Most homeowners spend between $500 to $2,500 per window for plantation shutters, a price that includes both the shutters themselves and professional installation.
Basic vinyl shutters are at the lower end of the range, while custom hardwood shutters with specialty finishes and motorized controls are typically much more expensive.
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While plantation shutters cost more than traditional blinds, they offer better durability, insulation, and long-term value. Plantation shutters—also called wood shutters or colonial shutters—are a permanent window treatment that adds a custom-built look to a home.
Unlike standard blinds or shades, they are made from solid materials like wood, composite, or vinyl and are mounted directly to the window frame from the inside.
We researched pricing from multiple window treatment providers and interviewed industry professionals to break down the costs of plantation shutters. Our analysis covers material options, size considerations, and installation expenses to help you budget for your project.
What Factors Affect the Cost of Plantation Shutters?
Material choice and the size of the window drive most of the difference in cost for an individual plantation shutter, though the total number of windows will significantly impact the final price. Based on our research and interviews with window treatment professionals, here’s what influences your overall cost.
Shutter Material
Plantation shutters come in three primary materials: vinyl, composite, and wood, with prices varying significantly between each option.
“Vinyl tends to be the most budget-friendly, while wood is on the higher end due to its natural beauty and durability,” said Luke Schwartz, brand president of Bumble Bee Blinds in Omaha, Nebraska. “Composite sits right in the middle, offering the look of wood but at a more accessible price point.”
Schwartz provided the average starting costs for plantation shutters based on popular shutter materials in the table below.
| Material | Average Cost per Square Foot |
|---|---|
| Vinyl | $10 |
| Composite | $15 |
| Real Wood | $25 |
Shutter Sizes
Window dimensions significantly impact plantation shutter pricing, as larger units require more materials and installation time. The same is true for window replacement costs.
Custom and bay windows typically cost between $800 and $2,000 per window due to additional labor and materials, said Sam Tamlyn, managing director at The Shutter Store in Las Vegas, Nevada. Custom window configurations require specialized manufacturing and installation processes that increase overall costs.
Window dimensions significantly impact plantation shutter pricing since larger units require more materials and labor hours.
The costs in the table below come from Tamlyn and are based on prices he’s seen recently. Note that these ranges are just for some of the most common window sizes.
| Shutter Size | Average Cost per Window |
|---|---|
| 24 in. x 24 in. | $131 |
| 36 in. x 54 in. | $362 |
| 42 in. x 48 in. | $375 |
| 36 in. x 60 in. | $402 |
Number of Shutters
Installing plantation shutters throughout your home increases upfront costs but provides consistent styling and maximizes benefits like improved energy efficiency and sound insulation.
Some companies offer bulk discounts on larger projects. Kristin Hintlian, co-owner of Bonsai Builders in Spencer, Massachusetts, said her company offers a 15% discount when homeowners purchase shutters for their entire homes.
Installation Costs
Professional installation for plantation shutters ranges from $65 to $105 per hour, according to Tamlyn. However, rates vary significantly by location and project complexity.
“A second-story bay window with 12 panes took my team 16 hours, adding $2,800 in labor,” said Richard Garrett, founder of RG Construction in Battle Ground, Washington. His company’s labor rates range from $150 to $200 per hour.
How to Save Money on Plantation Shutters
Plantation shutters represent a significant investment, but several strategies can help reduce your overall costs. Here’s what window treatment professionals recommend for maximizing your budget.
Choose Less Expensive Materials
Consider installing premium materials like wood only in high-visibility areas of your home, such as the front-facing windows. For less visible areas, opt for more affordable materials like vinyl, faux wood, or composite to reduce overall costs while maintaining curb appeal.
Compare Multiple Quotes
Getting estimates from several contractors helps ensure you find competitive rates and reputable service. Timing can also impact your bottom line. Many companies offer seasonal promotions that could save hundreds on your project.
Consider DIY Options
Installing plantation shutters yourself eliminates labor costs. Tamlyn said DIY installation not only reduces expenses but can also speed up project completion since you won’t need to coordinate with a contractor’s schedule.
Even partial DIY work can generate savings. According to Garrett, homeowners can reduce installation costs by up to 25% by completing preliminary tasks like painting window trim themselves.
How Do Professional and DIY Installation Costs Compare?
While professional installation adds $65 to $200 per hour in labor costs, DIY installation requires purchasing your own materials and tools. Major home improvement retailers like Home Depot sell vinyl plantation shutters for approximately $150 to $200 per window.
Why Should You Install Plantation Shutters?
Plantation shutters combine classic aesthetics with practical benefits, offering superior energy efficiency, sound reduction, and low maintenance requirements compared to other window treatments.
