The question, “Why are plantation shutters so expensive?” is relevant to address since, fundamentally, what may be considered expensive to one person is often considered good value by another.
In our experience, we have often come across clients who are pleasantly surprised by the price, as opposed to those for whom shutters may be out of budget.
It’s one reason we are happy to provide a guide price at the initial contact point before a design consultation visit.
The Cost of Shutters
Understanding the window shutter cost involves considering various factors such as the material, customisation, and installation.
The average cost of plantation shutters can vary; additional charges may apply for special shapes or larger windows.
To get an accurate estimate, a thorough home survey is necessary. We provide transparent pricing and detailed explanations to help you understand the cost of your shutters.
Value and benefits of plantation shutters
As shutter specialists who only deal with the best quality Plantation shutters for window dressings, we firmly believe they are worth the investment for the many practical and aesthetic benefits they bring to daily home life.
Additionally, they deliver long-term savings and benefits such as thermal energy savings, noise reduction from outside, added security, protection from UV rays, and potential home value increases.
We believe with passion that all of these considerations outweigh the initial expense.
So, to answer the question more fully, let’s examine what constitutes a high-quality shutter and exactly why interior shutters are worth the investment.
Factors affecting the cost of shutters
Shutter materials
One of the principal factors affecting the cost of shutters is the type of material from which they are made.
Hardwood shutters, which we love in our homes, are of the highest quality and, therefore, more premium in price.
They are manufactured using sustainably grown POPLAR hardwood, with ASH hardwood also being an option.
All shutter styles we offer can be custom-made for any window treatment, are available in a vast range of colours and are suitable for every kind of window throughout the home.
The Limitations of MDF Shutters
MDF shutters represent an entry-level product and are considered budget shutters that we choose NOT to work with.
They are less refined in look and feel compared to hardwood shutters, significantly heavier, and have many more restrictions on the window types they can address.
The colour options for MDF shutters are more limited, as they are ‘foil wrapped’ with a film covering instead of having a paint system applied, as is the case with hardwood shutters.
Advantages and Restrictions of Faux Wood Shutters
Faux wood shutters, manufactured using Polyvinyl material similar to PVC windows, provide a waterproof option.
However, the PVC shutters are again more restrictive regarding the window styles they can accommodate.
While heavy and extremely durable, making them virtually unbreakable, we have tended to install these only in wet rooms where the windows are likely to come into direct contact with water.
Commitment to Quality with Hardwood Shutters
Since we only work with hardwood, our shutters may not be the cheapest on the market.
However, we are very competitive and always open to discussing the price transparently.
We take the time to fully explain what you can expect. We believe that the ‘devil is in the details’ and go above and beyond to ensure that everything is crystal clear.
You get a custom solution with hardwood shutters, not an off-the-shelf product. We carefully consider the design of your windows and the style of your home interior, creating a high-quality finish that perfectly complements your windows.
Customisation and design
All shutters are custom-made to fit your windows perfectly. Just like a tailored suit!
As shutter experts, we pay close attention to the initial measuring and fitting process, which sets high-quality bespoke shutters apart.
The cost depends on the project size, the type of shutters, and the size of the windows. That’s why a thorough home survey is necessary to find the best design solutions.
Solid Shutters tend to be slightly dearer than those with slats.
Arched window shutters or apex window shutters have a ‘special shape supplement’ which will increase shutter costs.
Tracked shutters for large bi-folding doors are priced above the standard type.
Design versatility of shutters
Shutters are highly versatile and can be customised to fit a variety of window types and home styles.
Including living rooms, bathrooms, large bay window shutters, Georgian sash windows, 1930s period homes, country cottages, barn conversions, and specially shaped windows such as arches, triangles, and even round ‘porthole’ windows.
This flexibility makes them a popular choice for many homeowners looking to enhance their homes’ aesthetic appeal and functionality.
Labour and installation
Measuring for shutters is carried out precisely to the millimetre. Installation is conducted to the highest standard by our expert carpenter, who is personally assisted by myself.
