How to Measure Your Windows for Shutters (Step-by-Step)

You've spent weeks looking at shutter styles online. You've compared colours, saved inspiration photos, and finally found the perfect plantation shutters for your Dubai home.

Then comes the question that stops many homeowners in their tracks:

"How do I actually measure my windows?"

It sounds simple enough—grab a tape measure, jot down a few numbers, and place your order. But when it comes to made-to-measure shutters, a few millimetres can make the difference between a flawless fit and a frustrating one. Too wide, and the panels may not close properly. Too narrow, and you'll be left with gaps that let in Dubai's bright sunlight and reduce privacy.

The good news? Measuring windows for shutters isn't complicated when you know exactly where to measure and what to look for.

Whether you're planning shutters for a modern apartment overlooking Downtown Dubai or a family villa in Arabian Ranches, this step-by-step guide will show you how to measure your windows correctly, understand the difference between inside and outside mount shutters, avoid common mistakes, and know when it's worth letting a professional handle the measuring for you.

Let's start with the tools you'll need and how to get accurate measurements the first time.

Why Accurate Measurements Matter

Shutters are built for your specific window, so every panel is cut to your numbers. A few millimetres out and the shutters may not close flush, can sit crooked, or leave gaps that let in light and heat, which is a real issue in Dubai's climate. Getting the sizes right means a clean, tailored finish, full privacy when closed, and better insulation against the sun.

 

What You'll Need Before You Start

You do not need anything fancy. Grab these before you begin:

• A steel tape measure (never a fabric one, as it stretches)

• A pencil and notepad, or the notes app on your phone

• A step stool for taller windows

• A second person to help with large or high windows

Tip: always measure in millimetres for the best accuracy, and measure every window on its own, even if two windows look identical. Older Dubai villas in particular are rarely perfectly square.

 

Inside Mount vs Outside Mount: Decide First

Before you measure, decide how your shutters will sit in the window. This choice changes the numbers you record.

Inside mount (recess fit): the panels sit neatly inside the window recess for a built-in, flush look. It suits deeper recesses.

Outside mount (face fit): the frame is fitted to the wall around the window. It is ideal for shallow recesses, or when you want to make a window look larger and block more light.

 

How to Measure Your Windows for Shutters, Step by Step

Follow these six steps for each window and you will have everything a shutter maker needs.

1. Choose your mount type. Decide on inside or outside mount before anything else, as it sets the rest of the process.

2. Measure the width in three places. Measure across the top, middle and bottom of the opening. For an inside mount, write down the smallest of the three; for an outside mount, measure the full width plus your chosen overlap.

3. Measure the height in three places. Measure the left, centre and right. Again, record the shortest for an inside mount, or the full drop plus overlap for an outside mount.

4. Check the window is square. Measure both diagonals. If they differ by more than a few millimetres, note it down, as your fitter will need to allow for it.

5. Measure the recess depth. Measure how deep the window sits from the wall to the glass. Depth decides whether shutters can be recessed and which frame style will suit.

6. Write it all down. Record width x height for each window, note the narrowest points, the mount type and the depth. Label each window by room so nothing gets mixed up.

Not confident about measuring your windows? Let Shutters Dubai take care of it. Contact our team to arrange a free, no-pressure home design visit, and we’ll guide you through the measurements and help you choose the right shutters for your windows.

 

 

Common Measuring Mistakes to Avoid

Most sizing problems come down to a handful of easy slip-ups:

• Rounding up or down. Always record the exact millimetre reading.

• Measuring only once. Three readings per dimension is the rule.

• Ignoring obstructions. Watch for handles, tiles, skirting or window sills that stick out.

• Forgetting the depth. Width and height alone are not enough for a recessed fit.

• Trusting a fabric tape. It stretches and throws your numbers off.

 

Measuring Tricky Windows

Some windows need a little extra care. Here is what to watch for and the shutter style that usually suits best.

For these windows we usually recommend a professional measure, whether you are looking at bay window shutters, special shape shutters for arches, or moisture-resistant bathroom shutters.

 

When to Leave It to the Experts

Measuring yourself is great for getting a quick idea and an instant estimate. But when it is time to actually order, the safest way to get a flawless fit is to let a professional measure for you. At Shutters Dubai, precise measuring is part of our free home visit, and it feeds straight into our expert installation so every panel lines up perfectly.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I measure for an inside or outside mount?

If your window has a deep enough recess, an inside mount gives the neatest, built-in look. If the recess is shallow or you want to block more light, choose an outside mount. When in doubt, our designer will advise during your visit.

What if my window isn't perfectly square?

That is very common, especially in older properties. Measure the width and height in three places each and record the smallest readings. Our team allows for any out-of-square when building your shutters.

Do I need to remove window handles before measuring?

No, but do measure around them. Note anything that sticks into the recess so your shutters can be built to clear it.

Can I get a price without measuring perfectly?

Yes. A rough width and height is enough for our online estimator to give you an instant ballpark price. We confirm exact sizes at your free visit.

Do you offer free measuring in Dubai?

Absolutely. Precise measurement is included in our free home design visit anywhere across Dubai and the UAE. You can also check our FAQs for more on the process.

 Final Thoughts

Measuring your windows for shutters comes down to being methodical: pick your mount type, measure width and height in three places, check the depth and squareness, and write everything down. Do that and you are already most of the way to a beautiful, tailored fit.

And if you would rather skip the guesswork entirely, we are happy to help. Book a free home visit and let Shutters Dubai measure, advise and fit your shutters, backed by our 5-year warranty.