Professionally Installed Shutters vs DIY Shutters
17th October 2025
4 min read
If you’ve been dreaming of transforming your home with stylish plantation shutters, you’ve likely encountered two main options: hiring a full-service "measure and install" company or choosing the DIY route.
At first glance, the professional option might seem like the "safer" bet, but once you pull back the curtain on how the industry works, you’ll see that DIY shutters offer the exact same quality for a fraction of the cost. Here is everything you need to know to make the right choice for your home.
What is the price difference?
The most immediate difference is the price tag. When you pay for a professional installation, you aren't just paying for the shutters. You are also paying for:
- The salesperson’s commission.
- The surveyor’s travel and time.
- The installer’s labour and van overheads.
- The company’s showroom and marketing costs.
By measuring and fitting the shutters yourself, you can typically save around 60% on the total cost. For a whole house, this can equate to thousands of pounds in savings.
Is the quality the same?
A common misconception is that DIY shutters are a "budget" version of what the professionals install. In reality, many DIY shutter companies, including us, use the same high-quality materials, such as premium Paulownia hardwood, that top-tier installation companies use.
The only thing "budget" about DIY shutters is the price. You still get the same durable finishes, elegant slat designs, and custom-made precision.
Is DIY installation difficult?
The biggest hurdle for most homeowners is the fear of getting it wrong. However, modern DIY shutters are designed specifically for easy home installation.
Measuring with confidence
Our step-by-step shutter measuring guides walk you through exactly where to place your tape measure. To give you total peace of mind, our expert team reviews every single order. If something looks slightly off in your measurements, we’ll contact you to double-check before we start manufacturing.
Simple fitting
Fitting shutters is often described as "flatteringly easy." If you can put together flat-pack furniture or put up a shelf, you can install shutters. The frames come pre-drilled, and the panels simply lift into place on their hinges.
The benefits of professional installation
Of course, professional installation has its perks. It is a "hands-off" experience where someone else takes the responsibility. If you have extremely complex architectural windows (like high-reaching arched barn windows) or simply don’t have the time to pick up a screwdriver, the extra cost for a professional might be worth it for you.
The benefits of DIY shutters
Beyond the massive cost savings, choosing DIY gives you:
- Total Control: you choose the exact style, colour, and hardware without a salesperson pushing for a higher commission.
- Faster Lead Times: you don’t have to wait for a surveyor to become available to visit your home.
- Sense of Achievement: there is a unique satisfaction in looking at your beautiful windows and knowing you did it yourself.
Summary: Which should you choose?
If you are looking for the most cost-effective way to add value to your home without compromising on quality, DIY shutters are the winner. By taking on the simple task of measuring and fixing a few screws, you keep the "installation premium" in your own pocket.