Figuring Louver Depth Clearance for Your Plantation Shutters

Briefly, please kindly allow us to help you think about the clearance requirements for your shutter's louvers to operate free and clear.  The louver clearance consideration is one of the primary items that drives shutter frame and louver size design decisions.  For the purposes of this blog article we are assuming the industry standard 2.5", 3.5" or 4.5" louvers are in play.

The depth of your sill and your desired frame choice will drive the process.  Do you want a "Z" frame or do you need an outside mount frame to accommodate the opening?  Additionally, will a build-out strip be required behind the frame to provide the needed clearance.

The best way to help you visualize this is with a diagram.  As such, the diagram below shows three possible configurations and the clearance required depending on the louver size chosen.  Please note, the type of tilt rod chosen also affects this consideration, as on many shutters the hidden tilt rod will require an additional 1/2" of clearance.

Of course, we would love to help you determine the right shutter for your window's clearance.  Contact us today for a complimentary consultation and thanks for your interest in Latreia Blinds and Shutters!