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Measuring Bay Windows

This guide is suitable for measuring your bay windows. It covers both the in recess and non-recess fitting method for our classic shutters for bay windows. Take a look through our handy guide to ensure your measurements are accurate.

Splayed bay sash window in living room

What you’ll need

  • Steel tape measure
  • Pen or pencil 
  • Paper
  • Frame templates (download here)

Preparation

Unsure of how to measure a bay window for shutters? Don’t worry. Just follow our step-by-step instructions.

 

For further information on the configuration of specific shutter ranges, please make sure you read the "Product Spec" on the product pages.  

 

If you need some design help for your shutters on bay windows, we’re happy to get you started. Simply click the chat icon on the bottom right of the screen to speak to one of our friendly team.

 

You will be measuring your bay window in sections. Each section of your bay will require it's own shutter frame, so expect to order more than one shutter. 

 

Now that you’re ready to get started, you’ll first need to establish the type and depth of shutter frame required.

Step 1 - Choosing your frame type

In-recess
The in-recess frame is usually best suited to 'square' or 'box' bay windows, where the glazed panels meet at right angles. You'll need to be able to fix down into the window sill, up into the ceiling of the bay, and get secure side-fixings on the outer sides of the side return sections. 

 

You’ll need at least 60mm clearance between the front recess edge and any handles or obstructions. The frame screw holes are hidden behind the inner cover strip. You might find that you need to drill some additional face-fixing holes behind the front cover strip to get a secure fixing where the frames meet. 

 

Non-recess
The non-recess frame is ideal for fitting shutters onto the architrave or directly to the window frames of your bay window. 

 

Remember, the frame screws are concealed behind the front cover strip. The shutter will be secured directly to the window frame so you'll need to check for slat clearance.

Inside view of a Traffic White wooden shutter with an L Frame

In recess frame

Outside view of a Traffic White wooden shutter with a Z Frame

Front of recess frame

How to check slat clearance

Measure the projection of the obstructions, such as window handles. Measure from the surface on which the shutter frame will be mounted (architrave, window frame or wall surrounding the window). 

 

0-9mm obstructions - choose the standard frame with any slat size

10-30mm obstructions - choose the large frame with any slat size 

31-40mm obstructions - choose the large frame with the 64mm slat size

40mm+ obstructions - contact us for advice before ordering

Outside view of a Traffic White wooden shutter with an L Frame

Non-recess frame

Inside view of a Traffic White wooden shutter with an L Frame

In recess frame

Step 4 - Make deductions

Once you’ve got your smallest width and height measurements, take 2mm away from each width and 4mm from the smallest height size.

Curved bay PVC window in bedroom

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