You can remove your window trim and the shutter installer will install a frame around the shutter which will cover the edge. I've done this before when the space has been very tight and I didn't want to make the shutters larger. If space is not an issue, you can frame around the window on the wall outside the trim. Does this help?

For exact clearances, you should have a check-measure by your installer who can advise. You should have the specifications from the particular manufacturer whose products you want to use.

Shutters are always outside mounted because you need a solid square structure to screw the hinges into.

shutters are always outside mounted? that's funny, I have been researching the same thing and am undecided about going inside mount or outside mount. for my windows i think outside works best but i have seen plenty of inside mount photos.

I had plantation shutters installed about a year ago and wanted inside mount as I thought it was a cleaner design. But that would have rendered the tilt function my windows useless and I would never be able to clean them unless I removed the screens. And removing the screens was not an option. So I had 3 different companies come out and show me samples right on my windows. Turns out that the outside mounted comes in lots of trims one of which was practically seamless to our trim. So we did outside mounted shutters and they look great! I absolutely love them. I can't believe I ever stressed out so much about it. The clean look I wanted, I got it. They don't stick out far at all and they don't have any noticeable features that call attention to them in a weird way. Outside mount is not a compromise, it's just a great solution for certain windows.

Glad you had this good result Linsey. You do notice that the original post was from 2012? :)

Thank you for the reply, Linsey. I've been fretting over inside vs. outside, too. My installer recommended outside so that's what we went with but I've still been concerned it was the wrong decision. Now I'm looking forward to seeing them mounted. :)

I have recently moved into a condo. My windows have no trim and I would like to install California shutters in the bedrooms. Is this possible? Would the installer have to build a wooden frame inside the window opening? There is very little room on the outside of the window opening.

@Linda Smith I suggest that you start a new thead for your question rather than tagging it onto the end of a four-year-old discussion.

we are installing new european windows that tilt and open to the inside, I love the windows but I am looking for a good solution especially for the bedrooms for light control. from what I am reading I can use these, I can have the builder not to install any trim and buy plantation shutters with a trim, is this a correct understanding? thank you

I have a 12 foot wide, 8ft high sliding glass door to cover. Not enough for an inside mount. In a previous home, I had sliding plantation shutters mounted to tracks on the ceiling and then covered by a cornice. Cannot find anyone to do this or am looking in wrong place. Anyone????