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How Much Do Shutters Cost?

Window shutters may have originated from the south but they are now a global consideration for homes. Many homeowners invest in them for different reasons. Some go for them because they are a décor statement. They can give your windows a dramatic elegant look meant to improve the value of your home.

Others consider them for their amazing properties like energy-efficiency, low maintenance, soundproofing, and privacy. Like blinds, window shutters are great in blocking heat and cold at home. They are easy to clean and can also block sound. What’s more, they can give you a better outdoor view while blocking outsiders from spying into your home.

The biggest concern for most homeowners, however, when it comes to installing window shutters is the price. So, how much do they cost? This article will answer the question by looking at a few determining factors.

Shutters Type as a Cost Determinant

Depending on placement, there are two major types of window shutters:

  • Interior shutters – These shutters are also known as plantation shutters and they are meant for your window interiors. They are similar to blinds and work the same way. On average, the cost of fitting them is about $2,000. Of course, factors like material, style, window size, and finish have a say on the final budget. Other considerations include labor cost and customization.
  • Exterior shutters – Though most exterior shutters are aesthetic, they can also be functional. They help to protect you against direct sunshine. Typically, exterior shutters cost $20-$320 depending on the design. The downside is that they may not offer protection against the hurricane. You need hurricane shutters (which cost $7-$35 per square feet) to be protected against hurricane damage.

Window Size as a Cost Determinant

The window size is usually the major price determinant for shutters. It’s generally what determines the size of material used in making shutters. Usually, a bigger window requires more materials and this translates to a higher budget. For example, it may cost you $45 on average to install shutters on a standard window and $270 on a bigger one.

You must get your window measurements right as they determine the quote. In this case, you must take the face measurements (measurements of the outer window frame) and the inside measurements (measurements of the inner frame).

Style as a Cost Determinant

If you decide to install interior shutters, then you may have to pick the style that you like. Here are the most notable ones:

  • Solid style – These shutters do not feature slats like most shutters. They are known to reduce light effectively when closed.
  • Café style – These shutters are meant to cover your window space partially. So, privacy is only guaranteed at a lower level.
  • Full-height – If you want your windows to be covered entirely, then you should consider the full-height design.
  • Tier-on-tier – These shutters are specifically meant for bay windows. Their design allows them to offer dual light control.

Ordinarily, shutters are not priced based on the style but sizes and materials. So, expect to spend at least $179 per meter square on any of the above styles.

Material Choice as a Cost Determinant

The material type plays an important role in determining how much you pay for your window shutters. Here are some of the commonest choices:

  • Aluminum – Aluminum is a great option for exterior shutters as it’s more durable than most options. A good option is likely to serve for 25 years or more. It’s also elegant and can be coated to be water-resistant. It’s however not a good option for the interior since it’s a good conductor of heat. On average, a set of aluminum shutters cost $3,600. They are among the most expensive options.
  • Hardwood – Harwood enjoys properties like durability and aesthetic. On average, it cost 426-$32 per square feet to install them.
  • Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) – MDF is engineered wood. It’s an affordable alternative to natural wood and costs about $179 per meter square. The problem is that they are prone to scratches and can’t serve you for long.
  • Composite wood – Composite wood can also be a cheaper alternative to hardwood but may not offer resistance against humidity. The option is also lighter, thus less stable. Expect to spend $26-$30 per square feet.
  • Vinyl – Vinyl is one of the cheapest options to install. On average, it cost $22-$26 per square feet to install vinyl shutters. The material offers amazing resistance against moisture and heat damage. It also comes in aesthetic finishes. However, it’s not as durable as aluminum.

The Finish as Cost Determinant

If you go for materials like wood or plastic, you may have to consider painting your shutters. This means an additional cost that you have to factor in. That’s why is smart to consider finished shutters. For wood and plastic materials, they should come with a painted or stained finish.

Accessories as Cost Determinants

It’s not just the cost of the window and the installation you should be worried about. You also have to factor in the cost of accessories like hang strips ($4-$15), locks (about $15), mountain hardware (about $4), and shutter magnets (about $1.5 per kit).

Prefabricated Vs. Customized Shutters

At the lower end, expect to spend $50 on a set of prefabricated shutters and $200 on a set of customized shutters. Why? Prefabricated shutters are a pick-and-install type. They are made at standard sizes to suit standard windows and so do not require any kind of customization.

Customized shutters, on the other hand, are designed from scratch to suit your windows and the style of your home. So, they may require more material and personal touches and this explains the price variance. But still, the factors described above have a role to play.

DIY Vs. Professional Installation

If you are handy and possess prior installation experience, then doing shutters installation yourself is a good idea. At least, it saves you $100 per hour, the amount that most professional installers charge. But if you have never done the installation, it’s advisable to hire a professional. Shutters can be complicated to hang if you are not familiar with the installation.

Overall, a professional installer promises the following:

  • Fast installation
  • Safe installation
  • Satisfaction guarantee

Closing Thought:

Generally, it’s hard to put a fixed price on shutters installation as many factors need to be considered. While the above guide may give you an idea of what to expect when it comes to setting up the budget, it’s important to talk to different shutters suppliers to compare their quotes.