What Do Shutters Cost and What Should You Look For?

Shutters are custom-made products and are assembled per window opening based on material, dimensions, slat width, finish, and operating system. The price per square meter (m²) is the most common unit for cost estimation.

1. Target prices per Material type (per m², incl. VAT)

Prices include customization, lacquering in standard color and standard operation.

2. Influence of Dimensions and Shape

3. Influence of Slat width

4. Finishing and options (additional cost per m² or per panel)

5. In summary – Total Target Prices per m² (excl. assembly)

Please note: Installation costs usually vary from €75 to €150 per window, depending on complexity, height and accessibility.

The price of shutters is usually calculated per square meter, but in practice, the width of a window or window section is an important cost-determining factor. The final price depends on the choice of materials, operating options, design, and custom details.

Average indicative prices per width size (incl. VAT and installation)

The prices below are indicative and based on standard white shutters of average quality (wood or composite), including measurement, manufacturing, and installation:

Important Price Factors

1. Material
   Wooden shutters are generally more expensive than MDF or plastic. Composite is a mid-range option in terms of price and durability.
2. Slat width and finish
   Larger slats or special colors/lacquers incur additional costs. Finishing in RAL color or wood grain texture is often more expensive.
3. Mounting method
   Special mounting (e.g., on doors, sliding panels, or angled windows) requires extra work and materials, which increases the price.
4. Number of panels
   More panels within a single window opening means more hinges, controls, and trim. This increases the overall price.
5. Control options
   Hidden controls or split tilt systems incur additional costs, averaging €30 to €75 per panel.
6. Window height
   Greater heights not only use more material but also require additional reinforcements or mounting provisions.

Recommendation

For an accurate quote, a professional measurement is recommended. Suppliers will create a custom quote based on the exact width, height, material, and finish. Volume discounts may be possible for multiple windows or a complete home furnishing.

The final price of shutters is composed of different components that are influenced by material choice, sizing, finishing, and installation conditions. Below is a detailed explanation.

1. Price breakdown per square meter (average)

2. Cost-Determining Factors

a. Material Choice

• MDF: cheapest, but not suitable for damp rooms.
• Hardwood / Linden wood: natural appearance, lightweight, durable.
• Plastic (PVC): ideal for bathroom, kitchen or other damp rooms.
• Aluminum: design-oriented choice, pricey, low-maintenance.

b. Dimensions and window shape

• Large windows (from 2 m²) increase panel costs and may require additional reinforcement.
• Small windows (< 0.5 m²) have a minimum rate instead of a m² price.
• Special shapes (round, slanted, trapezoidal) incur up to 25% surcharge due to custom work.

c. Slat width

• 47 mm: classic, higher production density, neutral price.
• 63 mm: most popular size, slight surcharge with some suppliers.
• 89 mm: modern, larger sightlines, sometimes extra surcharge.

d. Colour and finish

• Standard white or cream: included.
• Custom RAL colour: €50 – €75 per m² surcharge.
• Locking, concealed tilt rod, rail options: variable per supplier.

e. Installation conditions

• Surcharges for working at height, using scaffolding, or working in stairwells.
• Window frame material (plastic, wood, aluminum) determines the mounting method.

3. Example – Wooden shutters price breakdown (120 × 150 cm = ±1.8 m²)

Summary – Key Price Determinants

Wood

Solid wood offers a warm and high-quality appearance. It is easy to work with, durable, and suitable for various interior styles. Depending on the type of wood, the price and durability vary. Commonly used types of wood include linden, paulownia, and oak.

Characteristics:

• Luxurious, natural appearance
• Available in various colours and finishes
• Sensitive to moisture, unless specially treated

MDF (Medium-Density Fibreboard)

MDF shutters are a more attractively priced alternative to wooden shutters. They are dimensionally stable and suitable for standard applications in dry rooms.

Features:

• Cost-effective
• Clean finish
• Not suitable for damp rooms

Plastic (PVC)

Plastic shutters are low-maintenance and ideal for humid areas such as bathrooms and kitchens. They are resistant to temperature fluctuations and easy to clean.

Features:

• Moisture resistant
• Low maintenance
• Less natural appearance than wood

Aluminium

Aluminium shutters are mainly used in modern interiors or in situations where extra strength or outdoor use is desired. They are light, durable, and low-maintenance.

Features:

• Very strong and durable
• Suitable for indoor and outdoor use
• Less insulating than other materials

Composite

Composite shutters are made from a combination of wood fibers and plastic. They offer the advantages of both materials: the stability of wood and the moisture resistance of plastic.

Features:

• High moisture resistance
• Durable and dimensionally stable
• Suitable for intensive use and humid environments

The installation of shutters requires precision and craftsmanship, as custom fitting and correct placement are essential for optimal functionality and appearance. There are various installation methods, depending on the type of window, the recess, and the chosen finish.

Inside-Mount Installation

With an inside-mount installation, the shutters are placed within the window frame or recess. This creates a sleek, integrated look.

