How Much House Value Could Increase with Plantation Shutters?

If you’re a homeowner looking to enhance the appeal and value of your property, you’ve probably considered upgrades like kitchen renovations, landscaping, or even a fresh coat of paint. But one often-overlooked improvement that can significantly boost your home’s value is installing plantation shutters.

Stylish, functional, and timeless, plantation shutters aren’t just a decorative touch — they can actually increase the perceived and real value of your home. But how much of a return on investment (ROI) can you expect from adding plantation shutters? And why are they considered so desirable by homebuyers?

In this guide, we’ll take a deeper look into how plantation shutters can add value to your home, the estimated ROI, what affects their worth, and whether they’re truly worth the investment.

What Are Plantation Shutters?

Plantation shutters are interior window coverings with wide, horizontal louvres (slats) that can be adjusted to control light and airflow. Unlike blinds or curtains, plantation shutters are permanently affixed to the window frame and typically open like doors.

They’re available in various materials, including:

• Basswood or hardwood: Traditional and high-end look, ideal for living rooms and bedrooms.

• PVC (polyvinyl chloride): Moisture-resistant and perfect for bathrooms and kitchens.

• Composite or faux wood: A blend of durability and aesthetics.

Their crisp, structured design suits a wide range of home styles — from coastal to contemporary and everything in between.

Why Do Plantation Shutters Add Value?

1. Curb Appeal and Aesthetic Impact

Plantation shutters enhance both the interior and exterior look of your home. From the outside, their clean lines and uniform appearance create an elegant, well-maintained look. From the inside, they offer a classic yet versatile window dressing that works in virtually any room.

This kind of immediate visual appeal can make a strong first impression on buyers and set your property apart in a competitive market.

2. Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency is top of mind for many homeowners, especially with rising power bills. Plantation shutters provide an extra layer of insulation. When closed, they help keep heat out during summer and retain warmth during winter, potentially lowering heating and cooling costs.

Real estate agents often highlight this feature when marketing homes — it’s a selling point that resonates with energy-conscious buyers.

3. Privacy and Light Control

With adjustable louvres, plantation shutters allow homeowners to enjoy both natural light and privacy. You can tilt the slats to let in daylight while blocking the view from outside. This fine level of control is a desirable feature that curtains and some blinds simply can’t match.

4. Durability and Low Maintenance

Unlike fabric curtains that gather dust or traditional blinds that can bend or break, plantation shutters are built to last. Most quality shutters are scratch-resistant, moisture-resistant (especially PVC types), and easy to clean — just a quick wipe with a damp cloth is enough.

For buyers who want a low-maintenance home, this is a big plus.

5. Custom Fit and Built-in Appeal

Plantation shutters are custom-fitted to your window frames, giving them a polished, built-in look that feels like part of the architecture — rather than an afterthought. This gives the impression of a well-cared-for home with quality finishes.

How Much Can Plantation Shutters Increase Home Value?

While it’s impossible to give an exact figure due to variables like location, property size, and real estate trends, experts generally agree that plantation shutters can add between 5% and 10% to your home’s resale value.

Let’s put that into perspective:

• On a $600,000 home, that’s an increase of $30,000 to $60,000.

• On a $850,000 home, the added value could be $42,500 to $85,000.

• For a premium home worth $1 million or more, the gain could easily exceed $100,000.

The return on investment is particularly strong when shutters are installed throughout key areas like the living room, master bedroom, and street-facing windows.

Even buyers who don’t place a specific dollar value on them will appreciate the aesthetic and functional benefits — which can tip the scale in your favour during a sale.

Cost of Plantation Shutters in Australia

So what’s the cost to install plantation shutters, and does it make sense financially?

In Australia, the average cost for plantation shutters ranges from $300 to $500 per square metre, depending on factors like:

• Material: PVC is usually more affordable than hardwood.

• Customisation: Unique window shapes or larger areas can increase costs.

• Installation: Professional installation ensures a perfect fit but adds to the total price.

For a standard three-bedroom home, full installation might cost between $5,000 and $10,000. While this may seem steep initially, the potential boost in resale value — along with day-to-day energy savings and improved liveability — often justifies the expense.

Which Rooms Add the Most Value?

If you’re not installing shutters throughout your entire home, prioritise these high-impact areas:

1. Living Room

This is a major focal point for buyers and guests. Plantation shutters add a polished, cohesive look while improving natural light and privacy control.

2. Master Bedroom

Buyers love the added privacy and elegance shutters bring to the main sleeping area.

3. Street-Facing Windows

Shutters enhance curb appeal and make the home look consistent from the outside.

4. Bathrooms and Kitchens

Moisture-resistant shutters (like PVC) are perfect here, providing both functionality and aesthetics

Tips to Maximise the Value of Plantation Shutters

To get the most bang for your buck, keep the following in mind:

• Stick with neutral colours like white, cream, or grey. These tones are universally appealing and work with most interior design styles.

• Choose quality materials — especially if you’re planning to stay in the home long-term.

• Opt for professional installation to ensure they fit perfectly and operate smoothly.

• Match the style of your home — a modern home may suit sleek shutters, while a traditional home may benefit from wide-louvre wooden shutters.

Are Plantation Shutters a Good Investment?

Absolutely — especially if you’re thinking long-term or plan to sell in the next few years.

Besides adding monetary value, they enhance your home’s livability, comfort, and energy efficiency. Even if your house isn’t on the market yet, you’ll enjoy their practical benefits every day, and potential buyers will certainly take notice down the road.

Real Estate Agent Insights

According to many Australian real estate professionals, buyers often associate plantation shutters with “move-in ready” homes. They’re seen as a premium window treatment — and homes with shutters tend to spend less time on the market.

Some agents even recommend installing shutters before listing a home to create a better first impression during viewings and open homes.

Final Thoughts

Plantation shutters do more than just look good — they add real, measurable value to your property. Whether it’s through improved energy efficiency, a timeless look, or increased curb appeal, these shutters are a home improvement with a strong return on investment.

If you’re looking for a relatively simple, stylish upgrade that could boost your property’s value by 5% to 10%, plantation shutters might be the smartest investment you’ll make.

And if you’re in Western Australia, consider the best plantation shutters in Perth at affordable prices. With Perth’s Boutique Plantation Shutters services that cover all of Western Australia, you can expect custom-fitted designs, quality materials, and expert installation — all without breaking the bank. Investing in high-quality shutters from trusted local providers ensures your home not only looks incredible but also increases in long-term value.