How to Measure for Cafe Style Shutters
9 min read
A window with cafe style shutters in a variety of positions
If you’re considering giving your home a little makeover, installing cafe style shutters might be the perfect addition to your interiors. They not only protect you from prying eyes but also look extremely elegant and stylish. Before you make your final purchase, it’s essential to measure your windows accurately to ensure that you get the perfect fit. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through all the steps you need to measure for cafe style shutters.
What Are Cafe Style Shutters and Why Choose Them?
Cafe style shutters are a popular choice among homeowners for a reason. They are unique in the sense that they cover only the bottom half of the window, allowing light to flood in from the top half. These shutters are perfect for bedrooms and living rooms that require both light and privacy, as they keep your living space bright while still maintaining your privacy. They’re also perfect for enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home.
Another advantage of cafe style shutters is that they are easy to clean and maintain. Since they only cover the bottom half of the window, you don’t have to worry about cleaning the top half. This makes them a practical choice for busy homeowners who don’t have a lot of time to spend on cleaning and maintenance.
Additionally, cafe style shutters are a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. They come in a variety of materials, such as wood, vinyl, and composite, and can be customized to match the decor of your home. Whether you have a modern or traditional style, there is a cafe style shutter that will complement your home perfectly.
Benefits of Installing Cafe Style Shutters
Cafe style shutters come with a host of advantages that make them a popular choice among homeowners. They’re easy to install and require minimal maintenance. They’re also very effective at protecting your home against harsh sunlight, glare, and heat. Additionally, they improve your privacy without making your home feel isolated or dark. They offer both style and practicality, making them an excellent investment.
Another benefit of cafe style shutters is that they can help to reduce your energy bills. By blocking out the sun’s rays during the hottest parts of the day, they can help to keep your home cooler and reduce the need for air conditioning. This can lead to significant savings on your energy bills over time.
Cafe style shutters are also a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. They come in a range of styles and materials, so you can choose the perfect option to complement your decor. Whether you’re looking for a classic, traditional look or something more modern and contemporary, there’s a cafe style shutter to suit your taste.
Different Types of Materials Used to Make Cafe Style Shutters
The material you choose for your cafe style shutters is a crucial consideration. You can choose from various materials such as wood, vinyl, MDF, and many others. Each of these materials has its own unique characteristics and advantages, so it’s essential to choose one based on your preferences, budget, and specific needs.
Wooden cafe style shutters are a popular choice due to their natural beauty and durability. They come in a variety of wood types, including oak, maple, and cherry, and can be stained or painted to match your decor. Vinyl shutters, on the other hand, are a more affordable option that is easy to clean and maintain. They are also resistant to moisture and humidity, making them ideal for use in bathrooms and kitchens. MDF shutters are made from a composite material that is both strong and lightweight, making them easy to install and move. They are also resistant to warping and cracking, making them a good choice for areas with high humidity or temperature fluctuations.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring Your Windows for Cafe Style Shutters
The first step in ensuring that you get the perfect fit for your cafe style shutters is to measure your windows accurately. Here’s how:
- Measure the width of your window across the top, middle, and bottom. Use the smallest measurement of the three to ensure a proper fit for your shutters.
- Measure the height of your window from top to bottom and measure both sides to ensure that they’re symmetrical. Use the smallest measurement between the two sides to ensure a proper fit of the shutters.
It’s important to note that when measuring for cafe style shutters, you should also consider the depth of your window frame. This will determine the size of the shutter frame that you need to order. If your window frame is shallow, you may need to order a smaller frame size to ensure that the shutters fit properly. On the other hand, if your window frame is deep, you may need to order a larger frame size to ensure that the shutters cover the entire window opening.
Tools Needed for Measuring Your Windows for Cafe Style Shutters
Measuring your windows for cafe style shutters is an easy task, and you won’t require any specialized tools. However, the following tools can come in handy:
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Straightedge or level
Before you start measuring, it’s important to decide on the type of cafe style shutters you want. There are different styles and materials available, such as wood, vinyl, or composite. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to do your research before making a decision.
Additionally, it’s important to measure each window individually, even if they appear to be the same size. Windows can have slight variations in size and shape, and measuring each one will ensure that your shutters fit perfectly. Take your time and double-check your measurements to avoid any mistakes.
