Choosing Plantation Shutters for Large Windows

If you are covering a large window with plantation shutters, you can follow the same simple measuring and installation guides as for any size window. Do not let the large size intimidate you. There are a few simple, smart choices you can make when designing your shutters for large windows to get a hassle-free and long-lasting result.

While it may seem that covering only a lower portion of your window or splitting the shutter into tiers would help reduce the weight of the panels, it is actually best to opt for full height shutters on a large window. Here is why:

• Cafe style shutters do not have a top frame since they cover only the lower portion of a window. The top frame piece provides additional support as well as additional magnets on the top of each panel to keep the panels properly closed and aligned

• Tier on tier shutters are split, so gravity works against the top tier, and each tier only has 3 sides of the frame to connect to rather than a full 4-sided frame around each panel

• Full height shutters come with a 4-sided frame for the best support, alignment, and longevity

You can add a mid-rail to full height shutters for additional support and to allow separate control of the upper and lower sections of slats.

Plantation Shutters Mid Rail Guide

For large windows, the number and width of panels matter for both looks and longevity.

Key guidelines:

• A single panel should be no more than 27" to 36" wide, depending on the material, to prevent warping or sagging over time

• For wider windows, use multiple panels folding out to each side to distribute the weight evenly

• Add a vertical T-post at no extra charge to split a wide window into separate sections, each with its own set of hinged panels. This prevents sagging over time and allows for separate panel control in each section

How T-Posts Help with Large Windows

Slat Size for Large Windows

Larger slat sizes like 3½" or 4½" are the best choice for large windows. They:

• Look proportionate against the scale of a large window

• Allow more light entry when open

• Avoid a busy, cluttered appearance that too many smaller slats can create on a large window

Which Slat Size Should I Choose?