You’ve got your heart set on beautiful plantation shutters to transform your space, but then you wonder — will they work with the cranks or handles on your windows?
It’s a common concern for many homeowners.
Those protruding bits of hardware might seem like they’ll get in the way, and you may worry that you’re stuck with blinds or curtains as your only option.
Well, let’s clear that up right now — yes, shutters can be installed on windows with cranks or handles, and it’s easier than you might think.
What’s the problem with cranks and handles?
At first glance, windows with cranks or handles can seem tricky when it comes to shutter installation.
Cranks, often found on casement windows, and handles, common on tilt-and-turn or sash windows, protrude from the window frame, raising concerns about whether they’ll block the movement of shutters or even make installation impossible.
This concern is totally understandable.
After all, you want your shutters to not only look stunning but also function perfectly.
The last thing you want is for the crank to catch or a handle to block the shutters from closing smoothly.
Fortunately, there are several ways to work around these issues, and you won’t need to sacrifice style or convenience.
How can shutters be installed on windows with cranks or handles?
The solution lies in choosing the right type of frame and the expertise of your surveyor and installer.
Let’s break it down:
- Z frames: One of the best options for windows with protruding cranks or handles. Z frames wrap around the edge of the window recess, creating more clearance between the shutter and the hardware. This makes it easier to avoid interference, and it also gives a polished, decorative trim around the window.
- Outside mounts: For windows with particularly obtrusive hardware, mounting the shutters on the outside of the window recess is a great solution. This approach ensures that the shutters are entirely clear of the cranks or handles, making installation smooth and hassle-free.
The key to success is having an expert surveyor assess your windows.
They’ll be able to determine the best frame and installation method, ensuring everything works perfectly together.
What shutter styles work best for windows with cranks or handles?
Now that you know shutters can be installed on these windows, you may wonder which shutter styles are most compatible.
Here’s a quick rundown:
- Café-style shutters: These half-height shutters are great for windows with cranks or handles, as the hardware is often located above the shutters. This keeps the crank or handle accessible without impacting the functionality of the shutters.
- Tier-on-tier shutters: Offering two sets of shutters that can operate independently, this style is ideal for windows with handles or cranks, giving you the flexibility to open the top or bottom section while still working around your window hardware.
- Full-height shutters: These work well too, especially when paired with Z frames or outside mounts to keep the cranks and handles free from obstruction.
But will my shutters still function smoothly?
This is probably your next question, and it’s an important one!
The last thing you want is for your new shutters to be a hassle because of your window hardware.
But you can rest easy knowing that when installed correctly, your shutters will function just as smoothly as they would on any other window.
Whether it’s cranks or handles, professional installation ensures there’s enough space for the shutters to open and close freely.
And don’t worry — your window hardware will still be fully functional as well.
Expert installers can even make adjustments to allow easy access to your window controls.
One of our customers had this exact concern.
They had beautiful casement windows with cranks and were convinced they’d have to give up their plan of installing window shutters.
But after a consultation with our surveyor, he recommended Z frames to accommodate the cranks, ensuring the shutters sat perfectly around the window while maintaining smooth functionality.
The result?
Gorgeous, fully functional shutters — and a very happy customer.
Ready for shutters that work with your windows?
To wrap things up, yes, you can absolutely install shutters on windows with cranks or handles, and it’s easier than you might have thought.
With the right frame, a bit of customisation, and professional installation, you can enjoy the timeless look of plantation shutters without any hassle.
So why wait? Book a free survey today and let us show you how shutters can be the perfect fit for your windows — no matter what kind of hardware you have.