.jpg "Bay windows are easy to measure for DIY shutters")
Welcome to another in-depth article about our favourite subject, shutters for windows!
This time we are exploring a very common question we get asked, are shutters for bay windows a good solution, which includes Victorian bay windows, specifically for DIY.
Many people we come across are concerned that shutters might not fit correctly with bay windows, particularly as there are so many variations of the bay, from straight bays, to box bays, curved bays and of course we have interior differences along with structural with:
- wooden bay surrounds
- uPVC bay window frames
- out of true wooden frames (especially upstairs bays in period properties)
- flush mounted bay windows
With so many properties in the UK adorning bay windows, we would hope that there were some commonalities, which allow us to measure and install shutters for bay windows, and yes there are and yes we do!
Bay window shutters are indeed not the easiest window to hang with this delightful interior product, however it is definitely not as bad as you may imagine! All older UK windows are out of true to some degree. This is inevitable in a temperate climate where we see settling and changes to most property structure. If you have ever seen any cracks in your exterior render, you will be seeing the effects of settlement. This means that windows end up slightly cock-eyed but no fear, the majority of window shutter suppliers will easily take this into account with some clever angles and adjustments. Don’t forget to read our article about Choosing Shutters for DIY install before you embark.
How to measure bay windows for shutters
You can click the image to get a larger view which explains the concept.
If you are embarking on the DIY route (good for you) you should bear in mind these tips. Taking measurements from at least 3 points in each section of the bay will ensure you get the smallest dimension exactly right. So, firstly lets explain that. If you are looking at your bay window and see a small panel on the left, two panels in the middle and a small panel on the right, chances are that you are looking at a box bay window. Whichever type of bay window you have, each panel is treated as a unique window for the purposes of hanging wooden shutters for bay windows. So back on with measuring. Take the left hand panel, and measure the width at the top, middle and bottom. Lets say you get 40cm, 41cm and 39cm. The difference is where settlement and house breathing has occurred (probably!). So when ordering your shutters use the smallest measurement. This means that the supplier will give you a shutter whatever the design, which will at least fit into the space. Now repeat this with the height getting three measurements. Again take the shortest and use this as the size to manufacture. SO if you got 134cm, 136cm and 133cm you would take 133cm as the size, giving you the finished dimension for your LEFT bay window as 39 width x 133 high.
Well that makes sense, how about the gaps? No fear, just use some decorators caulk. When the shutter is screwed to the frame or wall, you will be able to cover these minor gaps easily and decorate over the top, just as we do around door frames and walls. Very common, no shortcuts, just a great finish bay window shutter which fits a treat!
How about Shutters for uPVC Bay Windows?
The same applies, if you are installing yourself, check the frame size of the uPVC and the panel within the bay, and speak to your supplier as to whether you will be using shutters within the frame or sitting flush on the wall. This will dictate the dimensions you use for the actual size of the bay window shutters you buy.
If you are feeling slightly daunted don’t forget you can always call on a professional installer to help you out, but good luck and let us know how you get on!
