How Much Should I Budget for Plantation Shutters?
Plantation shutters are one of the most popular window furnishings in Australia—and for good reason. They’re stylish, durable, easy to maintain, and can add genuine value to your home. But before committing, most homeowners ask the same question:
“How much should I actually budget?”
The answer depends on several factors, including your window size, material choice, and installation requirements. In this guide, we’ll break down real Australian pricing, what affects costs, and how to budget properly—whether you're fitting one room or your entire home.
The Short Answer: Typical Plantation Shutter Costs in Australia
If you’re just after a quick ballpark:
$300 to $1,200+ per window
$800 to $1,500+ per window (common modern range)
$300 to $750 per m² installed
$2,300 to $3,700 for an average home install
In Perth specifically, expect to sit in the mid-to-upper range if you’re choosing high-quality, custom-made shutters.
Cost Per Window: What Most Homeowners Pay
The easiest way to understand pricing is per window.
Standard Window (900mm x 1200mm)
Budget PVC shutters: $800 – $1,400
Timber or premium finishes: $900 – $1,800+
Smaller or Basic Windows
Entry-level shutters: $300 – $500
Large Windows or Doors
Bi-fold, sliding, or oversized panels: $1,500 – $3,000+
The bigger and more complex the opening, the higher the cost—because you’re essentially paying for more panels, hinges, and structural support.
Cost Per Square Metre (The More Accurate Way)
Professionals often quote shutters per square metre, which gives a more consistent comparison.
Average Pricing by Material:
PVC: $300 – $600 per m²
Timber / Basswood: $400 – $800 per m²
Aluminium: $500 – $750 per m²
If you’re budgeting for a full home, this method is far more reliable than “per window” estimates.
Total Cost for a Full House
Here’s what most Australian homeowners spend:
Small Home or Apartment
3–5 windows: $1,500 – $3,000
Average Family Home
8–12 windows: $2,500 – $7,000+
Larger or Premium Homes
Whole house fit-out: $8,000 – $15,000+
The final price depends heavily on how many windows you’re covering and the level of customisation.
What Affects the Price of Plantation Shutters?
Plantation shutters aren’t a one-size-fits-all product. Several factors can significantly influence your final quote.
1. Material Choice (Biggest Cost Driver)
PVC (Most Affordable)
Moisture-resistant (great for bathrooms)
Lower cost
Slightly less premium look
Timber (Premium Option)
Natural, warm aesthetic
Higher price due to materials and finishing
Best suited for living areas and bedrooms
Aluminium (Specialty Option)
Ideal for outdoor or high-durability areas
More expensive but extremely long-lasting
Material alone can change your price by 30–50% or more.
2. Window Size and Shape
Standard rectangular windows = cheapest
Large windows = more panels = higher cost
Arched or custom shapes = extra charges apply
Custom shapes can add $200+ per m² in some cases
3. Installation Complexity
Installation may include:
Measuring and custom fitting
Mounting frames and panels
Adjusting for uneven walls
Labour typically adds:
$50 – $100 per m²
Some companies include installation in their quote—others don’t, so always check.
4. Design Style and Configuration
Different shutter styles come with different price points:
Full-height shutters (most common)
Tier-on-tier shutters (more flexible, more expensive)
Café-style shutters (cheaper, covers half window)
Sliding or bi-fold systems (premium pricing)
The more moving parts, the higher the cost.
5. Customisation and Finishes
Extras that can increase your budget:
Custom colours or stains
Hidden tilt rods (cleaner look)
Wider louvres
Specialty hardware
These upgrades can push shutters into the high-end price bracket ($1,000+ per window)
6. Local vs Imported Shutters
Locally made shutters: higher cost, better quality and warranty
Imported shutters: cheaper upfront, but longer lead times and fewer guarantees
In Perth, many homeowners choose locally made for durability and faster service.
Budgeting Tips: How to Avoid Overspending
If you want plantation shutters without blowing your renovation budget, here’s how to stay smart:
Prioritise Key Rooms
Install shutters in:
Living rooms
Bedrooms
Street-facing windows
Use cheaper coverings (like blinds) elsewhere.
Choose PVC for Wet Areas
You’ll save money and avoid long-term damage.
Mix Materials
Use timber in feature areas and PVC elsewhere for a balanced budget.
Get Multiple Quotes
Always compare:
Price per m²
Inclusions (installation, warranty, materials)
Ask About Packages
Many suppliers offer discounts for whole-home installations.
Are Plantation Shutters Worth the Cost?
At first glance, shutters seem expensive compared to blinds or curtains. But they offer long-term value:
Benefits:
Increase property value
Improve insulation and energy efficiency
Long lifespan (10–20+ years)
Timeless aesthetic
Unlike cheaper window coverings, shutters are a once-off investment, not something you replace every few years.
Plantation Shutters vs Other Window Coverings
FeaturePlantation ShuttersBlindsCurtainsCostHigh upfrontLowMediumDurability10–20+ years3–7 years5–10 yearsMaintenanceVery lowModerateHighProperty ValueAdds valueNo impactMinimalStylePremiumBasicDecorative
If you’re renovating or selling, shutters often deliver a strong return on investment.
Final Thoughts: What Should You Budget?
To summarise:
Per window: $300 – $1,500+
Per m²: $300 – $800
Whole home: $2,500 – $10,000+
The key is to budget based on your home size, material choice, and level of customisation—not just a generic estimate.
Ready to Get an Accurate Quote?
While guides like this are helpful, every home is different. The most accurate way to budget is with a free in-home measure and quote.
If you're in Perth, working with Perth’s Boutique Plantation Shutters ensures:
Precise measurements
Custom-built shutters
Expert installation
High-quality finishes tailored to your home
Reach out today to get a tailored quote—and turn your budget into a clear, confident plan.