What exactly does a manual roller shutter cost?

Manually operated roller shutters are opened and closed with a strap winder, cord, crank rod, or crank handle. They are cheaper than electric variants, but require physical operation.

1. Average prices per size (incl. VAT, excl. assembly)

2. What is included in the above prices?

• Roller shutter armor (aluminum slats, hollow or insulated)
• Guides and build-up box (in standard color)
• Manual operation mechanism (strap, cord, or rod)
• Including VAT (21%)

3. Not included

• Installation costs: average €120 – €180 per roller shutter
• Removal of old roller shutters: approx. €50 – €100 each
• Custom colours (RAL): surcharge €40 – €90
• Deviating dimensions or customisation: price on request

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Indicative total prices including standard installation

Dimensions	Total price (incl. installation, VAT)
100 × 100 cm	€300 – €400
150 × 150 cm	€350 – €470
200 × 200 cm	€420 – €530
250 × 220 cm	€470 – €600
300 × 250 cm	€520 – €660

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Conclusion

Manually operated roller shutters are an affordable solution for sun protection, insulation, and privacy. They are excellently applicable for windows up to 2 meters. For larger dimensions or more comfort, electric operation may be more interesting, despite the higher initial investment.

 

The price of a manual roller shutter is determined by various technical and aesthetic choices. These factors directly influence the total cost and should be clearly specified in advance when requesting a quote or during a consultation.

1. Dimensions of the roller shutter

The width and height of the roller shutter determine the amount of material and the type of operation required. The larger the roller shutter, the heavier the components and the higher the price.

• Standard sizes (up to approx. 150 × 150 cm) are included in the basic price.
• Large roller shutters (from approx. 200 × 200 cm) require reinforced slats and guides.

Influence on price: significant
Estimated price increase: approximately €30 – €50 per 50 cm extra width or height

2. Slat type and material

• Aluminium slats are standard, lightweight, and suitable for most applications.
• Insulated slats (foam-filled) provide better thermal and acoustic insulation.
• Extra-thick or reinforced slats increase wind resistance and durability.

Impact on price: medium
Surcharge for insulating slats: €30 – €80 per roller shutter

3. Operation

The chosen manual operation method influences the installation and ease of use:

• Internal belt winder is the most affordable option.
• Cord operation is suitable for smaller roller shutters but is limited in length.
• Crank rod or swivel rod is used for larger or hard-to-reach roller shutters.

Impact on price: limited to average
Surcharge for crank rod or swivel rod: €25 – €70 per roller shutter

4. Housing and guides

• Standard surface-mounted housings in rectangular or bevelled shape are usually included.
• Compact housings or housings in a different colour are available at an additional charge.
• Extra strong guides are necessary for larger roller shutters or wind-sensitive facades.

Influence on price: average
Additional charge for different housing colour or shape: €40 – €90 per piece

5. Color and finish

• The standard colors (white, cream, anthracite) are usually included.
• For a different RAL color, there is an additional charge for the housing, guides, and slats.
• Textured lacquers or metallics are also available at a higher price.

Influence on price: average
Additional charge for different color (RAL): €40 – €90 per part

6. Installation Conditions

The final installation costs depend on the accessibility of the location:

• Ground floor, easily accessible facades: basic assembly price.
• First floor or higher: surcharge for accessibility, use of aerial work platform.
• Assembly on timber frame construction or facade insulation requires special plugs or extended fixings.

Influence on price: high on location
Assembly surcharge: €50 – €150 per roller shutter, depending on the situation

7. Number of shutters per project

With multiple shutters at one location, material costs per unit are the same, but the average installation costs per shutter decrease.

• 1 to 2 shutters: standard rate per unit
• 3 to 5 shutters: volume discount on installation possible
• More than 5: project price on request

Influence on price: limited to average

8. Optional Extras

• Burglar-resistant locking
• Integrated mosquito nets (if available for the cabinet type)
• Preparation for later motor drive

Additional costs per option: €30 – €150 depending on choice and system

Conclusion

The price of a manually operated roller shutter is primarily determined by its size, the type of slats, the operation method, and the desired aesthetic finish. Installation conditions and location-specific factors also have a significant impact on the final costs. A complete quote should list all these components separately for transparency and comparability.

