Instant
01 · Ask
Full, cafe or tier-on-tier?
Privacy, view, light control — different shutters for different priorities. Describe each room and the AI tells you the right style.
A guide to shutter installation.
How shutters are measured, ordered and fitted — what to expect from a professional install.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
20,000+UK homeowners
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Hire a shutter fitter. Hardwood, surveyed, snug.
Read the brief on materials, styles and louvre sizes — then let Three local shutter specialists quote.
Free
02 · Read the brief
Walk in informed
Hardwood vs MDF, louvre sizes, hinge types, surveys vs self-measure, child-safety rules. Know what to ask for.
60 seconds
03 · Compare
Compare 3 shutter quotes
Three local fitters quote on the same spec — material, style, louvre, fitting — so the premium is for craft, not markup.
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Get shutter quotes Ready when you are
Enter your postcode and get free quotes from local pros.
Top tips
Hiring a shutters, without the regret.
Four moves that separate a smooth job from a nightmare.
Hardwood lasts twice as long.
MDF/composite shutters: 10–15 years. Hardwood (basswood, paulownia): 25+. The premium pays back in lifespan and resale value.
Plantation vs cafe-style.
Full-height shutters: privacy + light control. Cafe-style (bottom half only): keeps top open. Tier-on-tier: independent halves. Match style to view.
Insist on a survey.
Shutters are millimetre-precise. A reputable fitter measures themselves — never asks you to. Out-of-square windows need careful templating.
Get the louvre size right.
Standard louvre: 64mm. Larger (89mm, 114mm) = more view, more light. Smaller (47mm) = traditional. Choose for room scale.
Costs & timeline
Know what it costs. Know when it ends.
Indicative UK ranges and what affects price.
Cost range
By job type
Inc. VAT · 2026
Source: NMT quotes
Source: NMT quotes
MDF shutter (per window)
£250–£600
Hardwood shutter (per window)
£400–£1.2k
Bay window shutter (large)
£800–£3k
Cafe-style (half height)
£200–£500
Tier-on-tier (per window)
£350–£900
Whole house shutters (3-bed)
£3k–£12k
!
Quote spread is typically ± 18% — always get 3 quotes.
At a glance
Infographic · VideoThe Shutters briefing.
Infographic
Shutters quick-view
Video guide
Shutters explained
Shutter installation is a precise multi-step process. From survey to fitted shutters. Expect 6-12 weeks from order to install. Premium fitted finish.
What Does the Work Involve?
Step 1: Free survey: specialist measures windows precisely. Step 2: Quote: detailed scope and price. Step 3: Order: deposit, manufacture starts. Step 4: Manufacture: 4-8 weeks at factory. Step 5: Install: half day to 1 day per window. Step 6: Aftercare: warranty and customer support.
Typical Timeline
| Stage | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Initial inquiry | Same day | Online or phone |
| In-home survey | 1-2 weeks | Free |
| Detailed quote | 1 week | Written quote |
| Order placement | 1 day | 25% deposit |
| Manufacture | 4-8 weeks | Factory |
| Install | 1-2 days | On-site fitting |
| Final inspection | Same day | Customer signoff |
| Total project | 6-12 weeks | Survey to install |
How Long Does It Take?
Single room: 6-10 weeks total. Whole house: 8-12 weeks. Install day 1-2 days.
DIY or Professional?
Specialist company manages full process.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Established specialist with 10+ year warranty. Insurance-backed guarantee. Read reviews carefully.
UK Regulations
BS EN 13120 child safety. Listed buildings need consent.
Common Problems
- Survey errors: Wrong measurement = wrong-size shutter. Specialist double-check.
- Manufacture delays: Custom shutters delayed. Plan for 6-12 weeks.
- Install day issues: Out-of-square walls = fitting challenges. Specialist adjusts.
- Damage in transit: Specialist responsible. Insurance-backed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Survey free?
Yes — all UK premium installers offer free in-home survey. No commitment.
Pay deposit how much?
25-35% on order. Balance on installation. Don't pay 100% upfront.
What if shutters wrong size?
Specialist responsibility. Re-manufacture at their cost. Insurance-backed.
Will old curtains/blinds need removing?
Some installers remove old window dressings free. Confirm in advance.
How clean is the install?
Minimal mess. Specialist drop-cloths. Should leave site tidy.
Warranty period?
10-25 years on materials. 1-5 years on workmanship. Insurance-backed essential.
This guide was written with AI assistance and is intended for general information only. Prices are estimates based on UK averages and may vary by region. Always get at least three quotes and consult a qualified professional before starting any work.
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