French doors are gorgeous, but what about finding the perfect covering for them? And that’s where most homeowners get stuck. Regular blinds seem out of place, curtains are in the way and nothing fits quite right.
Get it wrong and you sacrifice some combination of privacy, control of the light entering your home or the beauty of the doors themselves. The answer is shutters, which are designed specifically to work with full length French doors.
In this article, we cover all you need to know about how shutters for French doors work, the different styles and types available and a handy buying guide so that you can make your purchase with confidence.
What Are French Door Shutters?
French door shutters are merely shutters built for French doors. Because French doors are full-length glass panels, regular shutters just don’t work.
These shutters fit around handles, hinges and long glass panels so that they don’t impede use.
These attach to the door or frame and let the doors swing freely, while letting you control light and privacy when desired.
French Door Shutters vs. Standard Door Shutters
| Feature | French Door Shutters | Standard Door Shutters |
| Panel Length | Full length | Partial or full |
| Handle Cutouts | Yes | Rarely |
| Mounting Style | Door or frame mounted | Frame mounted |
| Glass Coverage | Full glass panels | Windows only |
| Movement Friendly | Yes | Not always |
Why Choose Shutters For French Doors?
So, here are six good reasons interior shutters for french doors is one of the most popular options and well worth every cent:
Affordable
Shutters seem like a luxury, but they are an affordable long-term investment. Unlike curtains or blinds that wear out and have to be replaced every few years, a high-quality set of shutters can last for decades. You purchase them once and they keep giving. That’s a lot of value over the years.
Custom made
Each and every French door is unique, while shutters are built to take the exact size and shape of your frame. You specify the louvre size, finish, colour and style so what you get fits superbly and looks as if it had been born in that place.
Privacy and light control
This is where shutters really shine. You simply tilt the slats so light pours in but outside eyes are blocked, or close them completely to the outer world at night and be private. You can access the entire day without using your hands on any of the doors.
Easy to fit
You will not have to hire a specialist to enjoy the benefits of shutters. Custom shutters for French doors go right over the door frames, and you can install them at home by almost anyone.
If you prefer to leave the fitting to others, then many suppliers provide a full fitting service. After that, there really is nothing else to worry about.
How French Door Shutters Work: Step by Step
Let us take a closer look at how French door shutters work:
Step 1: Choose your shutters
Pick the style, colour, and louvre size that suits your home. Shutters are made to measure, so your exact door dimensions are taken before anything is made.
Step 2: They get fitted to your door frame
Once installed, the panels line up perfectly with the frame for a smooth and tidy appearance.
Step 3: The panels move with your doors
When you open your French doors, the shutter panels swing or fold open alongside them. Your doorway stays completely clear.
Step 4: Tilt the louvres for light
Use the centre rod or tilt bar to adjust the slats. Tilt them upward for soft, filtered light. Open them fully for maximum brightness.
Step 5: Adjust for privacy
Tilt the slats downward or close them fully when you want privacy. You block the outside view without needing to shut the doors themselves.
Step 6: Close the panels at night
When evening comes, close the shutter panels fully. They add a layer of insulation and keep your room warm, private, and secure.
Step 7: Enjoy and maintain
That is it. Simple, clean and completely hassle free. Just wipe the slats with a damp cloth every now and then to keep them looking their best.
What Styles Of Shutters Work Best For French Doors?
When it comes to French doors, not every shutter style works the same way. So here is a simple guide to the most popular shutters for French doors.
| Shutter Style | What It Is | Best For |
| Full Height Shutters | Panels that cover the entire door from top to bottom | A clean, classic look with maximum light and privacy control |
| Half Raised Solid Shutters | Solid panels on the lower half with louvres on the upper half | Homes that need privacy at the bottom but light from the top |
| Panel/Solid Shutters | Fully solid panels with no louvres at all | A bold, sleek look and maximum insulation |
| Bi-fold Shutters | Panels that fold back in sections when the doors are opened | Easy access to the doors without the shutters getting in the way |
How to Style French Doors with Shutters for Every Interior
French door shutters are one of the easiest ways to add real style to your room. The trick is matching them to your interior so everything feels considered and put together.
