Bay window shutters

Why a bay window is a little different

Bay windows have plenty of character, and shutters can be a lovely way to show off their shape. The measurements and panel openings need a little care, so we'll look at every part of the bay together before recommending a layout.

A bay window is a run of separate frames that meet at angles. Some are square bays with ninety degree corners, some are splayed, and a rounded or bow bay has many shallow facets. Shutters are made as rigid panels, so unlike a curtain they cannot bend round a corner. Each frame needs its own set of panels cut to suit its width, its height and the angle it sits at.

One set of panels for each window

The usual approach is to treat every window in the bay as its own opening. A three sided bay therefore gets three sets of panels: a left, a centre and a right. Each set can open on its own, so you can fold the side windows back for ventilation while the centre stays closed, or the other way round. This is one of the real advantages of shutters on a bay, because you control each face separately.

Within each set, panels are hinged to one another so they fold flat against the side of the opening. How many panels you need depends on the width. Narrow windows may take two, wider ones four or more.

Hinge posts at the corners

Where two sets meet at a corner, a hinge post, sometimes called a corner post or bay post, is normally used to join them. It is a vertical piece that holds the hinges at the angle of the bay, so both sets can swing without clashing. Depending on the angle and the design, a post may be a fixed angle or adjustable. It does add a visible vertical line at each corner, so it can help to think about whether you like that look. Some bays can be done without posts, depending on depth and angle, so do ask us.

Measuring and templates, in general terms

Bay measuring is where care really counts. Walls are rarely perfectly square, window frames can sit slightly out of line, and the angle at each corner matters. For a straightforward bay a careful set of widths and heights, plus the corner angles, may be enough. For an awkward or older bay, a template can help. That generally means a rigid or card outline of the shape of the opening, so the panels can be made to follow the real line of the frame rather than the theoretical one. We will talk you through which approach your bay needs when we visit.

Things we look at on the day:

• The depth of the frame, because panels folded back must clear handles and any sill.
• Whether windows open outwards or inwards, and where the handles sit.
• The angle at each corner, and whether it is the same on both sides.
• Any radiator or window seat below the bay.

Fit inside the recess or outside it

Panels can sit within the reveal of each window or be mounted on a frame that stands proud of it. Inside the reveal looks neat but needs enough depth. A surround frame outside the opening can give a cleaner edge and help with fixing into uneven walls. Which is better depends on your bay.

Light, privacy and ventilation

With louvred panels you can tilt the slats to let light in and limit the view from outside, and open whole sets for air. How much light is kept out when fully closed depends on the design and the fit, so we will not promise total darkness. Bays are often at the front of the house, so many people choose a layout where the lower part of the bay can be closed for privacy while the upper part stays open to daylight. For a look at other shutter styles, see shutters, tier on tier shutters and full height shutters.

Are shutters right for your bay?

Shutters suit bays well, and they are a bigger decision than a blind, so we are happy to help you take your time. If the bay is very wide, very curved or very uneven, it may be worth comparing with Roman blinds or curtains on a bay track. Our article on blinds for bay windows compares the options. We are glad to confirm what suits your window once we have seen it.

Not sure which way to go? Book a free measure, tell us what you have, and we will confirm what suits before you commit to anything.

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