First of all, this section applies ONLY to do-it-yourself-types. If you would like to turn the entire job over to your contractor, that's perfectly acceptable, and will give you that much more time to spend choosing the style and configuration of your gorgeous new shutters.
For the more stoic, here are some guidelines to follow when measuring for shutters:
ALWAYS take two measurements. As each window is not created equal, the measurement you take at the top of the window will vary slightly from the one taken along the bottom. Therefore, measure the opening along the top of the window, then measure along the bottom. Similarly, the height on one side of the window will probably be different from the other. Take a right-side measurement and a left-side measurement to ensure complete accuracy in measurement.
DON'T PANIC Note:
Unless your shutters will be used functionally, the slight measurement variations (1/4" or less) commonly found in historic homes aren't major concerns.
If at any time you should become confused about how or what should be measured, call us. One of our Shutter Professionals can guide you through the measuring process.
Note the window frame width.
Also note the wall's texture. Is it covered with brick, stone or siding?