Modern Interiors
If your home is clean, minimal and modern, you are in luck. Shutters look incredible in contemporary spaces.
Go for full height shutters in crisp white or cool grey and keep the louvres wide. The result is sleek, sharp and exactly the kind of understated style modern interiors are known for.
Traditional Interiors
If your home leans towards the classic and traditional side, you are going to love how shutters look on your French doors. Solid wood shutters in natural or painted finishes suit traditional interiors beautifully.
Tier on tier shutters work especially well here. They give your French doors a cottage-style look that never feels dated.
Coastal Interiors
If you have light, relaxed coastal interiors, shutters are going to fit right in. Soft whites, pale blues and natural wood tones all work beautifully here.
Go for wide louvres and let the light do the talking. Your room should feel open, breezy and easy to breathe in. The right shutters will give you exactly that.
Styling Tips for Open Plan Spaces
If you have an open plan living space, your French doors are probably one of the first things people notice. Here are a few simple tips to get it right:
- Match your shutter colour to the rest of the room. It keeps the space feeling connected and balanced.
- Go for bi-fold shutters. They fold back completely and never get in your way.
- Choose a lighter finish if your doors lead to a garden or patio. It blurs the line between inside and outside beautifully.
- Avoid dark or bold colours in open plan spaces. They can make the room feel heavy and divided.
- Pick wide louvres if your space gets a lot of natural light. They give you full control without blocking your view.
How Much Do Shutters for French Doors Cost?
Shutters for French doors typically cost between $180 and $750 per panel, depending on the size, material and style you choose.
Solid wood shutters sit at the higher end of the price range, while MDF and faux wood options are much more budget friendly without compromising too much on looks.
Most homeowners spend between $500 and $1,500 for a standard set of French door shutters, including professional fitting.
How to Measure French Doors for Shutters the Right Way
Poorly fitting shutters almost always come down to one thing. Inaccurate measurements. Here is how to make sure that does not happen to you:
Step 1: Gather your tools
All you need is a steel tape measure and something to write your measurements down. Avoid using a fabric tape measure as it can stretch and give you inaccurate readings.
Step 2: Measure the width
Measure the width of your door frame at three points. Top, middle and bottom. Write all three down and use the smallest measurement. Door frames are not always perfectly straight so this keeps you on the safe side.
Step 3: Measure the height
Do the same for the height. Measure at three points. Left, centre and right. Again, use the smallest measurement.
Step 4: Measure each door panel separately
French doors have two panels so measure each one individually. Do not assume they are the same size. Even a few millimetres of difference can affect the fit.
Step 5: Note down your recess depth
Check how much depth you have in the frame. This matters for how the shutters will sit and how they will open and close comfortably.
Common Mistakes to Avoid Inaccurate Measurement
- Measuring only once. Always measure at least twice to be sure.
- Assuming both door panels are identical. They rarely are.
- Forgetting to account for door handles and hinges. Make sure your shutters will clear them when opening.
- Using approximate measurements. Custom shutters are made to your exact size so every millimetre counts.
Tips for Accurate Sizing
- Always use a steel tape measure for reliability.
- Write measurements down immediately so nothing gets mixed up.
- If you are unsure, most shutter suppliers offer a free home measuring service. It is worth taking them up on it.
- Double check your measurements before you submit your order. Once a custom shutter is made, changes are difficult and costly.
Is It Easy to DIY Install Shutters for French Doors?
Honestly, yes. If you are reasonably handy around the house, fitting shutters on your French doors is something you can absolutely do yourself. It takes a bit of patience and the right tools but it is not as complicated as it might seem.
Lets see the Step by Step DIY Installation Process
Step 1: Unbox and check everything
Before you do anything, lay everything out and check all the parts are there. Cross check with the instructions so nothing is missing.
Step 2: Mark your fixing points
Hold the frame up against your door frame and mark where the screws will go. Use a spirit level to make sure everything is straight before you mark anything.
