Full height shutters

One panel, top to bottom

Full-height shutters can give a window a beautifully tidy, finished feel. If you like that classic shutter look, we'll help you decide how the panels should open and which finish works best in your room.

A full height shutter is the simplest layout. Each panel runs from the bottom of the window to the top, with louvres across the full height, and the panels hang on hinges inside a frame. You open them like doors or fold them back, and the whole window is covered or uncovered in one move.

It is a popular choice for tall windows that are not sash-style, and for rooms where you want a calm, uncluttered look. If you want to compare the other layouts, our tier-on-tier and cafe-style pages cover them. For general background, see our shutters page.

What is good about them

• A clean look. With no dividing rail, the louvres line up from top to bottom.
• Full control of light. Tilting the louvres lets you direct light up, across or close it down.
• Privacy while keeping daylight. Angle the louvres so people outside see slats, not you, and daylight still comes in.
• Fewer parts. One set of panels means fewer hinges and joins to look at.

Worth knowing

• A little less flexible. You cannot open only the top for light while the bottom stays closed. The louvres all tilt together, with some designs giving a mid rail. If you like that split, take a look at tier-on-tier or cafe-style.
• Tall panels are heavy. They need good hinges, and on very tall windows the panels may need a mid rail to keep them stable. Ask us how this works at your window.
• Space to open. Hinged panels swing into the room, so you will want room beside the window for them to fold back.

Louvre sizes, in general terms

The louvre is the angled slat. Shutters usually come in a range of louvre widths, from narrow to wide. Wider louvres give a more open, uncluttered look and let in more view when tilted, but they need a bit more room to tilt and can make a small window feel crowded. Narrower louvres suit smaller windows and give a more traditional rhythm. Which sizes are offered, and what they cost, depends on the range, so ask us to show you samples side by side.

Tilt rod or hidden control

Louvres are tilted either by a tilt rod, a slim rod mounted at the front of the panel, or by a hidden control inside the panel. The rod is easy to use and obvious to see. A hidden control gives a cleaner face but may not be available in every range. Both avoid cords, which is a safety advantage in homes with small children.

Hinged or bi-fold panels

Hinged panels open like doors, one on each side, each swinging into the room. Bi-fold panels fold in pairs and stack back against the side, which works where space is tight. The right choice depends on the window width, the sill and any radiators or furniture. We will explain what suits at the measure.

Privacy, light and practical care

Shutters can be a very good answer to privacy, though they will not make a room pitch dark. Light will show round the frame and between the louvres. Dust with a soft cloth or a duster that reaches between the slats, and wipe marks gently. Check the care advice for the material in your chosen range.

We do not make the shutters ourselves. We are here to help you choose, measure for them and talk plainly about what suits your window. If you are unsure whether you want shutters or blinds, our privacy without darkness guide may help.

Want a second opinion at your own window? Book a free measure and we will talk it through with samples in hand, with a quotation before you commit to anything.

Inspiration