Window shutters have become a popular choice for UK homeowners looking to combine light control, privacy, and a clean aesthetic. Whether you are replacing worn curtains or updating a room, the range of materials, styles, and price points can be difficult to navigate. This guide breaks down the costs, retailers, and practical considerations for buying window shutters in the UK, based on current market data.
Made-to-measure shutters offer a tailored fit but come with varying price tags depending on material, window size, and whether you choose professional installation. Understanding what drives these costs is the first step toward making an informed purchase.
How Much Do Window Shutters Cost in the UK?
The average cost for made-to-measure window shutters in the UK ranges from £200 to £450 per square metre. Fully installed plantation shutters typically land between £300 and £400 per square metre when measure-and-fit services are included, according to industry data from Shuttertec and Shutterly Fabulous.
£200 – £400
Real wood, faux wood (PVC)
BlindsDirect, Swift Direct Blinds, Hillarys, DIY Shutters
Yes – Perfect Fit shutters (no drilling); others require measuring
Key Insights to Know Before You Buy
- Wooden shutters cost 20–30% more than faux wood but offer better insulation.
- Perfect Fit shutters are the fastest solution for renters – no drilling required.
- Bay window shutters require bespoke measuring; most online retailers offer free quotes.
- Outdoor shutters in the UK are typically functional (storm protection) rather than decorative.
- Hardwood (Paulownia) is the cheapest material per square metre, starting at £200.
- Faux wood is more expensive but offers complete waterproofing, ideal for bathrooms and kitchens.
Window Shutters at a Glance – Cost by Window Type
| Window Type / Size | Dimensions (Approx.) | Shutters Only | Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Casement | 450×450 – 600×600 mm | £150 – £250 | £200 – £300 |
| Medium Casement | 700×850 – 1050×1200 mm | £250 – £450 | £300 – £500 |
| Large Casement | 1200×1350 – 1770×1500 mm | £450 – £950+ | £500 – £1,000+ |
| Bay Window (4 sq.m) | Typical living room bay | £800 – £1,440 | £1,250+ |
| Sash Window (1 sq.m) | Bedroom sash | £300 – £500 | £360+ |
| Patio Doors (7 sq.m) | Large sliding doors | £2,520+ | £2,800+ |
Costs rise significantly for bay windows due to complexity and size. A fully installed 5-sided unit often starts at £1,250, based on data from Shuttertec and Shutterly Fabulous. For a DIY bay window installation (2m²), costs begin from just over £400, according to B&Q’s Plantation shutters everything you need to know guide.
Which Retailers Sell Window Shutters? B&Q, Dunelm & More
UK shoppers have several options for buying window shutters, from large DIY chains to specialist online retailers. B&Q and Dunelm are two of the most visible high-street names, while companies like BlindsDirect, Swift Direct Blinds, and Hillarys focus on made-to-measure products with fitting services.
Where can I buy made-to-measure shutters near me?
Specialist retailers such as BlindsDirect and Swift Direct Blinds offer online ordering with nationwide delivery. Hillarys provides a free home consultation, which can be useful if you prefer professional measuring. For budget-friendly options, Dunelm often stocks ready-made shutters, while B&Q sells DIY installation kits under the California Shutters brand, with sale prices from £200–£220 per square metre.
Can I buy window shutters online and install them myself?
Yes – many retailers supply shutters designed for self-installation. Perfect Fit shutters, available from DIY Shutters, clip into the window frame without drilling, making them a popular choice for renters. Other styles require basic tools and careful measuring. Most online stores provide measuring guides and quote calculators to help you order the right size.
Many online retailers, including BlindsDirect and Swift Direct Blinds, run regular sales with up to 50% off. Signing up for newsletters or checking sale pages before ordering can reduce costs significantly. B&Q’s California Shutters frequently appear at 40% off during promotional periods.
What Types of Window Shutters Are Available?
The UK market offers several shutter styles, each suited to different window shapes and room functions. The choice affects both appearance and cost.
What is a perfect fit shutter?
Perfect Fit shutters use a custom-framed clip-in system that attaches to the window beading rather than the frame. No drilling is required, making them ideal for rented properties or uPVC windows. They work well with rounded or irregular window shapes and are available in both faux wood and hardwood finishes.
