Verify the opening and labels

Match the room and opening ID to the packaging. Confirm width, height, mount, frame, panel count, hinge direction, divider rail, louver size, finish, and damage before drilling or removing protective material.

Dry-fit and square the frame

Assemble or position the frame according to the product instructions. Use shims to hold it square and plumb without twisting. Check sash, handle, screen, sill, trim, and louver clearance before setting all fasteners.

Hang and align panels

Install panels in their labeled positions. Check reveals, hinge pins, meeting stiles, magnets or catches, panel swing, louver movement, divider rails, and contact with the sill or floor. Adjust the frame before treating a panel as defective.

Finish deliberately

Tighten fasteners without distorting the frame. Trim or conceal shims only as allowed. Install plugs or caps, clean with nonabrasive products, keep labels and care information, and photograph the completed opening.

Turn the guide into a complete opening schedule.

Keep every finished width and height, mounting surface, jamb depth, panel arrangement, material, finish, hardware part, photo, and delivery note connected to the same opening ID.

Start the configuration

Questions about this topic

Can plantation shutters be installed in an out-of-square opening?

Often, a framed system and controlled shimming can accommodate some variation. The amount and direction of the variance must be measured, and the selected frame still needs adequate attachment and usable panel clearances.