Measuring Bay Windows
This guide is suitable for bay windows. It covers both the in recess and non-recess fitting method for our classic shutters for bay windows.
What you’ll need
- Steel tape measure
- Pen or pencil
- Paper
- Frame templates (download here)
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.
You will be measuring your bay window in sections. Each section of your bay will require it's own shutter frame, so expect to order more than one shutter.
Now that you’re ready to get started, you’ll first need to establish the type and depth of shutter frame required.
Step 1 - Choosing your frame type
In-recess
The in-recess frame is usually best suited to 'square' or 'box' bay windows, where the glazed panels meet at right angles. You'll need to be able to fix down into the window sill, up into the ceiling of the bay, and get secure side-fixings on the outer sides of the side return sections.
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. You might find that you need to drill some additional face-fixing holes behind the front cover strip to get a secure fixing where the frames meet.
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. The shutter will be secured directly to the window frame so you'll need to check for slat clearance.
In recess frame
Front of recess frame
How to check slat clearance
Measure the projection of the obstructions, such as window handles. Measure from the surface on which the 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 with the 64mm slat size
40mm+ obstructions - contact us for advice before ordering
Non-recess frame
In recess frame
How to check slat clearance
Measure the projection of the obstructions, such as window handles. Measure from the surface on which the 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 with the 64mm slat size
40mm+ obstructions - contact us for advice before ordering
Step 3 - Measure the width
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.
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.
Step 5 - Make deductions
Once you’ve got your smallest width and height measurements, take 2mm away from each width and 4mm from the smallest height size.
Optional Step - Midrail
If you're ordering a full height shutter over 1500mm in height, you will need to provide a midrail measurement.
A midrail is a fixed horizontal rail that provides structural support to your shutter panels.
Measure up from the sill to where you'd like the midrail to be centered.
Optional Step - T Bar
If you're ordering a tier on tier shutter, you will need to provide a T-Bar measurement.
A T-Bar is a horizontal frame piece that divides the top and bottom panels of your tier on tier shutter.
Measure up from the sill to where you'd like the midrail to be centered.
Find our how much it could cost to transform your bay window.
Provide your width and height to get an accurate price.
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