Plantation shutters are heavier and less forgiving than blinds. We strongly recommend professional installation, but here's the full process if you're tackling it yourself.
Difficulty: Advanced — recommend professional installation. Time required: 60–90 minutes per window.
Prepare your tools: Drill with wood + masonry bits, spirit level, tape measure, pencil, screwdriver, ladder and supplied screws/plugs.
Dry-fit the frame: Hold the shutter frame in the opening (without screws) to confirm fit. There should be 2–3 mm of clearance on every side.
Shim and level: Insert thin shims behind the frame at each screw point to bring it perfectly plumb and level. Skipping shims is the #1 cause of binding louvres.
Pre-drill and screw the frame: Pre-drill through the frame at the supplied screw locations and fix into timber or wall plugs. Tighten gradually around the frame to avoid pulling it out of true.
Hang the panels: Lift each panel onto its hinges. Two-person job for panels above 1200 mm — these get heavy fast.
Test panel swing: Open and close each panel. They should swing freely without scraping the frame. Adjust hinges if needed.
Tension the louvres: Use the supplied tension screw on each louvre stack to set how stiffly the louvres hold position. Tighten gradually until they hold but still tilt easily.
Install magnets and trims: Fit any catch magnets and finishing trims. Confirm the panels close flush.
Shutter panels are heavy. Use two people for any panel above 1200 mm. Always shim and level the frame before driving screws home — over-tightening twists the frame and louvres bind. Wear gloves when handling painted panels to avoid prints.
Only if you're confident with precision carpentry. Most customers opt for professional install — it's included free on qualifying orders.
Tighten the tension screw at the top or bottom of the louvre stack, a quarter-turn at a time.
Generally no — frames are made to size. If your opening is wrong, contact us for a remake.
Bring a stable ladder and a second person. Don't attempt panels above shoulder height solo.