Situation OI, Offset with inset shutters

Hardware mounts to casing, shutter closes within window frame. Most common historic approach when shutters were fitted to stone or brick structures, or the windows were recessed on frame structures. Here the shutter must lie parallel to the window in the closed position, swing to clear the depth of the recess, and then lie nearly parallel to the surface of the structure. The required clearance is called “offset” and is built into the shutter hardware. I tend to discourage this approach when the offset exceeds 6” or so…. The open shutter just applies too much leverage against the fasteners screwed into the casing. We custom fit hardware for all such – accurate measurements are critical.

Situation OP, Offset with shutters mounted proud to the casing

Hardware mounts to casing, shutter closes “proud” on the casing. Shutters can be mounted fully on the casing as shown, often because storm windows fully occupy the window frame. Other times the shutters sit within the window frame, but protrude beyond the face of the casing. Tricky install, but the right hardware will make it work.

Situation MI, Masonry mount with inset shutters

The shutter hardware mounts to the exterior of the building, the shutter closes into the masonry opening. A very attractive approach to brick, stone, or stucco installations. Storm windows are not an issue here. The integrity (warranty) of the window is not compromised. Shutter leverage is greatly reduced. New generation fasteners make this a simple and very secure installation. Adjusting the “throw” on the hardware can cover or expose any portion of the face of the structure.

Situation MP, Masonry mount with shutters proud to surface

Again the hardware mounts to the structure and the benefits noted above apply, but here the shutter sits “proud” of the opening. A nice thing about this approach is the shutters don’t need to fit into the masonry opening, so shutter dimensions aren’t critical. If the shutters are for storm protection, having the perimeter of the shutters backed up by the structure greatly increases the rigidity of the closed shutters. In both masonry installations locks for storm use can be mounted to be easily reached from inside or outside.