So You Want California Shutters? You Better Be Sitting Down (Because This Might Hurt Your Wallet)
Let's face it, California shutters are the bees knees of window treatments. They're sleek, stylish, and offer amazing light control. But before you get all giddy imagining your home transformed into a Californian dream, there's a little landmine you gotta navigate: the cost.
Buckle Up, Buttercup: A Breakdown of California Shutter Pricing
California shutters don't come cheap, folks. We're talking about an investment that could rival your childhood baseball card collection (though hopefully with a better return on style points). Here's a peek behind the curtain (pun intended) at what makes these shutters tick – and what makes the cash register sing:
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Size Matters (and It Matters a Lot): The bigger the window, the bigger the bill. Square footage is king when it comes to shutter pricing. You could be looking at anywhere from $20 to $45 per square foot, with installers often offering bulk discounts if you're doing your whole house (think of it as a consolation prize for your emptying bank account).
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Material Musings: From Plastic Fantastic to Wood Wonder California shutters come in a variety of materials, each with its own price tag. Budget-conscious folks might opt for vinyl or faux wood, which can start around $15 per square foot. But if you crave that rich, luxurious look, then solid wood is your jam. Be prepared to shell out $35 per square foot and upwards for these beauties.
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Pre-Made vs. Custom Crafted: A Tale of Two Shutters Pre-made shutters are the bargain bin option, but they might not fit your windows perfectly. Custom-made shutters, on the other hand, are like bespoke suits for your windows – perfect in every way, but with a price tag to match.
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DIY or Die Trying (and Probably Failing at Installation) Let's be honest, installing shutters can be a tricky business. Unless you're a handyperson extraordinaire, it's best to factor in installation costs. Expect to pay around $65 to $105 per hour for professional installation, with some contractors offering bundled pricing that includes materials and labor.
The Bottom Line: How Much Does it Really Cost?
So, how much are we talking in the end? Well, that depends on your shutter squad – how many windows you need covered, the size of those windows, the material you choose, and whether you go pre-made or custom. But to give you a ballpark figure, you're looking at anywhere from $1400 to $3400 for an average-sized house with eight windows.
But wait, there's more! For those who crave the top-of-the-line experience, with premium wood and fancy finishes, be prepared to cough up $7000 and upwards.
So, Should You Just Live in a Cave Instead?
Absolutely not! While California shutters can put a dent in your wallet, the benefits they offer – light control, privacy, and undeniable style – are worth considering. Here are some tips to save some bucks:
- Get quotes from multiple companies before you commit.
- Consider faux wood for a good balance between price and aesthetics.
- Think about pre-made shutters if your windows are standard sizes.
- DIY the installation only if you're confident in your skills (and have a good relationship with your neighbors – they might hear some choice words during the process).
California shutters might be an investment, but they're an investment in the beauty and comfort of your home. So, weigh your options, find the sweet spot between style and budget, and get ready to enjoy the warm California glow (even if you don't actually live there) – all thanks to your new shutters!
