Roller Shutter Measurement
How To Measure Roller Shutters
Measuring for roller shutters sounds simple, until you realise how much depends on getting it right. A small miscalculation can lead to gaps, installation issues, or shutters that just don’t sit properly. In Adelaide homes, where window styles and layouts vary quite a bit, taking accurate measurements isn’t something you want to rush.
At iDeal Roller Shutters, we guide you through the process so you can measure with confidence and avoid costly mistakes later.
Window roller shutters can be installed in different ways, either attached to the fascia/eaves or just above the window. The right approach depends on your window setup. Below are the most common scenarios found in Australian homes.
Case 1: Distance Between Window Top and Eaves/Fascia is Less Than 300 mm
Height Measurement (in millimetres)
When the gap between the fascia and the window is less than 300 mm, the head-box (pelmet box) is mounted directly onto the fascia.
Measure from the fascia down to the window sill. Take measurements from both sides of the window and use the longer one as your final height.
Width Measurement (in millimetres)
Measure the structural opening (brick-to-brick width). Take three measurements: one at the top, one in the middle, and one at the bottom. The smallest measurement will be your final width.
Case 2: Distance Between Window Top and Eaves/Fascia is More Than 300 mm
Height Measurement (in millimetres)
If the gap is more than 300 mm, you have flexibility in positioning the head-box. It can be mounted just above the window or closer to the fascia.
In most cases, mounting just above the window is recommended, as going all the way up to the fascia isn’t necessary.
To calculate the finished height, measure the window height and add 250 mm.
Width Measurement (in millimetres)
Again, measure the structural opening (brick-to-brick). Take measurements at the top, middle, and bottom, and use the smallest value.
Case 3: Window Positioned Close to Fascia (Less Than 300 mm)
Height Measurement (in millimetres)
When the window sits very close to the fascia, the total height runs from the fascia down to the window sill.
In this setup, the head-box will cover part of the window, this is unavoidable. The size of the head-box depends on the overall height of the shutter.
Measure both sides of the window and use the longest measurement as the final height.
Width Measurement (in millimetres)
Measure the structural opening and take three readings, top, middle, and bottom. Take the smallest measurement and use it as your final width.
Head-Box Sizes Based on Shutter Height
The size of the head-box depends on the total height of the shutter:
- Up to 1150 mm → 150 mm head-box
- Up to 1535 mm → 165 mm head-box
- Up to 2020 mm → 180 mm head-box
- Up to 2640 mm → 205 mm head-box
- Up to 3370 mm → 230 mm head-box
Important Things to Check Before Measuring
There are a few details that can easily be overlooked but make a big difference during installation:
- Always take measurements in millimetres
- If doors or windows open outward, check if they will still open once the shutter is installed. If needed and space allows, add 300 mm to the total height
- Keep in mind the shutter will hang at least 55 mm into the guide rails below the box
- Measure the top, middle, and bottom within the clear opening
- Make sure there is enough space for the head-box and guide rails on both sides for on-wall installation, this is critical
- Check for protruding handles or fixtures that may interfere
What If There Are Protruding Handles?
If your door or window handle sticks out past the wall, it can interfere with the shutter’s movement.
To fix this, we can install packers behind the guide rails. These are custom-fitted to create enough clearance so the shutter operates smoothly.
- Packers are fixed to the wall, with guide rails installed over them
- They are matched to the colour of the shutter or guide rails (custom colours can be requested)
- Packers are not included in standard installation
- Additional cost: $38.50 per metre (including GST)
What If There Is No Window Sill?
Roller shutters normally close down onto a window sill. If there isn’t one, we install a support angle to create a stopping point.
A 50 x 24 mm angle is fitted to the guide rails:
- 50 mm faces upward
- 24 mm faces inward
- Available in standard colours to match shutters or guide rails
- Not included in standard installation
- Additional cost: $16.50 per metre (including GST)
Reach Out To Us for Easy Measurements
Still confused on measurements, contact iDeal Roller Shutters. We're here to help you take measurements.
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