How to Compare Quotes

There are a number of nasty ways to get caught out with quotes provided by different providers. At ShuttersDept, we are committed to simple and transparent pricing.

Our prices cover the total cost of your shutters, including frame, any configuration choices you make and are inclusive of GST. Delivery is calculated separately. We only sell DIY hinged white PVC plantation shutters for windows. Our shutters always have a hidden tilt rod and we offer a free stainless steel hinge upgrade for shutters being installed in bathrooms and kitchens. We don't charge extra for any configuration choices.

When comparing quotes it’s always important to compare ‘like with like’ (for instance don’t compare a venetian blind with a shutter, they are completely different products).

These are some of the things to keep in mind:

Materials

Shutters are generally made from one of three different materials: PVC (and other similar materials with a variety of brand names that often use 'poly' for polymer or 'therm' for thermoplastic), wood or aluminium. Generally speaking, you’ll find that PVC is the most affordable, followed by cheaper timbers.

However, be careful when comparing quotes for shutters made from synthetic materials - a common way to reduce cost is by manufacturing hollow shutter blades. Be sure you're comfortable with the feel and appearance of this product before you commit.

Aluminium is usually more expensive (and often used for outdoor applications). High-end timber shutters made from teak, cedar or similar are usually most expensive (but you'd be crazy to paint these white so are not really a direct comparison to a PCV product).

PVC

• Most affordable option
• Suitable for wet areas

Wood

• Lighter by weight and some timbers allow wider spans
• May need a recoat of paint after time
• Not suitable for wet areas
• Cost very dependent on the type of timber

Aluminium

• Suitable for outdoors
• More expensive

Configuration

Depending on whether you’re looking to add shutters to a window, doorway or a void, shutters can be manufactured in a variety of (very) different ways.

Hinged  - generally for windows panels, swing out from the hinge

Bifolding - for windows and doors, panels collapse in on themselves

Sliding - generally for doors, panels will slide in front of each other tracked to the floor

Tracked bi-folding panels - For windows and doors, panels will collapse in on themselves and be tracked to the floor or sill of a window

Fixed panels - generally for a window or void, these panels will not move.

ShuttersDept sells hinged shutters only.

Installation

Obviously, for a DIY install, the installation is free. If you’re choosing to have someone install shutters for you, expect to be paying up to $50 per panel plus $100 for measuring (which can quickly add up!).

GST

By law, businesses are required to quote inclusive of GST. Be wary of companies who don't.

Only choose a reputable shutter business when looking at your next DIY shutters project. You’ll save a lot of time, money and confusion by choosing the ShuttersDept.