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