The price examples below are based on common dimensions and material choices for standard aluminum roller shutters with a strap winder. Additional charges apply for non-standard versions or extra options.

1. Small window – toilet or bathroom

• Dimensions: 100 × 100 cm
• Version: aluminum standard, tape winder
• Application: small windows, ground floor or upper floor
• Price (incl. VAT, excl. assembly): €180 – €230

2. Average bedroom window

• Dimensions: 150 × 150 cm
• Version: aluminium standard, strap operation
• Application: standard frames in bedrooms or studies
• Price (incl. VAT, excl. assembly): €220 – €290

3. Large window or garden door

• Dimensions: 200 × 200 cm
• Version: insulated aluminum, crank rod
• Application: living room, sliding door, office space
• Price (incl. VAT, excl. assembly): €280 – €350

4. Wide window front or bay window

• Dimensions: 250 × 220 cm
• Version: extra strong aluminum, rod operation
• Application: bay windows, wide frames, shop windows
• Price (incl. VAT, excl. assembly): €330 – €420

5. Extra large roller shutter – garage or shop front

• Dimensions: 300 × 250 cm
• Design: extruded aluminum, manual crank rod
• Application: garage, shop or business premises
• Price (incl. VAT, excl. assembly): €380 – €480

Optional Surcharges (indicative)

Total prices including standard installation (indicative)

Note:

• Prices are indicative and based on usual market values in 2025.
• Exact costs depend on location, substrate, facade type, and chosen execution.
• A separate quote is usually drawn up for custom work or series installation.

When configuring a manual roller shutter, there are various choices that directly influence the final amount. A careful consideration between functional requirements, aesthetics, and budget prevents unpleasant surprises and ensures a tailor-made solution.

1. Dimensions of the roller shutter

• The larger the roller shutter, the higher the material and production costs.
• Large roller shutters require heavier slats and stronger guides.

Influence on price:
High
Guideline:

• €30 to €50 per 50 cm extra width or height

2. Type of slats

• Standard aluminum is affordable and suitable for normal use.
• Insulated slats offer better thermal and acoustic performance.
• Extra strong slats increase wind resistance and lifespan.

Impact on price:
Average
Surcharge for insulation or reinforcement:
€30 – €80 per roller shutter

3. Operating mechanism

• Strap winder is the most affordable standard solution.
• Cord operation is limited to lighter roller shutters.
• Crank or rod operation offers comfort for larger or higher roller shutters.

Influence on price:
Low to medium
Surcharge for more complex operation:
€25 – €70 per system

4. Box type and finish

• Standard housing (white or anthracite) is included.
• Beveled or round housing enhances aesthetics.
• Different colors for housing, slats, and guides will incur an additional charge.

Impact on price:
Average
Additional charge for RAL color or special housing shape:
€40 – €90 per part

5. Installation Conditions

• When installed on the ground floor, costs are limited.
• Installation on upper floors, on facade insulation, or in different situations requires extra labor or tools.

Influence on price:
High for different situations
Additional charge depending on situation:
€50 – €150 per roller shutter

6. Number of shutters per order

• When installing multiple shutters simultaneously, the average installation costs decrease.
• Some suppliers offer volume discounts or combination benefits.

Influence on price:
Limited to average
Benefit:
Up to 10% discount on installation for 5+ shutters

7. Optional Extensions

• Burglar-resistant bottom slat
• Integrated mosquito nets (optional for specific models)
• Preparation for later motor drive (for renovation planning)

Impact on price:
Depending on chosen options
Additional charge per option:
€30 – €150

Summary Overview – Choices & Price Impact

Conclusion

The dimensions, material choice, operation, and installation conditions are the most price-determining factors for manually operated roller shutters. For an accurate quote, it is important that all these factors are specifically included and tailored to the on-site situation.

