More British home-owners are investing in the benefits and advantages of new window shutters. Find out more about the benefits, designs and cost of installing window shutters.
Do you want to beautify your room while protecting the window glass? Shutters are the answer. They adorn your windows while also being functional. So should you install these by yourselves or take help from the pros? The latter is a better choice because you probably will not be able to affix them properly.
We will first go over certain factors that influence price, and towards the end, we will provide you with estimates.
in this article
Advantages of Window Shutters
Well, there are numerous benefits to having window shutters installed on your property, including the following:
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- First of all, window shutters come in a range of different sizes, styles, colors, and designs, so there really will be a different option to suit any home and/or window base.
- Window shutters also offer additional insulation on top of ordinary curtains or blinds – but be aware that not all shutters are compatible with these other window covers.
- They also control light entry and help to keep a room cool during the summer.
- Window shutters are durable and long-lasting, so you won’t need to replace them any time soon.
- If they are made of wood or MDF, a simple annual varnish can also help protect window shutters from bug infestations or wood rot – helping them to last for even longer.
- They require little maintenance and are easy to clean – often, a simple wipe down once a week is more than enough to keep them looking as good as new.
- Because they can be custom-made, window shutters are also perfect for any window type, including bay windows and any other awkward designs on the interior or exterior of the property.
Shutters are available in many materials.
Though shutters are made from many materials, composite and wood are the most popular options. The Composite resembles wood but is not so durable, and so the costs are less. Wooden shutters prices are in a wide range. Though these shutters look beautiful, they require maintenance.
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- MDF interior shutters – MDF interior shutters are not only cheap but also durable and sturdy, making them a good choice for window shutters in your Leeds home. They are also resistant to cracks, warping, fading, and chipping. MDF shutters might be a good idea if you have a particular decor throughout your home, as you can easily paint or customize them to match.
- Pearwood interior window shutters – Pearlwood is a hardwood making it extremely durable. Some major retailers sell this sort of shutter at a slightly lower price than what is listed here, so it may be best to shop around if you decide on Pearlwood window shutters for your home.
- Basswood interior shutters – Basswood is the lightest in weight for window shutters, making it a good choice for shutters that need to span over a huge window. Basswood internal shutters are usually made from high-grade laminated basswood. This lamination process will give the shutter extra strength and more integrity, making it last a lot longer.
- Craftwood window shutters – Craftwood shutters are heavier than timber, putting several constraints on their practical use. The most notable of these being that craft wood shutters aren’t advisable for the wider windows.
Plastic and vinyl are other choices for shutter materials.
What are the different styles of shutters?
After deciding on the type of material you want to use for the window shutters, you must decide on the look that your window shutters will take. Once again, each look varies in price.
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- Full height shutters – These window shutters are full height single paneled, with a divider rail in the middle. These window shutters need only be bought if you look to cover up a large window in your Leeds home.
- Cafe-style window shutters – If you have very modern decor, this type of window shutter would suit you. These window shutters cover only the bottom half of the window, allowing both privacy and a lot of light.
- Tier-on-tier window shutters – Tier-on-tier shutters could, in some ways, be classed as two separate shutters. The top and bottom panels are, in fact, not connected and can be opened separately. Once again, if you have modern decor in your home, this might be a perfect addition.
Interior Shutters (Plantation Shutters)
Interior shutters, sometimes called plantation shutters, have become more popular in the UK. More people buy shutters because they require less maintenance than curtains; they offer privacy while also letting light into the room, so they are efficient.
Interior shutters come in different designs. Most have a traditional slat effect (louver) that lets varying degrees of light through, but you can get solid paneled shutters that are particularly good for keeping the heat in; So shutters are energy efficient, which appeals to customers at the moment. The three main styles of interior shutters are:
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- Full height shutters cover the full length of the window, either in louver or solid design. They usually have a rail halfway down, and you can adjust the louvers according to how much light or privacy you need. Full height shutters can be good for patios or sliding doors.
- Two-tiered shutters are split into upper and lower sections, which can open independently of each other. They are often used in tall narrow windows and Victorian or Edwardian-style homes.
- Half-height shutters are often called ‘cafe shutters’ because they are commonly used in restaurants; these shutters only block out the bottom half of the window. Natural light still filters through the top half of the window, but the shutter on the bottom half provides privacy.
Will interior shutters be more expensive?
Installing interior shutters is more difficult, so greater costs may arise, but they make your room look prettier. As for exterior shutters, if they are non-functional, the shutter installation cost will not be so high. Do you have fiber cement or brick siding? In that case, you may have to pay slightly more.
