How much does it cost to replace shutters?
How much does it cost to replace shutters?
$300 – $1,300 average cost per window
Average cost to replace shutters
The cost to replace shutters ranges from $300 to $1,300 per window with installation for functional storm shutters. Fixed decorative shutters are less expensive, costing $50 to $150 per window for aesthetic enhancement only. Prices depend on the type of shutter, size, and material.
| Type | Average cost per window* |
Description |
|---|---|---|
| Decorative fixed shutters | $50 – $150 | Purely aesthetic shutters that are permanently mounted beside windows to enhance a home's curb appeal |
| Functional storm shutters | $300 – $1,300 | Storm shutters that provide critical protection in hurricane-prone regions by shielding windows from high winds and debris |
*Including installation labor
Cost to replace shutters on a house
The cost to replace exterior storm shutters is $300 to $1,300 per window for materials and labor, depending on the shutter type, size, and installation complexity. Shutter prices are $150 to $1,000 per window, while the labor cost to install shutters is $125 to $200. Removal and disposal of existing shutters costs from $25 to $100 per window.
| Shutter replacement factor | Average cost per window |
|---|---|
| Shutters | $150 – $1,000 |
| Installation labor | $125 – $200 |
| Removal and disposal of existing shutters | $25 – $100 |
| Total cost | $300 – $1,300 per window |
Shutter prices by type
The cost of hurricane shutters varies from $150 to $1,000 per window for the shutters alone or $300 to $1,300 per window when you include labor to remove the old shutters and install the new ones. The following table details various shutter options to help you choose shutters that fit your budget, safety requirements, and ease of use.
| Type | Average replacement cost* | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Accordion | $300 – $600 | Folding panels slide horizontally on tracks, providing quick protection and easy storage. |
| Roll-down | $360 – $800 | Mounted above windows, these roll down vertically for protection using a hand crank. |
| Motorized roll down | $500 – $1,300 | Similar to manual rollers these operate with a motor, offering convenience and ease of use. |
| Colonial | $325 – $650 | Two-piece louvered shutters that fold closed over windows, offering both decoration and protection. |
| Bahama | $325 – $800 | Hinged at the top, they open outward like awnings, providing shade and storm protection. |
| Storm panels | $185 – $500 | Removable panels installed before storms. These are cost-effective but require storage and longer setup time. |
| Hurricane fabric | $220 – $600 | Flexible mesh screen that withstands high winds, allows light entry, and offers quick 15-minute deployment. |
*Includes installation.
Exterior shutter prices by material
Shutters come in various materials, each with unique benefits and limitations. The choice of material affects protection, durability, and overall cost. The following table details the costs and features of common shutter materials.
| Material | Average cost per square foot* | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood | $2 – $6 | Attractive, affordable, and customizable | Requires maintenance, can warp or rot |
| Polycarbonate | $10 – $20 | Lightweight, impact-resistant, and provide clear visibility | Less durable than metal, can yellow over time |
| Aluminum | $5 – $15 | Durable, lightweight, and cost-effective option with low maintenance | Can dent or scratch and can corrode in harsh environments |
| Steel | $35 – $60 | Strong, durable, and resistant to severe weather conditions | Heavy, expensive, can rust if not properly stored |
| Fabric | $10 – $30 | Lightweight, easy to use and store | Less protective than solid materials, shorter lifespan |
*Shutter prices only; not including installation labor.
Window shutter cost factors
Shutter replacement costs vary based on shutter type, window size, and material. Prices range from basic panels to motorized systems, with larger windows and premium materials increasing overall expenses.
Other factors affecting window shutter replacement costs include:
Installation complexity: Complex installations can increase costs depending on the difficulty of mounting and securing the shutters. Installing on the ground floor costs less compared to upper stories.
Manual vs. motorized: Manual systems are more budget-friendly, while motorized options add a premium of 50% to 100% to the installation expense. Additional features like remote control capabilities add to the total project cost.
Customization: Unique sizes, special colors, or decorative features will raise the overall project price.
Quality and brand: Premium manufacturers with a reputation for quality charge more for their products.
Location: Geographic location and local labor rates determine installation expenses and material availability.
Size of the project: The number of shutters can affect per-window pricing, with bulk installations potentially offering discounts.
Repairs and modifications: Any necessary structural changes or repairs to accommodate the new shutters will increase the overall project expense.
FAQs about installing shutters
How much do shutters cost for a door?
Shutters for a door typically cost from $400 to $2,000 with installation. The price varies based on the door size, shutter material, and style. Storm panels and armor screens cost less than accordion or roll-down shutters for doors which fall on the higher end of the price range. Motorized roll-down shutters for doors can cost even more.
How much does it cost to install shutters on the whole house?
The cost to install shutters on an entire house is approximately $3,000 to $13,000 This price can vary significantly depending on the number and size of windows and the chosen shutter material.
Does installing shutters increase home value?
Yes, fixed decorative shutters provide improved curb appeal and make your home more marketable to potential buyers. Functional shutters protect homes in storm-prone regions and can lower your insurance premiums. Both types of shutters contribute to home value.
Getting estimates from shutter installation companies
Before hiring a shutter installer near you, follow these recommendations:
Request written estimates from at least three local shutter installation companies.
Request references from recent local installations to validate the company's quality of work.
Look for companies with positive reviews on HomeGuide and Google.
Compare per-square-foot pricing across multiple providers.
Ensure each estimate includes a detailed breakdown of material, labor, and any additional costs.
Verify the company's experience with your specific type of shutter installation.
Confirm the installer is licensed, insured, and specializes in your desired shutter type.
Check for warranties on both materials and installation workmanship.
Questions to ask a shutter installer
Are you licensed and insured for shutter installations?
How long have you been installing this specific type of shutter?
Do you specialize in hurricane shutters, decorative shutters, or both?
Can you provide references from recent local installations?
How long will the installation take for my specific windows?
Does the estimate include the removal and disposal of existing shutters?
What maintenance do these shutters require?
Can you provide a detailed, written estimate?
Are there any potential additional costs not included in the initial quote?
Do you offer any seasonal discounts?
What are your payment terms?
What warranty do you offer on materials and installation?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.