When ordering or installing shutters something we all have to take in to consideration is the frame that are shutters are going to sit in. Whether we are baring in mind the aesthetic and final finish of our shutters or the structural integrity of the shutters after installation, some common questions we hear are, do I need a 3 or 4 sided frame? Or should the shutters be fitted inside or outside of the recess. Both of these questions are very valid and in different situations there are different answers to both. Below we are going to explain what these answers are and why we recommend certain choices.

3 or 4 Sided Frames

A question we sometimes get asked by our customers is whether they should have their shutters mounted in a 3 sided frame or a 4 sided frame. This is a completely valid question and in many instances a 3 sided frame can be a brilliant option and can work well. But we would recommend that where possible a 4 sided frame should always be used. There are many benefits to having a 4 sided frame over a 3 sided frame, the biggest and most important being structural integrity. With a 4 sided frame you can expect your shutters to be much better supported on all sides and will reduce the risk of potential negative effects over time.

Having a 4 sided frame opposed to a 3 sided frame will help add longevity to your shutters and reduce the need for adjustments and tensioning over time. This will also allow your shutters to be fitted more securely on all sides and will help take some of the stress off of the hinges when bearing the weight of your shutter doors.

Inside or Outside The Recess

Another point to bear in mind when installing shutters into a house is whether or not the shutters are to be installed inside the recess or outside the recess. When a shutter is built it needs to be built correctly with the right installation process in mind, this can effect what frame your shutter should have.

When installing a shutter inside the recess there are 2 options, a ‘L’ frame or a ‘Z’ frame, the letter L or Z refers to the shape of the frame and how it is mounted in relation to the recess. A ‘L’ frame is as it sounds is a L shaped frame which when mounted into the recess, sits on a window sill square and allows itself to be screw in on all four sides (into the sill, walls and ceiling). This is a very secure way of installing a shutter and allows the shutters to be fitted back from the from the front of the recess, allowing some space on the window sill. 

A ‘Z’ frame is again as it sounds a Z shaped frame which is designed for shutters to be installed at the front of the recess. The Z shape allows for the shutter to have an overhang that protrudes past the recess and window sill, creating a lip around the recess and allowing for a very tidy and clean finish to the installation. This type of frame is brilliant when trying to achieve a finish where trying to save window sill space is not a concern, this allows for the shutter doors to be opened a full 180 degrees and lay flat against the surrounding walls.

Something else we get asked a lot of the time is whether or not shutters can be installed to windows which do not have a recess and the answer to this is yes. When installing shutters to a window which does not have a recess we would recommend using an Insert ‘L’ frame. This allows the shutter to be fixed through the front of the frame and into the wall surrounding the window. This is a great solution if a recess is absent from your windows and can also be a great resolution when trying to make sure your windows and handles have clearance to still be accessed. 

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At Surrey Blinds and Shutters, we combine quality craftsmanship with trusted service, ensuring every customer receives a smooth, professional experience from start to finish.

✅ Our Own In-House Fitting Team

All of our shutters are installed by our own experienced fitters — we never subcontract. You’ll deal with the same trusted team throughout your journey.

✅ Post-Installation Checklist

Once your shutters are fitted, we carry out a detailed checklist to make sure everything is perfect and you’re completely happy before we leave.

✅ 10-Year Shutter Guarantee

We stand by the quality of our products. That’s why all our shutters come with a full 10-year guarantee for your peace of mind.

✅ UK-Made Shutters in as Little as 5 Weeks

Need shutters sooner? Our UK-made range can be manufactured and installed in as little as five weeks – ideal if you’re working to a deadline.

✅ Established in 2009

We’ve been proudly trading since 2009, bringing years of hands-on experience to every consultation, installation, and customer we work with.

✅ Free Temporary Blinds While You Wait

Waiting for shutters to be made? We offer complimentary temporary blinds so you’re never without privacy or light control during the lead time.

Whether you’re fitting out a single bay or updating your whole home, we’re here to help from start to finish – with a team that genuinely cares.

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