted onto the frame or an intermediate frame referred to as a Tpost. More panels mean smaller panel widths and more restriction to the view. Larger panels are heavy and require more space in front of the shutter to open. Most shutters are only opened by rotating louvers. All shutters have a maximum panel width. Sometimes the shutter just looks better in a particular configuration. All this seems like a lot to consider but the window width usually only provides a couple of configuration choices. See the configuration table for each shutter type. - Double Hung
Double hung panels allow the top and bottom panels to hinge open or closed separately. It also restricts the view more due to the extra rail and it gives a light gap between top and bottom panels. Divider rails allow two or more openings to rotate open separately. Double hung should only be specified for specific requirements and is rare today. - T-Post
If a T-post is required it's location may be specified or it may be left unspecified and it will be located evenly based on the number of panels on each side. When specifying Tpost location(s) measure from the left side to the desired location(s). - Divider Rail
Divider rails allow a group of louver to be separated and controled independently. Divider rails also provide strength to the shutter panel. Shutters typically are required to have a divider rail at heights greater than 60". Multiple divider rails can be placed in one shutter but usually one is enough. When a divider rail is required or desired it usually is good for it to match a window frame or mulion. Frame locations are specified from the bottom of the window. Keep in mind that the number of louvers in a grouping specifies the space required. Divider rail locations are approximate and may vary based on the number of louvers required in a group. - Hinge Color
Popular hinge colors are white, brass, antique brass and oil rubbed but can be specified per your design flare. - Tensioning screw
This is an option for Paramont/Cabana shutters that allows the tension in the louvers to be adjustable. Paramont/Cabana shutters have a patented tilt bar connector that provides tension and prevents inadvertant opening from vibrations. This can be a problem in stapled shutters. - Door handle cut out
notched out for door handle or other obstacle.
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