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Plantation Shutters

Plantation Shutters Cost Guide: Materials, Sizes & Installation

Plantation shutters are a premium window furnishing. Here's a detailed breakdown of costs, materials, and what to expect.

Reviewed by Compare My Build

4 min read· Updated June 2025

Plantation shutters are one of the most popular premium window furnishings for new Australian homes. Here's what they cost and what to consider.

Plantation Shutter Materials

PVC (Polymer) Shutters

The most popular and affordable shutter type, made from a durable polymer.

Cost: $300 – $450 per m² (installed)
Lifespan: 15 – 25+ years
Water resistance: Excellent (suitable for bathrooms)
Best for: Most homes, wet areas, budget-conscious builds
Advantage: Won't warp, crack, or fade; easy to clean

Timber Shutters

Premium shutters made from solid timber (often basswood or paulownia).

Cost: $450 – $650 per m² (installed)
Lifespan: 20 – 30+ years
Water resistance: Low (not suitable for wet areas)
Best for: Living areas, bedrooms, premium homes
Advantage: Natural timber grain, lighter weight, premium feel

Aluminium Shutters

Heavy-duty shutters for external use or security applications.

Cost: $500 – $800 per m² (installed)
Lifespan: 25+ years
Water resistance: Excellent
Best for: External windows, alfresco areas, security
Advantage: Maximum durability, security, weatherproof

Blade Width Options

The width of the shutter blades (louvres) affects both appearance and function:

Blade Width	Appearance	Light Control
63mm (2.5")	Traditional, more blades visible	Good
76mm (3")	Most popular — balanced look	Very good
89mm (3.5")	Modern, clean look, fewer blades	Excellent
114mm (4.5")	Contemporary, minimal blade count	Maximum

Wider blades provide a more modern look with better views when open, while narrower blades offer a more traditional appearance.

Cost Examples

Window Size	PVC Shutters	Timber Shutters
Small (1.0m × 1.2m)	$360 – $540	$540 – $780
Medium (1.5m × 1.8m)	$810 – $1,215	$1,215 – $1,755
Large (2.0m × 2.1m)	$1,260 – $1,890	$1,890 – $2,730
Sliding door (2.4m × 2.1m)	$1,512 – $2,268	$2,268 – $3,276

Full Home Cost Estimates

Home Size	Number of Windows	PVC Shutters	Timber Shutters
Small (2 bed)	6 – 8	$4,000 – $8,000	$6,000 – $12,000
Medium (3–4 bed)	10 – 15	$7,000 – $15,000	$10,000 – $22,000
Large (5+ bed)	15 – 25	$12,000 – $25,000	$18,000 – $38,000

Additional Costs

Custom colours — $50–$150 per window (most shutters come in white/cream as standard)
Mid-rail (horizontal divider) — $30–$80 per window
Custom shapes (arches, circles) — $200–$500+ per window
Motorised/automated shutters — $500–$1,500 per window
Removal of existing window coverings — $20–$50 per window

Shutters vs Blinds: Quick Comparison

Feature	Plantation Shutters	Roller Blinds
Cost per m²	$300 – $600	$80 – $250
Lifespan	20 – 30 years	8 – 15 years
Light control	Excellent (adjustable blades)	Good (open/closed only)
Insulation	Good	Moderate
Maintenance	Very low	Low
Property value	Adds value	Minimal impact
Aesthetics	Premium, permanent	Functional, replaceable

Are Plantation Shutters Worth It?

Yes, if:

You're building a premium home and want a quality, permanent window furnishing
You plan to stay in the home long-term (the payback comes from years of use)
You want to add property value (shutters are a selling feature)
You want excellent light control and insulation
You want minimal maintenance (no cords, chains, or fabric to replace)

Consider alternatives if:

Budget is tight (roller blinds provide similar function at a fraction of the cost)
You plan to sell soon (you may not recoup the investment)
You like changing your decor frequently (shutters are permanent)

Installation Timing

For new builds, plantation shutters are typically installed after handover — once windows are fitted, painted, and the home is clean. Order 4–8 weeks before you need them installed, as custom shutters are made to measure.

Find a plantation shutter supplier on Trade Connect for your new home.

Independently reviewedRegularly updatedWritten for Australian home buyers

The information on this page is general in nature and provided for educational purposes only. It is not financial, legal, taxation, lending, investment, insurance or professional advice. Individual circumstances vary and you should seek advice from an appropriately qualified professional before making decisions relating to your personal circumstances.