For standard window sizes and shapes, not many costs are incurred for installing shutters. You will have to pay more for fancy windows with decorative shapes, and the same can be said for custom shutters.
Fixed or operable?
Do you want a fixed shutter or an operable one? Fixed shutters are affixed next to the window and stay flat. Operable models feature hinges and can be closed over the windows. The latter option is more expensive.
So how much do shutters cost, and what does the average shutter installation cost? Let us take a deeper look.
Exterior shutters
Functioning exterior shutters are most common in parts of the world that are very hot or suffer extreme weather, as they help to block out heat and protect against the elements. In the UK, exterior blinds are normally used for purely aesthetic reasons; therefore, most tend to be non-functioning.
Solid shutters are perfect for insulation and weatherproofing your home; shutters with louvers are not quite as insulating but do allow for ventilation and light to filter through.
The most common types of exterior shutters used in the UK are security shutters. Roller shutters are a perfect option for commercial premises, as they are made of galvanized steel and offer good production.
Roller security shutters are used by businesses, shops, factories, warehouses, and garages. They are usually made of galvanized steel or aluminum and roll up to conserve floor space. Security shutters can be operated manually. Electric and remote-controlled shutters are the norms now. Security shutters have the added benefit of conserving heat and are usually fire-resistant.
Types of exterior shutters
Exterior shutters are available in several materials, colors, and designs to suit your property; some of the most common are:
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- Wood – such as cedar or pine. These both look good and are great for further insulating your home. Be aware that wood does require regular maintenance, such as repainting or staining, which can be costly.
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- Metal – these are probably not suitable for the home as they don’t look very appealing; metal shutters are mostly used for security purposes in commercial properties.
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- uPVC – the best feature of uPVC is who can make it look like wood or any other material for a fraction of the price; uPVC is also lightweight, requires minimal maintenance, and is extremely durable.
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- Fiberglass/composite – is strong and long-lasting – ideal for security purposes. However, these types of shutters can be expensive.
What are the practical benefits of exterior shutters?
In other countries, exterior shutters are used to defend against harsh weather such as hurricanes or to keep homes cool in hot climates. Although this isn’t as necessary in the UK, exterior shutters can still provide:
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- Historical/decorative value – exterior shutters can have a dramatic effect, enhancing the beauty of your windows and creating a welcoming aura. They are available in three forms: louvered, raised-panel, board, and batten; they can suit any property type.
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- Security – exterior shutters protect your windows, deterring and preventing burglaries – windows are often used to break into a property.
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- Low maintenance needs – exterior shutters are easy to maintain and clean and protect your window glass, meaning less cleaning is required.
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- Savings on your fuel bills – shutters can help save money on bills, as they help to insulate your property. They can even prevent the need for any air conditioning in the summer to protect against strong sunlight.
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- Privacy – exterior shutters may even eliminate the need for any curtains or blinds.
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- Versatility – shutters can be made to fit any window type, be it circular, arched, or large sliding windows. They also come in a range of colors and materials to suit your property.
Window shutters average installation cost.
The average costs of installing shutters vary depending on the material, style, and labor charges. Generally, you should expect to pay around £150-£200 per square meter. If you are opting for stained or painted fitting, the costs can go up to £250. The wood used influences the window shutters’ cost; pine costs around £50, but other wood like mahogany or cheery wood can cost as much as £300.
Window Shutters Prices
| Shutter Size | Material | Shutter Design | Louvre size | Frame sizes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1000 X 1500 | MDF | Full Height | 85 | 4 | £256 |
| 1000 X 1500 | Hardwood | Full Height | 89 | 4 | £320 |
| 1000 X 1500 | Waterproof ABS | Full Height | 89 | 4 | £312 |
* Prices include only the cost of materials and should be used only as a rough guide
Example window shutters installation prices
Semi-detached window shutter installation: £1,500 to £3,000.
Solid shutters for a three-bay window: £1,200,
Plantation shutters for a three-bay window: £1,000
References
What Are The Benefits of External Shutters
http://www.shutterdesign.co.uk/blog/what-are-the-benefits-of-external-window-shutters/
Shutter Styles
https://www.diyshutters.co.uk/shutters/styles-guide
Cost Of Living: Shutters
https://www.independent.co.uk/property/house-and-home/cost-of-living-shutters-885845.html
How Much Do Window Shutters Cost
http://www.diamondwindowshutters.co.uk/how-much-do-window-shutters-cost/