Installing plantation shutters can be tricky, but it doesn’t have to be. There are quite a few different ways to mount your shutters, and how you do it really depends on your windows. The most important thing factor will impact your install is making sure there’s enough space to open the louvers, or your shutters won’t be able to do their job. Here’s a breakdown of your shutter mount options and materials:
Inside Mount Shutters (inside the window jamb): You’ll use an inside mount if there’s enough depth in your window frame to allow the louvers to open and close.
Direct Mount Shutters: hinges are attached directly to the wooden window jamb.
- Direct Mount: is usually the best method when the window jamb is made of wood, which gives a flat, solid surface to attach the hinge. The hinge is attached directly to the jamb, with no molding or hang strips needed.
- Indirect Mount: is primarily used with a drywall window jamb, and involves attaching the shutter hinge to a separate hang strip. It’s also used when the window dimensions are inconsistent (more than 1/4″ difference).
- Z-Mold: is an indirect inside mount used when the window framing is not even (square). The Z-Mold provides a square frame to mount the shutters so they hang properly without gaps.
- Zip Strips: Some stock size shutters come with zip strips, which attach to the inside of the window jamb, and allow you to adjust for the opening width in 1/8″ increments, for a professional-fitting installation.
Outside Mount (outside the window jamb). This mounting option is only necessary when the depth of the window doesn’t leave enough room for the louvers to open and close.
- Hang Strip: Is a separate strip of wood mounted to the wall outside the window opening. Most often
Outside Mount using L-Mold: shutters are projected out so louvers can open and close.
used on a window without a sill or trim, or with a just bottom sill and no other trim, it canalso be attached to existing trim if necessary.
- L-Mold: Used when shutters need to be “projected” away from the wall or window to allow louver clearance to avoid cranks, handles, mullions, etc.
- T-Post: Used to divide large windows into smaller window segments, for better shutter support. The T-Post also allows for projection of the shutter to provide louver clearance.
- Whatever your window configuration, there’s a way to make plantation shutters work in your home!
