What part of my window do I measure?
Measurements should be taken from the inside of the window casement. The surface area of this space would be the area that a traditional, functioning shutter would fill.
How many different measurements should I take for each window?
Recognizing that not all windows are created equal, it is best to measure the top of the window from left to right and the bottom of the window from left to right because accurate measurements are essential to the order process. When measuring window height, take one measurement on the left side, from top to bottom, and a second measurement on the right, also from top to bottom. If there is a variation in these two measurements, either width or height, use the smaller of the two dimensions in that pair.
Now that we have that out of the way, measure the width of the inside edge of the window's casement, as if the shutters would actually be closed. This measurement is called the pair width, or twice the measurement of one shutter.
Next, measure on the top left corner of the casement down to the bottom left corner. Repeat the process on the right side. These dimensions are commonly referred to as shutter height.
How do I measure for radius top shutters?
If you are replacing radius top shutters, the "high point" of a radius shutter is the measurement taken from the base of the shutter to the apex of the radius.
The "low point" of a radius shutter is the distance from the base of the shutter to the lowest point on the radius, or the start of the radius' curve.
If you're ordering a circle top shutter, follow directions for radius top shutters, unless you know for sure that the top of your window is a perfect circle. If it is, each shutter will be exactly one quarter of a circle. In this case, we simply need the pair width as that will automatically give us the circle's radius.
How often do I have to replace my shutter hardware?
Our shutter hardware is powder coated and galvanized, thereby decreasing the appearance and formation of rust. We're not saying that you will never have to replace your hardware, but it's probably something you can wait a half-century to think about once you have invested in our high-quality shutter hardware.
What difference is there between styles of shutter hardware?
Differences in shutter hardware distinguish one moment in history from another. Style, craftsmanship and technology have changed through the centuries, so there are many styles of shutter hardware to choose from. To discover what the appropriate style for your home is, or to explore more diverse options, call 800-250-2221 to speak with a shutter specialist or to order our free 68-page catalog.
Is your shutter hardware pressed in a machine, or is it hand-forged?
While we will not give away our blacksmiths' secrets, we can tell you that many of the shutter hardware pieces we offer are hand-forged by real blacksmiths in our area. Plates and hinges might be machine pressed, but the unique pieces are still done the old fashioned way with a hammer, an anvil and some elbow grease.
How do I install the hinges you sent? The Tiebacks you sent?
The application of each piece of shutter hardware differs from window to window; also, there are differing rules for the type of hardware to be installed. For a complete list of shutter hardware installation instructions, contact one of our shutter specialists.