“Beyond their aesthetic value, plantation shutters provide insulation and help regulate indoor temperatures, making them both functional and beautiful,” said Craig Young, vice president of Roof Doctors in California.
Energy Efficiency
Air leakage through outdated or damaged windows accounts for up to 30% of monthly heating and cooling costs, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. While triple-pane replacement windows can address this issue, they often cost up to $1,500 per window.
Plantation shutters offer a more cost-effective solution for improving home energy efficiency. “Shutters act as an extra layer of insulation, keeping your home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter, which can translate to lower energy bills,” Schwartz said.
Sound Reduction
Plantation shutters rival double- and triple-pane windows in their ability to minimize outside noise. “If you live in a noisy neighborhood or near a busy road, plantation shutters can help create a quieter, more peaceful environment indoors,” Schwartz said.
Low Maintenance
Plantation shutters require minimal upkeep compared to other window treatments, making them ideal for busy homeowners.
“Unlike window curtains needing ironing, stain treatment or washing, plantation shutters can last for years with very low maintenance,” said Shivani Vyas, interior designer at Studio Vyas in Macon, Georgia. Regular dusting and monthly cleaning with mild soap and water keep plantation shutters looking their best.
When Should You Replace Plantation Shutters?
Wood plantation shutters typically last 20 to 30 years when properly installed. However, certain signs indicate the need for earlier replacement, such as damaged slats or faulty louvers that control the opening mechanism.
Other replacement indicators include difficulty operating the shutters or decreased performance, like gaps that let in light when closed. Consider consulting a professional to determine if repair might be a more cost-effective solution than full replacement.
The Bottom Line: Are Plantation Shutters Worth It?
Plantation shutters aren’t cheap, but if you want something that lasts, they’re one of the best window treatments you can buy. Unlike blinds or shades that need replacing every few years, shutters are built to hold up for decades—often lasting 20 years or more with proper care. They also help insulate your home, cutting down on drafts in winter and blocking heat in the summer, which can lower energy bills over time.
That said, they’re not for everyone. If you’re just looking for basic privacy or light control, you can get a decent set of blinds for a fraction of the price. But if you want a built-in, custom look that adds value to your home, shutters are a solid investment.
Vinyl and composite shutters are cheaper and hold up well, but they don’t have the same warmth as real wood. If you go for custom hardwood shutters with specialty stains or motorized controls, expect to pay a premium.
Before you commit, get at least three quotes from installers and make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. Some companies push lower-quality materials or skimp on installation. A well-made shutter is only as good as the person installing it.
FAQs About Plantation Shutters
Yes, plantation shutters can add value to your home, especially compared to temporary window treatments like blinds or curtains. Because they’re custom-fitted and permanently installed, buyers often see them as a built-in upgrade rather than something they’ll need to replace.
High-quality shutters improve curb appeal, enhance interior design, and offer functional benefits like insulation and privacy, all of which make a home more attractive to potential buyers. While they won’t guarantee a higher selling price, they can help your home stand out in a competitive market.
That said, the impact on value depends on quality and consistency. Well-made wood or composite shutters that complement the home’s style are more likely to appeal to buyers than cheap or mismatched options. Installing shutters on only some windows while leaving others bare or covered with mismatched treatments can work against resale value.
The bottom line is this: If you’re thinking about shutters purely as an investment, they won’t dramatically increase home value, but they can help your home sell faster by making a better first impression.
Plantation shutters work on most standard windows, but some shapes and styles require custom builds, which can drive up costs. These shutters are generally easy to install on:
- Standard rectangular windows
- French doors
- Sliding glass doors (with bypass or bifold shutters)
- Double-hung and single-hung windows
However, these window styles likely require custom designs, which will drive up the price:
- Bay windows
- Arched windows
- Casement windows
- Tilt-in windows
For oversized windows, floor-to-ceiling glass, or uniquely shaped windows, you may need custom shutters, which are more expensive. In some cases, alternative window treatments like motorized blinds might be a better fit.
Before ordering, measure carefully and check that shutters won’t interfere with handles, locks, or how the window opens and closes. If in doubt, consult a pro to make sure shutters will fit and function properly.
Yes, but material choice is key. Bathrooms are humid environments, and wood shutters can warp or crack over time if they’re not properly sealed. The best options for bathrooms are vinyl or composite shutters, which are moisture-resistant and won’t absorb water.
Avoid real wood shutters in a bathroom. Even with sealing, exposure to steam and humidity can lead to warping or mold over time.
If privacy is a concern, shutters with adjustable louvers allow you to block outside views while still letting in natural light. You can also choose a café-style shutter, which covers only the bottom half of the window while leaving the top open.
