Tips for Selecting the Right Frame for Your Shutters

Shutters can add function and style to a house, and they’re easy enough to install on your own with some preparation. The tricky part is deciding on the right mounting frame and style that you would like. Read on to learn more about choosing the right frame for your shutters.

Selecting Inside or Outside Mount

Shutters can be mounted two different ways, either inside the window frame or outside the window frame.

Inside Mount

Inside mount frames attach directly to the inside of the window opening. If you’d prefer your shutters to be mounted inside the window frame, you’ll need to check that the windows are square and that there will be sufficient clearance space between the window hardware and the shutters. Without enough clearance space, the shutters might not open and shut properly. Take a minute to carefully inspect all around your windows. Do you see an alarm system, cranks for tilt-in windows, handles, or latches? If so, this style isn’t right for you and you’ll need to choose an outside mount frame.

Outside Mount

Outside mount frames are mounted outside the window frame and are attached directly to the wall. Outside mount frames completely cover the window and frame.

Choosing the Right Frame

Once you’ve decided whether your new shutters will be mounted inside or outside of the window frame, it’s time to decide which frame would look best. Eclipse shutters are offered in 6 styles: Z Frame (inside mount): Decorative frame that blends well with all types of trim. Excellent for slightly out of square windows because the extended flange covers any imperfections. Deluxe Trim Frame (inside mount): The largest, most decorative frame that is used for inside mounts in openings with drywall returns and without trim. May be ordered with Sill Frame at bottom for openings with window sill. Trim Frame (inside mount): Decorative frame that is used for inside mounts in openings with drywall returns and without trim. May be ordered with Sill Frame at bottom for openings with a window sill.
L Frame (inside or outside mount): A functional frame that may be used for inside mounts if window openings are square, or outside mounts directly on top of trim or beside trim. The L frame can be used on an inside mount if you already have decorative trim that you do not wish to cover up. Casing Sill/Decorative L Frame (inside or outside mount): A smaller decorative frame that may also be used as a stand alone frame. Use the casing sill as an alternative to the L Frame in both inside and outside mount applications. Casing Frame (outside mount): A decorative frame that is used to cover existing trim. It is installed directly into the wall and is outside mount only.
shutters may lie very close to the window or extend further away. The clearance between window and shutter is important; too narrow and the shutters can’t rotate fully open. You can check this with a shutter sample kit, which includes inside and outside mount frames and a sample panel with tilt bar. If the sample panel you set up meets resistance when opening, you’ll need an outside mount frame or deeper projection.

Ready to Get Started?

The success of any home improvement project depends on the preparation of the installer and quality of materials used. Eclipse Shutters offers both inside and outside mount installation videos to ensure an seamless installation. At Eclipse Shutters, we provide quality and beautiful shutters that you and your family will enjoy for many years to come. We are the largest manufacturer of custom shutters with over 20 years of experience in this industry. Contact us and take the first step to improving your home.