Can you fit shutters on a bay window?
Yes – most made-to-measure shutter suppliers offer bespoke bay window solutions. Tier-on-tier or full-height panels are typically used to accommodate the angled sections. The cost is higher due to the complexity, with a typical 4-square-metre bay window installation starting at £1,250. A smaller 2m² DIY bay window can cost from just over £400.
What are outdoor shutters used for?
In the UK, outdoor shutters are primarily functional rather than decorative. They provide storm protection, security, and additional insulation for exterior doors and windows. Exterior shutter installation costs range from £160 to £360 per square metre, based on Checkatrade data. Local planning permission may be required for certain properties, so it is worth checking before purchase.
How to Choose Between Wooden and Faux Wood Shutters
The choice between real wood and faux wood is one of the most important decisions when buying shutters. Each material has distinct advantages depending on the room and your priorities.
Are faux wood shutters durable for bathrooms and kitchens?
Faux wood shutters, typically made from MDF or ABS composite, are 100% waterproof and do not warp in humid conditions. They are the recommended choice for wet rooms, shower rooms, and kitchens. Prices range from £225 to £247 per square metre for MDF, and £240 to £300 for ABS composite. Faux wood is slightly heavier than Paulownia hardwood but offers a uniform pre-stained finish.
Do real wood shutters warp over time?
Real wood shutters, particularly those made from Paulownia hardwood, are lightweight and sustainable but require care in damp environments. Without proper sealing and maintenance, they can warp or crack in high-humidity areas. In dry rooms like living rooms and bedrooms, real wood can last 30 years or more with regular dusting and occasional conditioning. Hardwood is also the cheaper material by square metre (£200–£280) compared to faux wood.
Faux wood shutters may yellow over time, especially in direct sunlight. Lifespan is typically 25–35 years, while real wood can exceed 30 years if properly maintained. Always check the warranty terms from your retailer before purchasing.
Hardwood (Paulownia) is the cheapest material at £200–£280 per m², best for dry rooms. Faux wood (MDF) costs £225–£247 per m² and offers complete waterproofing, making it the better choice for bathrooms and kitchens. ABS composite sits in between at £240–£300 per m² with added durability for high-traffic areas.
Can You Install Window Shutters Yourself? A Practical Guide
DIY installation is feasible for most standard window shapes, especially with Perfect Fit systems. However, accuracy in measuring is critical to avoid costly mistakes. For more context on measuring and fitting, see our guide on How to choose the right shutters for your home.
What tools do I need to install window shutters?
A screwdriver, spirit level, drill, and tape measure are the basic tools required. For Perfect Fit shutters, no drilling is needed – they clip directly onto the window beading. For traditional shutters, you will need brackets and screws, plus a pencil for marking positions.
How to measure for made-to-measure shutters?
Most online retailers, including B&Q and Swift Direct Blinds, provide measuring guides and digital quote calculators. The key steps are: measure the window width at three points (top, middle, bottom) and use the smallest measurement; measure the height at left, centre, and right and use the shortest. For bay windows, each panel must be measured individually. If unsure, many retailers offer a free home consultation to verify your figures.
How to Clean and Maintain Window Shutters
Shutters are generally low-maintenance, but cleaning methods differ slightly between real wood and faux wood. Regular care keeps them looking new and extends their lifespan.
What is the best way to clean wooden shutters?
For real wood shutters, use a dry microfiber cloth or a vacuum with a soft brush attachment. Avoid wet cloths or harsh chemicals, as moisture can damage the wood over time. If needed, a slightly damp cloth with a mild wood cleaner can be used sparingly, followed by immediate drying.
Do shutters attract dust?
Like any window covering, shutters collect dust, but their flat, smooth surfaces make them easier to clean than fabric curtains. A quick dusting once a week with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush attachment is usually sufficient. Faux wood shutters can be wiped with a damp cloth without worry, making them particularly suitable for allergy sufferers.
Window Shutters Buying Timeline
- Day 1: Research materials and style – wood vs faux, full-height vs tier-on-tier, café style.
- Day 2–3: Get quotes from 2–3 suppliers, including local installers and online retailers.
- Day 4: Measure your windows or book a professional measuring service.
