How to Install Window Shutters
Anyone can install their own shutters. All you have to do is find window shutters that are built for your windows and know how to follow directions from the window shutters manufacturer.
Many times, the company that sells you the shutters will try to convince you that a professional should install your shutters. This is not true and if you can follow directions, you can install your own window shutters like a professional.
Measure Your Windows
The most important part of having shutters that are correctly installed is that you correctly measure the window. To do this, you will have to decide whether you want the shutters mounted outside of the window frame or inside.
Mounting Your Shutters Inside the Window
It is very common to mount the window shutters on the window opening’s inner part. This method looks more clean and customized. Mounting the window shutters to the window frame’s outside takes a little more work and time, because they will have to be hung with extra hang strips so that they will be sturdy. You window will have to be somewhat square, however, for the shutters to hang right and you need to have a frame that is solid to screw the shutters into.
Determining the depth of your window is very important. You need to find the measurement from the front of the window to the place where your louvers may have trouble rotating. The company that you place your shutter order with should be able to tell you what depth that you should measure to make sure that your shutters will fit correctly.
In many cases, your shutter’s supplier can give or offer you another inside mounting choice that will use concealed hanging strips that will let you to adjust the shutters left, right, down, or up to help them to be correctly aligned in your window. This method works well, especially if your window is not square or there is not a wood jamb solid enough to screw into.
Mounting your Shutters Outside the Window
If you want to mount your shutters on the outside, you will need to use frame strips that you attach to the wall or you can use the existing trim that runs around the outside of the window opening. Usually your frame will go around three of four sides of the shutter panels to keep them firmly attached.
The cafe shutters will use hang strips on each side of the shutters. These strips screw directly into the wall or window trim and then you connect the shutters to the strips.
It is important to measure at least twice because your shutters will not work or look right if the measurement is off. A tape measure made of steel is best, because it is more accurate than a yardstick or fabric tape. By following these tips, you will be on your way to installing your beautiful shutters in no time.
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