Step 3: Drill your holes
Drill carefully into your marked points. If your door frame is uPVC or hollow, make sure you are using the right fixings for the material.
Step 4: Fix the frame
Screw the shutter frame securely into place. Give it a gentle tug to make sure it is firm and not wobbling.
Step 5: Hang the shutter panels
Attach the shutter panels onto the frame using the hinges provided. Most panels simply click or slot into place.
Step 6: Check the fit and adjust
Open and close the panels a few times. Check they move smoothly and sit flush. Most hinges allow a small amount of adjustment if needed.
Step 7: Fit any finishing touches
Add any cover strips, caps or trims that came with your shutters. These give everything a neat and professional finish.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes it is just better to hand it over to someone who does this every day. Consider calling a professional if:
- Your door frame is uneven or out of shape.
- You are not confident drilling into your particular frame material.
- Your shutters are large, heavy or particularly complex.
- You have tried and something just does not look or feel right.
There is no shame in getting help. A professional fitter will have your shutters up quickly, cleanly and guaranteed to look great.
How to Clean and Care for Your French Door Shutters
Shutters are one of the lowest maintenance window treatments you can buy. But a little regular care goes a long way in keeping them looking their best for years to come.
Here are some simple tips to help you do that.
Routine Cleaning Tips
- Wipe down your shutters once a week with either a clean dry cloth or microfibre duster.
- Wipe down the louvres by closing them flat and running a damp cloth along each slat.
- For a more thorough version, dampen the cloth slightly and go over each panel from top to bottom.
- Always dry the shutters after wiping them down. Do not let moisture sit on the surface.
Longevity Tips
- Keep shutters away from direct steam. If your French doors are near a kitchen or bathroom, make sure the room is well ventilated.
- Check hinges and fixings once a year and tighten anything that has worked loose.
- Touch up any chips or scratches on painted shutters early before they spread.
- Treat your shutters well from day one and they will easily last ten to fifteen years or more.
Take the next step to stylish french door shutters
Your perfect shutters for French doors are just a few clicks away. Browse our range, get your free measure and quote today and let us help you find the style that suits your home perfectly.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it. When it comes to French door shutters, they are also stylish, practical and designed to last a lifetime. They give you full control over your light and privacy, keep your home warmer and look beautiful doing it.
Whether you are just starting to explore your options or ready to order, we hope this guide has given you everything you need to make the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do shutters work on French doors?
Yes, absolutely. Shutters are actually one of the best choices you can make for French doors. They are designed to fit directly onto the door frame and move with the doors when you open them.
What kind of shutters are suitable for French doors?
Full height, bi-fold and tier on tier shutters all work brilliantly on French doors. The best choice depends on your style, how much light you want and how often you use the doors.
Do the shutters still allow easy opening and closing of French doors?
Yes. The shutter panels are fitted onto the door frame itself, so they open and close with the doors. Nothing gets in the way and everything moves smoothly.
How do I prepare my doors for shutters before fitting?
Give your door frames a good clean and check for any damage or uneven edges. Make sure you have accurate measurements ready and check that hinges and handles are secure before installation begins.
How long does it take to fit door shutters?
Most French door shutters can be fitted within a few hours. A professional fitter will usually have them up and looking perfect within half a day.
Are shutters easy to maintain?
Yes. A quick wipe with a damp cloth every now and then is all they need. There are no cords, no fabric and no complicated parts to worry about.
Can you put shutters on French doors that open inward?
Yes you can. Your fitter will simply adjust how the shutter panels are hinged so they fold back neatly when the doors open inward without any obstruction.
What is the best colour for shutters on French doors?
White is the most popular choice and works with almost any interior. If you want something a little different, soft greys, warm creams and natural wood tones all look stunning on French doors.
Are shutters for French doors a good investment in your home?
Yes. Shutters are seen as a premium fixture and can make your home more attractive to buyers. They add a polished, high end look that genuinely makes a difference when it comes to first impressions.