The chosen material for the roller shutter significantly influences the price, durability, insulation value, and visual appearance. In practice, almost exclusively aluminum is used, in various designs and qualities.

1. Aluminum Roller Shutters – Standard Version

Description
Roller shutter slats made of extruded or rolled aluminum, often with a polyurethane foam filling. Lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and low-maintenance.

Application
Standard for residential homes and light commercial use.

Features

• Good balance between weight and strength
• Weather-resistant and suitable for outdoor use
• Relatively easy to operate with manual systems
• Available in standard colours (white, grey, anthracite)

Price level
Basic rate
Suitable for
80–90% of all standard applications

2. Aluminium Roller Shutters – extra insulated slats

Description
Heavier aluminium slats with a thicker insulating foam core (high-quality polyurethane or composite filling).

Application
For increased demands on noise reduction or thermal insulation.

Features

• Improved thermal resistance (up to Rc 0.15 m²K/W)
• Better sound insulation (especially with traffic or strong wind)
• Higher mass, therefore heavier to operate manually
• Not always suitable for very large dimensions in manual operation

Price level
+10–20% compared to standard aluminium
Recommended for
Bedrooms, homes with noise pollution, energy saving

3. Aluminium Roller Shutters – Extruded (Reinforced Profile)

Description
More massive profile, without foam filling, made of solid extruded aluminum. Offers maximum rigidity and durability.

Application
Security roller shutters, garages, commercial spaces

Features

• Highly impact-resistant and burglar-retardant
• Heavy profile, unsuitable for large manual operation
• Only recommended in combination with a crank rod or electric motor
• Little to no insulating effect

Price level
+20–35% compared to standard aluminium
Recommended for
Security, shop fronts, ground floor with increased risk

4. Plastic roller shutters (rare in 2025)

Description
Roller shutter slats made of hard PVC, formerly used as a budget option. In 2025, almost entirely replaced by aluminum due to durability and appearance.

Features

• Lighter and cheaper than aluminum
• Susceptible to discoloration, deformation, and breakage
• Limited color choice and shorter lifespan

Price level
Lower, but less common
Only still used for
Budget projects, temporary applications, sheds

5. Accessories and components

Besides the slats themselves, other parts are also material-sensitive:

• Box and guides: usually made of aluminum (same as slats)
• Internal operation (tape, cord, rod): plastic, steel, or aluminum
• Bottom bar: often weighted aluminum, with or without rubber seal
• Powder coating: standard in white, cream, gray, or anthracite; other colors at an additional charge

Summary Overview – Material Choice

Conclusion

In 2025, aluminum will be the standard for roller shutters. The choice between standard, insulated, or extruded versions depends on the functional requirements (insulation, security) and ease of operation. For manually operated roller shutters, standard or lightly insulated aluminum is most suitable.

With manually operated roller shutters, there are various methods for opening and closing the shutter manually. The choice depends on the size, the location of the roller shutter, the ease of use, and the structural situation of the house or building.

1. Belt winder (internal operation)

Description
A plastic or metal belt is guided inside along the wall to a rolling-up mechanism in a cabinet or niche. By pulling or releasing the belt, the roller shutter is opened or closed respectively.

Features

• Suitable for small to medium-sized roller shutters (up to approx. 200 × 200 cm)
• Simple, affordable, and common in homes
• Requires a passage through the facade to the inside

Price indication (incl. VAT):

• Standard, included in the base price
• Spare or separate strap winder: €20 – €40

2. Cord operation

Description
Similar to the strap winder, but operated with a cord instead of a flat strap. Less commonly used.

Features

• Only suitable for light roller shutters
• Less durable with intensive use
• Budget option for small windows

Price indication (incl. VAT):

• Slightly cheaper than a strap winder
• Average: €15 – €30 per system

3. Rocking rod

Description
A rotating rod that drives a mechanism in the cabinet via a rocking motion. This control is placed on the inside or outside of the house.