With every window, we ensure that there are no unsightly gaps between the shutter frames and the walls by adding matching hardwood trims.
These trims are installed on-site, allowing us to adjust to walls that are often uneven or not level.
The final finish is achieved with a small bead of sealant, creating a seamless look that blends the shutters with the wall and ensures a perfectly fitted look for the completed installation.
We treat your home with the utmost respect, protecting all floor coverings, working tidily throughout the installation, and removing all packaging when we leave. Henry, the vacuum cleaner, is an integral part of the team.
Benefits to justify the cost
Durability and Longevity
The influential architect Le Corbusier famously said, “The house is a machine for living in.”
Investing in shutters means investing in your home for years to come. Aside from their timeless good looks and envy-inducing style, wooden shutters are also extremely durable and hardwearing.
Supplied with a five-year guarantee, they will look as good twenty years from now as they did when first installed if they are looked after in the home.
Energy saving efficiency
Plantation shutters are known to reduce heat loss by up to 28% better than any other window coverings, according to research by the BBSA (British Blinds & Shutters Association).
When fully closed, they’re like having a set of doors over your windows. They really are a quality product. Check out our blog post on Bay Window Shutters Vs Blinds to get an idea on how on superior shutters really are.
Noise reduction
Heavy traffic and busy roads can make shutters very beneficial for creating a peaceful living environment at home.
They can provide a sense of security and tranquillity, helping you escape the hustle and bustle.
UV protection
Keeping the suns harsh rays out of the home helps preserve soft furnishings and furniture.
Light control by the turn of a slat makes it possible to make out the picture on the telly.
Many people work from home, and shutters are the best solution to prevent harsh glare on a computer screen and make a pleasing connection to the outside.
Easy to clean
Perfect for homes where dust allergies are an issue.
Simply wipe them down like you would a piece of furniture.
No harsh products or chemicals are needed, just a soft brush, microfibre cloth, or even careful vacuum cleaning.
To preserve it for years to come, only the occasional deep clean once or twice a year to remove any ‘fly spots’ is needed. Wring out a microfibre cloth with water, wipe over, and buff off with a dry cloth.
Exploring Different Shutter Types
When choosing shutters, there are various options available, each suited to different needs and preferences:
- Bay Window Shutters: Ideal for larger windows and adding character to living spaces.
- Bespoke Window Shutters: Ideal for unique windows. Triangular, circular, or arched.
- Tier-on-Tier Shutters: Provide flexibility with separate top and bottom panels.
- Full Height Shutters: Cover the entire window, offering a clean and cohesive look.
- Café Style Shutters: Cover the lower half of the window, perfect for privacy while allowing natural light.
- Shutters For Doors: One of the best ways to dress French doors or patio doors.
- Solid Panel Shutters: Durable and moisture-resistant, suitable for bathrooms and kitchens.
- Velux Window Shutters: A great solution for any home with loft conversions.
For more information on all the different types of shutters we offer, visit our plantation shutters page.
Also, check out 10 ways solid panel shutters transformed homes across the West Country for inspiration in your home.
Conclusion: Are shutters worth the investment?
While certainly more expensive than most window dressings, plantation shutters are the perfect solution and a worthwhile investment for any home.
In the same way that granite worktops, hardwood flooring and high-end finishes add value to the home, we believe that high-quality shutters fitted to perfection achieve the same thing, which is why they are often included in estate agent particulars.
If you’re looking for an iconic, elegant style that matches your home interior, is excellently durable, and offers tangible savings on your energy bills while increasing your privacy levels, then plantation shutters are the right choice.
Hopefully, this has answered the question, “Why are plantation shutters so expensive?” with everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
If you need assistance or expert advice, don’t hesitate to contact West Country’s local shutter specialists based in Taunton for a free home survey.
We will be thrilled to tell you the ins and outs of plantation shutters, the shutter options available, or how to get started. Alternatively, check out our top tips on choosing plantation shutters to see what we have available.
FYI – I have also written a detailed guide on “What type of shutters are best” for your home. Which covers a range of topics regarding interior design, pricing, and what to expect from your shutters.
