Shutters are a fantastic addition to any home, offering a range of benefits unmatched by other window dressings. But how much do shutters cost? Many people mistakenly believe that shutters are expensive, leading them to explore the DIY route in search of savings. In this ultimate buying guide, we help you save time and money by comparing the costs of DIY shutters versus a fully designed, measured, and installed service.
True cost of window shutters
Every savvy shopper should shop around and gather at least three quotes when making any significant purchase. However, when shopping for shutters, many assume that the DIY route will be cheaper and more satisfying. But is it?
Below we compare the average cost from top online DIY shutter retailers to local shutter fitting experts.
Average cost
| DIY shutters | Designed, measured and fitted service |
| 1m2 = 239*m2 | 1m2 = £296* |
| 2m2 = £448*m2 | 2m2 = £542* |
| 3m2 = £609*m2 | 3m2 = £712* |
These prices are based on the average product base price from our research, including delivery for DIY options and the full design, measurement, and installation service of a UK shutter fitting expert. Uplifts can apply.
Are DIY shutters cheaper?
While DIY shutters may seem like a cost-effective option, do they really offer value for money? Taking the DIY route means you’re responsible for designing, measuring, ordering, and installing the shutters yourself. This process can be time-consuming and stressful. Worse yet, any errors can lead to costly mistakes, ultimately costing you more than if you’d opted for professional installation.
• Over 500 of our customers advise DIY has been more expensive or it does not offer true value and they opt for a local shutter expert!
• DIY shutter websites advertise low prices from £65* and can save you up to 40%? – Before you commit, do your research first.
DIY shutters certainly do not offer value for money!
What is the average cost of window shutters in the UK?
Whilst every window and every shutter is individual, here is a rough price guide.
Small Window from £296* – Fully measured and fitted
500mm x 1000mm
Medium Window from £495* – Fully measured and fitted
1600mm x 1200mm
Large window and Bays from £685* – Fully measured and fitted
- 400mm x 1800mm
- 800mm x 1800mm
- 400mm x 1800mm
The cost for a fully measured and fitted shutter can be as little as £189.00 per m2. You can use our online quotation tool to get a more accurate price for your windows.
What determines the cost of plantation shutters for windows?
- Size of Windows
The size of your windows is the primary factor influencing the cost of shutters. Larger shutters require more materials and labour compared to smaller ones. Prices typically start at around £239 for small windows, £450*-£550* for medium-sized windows, and £650*+ for large windows.
- Hardware
Additional costs may apply for stainless steel or hidden hinges. The most popular option is a white visible hinge, which provides a timeless look and a cost-effective solution. Handles and ring pulls can also add to the cost but these are usually for solid panelled shutters.
- Materials
Durable MDF or craftwood shutters offer great value, starting at approximately £189*/m². Premium basswood or paulownia wood shutters are slightly higher in price, at around £210*/m². Lower-cost composite or faux wood options tend to be of lesser quality
- Tilt Rod Type
Standard tilt rods—such as central, offset, or clear view—are often included at no additional cost. Upgrading to fully hidden or silent tilt rods typically adds 10-15% to the price. These upgrades require additional engineering, as a gear and cam mechanism is built inside the shutter stile.
- Shutter Styles
Certain shutter styles, such as tier-on-tier or special shapes, may incur additional surcharges. These styles often require premium materials, which can further increase the overall cost. Café-style shutters are typically the most cost-effective option.
Colours
Shutters are available in a range of standard colours, with shades of white being the most popular. Stained finishes typically add an uplift of around 10%. For a fully personal look, shutters can be colour-matched to any shade from major paint brands, usually at an additional cost of £100* – £200* per colour.
How much do bay window shutters cost?
The most significant factor influencing the cost of your bay window shutters is the size of the bay window itself. Larger bay windows require more materials and labour, leading to a higher overall price.
Additionally, you may encounter extra costs if your installation uses custom angled bay posts (not available via DIY websites). These posts are highly recommended wherever possible, as they ensure a more professional fit for bay window.
If you choose to go down the route of DIY shutters, it’s important to note that you may not have the option of adding bay posts. Installing them requires an angle-measuring tool, a specialised device that is not commonly found in the toolbox of most DIY enthusiasts. Additionally, achieving the correct angles and a seamless fit requires a level of experience with shutters.
Victorian 3-part bay
Pictured cost £770*
Box Bays
Pictured cost £425*
Curved Bays
Pictured cost £495*
What shutter material is the most cost effective?
If you have small to medium sized windows, MDF is going to save you money! MDF is going to look newer for longer than most Hardwood shutters, thanks to the unique polymer coating which is extremely hardwearing. To compare these two popular shutter materials in greater depth, please read our MDF vs Hardwood shutter guide . As a guide, Hardwood is typically 10-30% more expensive than MDF.
MDF Shutters
Often referred to as craftwood shutters, these are the most popular shutters used in the UK. They provide an affordable long-lasting shutter that are virtually indistinguishable from Hardwood material. Most online DIY retailers are part of the same group of companies and do not offer MDF. The majority of independent, local shutter experts recommend MDF where possible.
From £189*m2
Hardwood Shutters
Anything marketed as Hardwood shutters should be 100% wood, in our opinion! The most common types of wood used are Paulownia or Basswood. Watch out for the many retailers (mostly online) who use the term “Hardwood shutters” but are sneaking in plastic louvres and/or frames to keep their costs down, as they only have a small part of the product made from Hardwood. When buying your Hardwood shutters, be aware of these small details, if the cost appears low.
From £210*m2
Do shutters provide value for money?
Yes! Shutters are long-lasting and will remain a part of your home for years to come, whereas blinds can often fail due to flimsy strings and cords and curtains can fade, go out of fashion and can have high dry-cleaning costs.
Most importantly, there are a number of studies including guidance from the Energy Saving Trust — finding shutters are the best window treatment for insulating your home. Shutters are great for keeping your home both warmer in the winter months and cooler in the summer months.
If you would like any further information on the cost of shutters for your home, please contact us or use our online quotation tool for a quick quote.
*All prices quoted by London Interior Shutters are subject to survey, applicable uplifts, and any customisations or bespoke features. Prices are accurate at the time of publishing this blog but may be subject to increases. The prices listed are for informational purposes only and do not constitute a final quotation.
