Workshop guides · Published by Timberlouvres · 23 October 2026
Planning Window Shutters and Gable Vents Together
Window shutters and gable vents can be planned as part of the same exterior project, but they need separate measurements and product specifications. Keep one coordinated enquiry pack while listing each panel and vent individually.
Karem Woodcraft is our main workshop brand. Its wider decorative timber range can help you coordinate the shutters and vents with posts, fretwork, finials and other details on the house.
Begin with the whole elevation
Take a photograph showing the windows, gable and surrounding trim. Mark the proposed position of each shutter and vent. Give every item a reference, such as W1 for the first window panel and G1 for the gable vent, and use the same reference on your measurements.
Include close photographs of the fitting surfaces and any existing pieces you want to match. Where several windows look identical, measure each location before deciding that the panels can all share one size.
List window panels by finished overall size
The window calculator uses overall panel height and width, including the frame. It accepts heights from 900 to 2400 mm and widths from 300 to 1500 mm. Clearly distinguish a measured opening from the finished panel size you are requesting.
For this range, the frame section is 42 × 35 mm and the slats are 32 × 9 mm, permanently fixed at 45 degrees. The blades do not rotate. Spacing and count vary by panel, and certain heights need a centre bearer. The workshop confirms those fabrication details.
For a pair, state the size of each panel and the total quantity. If they are to hinge or close over an opening, record that intention and ask the workshop and installer to resolve hardware, clearances and the final arrangement before ordering.
Give each gable shape its own measurements
- Circular: record the opening diameter and proposed finished outside diameter separately. The circular vent frame is specified as 70 mm.
- Rectangular: provide the opening height and width, proposed finished dimensions and fitting position. The frame section is 45 × 70 mm.
- Triangular: include the base width, vertical rise and roof pitch if known, plus a drawing or straight-on photograph. The frame section is 45 × 70 mm.
- Oval or another custom shape: provide overall height and width with a drawing or template, and ask the workshop to confirm the frame and construction.
Do not transfer the window-panel slat specification or calculator price to a gable vent. Vents are quoted individually. Confirm the required ventilation performance, mesh, exposure and installation details for the project.
Coordinate the appearance without assuming identical construction
Agree on the intended timber and finish across the order, but let each product use its appropriate construction. A vent and a tall window panel can have different frame proportions while still sitting comfortably on the same facade.
If the work needs to match an existing house, show the workshop the surviving details. Karem Woodcraft’s period-home verandah guide is useful for thinking about the elevation as a whole rather than selecting every timber item in isolation.
Keep the price and supply details separate
The window calculator rounds each dimension up to its next listed price band while retaining the actual requested panel size. It shows an estimate including GST. Gable vents require a separate quote; delivery, finishing and installation also need confirmation.
Request an itemised quote using your W and G references. Check quantities, finished sizes, timber preferences and agreed inclusions against your schedule. If a dimension changes, send a revised schedule rather than a second unlabelled list.
Your combined enquiry checklist
- One labelled elevation photograph and close views of fitting positions.
- One line per window panel or vent, with quantities and references.
- Opening and finished dimensions clearly distinguished.
- Vent shapes, triangular rise or pitch, and any templates.
- Timber and finish preferences, plus matching references.
- Questions about hardware, mesh, bearers, ventilation and installation.
- Delivery suburb and postcode, access information and intended project timing.
Start with our fixed timber window panel guide, gable vent range and measuring instructions. For the complete timber project, send the details to Karem Woodcraft.