Features:

• Suitable for deep window recesses
• Provides a minimalist finish
• Requires accurate measurement of width and height within the daylight dimensions

On-the-day assembly

With on-the-day assembly, the shutters are placed in front of the frame or on the wall, completely covering the window.

Features:

• Suitable for shallow or irregular frames
• Creates optically larger windows
• Can compensate for small size deviations in the frame

Installation on tilt-and-turn windows

For tilt-and-turn windows, special mounting frames or rail systems are often used, so that the window remains easily operable with fully functional shutters.

Features:

• Preservation of tilt function and ventilation position
• Solutions available without drilling into the frame (for uPVC windows)
• Often implemented with a special frame or hinge profile

Mounting on doors or sliding doors

When applied to garden doors or sliding doors, the shutters are attached with hinges or sliding systems, depending on the required freedom of movement.

Features:

• Functional for large glazed areas
• Possibility of folding or sliding panels
• Requires firm mounting and a custom solution

Fixing and Finishing

Shutters are typically mounted using a frame, which ensures stability and aesthetics. The finishing is adapted to the chosen material, color, and style of the room.

Note:

• Mounting must be carried out on a flat, stable surface
• Any obstacles such as window sills, handles, or radiators will be measured in advance
• Professional installation prevents damage to frames and guarantees optimal operation

When composing shutters, various additional options are available that can optimize functionality, appearance, and ease of use. These extras make it possible to fully tailor shutters to the customer's wishes and the application within the room.

Slat Width

Shutters are available with different slat widths, typically ranging from 47 mm to 114 mm.

Features:

• Wide slats create a spacious effect and more light
• Narrow slats offer more privacy and a more traditional look
• Choice tailored to the dimensions of the window and desired style

Operating Options

The slats can be operated in various ways:

• Traditional wand: vertical wand attached to the front of the slats
• Hidden control: integrated mechanism without a visible wand for a sleek look
• Split tilt: control of the top and bottom slats separately, without a middle stile

Hinge colors and hardware

Shutters can be finished with hinges and hardware in various colors and materials.

Examples:

• White, black, brass, stainless steel
• Choice to match the window, interior, or color of the shutters

Sliding or folding system

For larger window sections or doors, shutters can be executed with a sliding or folding mechanism.

Features:

• Ideal for French doors or sliding doors
• Panels fold or slide away for full passage
• Requires custom frame and rail system

Room divider or fixed wall application

Shutters can also be used as stylish dividers within a room or as fixed wall installations.

Applications:

• Partition wall in living space or office
• See-through wall with adjustable light incidence
• Functional and decorative at the same time

Special Shapes

Custom-made shutters can be produced for non-standard window shapes.

Examples:

• Slanted windows
• Round arches
• Trapezoidal frames

Color and Finish Options

Shutters are available in a wide range of colors, lacquers, and stains. Finishes can be matte, satin, or high gloss.

Features:

• Adapted to interior color or corporate identity
• Possibility of RAL colors (for premium lines)
• UV-resistant lacquers for long-lasting color fastness

Locking System

For applications where extra security or closure is required (e.g., on doors), shutters can be fitted with a locking mechanism.

Features:

• Manual locking with hook or turn latch
• Protection against unwanted opening
• Suitable for use on ground floors or in public areas

Choosing shutters requires attention to both functional and aesthetic aspects. Correct preparation and coordination with the supplier or installer will prevent problems and increase efficiency and user-friendliness.

1. Customization is essential

Shutters are always custom-made. Precise measurement is crucial for a correct fit and smooth operation. Take into account windowsills, radiators, handles, and the opening direction of windows or doors.

2. Suitability by room

Not every material is suitable for every room. In damp rooms such as bathrooms and kitchens, plastic or composite shutters are recommended. Wood is more suitable for dry living areas such as living and bedrooms.

3. Mounting method affects the final result

The choice between in-frame or on-frame mounting affects the light incidence, appearance, and the way the shutter panels open. Let this be determined based on the depth of the recess, the type of window, and the desired finish.

4. Light control and privacy

The slat width, operating method, and panel layout largely determine the level of control over light incidence and visibility. Larger slats offer a wider view to the outside, while smaller slats provide more privacy.

5. Maintenance and durability

Shutters require little maintenance, especially when moisture-resistant materials are chosen. Regular dusting and occasional cleaning are sufficient. Wood requires more attention with prolonged exposure to sunlight or temperature differences.

6. Functional options add value

Think in advance about additional options such as a split-tilt system, hidden controls, color finish, or sliding mechanism for large surfaces. These choices increase user comfort and visual unity in the room.

7. Installation by professionals recommended

Professional installation guarantees correct placement, prevents damage to frames or walls, and ensures a neat final result. Many suppliers offer a warranty on both the product and the installation when they provide the installation service.

8. Delivery time and planning

Shutters generally have a longer delivery time than standard window treatments, ranging from 6 to 10 weeks. Please take this into account in your (re)building plans and arrange installation appointments in a timely manner.