Shutters provide a timeless aesthetic, all while being highly functional as they allow homeowners to control natural light more efficiently. Ultimately, they are an incredibly versatile window fitting with many benefits for your home.

For those who are considering shutters, you may be wondering whether they can fit any window.

Read our guide as we explore the answers to any installation questions you may have.

Can shutters be fitted to any window?

Shutters can be fitted to almost any window using several frame configurations. Regardless of whether they are casements, French doors, patio doors, or skylights, it remains an option. This even extends to more unique or special window shapes such as bays, as well as windows with no recess at all.

Fitting shutters can be completed by integrating two main installation approaches; either inside or outside of your window recess.

What is a window recess?

A window recess, also known as a reveal, form the aperture that your window is fitted into.

When considering shutters for your property, you need to know whether your chosen window has a reveal, as the depth can affect which type of shutters you choose to install. Additionally, check for any obstacles, such as handles or tiles, that may impact the installation. These factors will help determine the appropriate shutter frame needed and whether any modifications are necessary.

Can shutters be installed on windows without a recess?

L frame:

An L frame is one of the most recommended and popular installation options for windows that don’t have a window recess and are in line with the wall.

Outside mount:

This mounting method is when shutters are installed on the outside face of the wall surrounding the window.

Is it better to install windows inside or outside of the window recess?

If you have a window recess, you may wish to consider whether you want to install shutters inside or outside of the reveal.

Here are some things to help you decide:

Inside the window recess

Some people may prefer inside mounting as it doesn’t project and extend as much into your room. This can help save space, particularly in smaller rooms where they won’t protrude as much. Inside mounting can also provide great light control as they help to block out harsh light and can be tilted. In comparison to an outside mount, it allows you to have full access to your window sill.

Outside the window recess

An outside mount is usually applied when the window opens into the room to conceal any gaps or defects that your window and reveal may have. It can be better than inside mounting if you have handles, locks, or winders on your windows as otherwise it will be harder to open them fully.

The verdict

Ultimately, the best mounting for your shutters will depend on your personal preference and the overall layout and restrictions of your windows. 

Inside mounts tend to be more popular as they are more functional and help to provide optimum light control, while providing fewer obstructions when opening shutters.

How inside and outside mounts are measured

To ensure your shutters are installed correctly, your windows will need to be accurately measured. This can be best achieved by consulting an expert, like the ones at Shuttercraft, to assist with installation and tips on the best shutters for your home, regardless of the shape and size.

Here’s how we measure inside and outside mounts.

Measuring outside mounts

For the width, our specialists will measure the outside edge of your window frame from left to right in three different points, the top, middle, and bottom. From these measurements, we will take the widest result and add the width of the frame.

Next, we measure the height, which can be done in several ways. For windows without a window sill, we take measurements from the outside edge at the left centre, centre, and right points. If a window sill is present, we measure from the top of the sill to the bottom of the frame, ensuring to add the frame widths on accordingly. 

To calculate your window recess, our team measures the distance between the glass and the edge of your window wall or window frame. When measuring windows, we watch out for any obstructions as these must be factored into the calculations.

Measuring inside mounts

It is somewhat easier to measure for inside mounts as our expert will measure the recess in three places for both width and height, making appropriate deductions from the overall recess size to ensure it is level and square.

What other things do our experts consider when measuring windows?

Alongside inside and outside mounts, there are several other things we consider when measuring and installing shutters.

Window alignment

Windows that look square may be slightly out of alignment, even if it’s only by a few millimetres. As a result, our team takes special care to make sure the measurements are accurate.

Awkwardly shaped windows

For any awkwardly shaped windows, shutters can still be a great option as they are custom made to fit any shape. It doesn’t matter whether they are round, arched, or triangular shaped windows, our specialists can always find ways to fit them.

Getting your shutters installed by an expert

While shutters can be installed onto any windows, homeowners may find it overwhelming to decide what looks best for their home as well as making sure they’ve measured everything correctly. This is particularly the case for those with more unusual window shapes.

Here at Shuttercraft, we offer made-to-measure window treatments to suit all types of rooms. Our team is on hand to provide their expertise for all your needs, guiding you through the entire process from start to finish.

Whether you are looking for arched, bi-fold, French door, shaped, round, or skylight shutters, we will take time to understand and listen to your brief to ensure that you end up with your ideal shutters for your home.

Reach out to our team for more information.