Shutter Mounting Instructions

Proper mounting is crucial to ensure that you will enjoy your shutters for many years to come. Our experience suggests that most people choose shutters for their decorative qualities. Few will ever use their shutters in the traditional manner as a barrier to the elements. Therefore, in most cases, the easiest option is to mount your shutters directly to the structure. This method is not only the most secure, but it is also far less expensive than traditional shutter hardware.

Mounting Your Shutters in the Correct Position.

Some traditional shutter hinges align the shutter with the window opening into which it would fit when closed. Others provide an offset that allows the shutter to sit a few inches away from the window opening. So to achieve the look of an operable shutter on a modern window — without the complication and expense of traditional shutter hinges — you can mount the shutter over the window frame so that the inside edge of the shutter aligns with, or is slightly offset from the edge of the window opening (see photo at right). However, many people choose to mount the shutters against the outer edge of the window frame. While not technically correct, this often gives a cleaner look, provided the frame is relatively narrow. Our recommendation: forget about tradition and do what looks best to you. After all, that's why you chose Shutterstile shutters in the first place.

Mounting Options

There are four mounting options for you to consider. Following is a description of each. Whichever method you choose, it is important that you leave a space between the shutter and the wall to prevent moisture accumulation that could damage the shutter or the wall.

Regardless of which method you choose, please keep in mind that most of our shutters are constructed with floating mortise and tenon joints. To avoid splitting the wood, it is important that you avoid drilling into the mortises wherever two frame members meet. The best course of action is to avoid these areas completely. However, if you must install a fastener or drill a hole in the vicinity of a joint, it is generally safe to assume that the mortise penetrates each frame member no more than 50% of it's width or a maximum of 1-1/2 inches.

Remember, proper mounting is imperative. We cannot be responsible for damage that occurs to your shutters or to your home as a result of improperly mounted shutters.

1. Mounting with Shutterstile Z Brackets. We offer a strong and simple z-bar type bracket assembly that is more than adequate to support even the heaviest shutters provided it is properly attached to the structure. The exact method for using the z-bar bracket will depend on whether your home is masonry or wood frame construction [Note: stucco may be applied over either wood frame or masonry construction]. In addition to simple installation, there are no visible fasteners, brackets, or hinges once the installation is complete.

Masonry Mounting Instructions

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- PDF version

Wood Frame Mounting Instructions

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- PDF version

2. Mounting Directly to the Wall. If you choose, you may also screw your shutters directly to a masonry wall with an appropriate anchor system, or to a wood frame wall [provided that at least two screws are firmly anchored in the wall studs and two additional screws are set in a wood or plywood sheathing]. Be sure to predrill the screw holes in the shutters to prevent splitting. For shutters made of Koma PVC that are shorter than 48 inches, use one screw at each corner (four screws total for each shutter). For shutters made of Koma PVC that are taller than 48 inches, use one screw at each corner and two additional screws about half way up the stiles [the vertical frame pieces]. Remember to leave a space between the shutter and the wall to prevent moisture accumulation that could damage the shutter or the wall. Three or four washers should be sufficient between the shutter and the wall at each screw location.

3. Mounting with Traditional Shutter Hardware. Traditional shutter mounting hardware is available in a wide range of styles and prices from a number of online vendors or from high end hardware suppliers. If you want your shutters to be operable, we recommend that you select a strap style hinge that runs horizontally across the shutter attaching to both stiles (the vertical frame members) for maximum support. The accompanying photo illustrates the inevitable fate of an operable shutter that is improperly mounted.

4. Mounting Shutterstile's Exclusive Bahama-style Shutters. Bahama-style shutters are hinged at the top, to provide shade when open. While there are a variety of hinge systems available on the market for these shutters, if you purchase your Bahama shutters from Shutterstile, the hinge system is included and already attached to the shutter — all at no extra charge. And mounting couldn't be easier. With the help of a friend, hold the shutter in position against the window. Drive a screw into the center hole of the top mounting bracket. This supports the shutter while you square it to the window opening. Once everything is lined up, Add two more screws to the top bracket and you're done. [click here for instructions on installing our fully adjustable Bahama stay system.]

Installing Our Replaceable Tile Panels.

Panel installation is quick and easy. Simply insert the lip at the top of the panel into the groove in the bottom of the upper rail (see the accompanying figure). Simultaneously, lift up on the panel and push the bottom of the panel into the opening such that it rests on the two rubber bumpers on the bottom rail. Insert the stainless steel screw through the hole in the bottom trim piece and hand tighten. Take care not to over tighten. The screw need only be snug. Repeat the process for each additional panel.

Should you have any questions about mounting your shutters, please feel free to contact us. It's a good idea to ask before you order, to make sure you are planning to use the most appropriate mounting system.