Features

• Recommended for larger or heavier roller shutters
• No wall penetration required for external installation
• Requires turning radius for operation

Price indication (incl. VAT):

• Additional charge: €30 – €60 per roller shutter

4. Crank Handle (Connecting Rod)

Description
A rotating movement via a rod drives a gear mechanism that winds or unwinds the roller shutter.

Features

• Suitable for high or hard-to-reach windows
• Wear-resistant and robust
• Applicable for larger facade windows

Price indication (incl. VAT):

• Additional charge: €50 – €80 per system

Overview – Types of operation

Advice

The strap winder is suitable for most standard applications. For larger roller shutters or if no passage to the inside is desired, crank rods or crank handles are functionally better. Always let the choice depend on ease of use, installation location, and the size of the roller shutter.

Roller shutters are available in multiple designs, varying based on operation, placement, construction, and material. The choice of a specific type of roller shutter depends on the purpose (sun protection, insulation, blackout, burglary delay), the location (facade type, floor), and the available budget.

1. Top-hung roller shutter (external roller shutter)

Features

• The roller shutter box is visible on the outside of the facade
• Installed on or above the frame, with external guides
• Very suitable for existing buildings (renovation)

Advantages

• Quick installation without extensive construction work
• Suitable for both manual and electric operation
• An affordable and flexible solution

Disadvantages

• The box remains visible
• Less aesthetic than built-in solutions

Application
Renovation projects, existing homes, conservatories, garages

2. Built-in roller shutter

Features

• Roller shutter box integrated into the facade or frame
• Only possible with new construction or extensive renovations
• Visually invisible system when the roller shutter is closed

Advantages

• Sleek, aesthetic finish
• Completely concealed within the building envelope
• No protruding parts on the facade

Disadvantages

• Only suitable if structurally prepared
• Higher installation costs

Application
New construction, high-quality residential construction, commercial construction

3. Solar Roller Shutter (Surface-mounted, with solar panel)

Features

• Surface-mounted roller shutter with integrated solar panel and battery pack
• Completely wireless system
• Can be combined with remote control or app control

Advantages

• No electrical connection required
• Ideal for situations without a power outlet
• Sustainable solution with low operating costs

Disadvantages

• Limited autonomy in insufficient sunlight
• Higher initial purchase price than manual roller shutters

Application
Renovation without electrical work, attic windows, holiday homes

4. Roller shutter with integrated mosquito net

Features

• Combines sun protection and insect protection in one system
• Usually designed as a surface-mounted roller shutter
• Mosquito net can be operated separately

Advantages

• Practical for tilt-and-turn windows
• No extra screens needed
• Space-saving

Disadvantages

• Higher purchase price
• Limited versions available

Application
Bedrooms, bathrooms, rural areas with many insects

5. Shutters with increased burglary protection

Features

• Extra thick slats and reinforced end slat
• Locking function when lifted from the outside
• Often combined with an external roller shutter

Advantages

• Increased security for vulnerable locations
• Suitable for ground floors or rear facades
• Can be combined with manual or electric operation

Disadvantages

• Additional charge for reinforced parts
• Heavier operation (if manual)

Application
Houses with open garden side, detached houses, garages

Summary Overview – Roller Shutter Types

Advice

For renovation projects, surface-mounted or solar roller shutters are the most practical. For new constructions, a built-in roller shutter offers the most aesthetic solution. In areas with higher security needs, a roller shutter with a reinforced design is recommended. Always choose the type that suits the structural situation, intensity of use, and desired comfort level.

The installation of a manually operated roller shutter involves attaching the system to the facade or the window frame, adjusting the roller shutter mechanism, and possibly installing a pass-through for the operation (for belt or cord operation). The installation costs depend on accessibility, the type of substrate, and the chosen operating system.

1. Standard installation (ground floor, normally accessible)

Description
Installation on a brick or concrete facade, without obstacles, with free working space.

