Shutter Measuring Guide for Box Bay Windows

This information will help you successfully measure your shutters. If possible please print this in colour to help you clearly see where you should measure.

For further assistance call us on 0845 123 5661 or email hello@thecaliforniacompany.co.uk. We recommend downloading and printing the PDF below. You can also download our Shutter template cut outs.

Your box bay shutters will be supplied with 3 individual frames. 1 large central frame, 2 smaller side frames and 2 corner wood posts.

1. It is recommended that you use our small templates which replicate the size of the frame, these are available on the site to print off.  Position the template on the window sill as shown in the photo and sketch.  When the frames in either corner are installed they will butt up to each other and create the empty gap for the corner posts.
2. Your decision on which size frame template to use on your window will be determined by the following.....

• If you want to order shutters with 64mm slat size ... use frame ref: 4033.
• If you want to order shutters with 89mm slat size ... frame ref: 4034.
• If you have large handles on the windows which may restrict the full tilting of the slats then choose frame ref: 4034.
• Use the information detailed on our 'Checking for obstructions' sheet for help or if unsure call our team on 0845 123 5661.

3. Once your chosen frame profiles and the corner post templates are in position on your window sill ....
Measure the width required for all three shutter frames. Please see where to measure marked in RED in diagram.
4. It is important that when you measure the drop, that you request the same height for all 3 windows in the box bay. This ensures that all panels will have equal top and bottom rails and equal number of slats in the panels.
5. If you want to include a midrail in the panels, measure up from the sill to the mid point on the window where you want the rail centered.  Again, this should be the same measurement on all windows in the bay.  If there is a divide or rail on the actual window it is always best to mirror this location on the shutter panels.  This is normally in middle or 3/4 way up the window.
6. We supply you with 2 solid wood posts which you will position in each of the empty corners. You can secure side and front window frames into these posts.  [Marked in grey in diagram]
7. Use a steel tape measure and do measure in a couple of places on every window to ensure it is square.  If the window is not square always choose the smallest measurement it needs to be.

If you would like further advice on your actual window, please email a clear digital image to hello@thecaliforniacompany.co.uk .Ensure all curtains are moved away from the window and that handles and the full window is in the photo.

Flat L frame ... Suitable for a slat size of 47mm or 64mm
FRAME ref: 4033 measures 33mm wide x 57mm deep

Plan view of window & frame looking down from above
(frame shown 4033)

Flat L frame ... Suitable for a slat size of 89mm FRAME ref: 4034 measures 33mm wide x 67mm deep

Plan view of window & frame looking down from above
(frame shown 4034)

The green lines above show where your shutter frames will fit. You need to measure as indicated by the black arrows.

Remember – the dimension you give to us includes the frame itself.
To measure please refer to the instructions at the beginning of this section and use the templates supplied.

Before measuring, look for any obstructions on the window. You need to make sure that you avoid the possibility of the slats tilting open and hitting any obstacles such as handles or phone junction box.

We advise that phone points, if they sit in the way of the shutter frame, should be moved. This is generally the case with 3 section Victorian sash windows. However for handles, especially on UPVC windows, it is not easy to change these and you therefore need to ensure you measure correctly to accommodate the handles.

• Measure how far into the room the handles protrude.
• Depending on the slat size you choose check if you will have enough clearance or if you need to pull the frame forward.
• Remember, you can always order a deeper frame if you choose. For example a 4032 (67mm deep) frame for a 47mm slat. We can also custom make a non standard depth frame for additional cost.

Below is an example of how the shutters look on a half box bay window when installed.