Measuring shutters for bay windows

It might seem complicated, but with our bay window measurement guide for shutters, you’ll be done in no time.

What you’ll need

  • Steel tape measure
  • Pen or pencil
  • Paper
Measuring Tape
Pen And Paper

Preparation

Unsure of how to measure a bay window for shutters? Don’t worry. Just follow our step-by-step instructions.

If you need some design help, we’re happy to get you started. Simply click the chat icon on the bottom right of the screen to speak to one of our friendly team.

Now that you’re ready to get started, you’ll first need to establish the depth of shutter frame required. Please see below.

Step 1 – Choosing the frame type

Be sure to download the frame templates to see how to choose the correct frame and depth.

In recess
The in-recess frame fits beautifully into the recess for a look that’s sleek, modern, and perfectly flush with the wall.

You’ll need at least 60mm clearance between the front recess edge and any handles or obstructions. The frame screw holes are hidden behind the inner cover strip.

Non-recess
The non-recess frame is ideal for fitting shutters onto the architrave or directly to the window frames of your bay window.

Remember, the frame screws are concealed behind the front cover strip.

Outside view of a Traffic White wooden shutter with an L Frame

Non-recess frame

Inside view of a Traffic White wooden shutter with an L Frame

In recess frame

Step 2 – Check slat clearance

This step is only applicable for non-recess installations. When measuring shutters for bay windows and selecting this frame, it’s vital to check your slat clearance as you may need to upgrade to the ‘large’ frame.

Measure how far any obstructions protrude – e.g., window handles. Measure from the surface on which the bay window shutter frame will be mounted (architrave, window frame, or wall surrounding the window).

0-9mm obstructions - choose the standard frame with any slat size

10-30mm obstructions - choose the large frame with any slat size 

31-40mm obstructions - choose the large frame and only the 64mm slat size

40mm+ obstructions - contact us for advice before ordering

Step 3 – Measure the width

Firstly, please download the frame templates here and you’ll see how to choose the correct frame and depth.

Once you’ve downloaded and printed them out, place the templates on your windowsill. They shouldn’t overlap or sit directly below any window handles or obstructions.

Then, measure the width of each section, including the templates.

DIY Technical Illustrations 2022 26 Cropped

Bay window templates

Step 4 – Measure the height

Measure the height of each section to find the smallest size. It's important to use the same height measurement for each shutter in the bay. This is to ensure the slats and rails align.

For café style shutters, measure the height up to where you’d like the shutters to finish.

Measuring an angled bay window graphic

Angled bay window

Measuring a box bay window graphic

Box bay window

Step 5 – Deductions

Once you’ve got your smallest width and height measurements, take 2mm away from each width and 4mm from the smallest height size.

Mid-rails and T-bars

Full height shutters over 1500mm require a mid-rail measurement. Measure up to where you'd like the mid-rail to be centred.

Cali Bay Resize
A Traffic White wooden shutter with a central tilt rod and horizontal t-bar

For tier-on-tier shutters you will need to specify a T-bar position. Measure up to where you would like the T-bar to be centred.

And that’s it – you’re all done. Now that you’re all measured up, it’s time to start designing your ideal bay window shutters. Shop the range now.