Have you thought about how window shutters would look on your own when you saw them on other homes? But before you go any further, you start to wonder: how much do shutters cost? It is the most common question homeowners ask, yet the answer is rarely a single number. The price depends on the choices you make, from the material of the blades to the design of your window frames.
The main cost factors for window shutters are broken down in this article so it can help you with setting a budget and making the right decisions for your project. We have analysed the current Australian market to give you a clear, realistic idea of what to expect when you upgrade your home with Vista Shutters.
Read on to find out all you need to know about the variables that may affect the cost of plantation shutters.
Types of Window Shutters and Their Costs
The design and function of the shutter are the biggest cost drivers. Are you looking for the style of the interior plantation shutters or the heavy-duty security of exterior roller shutters?
Interior Shutters
Interior shutters can provide partial or complete window coverage and are mostly used for privacy purposes within a house. While they look stunning, one possible drawback is that they don’t offer the heavy-duty weather protection of external roller shutters.
Exterior Shutters
External shutters are used on the exterior of your home. They are typically used for instant kerb appeal, complete privacy, and protection from weather conditions and burglars.
What Key Factors Determine the Cost of Window Shutters?
Your final quote is determined by a number of key factors. Two quotes for the exact same window size can differ by hundreds of dollars depending on these invisible factors.
1. Window Shutter Material
The material determines the base price. PVC is cost-effective and tough. Timber is premium and aesthetic. Aluminium is structural and weatherproof.
Every option has its appearance, set of advantages, and cost.
- PVC Shutters: These are frequently the least expensive choice. Kitchens, laundry rooms, and restrooms are the most suitable places to use them because they are moisture-resistant. PVC for bedrooms and bathrooms can help keep your window shutters cost down without sacrificing style.
- Composite Wood Shutters: Composite wood shutters are made up of wood and PVC. Wood makes up the core of the shutter, while vinyl makes up the exterior of the shutter. These shutters are more moisture-resistant than timber yet look just like wood.
- Timber Shutters (like Basswood): Timber shutters are a natural product; hence, they are more expensive. They offer a premium finish but require more maintenance.
- Metal Shutters (Roller/Aluminium): These (typically found on the outside of houses) are made of several metal slats that roll up. They are frequently used for garages, windows, and doors for their top-tier security.
2. Window Size and Configuration
It is simple math that larger windows require more material and labour. The cost increases with the size of the window since more material is required. But size is not the only factor. How much do window shutters cost also depends on the shape. A standard rectangular window is simple to manufacture and less expensive to install. Arched, circular, or triangular windows require custom templates and complex manufacturing, which can increase the cost of plantation shutters significantly.
3. Mount Type and Frames
How the shutters attach to your window affects the price.
- Inside Mount: The shutter sits inside the window recess. It is often cheaper, as it uses the existing window depth.
- Face Fit: The shutter sits on the architrave or wall. It often requires a decorative L-frame or Z-frame, which adds slightly to the material cost.
4. Customisation and Colour
White or off-white is the industry standard and typically the most affordable option. If you want a custom colour for your Dulux wall paint or a specific timber stain, you may have to pay a surcharge for the finish.
5. Operation Method
A hidden tilt rod (where the mechanism is built into the frame for a clear view) often costs slightly more than the traditional centre tilt rod for plantation shutters. If you add a solar motor or Wi-Fi hub for smartphone control, it will increase the price for roller shutters but add massive convenience.
DIY Installation vs Professional Installation
You might be tempted to save money by installing shutters yourself. It is important to weigh the risks against the savings.
Do-it-Yourself Installation
A few vendors offer flat-packed shutters that you may install yourself. It may result in labour cost savings per square metre. But it is a task that requires accuracy. If there is even a 5mm measurement error, the shutter may not fit, and custom products cannot be returned. You also need the proper tools and skills to check if the frame is level.
Professional Installation
When you hire a professional for shutter installation, you get the right fit. The majority of reputable companies, like Vista Shutters, provide installation in their estimates, handle uneven window frames (which are common in older homes) and make sure the shutters operate smoothly. The service provided gets the job done right and is usually covered by a warranty.
What Other Factors Affect Window Shutters Cost?
When budgeting, do ask about these extras that can affect your window shutters cost:
- Colour and Finish: Off-white or standard white are usually the most cost-effective finishes. If you use custom colours or timber stains to match your decor, the overall cost will go up.
- Blade Size: The blade (or louvre) lengths of shutters vary; they are usually 64 mm, 89 mm, or 114 mm. Larger blades can cost a little more, though often the price difference is negligible.
- Tilt Rods: The mechanism for opening and closing the blades could be a traditional centre rod or a hidden (clearview) tilt rod for a contemporary look. The hidden tilt rod can be more expensive at times due to its complicated internal mechanism.
- Removal of old blinds: Some companies charge a fee to take down and dispose of your old curtains or blinds.
- Access fees: If your windows are on the second floor and require scaffolding or high ladders, you might have to pay an extra labour charge.
- Bay Windows: These require specific corner posts and complex framing, often attracting a surcharge.
- Location: Cities like Melbourne, Adelaide, and Perth, which have more suppliers, may have slightly lower pricing, whereas Sydney and Brisbane may have higher prices as they have fewer suppliers or higher logistical costs.
Tips to Lower the Cost of Plantation Shutters
If the prices above look difficult to handle, don’t worry. Use some of these practical ways to manage the budget:
- Compare Prices: Obtain a reasonable range of prices for the window shutters you want as well as a total cost for comparison.
- Mix and Match Materials: Use premium timber in your main living areas and cost-effective PVC in bedrooms and wet areas. They look similar but save you money.
- Choose Standard Finishes: Stick to popular shades of white to avoid custom paint fees.
- Check the Warranty: Check if your quote includes a warranty of at least 5 to 10 years on the product and paint finish.
- Purchase Off-the-Shelf Shutters: If your windows are standard sizes, choose this option over custom-made shutters.
- Ask for Package Deals: Find out about such deals if you want to have shutters for several windows or wish to make bulk orders. Suppliers often offer discounts if you do the whole house at once rather than one room at a time.
Are Window Shutters a Good Investment?
Window shutters can be a smart investment for your home when you consider the long-term benefits. While they can be expensive upfront, they add permanent value to the property.
The question of how much do shutters cost is complicated because there are a lot of variables to take into account. The upfront cost figure might seem higher than roller blinds or curtains, but shutters offer a Return on Investment (ROI) that other window coverings cannot match.
The good news is that shutters are available for every home and budget. If you plan ahead and are aware of your options, you can bring a fresh change to your home that pays off in energy savings and resale value.
Are You Ready to Find Out the Exact Cost for Your Home?
The only way to get a truly accurate price is to have your windows measured by a professional who can assess your specific needs. The broad estimates online are a great starting point, but your home is different.
At Vista Shutters, we provide transparent pricing and premium Australian craftsmanship. Feel free to reach out to us to learn more about our selection of window shutters and to schedule a no-obligation quote and a free measurement right now.