Included work

• Fastening of box and guides
• Installation of manual control (strap, cord, or rod)
• Adjustment of the system
• Basic drilling, plugs, and sealing

Indicative price (incl. VAT):

• €120 – €180 per roller shutter

2. Installation on an upper floor or difficult-to-access facade

Description
Installation on the first floor or higher, or in a location only accessible with extra equipment.

Additional charge due to:

• Use of a ladder, scaffolding, or aerial work platform
• Longer assembly time and extra labor effort

Indication of additional cost:

• €75 – €150 per roller shutter
  (depending on height and accessibility)

3. Mounting on Facade with insulation or timber frame construction

Description
For facade insulation or light construction, special fasteners are required to prevent damage or instability.

Points to consider:

• Use of extended screws, chemical anchors, or thermal breaks
• Determine in advance where load-bearing fastening is possible

Additional charge:

• €40 – €80 per roller shutter (depending on the situation)

4. Installation inside the recess or on the frame

Option 1: Inside the recess (mounted between the walls)

• Clean finish, limited sunlight penetration
• Exact custom measurements required

Option 2: On the frame (on the facade or frame)

• Wider field of vision, less tolerant of measurement errors
• More common in renovations

Price difference:

• No structural difference in assembly rate, unless custom work is required

5. Removal of old shutters or awnings (if necessary)

Description
When replacing existing systems, disassembly is necessary.

Indicative costs:

• €50 – €100 per system

Summary Overview – Installation Costs

Advice

Good preparation for installation begins with an accurate measurement, determination of the fastening method, and assessment of the structural situation. Always have installation carried out by a specialist with knowledge of the correct materials and techniques.

Although manually operated roller shutters are functional as standard, they can be expanded with various optional elements as desired. These extras increase the comfort, durability or safety of the system.

1. Anti-burglary bottom slat / lock

Description
Reinforced end slat that prevents the roller shutter from being easily lifted from the outside.

Advantage
Increases resistance to burglary attempts, particularly relevant on the ground floor or rear facades.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€40 – €90 per roller shutter

2. Integrated fly screen (optional on certain models)

Description
Integrated fly screen system in the roller shutter, which can be operated separately. Often designed as a pull-down screen.

Advantage
Saves space and prevents the installation of separate fly screens.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€80 – €150 per roller shutter

3. Preparation for electric operation

Description
The roller shutter is prepared so that it can later be easily converted from manual to electric, without dismantling the box.

Advantage
Ideal for phased modernization or future automation.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€50 – €100 per roller shutter

4. Different RAL color (housing, guides, slats)

Description
Powder coating of the visible parts in a color other than the standard range.

Advantage
Better matched to frame or facade colors.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€40 – €90 per part
(Totals can increase with multiple color changes)

5. Low-noise slats or guides

Description
Specially coated or padded parts that dampen the rolling noise when opening/closing.

Benefit
Increases user comfort, especially in bedrooms or children's rooms.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€30 – €70 per roller shutter

6. Extra wind-resistant guides

Description
Heavier or double guides for locations with high wind loads.

Advantage
Increases stability and prevents flapping or blowing out of the armor.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€40 – €100 per roller shutter

7. Brushes / Weatherstrips

Description
Rubber or felt strips in the guides or bottom slat to improve draft and dust sealing.

Advantage
Extra insulating effect for cold or drafty facades.

Additional charge (incl. VAT):
€20 – €40 per roller shutter

Summary Overview – Extra Options

Advice

Extra options are most cost-effective when they are included directly at the time of purchase. For retrofitting, costs and modifications are often considerably higher. For projects with specific functional requirements (security, acoustic comfort, wind load), it is strongly advised to include the correct extension directly in the basic quote.

Manually operated roller shutters are a cost-effective solution for sun protection, burglary prevention, sound insulation, and thermal insulation. By making smart choices in design, planning, and installation, costs can be further reduced without compromising on quality or durability.

1. Choose standard sizes where possible

If the window dimensions allow, it is worthwhile to choose a standard-sized roller shutter.