- Day 7–10: Place your order. UK-made shutters typically take 7–10 days to manufacture, according to Swift Direct Blinds.
- Day 14–17: Delivery arrives. Install yourself or schedule a professional fitter.
Lead times can vary depending on the retailer and time of year. Some online stores offer express manufacturing for an additional fee.
What We Know – and What to Check Yourself
| Established Information | Information That Remains Unclear |
|---|---|
| Faux wood shutters are less expensive and more moisture-resistant than real wood. | Exact pricing varies by region, window size, and retailer – always request a personalised quote. |
| Perfect Fit shutters do not require drilling into window frames. | DIY suitability depends on your window type (uPVC vs timber frames). |
| Average UK cost ranges from £200 to £400 per square metre. | Outdoor shutters are less common in UK homes – check local planning permission if required. |
Why Are Window Shutters Becoming More Popular in UK Homes?
Shutters are increasingly replacing curtains in UK homes, driven by their ease of cleaning and precise light control. Unlike fabric curtains, shutters do not trap dust and allergens as easily, which appeals to households with allergy concerns.
The shift towards remote working has also increased demand for light-blocking shutters in home offices. Homeowners want the ability to darken a room during daytime video calls without the heavy look of blackout curtains. Faux wood shutters, in particular, dominate the market due to their lower cost and superior resistance to humidity, making them practical for both workspaces and wet rooms.
From an energy perspective, both wood and faux wood shutters add a layer of insulation to windows, reducing heat loss in winter and blocking solar heat in summer. This dual benefit has made them a long-term investment for many UK homeowners. For further reading on privacy and light control, see our article on Best window treatments for privacy and light control.
What Do UK Shutter Retailers Say About Their Products?
“Our UK-made shutters are durable, easy to clean and can be fitted anywhere in your home.”
– Hillarys
“We offer a range of popular faux wood shutters that are manufactured within just 7 to 10 days.”
– Swift Direct Blinds
“The average cost for plantation shutters in the UK is anywhere between £200-300 per square metre.”
– DIY.com (B&Q)
Hillarys offers a free home consultation for shutter fitting, which can be especially helpful for complex window shapes. Swift Direct Blinds emphasises the speed of UK-based manufacturing, while B&Q provides accessible pricing and DIY installation kits through its California Shutters range.
What Does the Future of Window Shutters Look Like?
Demand for home-automation-compatible shutters is expected to grow, with more retailers offering motorised options that integrate with smart home systems. At the same time, eco-friendly materials such as recycled composites are entering the UK market, appealing to environmentally conscious buyers. Local installer directories and “near me” searches are also becoming more common as homeowners seek face-to-face measuring and fitting services for high-value purchases.
Frequently Asked Questions About Window Shutters
Do shutters provide good insulation?
Yes – both wood and faux wood shutters add a layer of insulation to windows, reducing heat loss in winter and blocking heat in summer.
Can I get shutters for a bay window?
Yes, most made-to-measure shutter suppliers offer bespoke bay window solutions – typically using tier-on-tier or full-height panels.
What is the most popular shutter style in the UK?
Cafe-style shutters (half-height) remain the most popular choice for front-facing rooms, providing privacy while letting in light.
Are shutters easy to clean?
Very easy – a quick dusting with a microfiber cloth or vacuum brush attachment keeps them looking new.
Do I need professional measuring or can I measure myself?
All major online retailers accept DIY measurements, but many offer a free home consultation for peace of mind.
Are faux wood shutters suitable for bathrooms?
Yes – faux wood (MDF) shutters are 100% waterproof and ideal for wet rooms, shower rooms, and kitchens.
Do real wood shutters require special maintenance?
Real wood shutters need dry cleaning with a microfiber cloth. Avoid wet cloths and harsh chemicals, and ensure the room is not excessively humid.
How long do made-to-measure shutters take to deliver?
UK-made shutters typically take 7–10 days to manufacture, with delivery following shortly after. Some retailers offer express options.
Can I install outdoor shutters myself?
Outdoor shutters can be installed as a DIY project, but check local planning permission first. Professional fitting is recommended for larger or more complex installations.
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David Harwood is Editor-in-Chief at Headlines UK, overseeing editorial policy, corrections, standards and publication decisions across UK news coverage.