Learning how to measure Bahama shutters is the first and most important step in ordering and installing this classic tropical window treatment. With just a few basic tools—a steel tape measure, ladder, pencil, and paper—you can complete the process in about 15 minutes per window. Accurate measurements ensure your Bahama shutters fit properly and operate smoothly once installed.
Also called Bermuda shutters, these top-hinged exterior shutters extend outward from the home to provide shade, ventilation, and privacy. Adjustable support arms hold the shutters open at your preferred angle, allowing you to control light and airflow. When closed, Bahama shutters deliver security and complete window coverage.
This measuring guide will show you exactly how to measure Bahama shutters for both inside-mount and outside-mount installations. You’ll learn how to record window width and height, account for hinges and support arms, and determine whether wood or PVC Bahama shutters are the best fit for your project. Because windows that appear identical often vary in size, following these steps prevents costly mistakes and ensures a professional installation of outdoor Bermuda shutters.
Use the detailed instructions and the measuring video below as your complete Bahama shutter measuring guide. With the right preparation, you’ll be ready to order shutters that not only look beautiful but also function perfectly for years to come.
Time needed: 15 minutes
How to Measure for Bahama Shutters
Observe and make note of any obstructions in front of the window that may prevent the proper installation and operation of Bahama shutters (trees, fence posts, etc.). Also, check the window frame for wood rot or decay that can be repaired in advance of installation.
A Bahama shutter mounts to the top of the shutter and just above the window opening. A single specialty Bahama hinge is the fulcrum that spans the full width of the shutter, allowing it to open. For most windows, the hinge requires at least a 1.1875-inch-tall vertical flat surface with enough structural support to allow screws to hold just above the opening. This is referenced as an outside mount, and the Bahama shutter will hang in front of the window.
The standard Bahama hinge is a total of 2.375” deep. From the back of the hinge to the front of the shutter is 1.5”.
Wood shutters are 1.5” thick, leaving no clearance behind the shutter. PVC shutters are 1.25”, leaving 0.25” clearance.
A 3.25” “Deep Top Hinge” is available, giving 0.875” margin for wood shutters and 1.125” for PVC shutters.
Deep windows that can accommodate the shutter to nest inside the opening can utilize a “Flat Top Hinge” that screws to the header.
Outside Mount
Measure so the Bahama shutter will overlap the window opening by at least 1-2” on either side.
Inside Mount
Measure from the inside left to the inside right of the window opening. Deduct 0.25-0.5” for clearance if planning for the shutter to nest inside the opening.
Vertical sub-stiles divide a Bahama shutter into multiple horizontal louver areas for added stability. They permit Bahama shutters to extend the full width of the window. Depending on the material, Bermuda shutters will likely require at least one vertical sub-stile as indicated on the ordering page.
Outside Mount
Measure the height so the shutter overlaps the opening by at least 1-2” on both the top and bottom. Account for the position of the planned location of the top hinge and potential interference of a lower window sill.
Inside Mount
Measure from the inside top of the window opening to the inside bottom. Deduct 0.25-0.5” for clearance so the shutter can nest inside the opening. Evaluate the window header for a firm mounting surface.
Awning Style
It is common to install Bahama shutters to project over just the top portion of the window. Some believe the optimum “awning style height” of a Bahama shutter is 2/3 of the window. In truth, the best height depends on the reason for installation. Functionality and appearance both factor into the determination. We suggest cutting a piece of cardboard to the approximate size and holding it over the window at the desired angle to simulate the look. The same ratio will likely be used for all windows on the property.
A divider rail is a horizontal bar, much like the top rail, that creates top and bottom louver areas within the exterior shutter. A divider rail is optional for Bahama shutters and is infrequently used because it can interrupt sight lines.
A divider rail can be centered by default or positioned at a custom location. If a custom location is desired, provide the measurement from the bottom of the shutter to the identified center of the divider rail. For two divider rails, note the location of each from the bottom of the shutter to the center of each.
The actual placement of the divider rail will be close to the location requested. The number of louvers, shutter height, and rail sizes determine the final placement.
Support arms are used to hold Bahama shutters in an open position. The support arms offered by ShutterLand are adjustable to more easily establish the best angle.
ShutterLand offers Bahama shutters in three different materials: aluminum, wood, and PVC. Aluminum hurricane Bahama shutters use a completely different set of measuring instructions. Wood Bahama shutters are a great choice for most applications. They sell at a lower price point, are lighter weight, and have been used for decades on homes throughout the United States. PVC Bahama shutters accurately mimic the look of wood shutters and have a projected longevity that far exceeds other materials.
Finally, choose a finish color. Bahama shutters are available unfinished, primed, or fully painted. View colors to make that determination.
Measuring for Bahama shutters is not complicated. A little time and patience will get the job done correctly. Record all measurements and specifications to price and place an order online.
Wood and PVC shutters are not the best hurricane shutters. Proceed to view and shop for aluminum hurricane shutters.