Tips for Accurately Measuring Your Windows for Cafe Style Shutters
It’s essential to take extra care when measuring your windows for cafe style shutters to ensure that you get the perfect fit. Here are some tips to help you measure your windows accurately:
- Make sure that the tape measure is straight and level when measuring your windows.
- Measure your windows both horizontally and vertically to ensure symmetry.
- Double-check your measurements to avoid any mistakes before placing your order.
Another important tip is to measure the depth of your window frame to ensure that the shutters will fit properly. If your window frame is too shallow, the shutters may not be able to fully close, while if it’s too deep, the shutters may not sit flush against the frame. It’s also important to consider any obstructions, such as handles or locks, that may affect the placement of the shutters. Taking these additional measurements and factors into account will help ensure that your cafe style shutters fit perfectly and function properly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Measuring for Cafe Style Shutters
Measuring for cafe style shutters may seem simple but can be easy to get wrong. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Measuring the window frame instead of the window. This results in the shutters not fitting correctly.
- Forgetting to take into account obstructions such as handles, locks, and architraves.
- Incorrectly measuring the height, resulting in shutters that are too long or too short for your window.
Another common mistake to avoid when measuring for cafe style shutters is not considering the depth of the window recess. If the shutters are too deep, they may not fit properly and could cause damage to the window frame.
It is also important to measure each window individually, even if they appear to be the same size. Windows can vary slightly in size and shape, so taking accurate measurements for each one will ensure a perfect fit for your shutters.
How to Determine the Best Width of Your Cafe Style Shutters
When choosing the width of your shutters, you’ll need to consider the type of mount you’re using. If you’re opting for an inside mount, deduct 1/4 inch from your measurements. This ensures that the shutters can be easily opened and closed. If you’re using an outside mount, add 2-3 inches to both sides of the window frame to ensure the shutters cover the whole window and frame.
It’s also important to consider the size of your window when determining the width of your shutters. For smaller windows, narrower shutters can create the illusion of a larger window and allow more natural light to enter the room. For larger windows, wider shutters can provide a more balanced and proportional look. Additionally, if you have multiple windows in a row, you may want to consider using the same width for all of the shutters to create a cohesive and uniform look.
How to Determine the Best Height of Your Cafe Style Shutters
The height of your shutters should be measured from the top of your window frame to the bottom of your window frame. It’s important not to add any additional measurements as it can result in shutters that are too long or too short.
Measuring Odd-Shaped Windows for Cafe Style Shutters
Measuring odd-shaped windows can be tricky, but it’s essential to get it right. The best way to measure these windows is by taking multiple measurements of each section of the window and averaging them out to get an accurate measurement. If you’re unsure about taking the measurements yourself, consider consulting a professional to ensure that you get it right.
How to Account for Window Frames When Measuring for Cafe Style Shutters
When measuring your windows for cafe style shutters, it’s essential to account for any window frames that may be present. Measuring the frame instead of the window may result in the shutters not fitting properly. It’s crucial to measure the window size alone and then add any extra measurements such as window frames to ensure a perfect fit.
Understanding the Difference Between Inside and Outside Mounts for Cafe Style Shutters
Two popular types of mounts for cafe style shutters are the inside mount and outside mount. The inside mount is installed within the window frame, while the outside mount is installed outside of the window frame. The choice of mount will depend on the type of window you have, as well as your personal preference.
How to Adjust Your Measurements Based on the Mounting Option You Choose
The mounting option you choose can affect the measurements you need to take for your cafe style shutters. If you opt for an inside mount, you’ll need to take measurements of the inside of the window frame. If you’re using an outside mount, you’ll need to measure the entire area you want to cover, including any additional space for brackets or frames.
What to Do if You Have Multiple Windows That Need Cafe Style Shutters
If you have multiple windows that require cafe style shutters, it’s essential to take accurate measurements for each window. Take measurements separately for each window and then order accordingly to ensure that you get the perfect fit for all your windows.
How to Order the Correct Size and Quantity of Cafe Style Shutters Based on Your Measurements
Once you’ve measured your windows correctly, it’s time to order your cafe style shutters. Ensure that you double-check your measurements before placing your order and take note of any specific requirements, such as material or color. Order the correct size and quantity of shutters based on your measurements to avoid any complications later on.
That’s it! With these easy-to-follow steps, you should have no trouble measuring for cafe style shutters and ensuring that you order the perfect fit for your windows. Remember to take accurate measurements, double-check your orders, and order the right type of mount to ensure that your shutters look amazing and function perfectly.
