Shutters Buying Guide
Shutter window coverings consist of horizontal slats, or louvres, that sit within a frame attached to the inside of a window. These louvres have been designed so they can easily be adjusted, allowing you to totally shut light out, let in a small amount or open them completely to the daylight.
Shutters have become an increasingly popular choice as they offer a stylish and versatile option, adding a touch of elegance to any décor. They can also be designed for most window shapes and are very easy to clean. Our Made to Measure shutter service gives you the option of six different styles, over 10 colourways and three louvre sizes, so you’ll have no trouble finding a shutter that works for your windows.
What Shutter Type Do Dunelm Offer?
Shutters come different styles, for example, full height, Cafe style, tiered and shaped. It might be hard to choose the right one for you, we have full height shutters available in our made to measure range currently.
Full Height Shutters
As the name suggests, full height shutters come as a single frame and cover the entire height of a window. They are the most popular choice when it comes to shutters because they offer maximum privacy and light reduction, making them suitable for bedrooms and bathrooms, in particular. They also provide good insulation against the cold and reduce outside noise. Full height shutters are easy to install and suit every window size and shape. Our Made to Measure service gives you the option of adding mid-rails at customisable heights, so you can open one section and not another, and you can choose from over 10 different colourways and three louvre sizes in our shutter range. Full height shutters are easier than other styles to clean but, one downside is, to let the maximum amount of light into the room, you’ll need to either open the louvres fully or the panels themselves. This shutter style will also cover period features, such as stained glass, which you might prefer to have on show.
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How To Measure For Shutters
As part of our Made to Measure service, we design and fit your shutters, but we need a few basic measurements from you first. Here's a quick guide to help you get the measurements we're after.
1. Make sure you have what you need
Make sure you have everything required before starting to measure. This includes a tape measure, pencil and paper for notes. If you want to ensure accuracy, a spirit level will also be helpful.
2. Start measuring the width
For the window width, you need to find two measurements. The first is the inside mount. Widths can differ slightly across a window, depending on where you are measuring them from. To get an accurate inside mount width, measure the width of the window opening at the top, middle and bottom. Note down the smallest measurement. The second window width measurement is the outside mount. Measure the width from point to point of where the shutters will be installed, adding extra space if you want some overlap.
The latter will typically be around 2-3 inches (5cms) on each side..
3. Measure the height
To find the window height, you'll again need two measurements. The inside mount height can be found by measuring the height from the top of the window opening to the sill at on the left, right and in the centre of the window. Note down the longest measurement.
The second window width measurement is the outside mount. Measure the width from point to point of where the shutters will be installed, adding extra space if you want some overlap.
The latter will typically be around 2-3 inches (5cms) on each side..
4. Remember the obstructions
Obstructions such as handles or locks may impede opening or closing your shutters so make a note of these, as well as the depth of the windows. You want to get the best fit for your shutters and make sure the style you choose works with what is already there.
Our Shutter Service
1) Free expert advice – Need order, styling and fitting advice? Just ask us – our friendly experts are on hand to help your vision come to life
2) Measure up – Our skilled fitters can measure and fit for you, or you can measure up at home with our easy-to-follow measuring guide
3) Order online – Choose from a range of styles, colours and finishes and order easily online
4) Professional installation – Fitting is included in the price so there’s no extra costs. We’ll be in touch to arrange a fitting appointment after you order with us
Shutters Vs Blinds
Shutters and blinds offer many advantages, but which works best for your home? We run down the differences to help you decide.
Feature Shutters Blinds Installation Are typically fitted inside the recess of the window Fitted to the top of the window Material Made from hard materials, such as wood or vinyl Made from fabric, thin metal or plastic Style Classic, versatile style choice that works with most decors Style options include Roman, Venetian, Roller and Vertical blinds Cleaning Can be cleaned easily with a damp cloth Can be difficult to clean, especially if they have small louvres Sizing Are always Made to Measure so they can be fitted correctly Can be Made to Measure or bought off the shelf Protection Offer protection from the elements, keeping heat in or out Some blind fabrics help keep the heat in or out. There's more choice when it comes to colours and prints too. Safety No cords so child safe Some blinds may have cords dangling to adjust height Flexibility Panels can be opened for Venetian style or open window look Adjustable height, allowing for a varying degree of light
FAQs
Variable light control (slats can move up and down).
Insulation properties & regulating temperature.
Made exactly for your window so can be a selling feature of your home when you move.
Curb appeal.
Yes they will block the vast majority of light, they are not 100% blackout so you’ll see some small amounts of light bleed coming through.
Some customers like to install a roller blind behind shutters where complete blackout is needed.
We recommend getting an expert to fit shutters, which is why all of our shutters come priced with fitting included.
Yes incredibly easy – just regular dusting and wipe with a damp cloth if needed.
Measuring for shutters is not too difficult; follow our measuring guide for step-by-step details
Yes, our shutters come with a 5 years guarantee.
If you have a problem after the 5 year period, simply call our expert team and we’ll be happy to advise.
We offer three louvre (slat) sizes; which one looks best in your home will come down to window size, room size and personal preference. Generally, the larger the window the better that larger louvres will look but our experts can help you decide what might look best in your home. Book a free consultation here.
Again, our experts can help advise but remember to consider how your shutters will look from the outside depending on your window panes & configuration.
Yes, the vast majority of windows can have shutters fitted; if you have any concerns our team will be more than happy to help. Book an appointment here.