How to Measure Your Window Recess
Prior to measuring the final shutter size, confirm the usable depth of the recess and whether anything occupies that space.
Covered on this page
- Measuring for an Inside Mount
- Find the front reference point
- Examples of obstructions
- Check several positions
- Operate the window
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with an Architrave
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window with a Sill
- Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with a Sill and Architrave
Check your recess depth before measuring
As a clear guide, allow approximately 70mm of clear recess depth for an inside-mounted plantation shutter. Confirm the shallowest usable depth and measure to the first obstruction that could interfere with the shutter, including a handle, winder, lock, key, flyscreen or other window fitting.
Where the opening has around 70mm or more of clear space, you can typically proceed with the inside-mount measuring instructions.
Have less than 70mm, or an obstruction in the recess? An inside mount may still be possible based on the frame choice and where the obstruction sits. See our Managing Window Obstructions guide for the detailed clearance requirements.
Measuring for an Inside Mount
After you have confirmed that an inside mount is suitable, record the final shutter width and drop dimensions. Windows are rarely perfectly square, so measure in multiple positions instead of relying on one width and one height.
You will require a metal tape measure, something to record each dimension and a pen or pencil. Do not make your own manufacturing deductions.
Find the front reference point
Measure from the front face of the recess inward toward the window. Use the same reference plane around the whole opening.
Examples of obstructions
Security boxes, locks, winders, and handles.
Measure to the first obstruction
Stop at the first handle, lock, flyscreen, mullion or moving window part that could conflict with the shutter. This is the usable depth.
Check several positions
Measure near the top, centre and bottom on both sides. Use the shallowest clear dimension when checking frame suitability.
Operate the window
Open the sash and use the handle or winder. Confirm the moving parts don’t enter the space you are counting as clear depth.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window
- Measure the drop in three places: left, centre and right.
- Measure the width in three places: top, middle and bottom.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with an Architrave
The architrave doesn’t become the measuring point for an inside mount. Measure the opening inside the recess.
- Measure the drop in three places.
- Measure the width in three places.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Square-Set Window with a Sill
- Measure the drop in three places from the top surface of the sill to the inside top of the recess.
- Measure the width in three places inside the recess.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Measuring Inside Mount for a Window with a Sill and Architrave
- Measure the drop in three places from the top of the sill to the inside top of the recess.
- Measure the width in three places inside the recess.
- Use the smallest width and smallest drop.
Prior to releasing the order: if your recess is less than approximately 70mm deep, or incorporates handles, winders, locks, flyscreens or other obstructions, check our Managing Window Obstructions guide before finalising your inside-mount dimensions.
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