Outdoor window roller shutters are versatile additions to any property, offering benefits ranging from increased security and privacy to enhanced energy efficiency and weather protection among others.

However, before investing in these shutters, it’s wise to consider the space needed for proper installation. This works to ensure optimal functionality and shutter integrity.

So how much room is required around a window for shutters?

Determining this involves assessing a variety of factors. These include things such as the type of roller shutter you’re interested in, the available space surrounding your windows and the installation method used.

In this guide, we’ll explore these factors in detail so you can confidently decide whether roller shutters are the right fit for your home.

Window Roller Shutters – The Basics

Outdoor window roller shutters consist of horizontal slats mounted within tracks. These interconnected slats form a shutter curtain that can then be raised or lowered to cover windows or doors.

Typically window roller shutters are made from durable and tough aluminium, but they may also be made of steel or PVC. Their longevity and performance are closely tied to what they are made of and how they are installed.

These shutters are increasingly popular in Victoria and across Australia, providing numerous benefits including:

• Enhanced security
• Neighbourhood noise reduction
• Insulation against heat and cold for better energy efficiency and comfort
• Outstanding light control
• Protection against adverse weather conditions
• Exceptional privacy and more.

Types Of Outdoor Window Roller Shutters

There are a few different types of outdoor shutters available, each with its own specific features and space requirements.

The two most common types include manual roller shutters which are operated by a crank or pull strap inside the home and electric roller shutters which are controlled by a switch or remote.

Less common, but gaining in popularity are smart roller shutters, which come equipped with automation and integration capabilities.

As each of these shutter’s dimensions, operating mechanism, and installation method vary, the space requirements for these shutters may also differ.

Space Requirements

To work out whether your home has the required space for your preferred shutters, we recommend a review of the following:

Clearance Space

Outdoor roller shutters require sufficient clearance space above and around the window or door opening to accommodate their installation and proper operation.

There must be enough space above the window to fit the shutter’s header box, beside the window on each side for the guide rails and at the bottom of the window so the curtain can sit flush and lock.

The exact amount of clearance needed depends on the shutter’s type, size, mechanism, and mounting options.

Generally, a minimum clearance of between 16.5 to 20.5 centimetres above the opening and 5 to 6 centimetres on each side is recommended to ensure smooth operation and prevent obstruction.

Roll Diameter

It’s essential to consider the roll diameter when determining the space needed above the window or door opening.

The roll diameter refers to the size of the roller around which the shutter material is wrapped when not in use. This roll diameter must be accommodated within the header box, meaning the larger the shutter, the larger the roll needed and the larger the required space.

For heavier shutters made from steel or extruded aluminium, a larger roll diameter may be required to accommodate the added weight of these and provide adequate support.

This is more common with high BAL-rated bushfire shutters, where even smaller shutters can be very heavy.

Installation Method

Outdoor window roller shutters can be installed in several ways, including face fit, reveal fit, and built-in fit. The installation method chosen will impact the space requirements and the aesthetic appearance of the shutters.

Face fit, also called on-wall installations, requires additional space around the opening for mounting brackets or tracks.

Reveal fit installations fit the shutter within the window or door recess, minimising space requirements.

Built-in fit installations integrate the shutters into the building’s structure, requiring sufficient space and only being possible during construction, and on commercial properties.

Mounting Surface

While not something you may associate with determining space, the surface onto which the roller shutters will be mounted may impact how the installation is handled and therefore how much space is needed.

The surface should be sturdy, level, and structurally sound to support the weight of the shutters and withstand external forces such as wind and rain. In some cases, this may require the shutter to be fitted higher or made wider to utilise an ideal surface on which to install.

Additionally, should the mounting surface have any obstructions such as protruding fixtures or architectural features, this may make installation more challenging. Adjustments may be needed to create space and avoid interference with the shutter’s operation.

Find Your Home’s Perfect Fit With Titan Shutters

Ultimately, while determining the space requirements for outdoor window roller shutters is an essential step, most homes can have shutters fitted without any issues.

Engaging experienced professionals will help to ensure you select the right shutters for your home and available space. At Titan Shutters, we custom manufacture every shutter to meet your home’s exact measurements and take into account all of the above factors.

This allows us to deliver exceptional results every time and guarantees optimal longevity and performance of your shutters.

To learn more about the required shutter space or to organise a free measure and quote for your home, contact our friendly team today at 1300 020 001.