• Custom sizes increase the price by an average of 10–20%.
• Standard dimensions are available faster and are more economical in production.

Savings: €30 – €100 per roller shutter

2. Limit the number of different colors

Choose a standard color (white, cream, gray, charcoal) for the housing, guides, and slats.

• Special RAL colors or textured lacquers incur an additional charge.
• A uniform color choice for all roller shutters in a project prevents unnecessary additional costs.

Savings: €40 – €90 per roller shutter

3. Combine multiple roller shutters in one order

When purchasing multiple roller shutters at the same address:

• The installation costs per roller shutter decrease significantly.
• Transport and call-out costs are spread.
• Some suppliers offer volume discounts from 3 pieces.

Savings: €30 – €60 per roller shutter for 3 or more

4. Choose a strap winder for standard windows

The cheapest and most efficient form of operation is a strap winder.

• Cord operation is less durable.
• Crank rods or crank mechanisms are only needed for larger or higher windows.

Savings compared to more complex operation: €25 – €70 per roller shutter

5. Have roller shutters installed during renovation or remodeling

When roller shutters are installed simultaneously with other facade or window frame work:

• The installation options are more extensive.
• Feed-throughs, finishes, and connections can be taken into account directly.
• Part of the preparation costs may be waived.

Savings: up to €100 per household

6. Check if a subsidy or lower VAT rate applies

In certain situations, the following applies to roller shutters or insulating applications:

• The low VAT rate (9%) on labor costs for insulation work.
• A possible subsidy for home insulation via the RVO or municipal regulations (if the roller shutter can be demonstrably proven as an insulation measure).

Savings: up to several hundred euros per project (indirect)

7. Avoid unnecessary options

• Preparation for motorization is only useful if that wish is likely within a few years.
• Burglar-resistant options are only necessary for vulnerable ground-floor windows.
• Integrated insect screens are useful, but involve additional structural costs.

Savings: €50 – €200 per system, depending on options

Summary Overview – Potential Savings per Aspect

When choosing and applying manually operated roller shutters, in addition to price, material, and operation, there are various additional considerations that contribute to durability, ease of use, and installation efficiency. These tips will help you make an informed decision.

1. Have the roller shutter measured professionally

Always measure the exact width and height on location yourself, preferably by a specialist. Incorrect measurements can lead to unusability or additional costs for adjustments.

• Take into account the clear opening (between walls) versus fitting on the face (on the facade)
• Check if frames and facades are square and flat

Advice: Have the measurement and installation carried out by one party to prevent measurement errors and disputes.

2. Check the turning circle for internal operation

Ensure there is enough space for the strap winder or crank rod on the inside of the window.

• Take window sills, curtains, or radiator casings into account
• If necessary, opt for external operation if internal space is limited

3. Combine roller shutters with solar control glazing or ventilation grilles

Roller shutters are very effective for heat protection and blackout, but good air circulation remains necessary.

• Consider ventilation grilles in combination with closed roller shutters
• Use roller shutters in combination with HR++ or solar control glass for maximum effect

4. Have maintenance performed annually

Although manually operated roller shutters require little maintenance, an annual inspection and cleaning of the guides, box, and slats will significantly extend their lifespan.

• Remove dirt and leaves from the guides
• Check for misalignment or jamming

5. Plan ahead for potential future motorization

If there is a chance the system will be electrified later, opt for preparatory measures such as:

• Empty conduit for wiring
• Electrically compatible slats and shaft
• Shielded wall penetration

This will prevent demolition work during later modifications.

6. Choose a reliable supplier with installation guarantee

Preferably, choose a party that handles both delivery and installation and offers a guarantee on both components.

• Ask about the warranty period for mechanical operation and finishing
• Inquire about service for defective parts or repairs

7. Note wind load on high or freestanding facades

Wind-resistant designs are recommended for locations with high winds (corners, coastal areas, high floors).

• Opt for extra sturdy guides
• Avoid excessively wide manual roller shutters in wind-sensitive locations

In summary