How to Measure DIY Plantation Shutters

Accurate measurement is the most important step when ordering DIY plantation shutters. Taking the time to measure correctly ensures a precise fit, smooth installation, and a clean finished appearance once your shutters are installed.

Before measuring, ensure you have a steel tape measure, a notepad, and a clear understanding of how your shutters will be mounted. DIY plantation shutters can typically be installed either inside the window recess fit (inside mount) or on the wall or architrave fact-fit (outside mount), and each option requires a slightly different measuring approach.

For an inside mount, measure the width and height of the window opening in three places: top, middle, and bottom for width, and left, centre, and right for height. Always record the smallest measurement to ensure the shutters fit comfortably within the recess. Check that the window opening is square and that there is sufficient depth to accommodate the shutter panels and frames.

For an outside mount, measure the area you wish the shutters to cover rather than the window opening itself. Measure the desired width and height, allowing sufficient overlap on all sides to block light and provide full coverage. Outside-mounted shutters are often used when window recess depth is limited or when a more decorative finish is preferred.

Common measuring mistakes include relying on a single measurement, ignoring window depth, or assuming walls and frames are perfectly square. Taking multiple measurements and double-checking dimensions will help avoid installation issues later.

Once your measurements are confirmed, you can choose the DIY plantation shutter system that best suits your needs. ShutterWise offers both traditional DIY shutter kits and more advanced systems designed to simplify assembly and installation, all made to measure for Australian homes.