Instant
01 · Ask
Ask the AI a follow-up
Got more questions about window Shutter Materials? Describe the bit you're unsure about — the AI explains options, sequencing and what to ask the shutters.
Compare shutter materials.
Basswood, MDF, vinyl, hardwood — what each material costs and how each performs in UK conditions.
✓ Updated May 2026✓ Free quotes✓ Vetted pros
20,000+UK homeowners
50,000Quotes sent
Keep going
Hire a shutter fitter. Hardwood, surveyed, snug.
You've read the brief on window Shutter Materials. Now lean on us to find the right shutters — and stay in control of the job.
Free
02 · Read the brief
Walk in informed
Costs, timelines, pitfalls and the right questions to ask before any shutters starts on window Shutter Materials.
60 seconds
03 · Compare
Compare 3 shutters quotes
Itemised quotes from up to 3 local shutterss on window Shutter Materials — so you can compare like-for-like, not lump sums.
✦
Get shutters 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.
Wood in wet rooms
Warps and rots. Aluminium or ABS for bathrooms.
MDF chip damage
Edge chips visible. Care during install.
Aluminium cheap finish
Powder coat fade in 10-15 years. Premium finish lasts 20+.
Hardwood cost spike
Premium woods 2-3x MDF. Budget concern.
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 (ABS) per windowStandard size
£400–£1.2k
Hardwood (basswood) per windowPremium
£800–£2.5k
Aluminium per windowWaterproof
£500–£1.5k
ABS plastic per windowBudget waterproof
£300–£800
Paulownia (lightweight wood)Mid-range wood
£600–£1.8k
Premium finished hardwoodStained, polished
£1.2k–£3.5k
!
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 materials affect cost, durability, and use cases. Hardwood premium, MDF budget, aluminium waterproof. Expect to pay £400–£2,500 per window depending on material.
What Does the Work Involve?
Specialist matches material to window environment. Hardwood (basswood, paulownia): traditional, painted/stained. MDF (ABS): cheaper, painted finish, stable. Aluminium: water-resistant, modern. ABS plastic: budget waterproof. Frame and louvers manufactured.
Typical Costs
| Item | Low (£) | High (£) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MDF (ABS) per window | 400 | 1,200 | Standard size |
| Hardwood (basswood) per window | 800 | 2,500 | Premium |
| Aluminium per window | 500 | 1,500 | Waterproof |
| ABS plastic per window | 300 | 800 | Budget waterproof |
| Paulownia (lightweight wood) | 600 | 1,800 | Mid-range wood |
| Premium finished hardwood | 1,200 | 3,500 | Stained, polished |
| Bay window set (3-pane) | 1,500 | 5,500 | Standard install |
How Long Does It Take?
Same lead time across materials. 6-12 weeks lead.
DIY or Professional?
Specialist installer for any material.
Choosing the Right Tradesperson
Brand specialist (California Shutters offers all). Bespoke local makers for hardwood.
UK Regulations
BS EN 13120 child safety. Same regardless of material.
Common Problems
- Wood in wet rooms: Warps and rots. Aluminium or ABS for bathrooms.
- MDF chip damage: Edge chips visible. Care during install.
- Aluminium cheap finish: Powder coat fade in 10-15 years. Premium finish lasts 20+.
- Hardwood cost spike: Premium woods 2-3x MDF. Budget concern.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best material for living room?
Hardwood: premium aesthetic, warmth. MDF acceptable for budget. Both suit dry living rooms.
Bathroom shutters material?
Aluminium: waterproof, durable, modern. ABS: cheaper waterproof option. Wood/MDF warps from steam.
Which lasts longest?
Aluminium: 25+ years. Hardwood: 25+. MDF: 15-25. ABS: 15-20.
Cost premium hardwood?
2x MDF on average. Hardwood adds visible quality. Worth premium for visible rooms.
Painted or stained?
Painted: clean, easy match decor. Stained: shows wood grain. Painted most popular UK.
UV-stable for conservatory?
Hardwood and aluminium UV-stable. MDF can warp in direct sun. Verify for conservatory use.
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.
NEWAI Trade Assistant
Got more questions
about shutters?
Ask follow-ups in plain English. The AI explains options, sequencing and what to ask the shutters — so you walk in informed.
I'm planning a job. Should I be looking for a shutters?
Sounds like a job for shutters. Tell me what you're trying to do — I'll walk you through costs, timeline and what to ask before they start.
FREE QUOTES60 SECONDS
Keep reading
VIEW ALL SHUTTERS GUIDES →More shutters guides.
Guide
Plantation Shutters — UK Cost & Style Guide
Plantation shutters are premium fitted window treatment. UK costs by material and style.
READ GUIDE →GuideCafe Style Shutters — UK Cost & Style Guide
Cafe-style shutters cover lower half. UK costs and traditional aesthetic.
READ GUIDE →GuideTier-on-Tier Shutters — UK Cost & Flexibility Guide
Tier-on-tier shutters with independent halves. UK costs and modern aesthetic.
READ GUIDE →GuideShutters for Bay Windows — UK Cost & Fitting Guide
Bay window shutters need specialist fitting. UK costs and design.
READ GUIDE →GuideBathroom Waterproof Shutters — UK Cost & Material Guide
Waterproof shutters for bathrooms. UK costs for aluminium and ABS.
READ GUIDE →GuideShutter Installation Process — UK Step-by-Step Guide
Shutter installation explained. UK process and what to expect.
READ GUIDE →