How to Hang Interior Shutters

By: Alexandra Bandon, This Old House magazine

Shopping List

Supplies You Will Need

1. SHUTTERS
in most cases, must be custom-ordered. Measure each window separately.

2. SHIMS
used to center and hold the shutters in the window opening while marking the hinge locations.

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Tools List
Tools You Will Need
- Drill/driver with 1/8-inch drill bit and Phillips-head driver bit
- Combination square
- Folding rule
- Phillips-head screwdriver
- Self-centering bit,
  also known as a Vix bit
- Square-head screwdriver bit,
  for fastening hanging strips to window jamb
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Introduction
Overview
Steps:
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
- 6
- 7
- 8

7: Install the catch magnet

1 to 2 hours each
$150 to $400 for a standard-size window

Difficulty: Moderate Proper alignment requires some attention to detail, but the installation itself is quick

Sunlight streaming through windows can be an annoying distraction. Not to mention the neighbors who have more evening hours to look into your brightly lit living room. You could install shades to foil prying eyes, but swinging wood shutters would definitely be more interesting.

Interior shutters were the original “window treatments,” commonly used in Southern and urban houses, and they’re still a great way to add architectural and historical detail. They also help keep out winter’s chilly winds or summer’s oppressive heat. And they’re easy to install on any window because they attach to a thin frame that either sits inside the window opening or around the outside of the casing. As long as the frame is positioned correctly, the shutters will swing freely - and close out the day’s distractions with a satisfying click.