Quick answer
To measure a window for roller shutters: measure the width and height of the opening at three points each, take the smallest measurement, and add allowances depending on whether the shutter is face-fixed (over the window architrave) or reveal-fixed (inside the window opening). Always measure in millimetres.
A 5 mm error on width can make the difference between a shutter that runs smoothly and one that binds. Measure twice. Have someone else verify before you submit dimensions to the supplier.
- Who this is for
- DIYers preparing to order a cut-to-size roller shutter kit.
- Key takeaway
- Width is measured at three heights; height is measured at three widths; you order from the smallest reading.
Cut-to-size kits cannot be returned for an incorrect measurement. This guide walks through the exact measurement procedure used by professional installers, in millimetres, with the tolerances and checks that catch the most common errors.
Typical price ranges
Indicative supplied-and-installed pricing across Australia in 2026. Final pricing depends on installer assessment.
Tape measure (5 m or longer)
$15-$40
metal, locking, clearly marked in mm
Spirit level (1.2 m)
$25-$80
check window is square
Notepad or measurement template
$0-$5
most suppliers provide a PDF template
What changes the price
Face-fix vs reveal-fix
Face-fix mounts the shutter onto the wall over the window architrave. Wider tolerance, easier to install, slightly larger total footprint. Reveal-fix mounts inside the window opening. Tighter tolerance, neater look, requires more accurate measurement and a square opening.
Square vs out-of-square openings
Older homes often have windows that are 5-15 mm out of square. Always measure at three points and use the smallest. If the opening is more than 20 mm out of square, face-fix is the safer choice.
Headroom for the head box
You need 200-300 mm of clear wall above the window for the head box, depending on the kit. Confirm before measuring.
Side clearance for channels
Reveal-fix needs the side channels to sit inside the window reveal. Confirm there's 50-80 mm of usable depth.
Tools you need
- 5 m metal tape measure, locking, marked clearly in millimetres.
- 1.2 m spirit level.
- Notepad with the supplier's measurement template (most suppliers provide a PDF).
- Pencil for marking the wall lightly at the head box location.
- Step ladder if the window is above eye level.
- A second person. Measurements should be verified by someone else.
Measuring face-fix (recommended for first-time DIY)
For face-fix you're measuring the area of wall the shutter will cover. Measure the width between the outer edges of the architrave and add 50-80 mm each side per the kit's specification. Measure the height from where the head box will sit (200-300 mm above the architrave) down to the windowsill, then add 50 mm for the bottom rail clearance. Confirm the exact allowances with the supplier. They vary by kit.
Measuring reveal-fix
For reveal-fix you're measuring inside the window opening itself. Measure the width at the top, middle and bottom of the opening. Measure the height at the left, middle and right. Order from the smallest of each set. A shutter that's 3 mm too wide will not fit at all.
Tolerances to know
- Most kits accept ±3 mm tolerance on cut size. Anything more and the shutter binds or has visible gaps.
- Side channels are typically 38-45 mm wide; ensure your reveal accommodates them.
- Head box is typically 200-250 mm tall for standard windows, up to 300 mm for large openings.
Checklist before you accept a quote
- 1
Measure width at three heights
Top, middle, bottom. Order from smallest.
- 2
Measure height at three widths
Left, middle, right. Order from smallest.
- 3
Confirm headroom above window
200-300 mm clear wall for head box.
- 4
Confirm wall type and depth
Suppliers may need this for bracket selection.
- 5
Have someone else verify
Independent re-measurement catches almost every error.
- 6
Write measurements in mm only
Never mix mm and cm on the order form.
Frequently asked questions
How do you measure a window for a roller shutter?
What's the difference between face-fix and reveal-fix?
How much tolerance do roller shutter kits allow?
Should I measure for roller shutters myself or have an installer measure?
Want a professional to measure for you?
Most local installers will measure and quote free of charge. Compare three quotes before you commit.