How to Measure for Plantation Shutters (Step by Step)
Custom plantation shutters are built to your exact measurements, so the numbers you send are the numbers your shutters are made from. The good news: measuring is easy if you take your time. All you need is a metal tape measure, a pencil and paper (or the notes app on your phone), and your phone's camera.
This guide walks through exactly how to measure for plantation shutters, how to choose between an inside and outside mount, and the small mistakes that cause the biggest headaches.
Before You Start: Label Every Window
Even windows that look identical can be off by a fraction of an inch. Measure and label each window separately, by room and position (for example, "Living Room, Left of Fireplace"). It takes an extra minute per window and saves a lot of guessing later.
Step 1: Measure the Width
Measure across the window opening from left to right in three places: near the top, in the middle, and near the bottom. Write down all three numbers.
Most window openings aren't perfectly square, and three measurements show you that. Don't round up or down to make a number look cleaner. Record exactly what the tape says.
Step 2: Measure the Height
Measure from the top of the opening down to the bottom in three places: the left side, the center, and the right side. Again, write all three down exactly as measured.
Step 3: Measure the Depth
Depth is how deep the window recess is, from the glass to the front edge of the frame. This number decides which mount style will work.
Inside-mount shutters need at least 2 1/2" of depth.
Watch for anything that sticks out into that space: window cranks, locks, alarm sensors, or handles. Louvers need room to tilt without hitting them.
Step 4: Take Photos
Photos help a specialist catch issues a tape measure can't. For each window, take:
A straight-on photo of the whole window
A side-angle photo that shows the depth of the recess
Close-ups of the frame, trim, and any hardware
Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount Shutters
Inside mount means the shutter fits inside the window opening. It gives a clean, tucked-in look that shows off your trim. Choose it when you have at least 2 1/2" of depth and the opening is reasonably square.
Outside mount means the shutter's frame attaches around the opening, on the wall or trim. Choose it when the recess is too shallow, when hardware is in the way, or when the opening is noticeably out of square.
Not sure which fits your window? Send your measurements and photos with your quote request and a specialist will review them with you before anything is built.
Special Windows: Arches and Doors
Arched windows need three extra measurements plus photos, so a specialty shape can be made to fit. For French doors and other doors, include the glass dimensions, the space around the door, and close-ups of the handle and hardware. Note that steel doors can't be fitted with shutters.
Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid
Rounding numbers. Record exactly what you measure.
Measuring once. Take three width and three height measurements per window.
Mixing up width and height. Always write width first, then height.
Using a cloth tape. A metal tape measure stays straight and accurate.
Assuming matching windows are the same size. Measure each one.
Ignoring obstructions. Cranks and locks can block louvers on an inside mount.
Editor note (image): Diagram or photo comparing an inside-mount shutter and an outside-mount shutter side by side. Alt text: "Side-by-side comparison of inside mount and outside mount plantation shutters on a window"
What Happens After You Measure
At ShuttersDirectUSA, your measurements aren't locked in the moment you send them. A specialist reviews your numbers and photos and confirms the details with you. Nothing goes into production, and you don't pay anything, until you approve your final quote. Rough measurements are fine to get a starting quote; exact measurements are confirmed before production.
You can also download our free two-page measuring worksheet from the measurement guide to keep everything organized.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I measure inside or outside the window frame for shutters? For an inside mount, measure inside the opening. For an outside mount, measure the area around the opening where the frame will sit. If your recess is shallower than 2 1/2", outside mount is the way to go.
How much depth do I need for inside-mount shutters? At least 2 1/2" from the glass to the front edge of the frame, with enough clearance that the louvers won't hit cranks or locks.
Should I round my measurements? No. Record exactly what you measure. Custom shutters are built to your numbers.
What if my windows aren't square? That's why you measure in three places. Send all three numbers and photos, and a specialist will help you decide whether an inside or outside mount fits best.
Can I measure for shutters myself? Yes. Most homeowners can measure their own windows with a metal tape and this guide, and ShuttersDirectUSA has a specialist review your measurements before production.
Ready to Get Started?
Grab your tape measure, label your windows, and request your free quote. Want to see the colors and louver sizes in your own light first? Request a free sample pack. There's no payment until you approve your quote. Questions? Call us at 251-220-2135.
