Plantation shutters are never all that cheap, but there are some ways to trim the costs of buying and installing them, at least to some extent. When it comes to Plantation shutters that are advertised as being ‘discount’ or ‘cheap’, you may want to do a little investigating as sometimes this can actually mean ‘inferior quality’. While it is definitely cheaper to buy ‘discount’ blinds, it is good to be aware of what this means.
Too often ‘discount Plantation shutters’ are lacking in their design, sometimes to the point that they don’t close or open properly. Other elements that you may be missing out on, should you buy cheap Plantation shutters are the hand-sanded louvers, fine finish, and multiple finish coatings. You may also find that the hinges or other parts to the shutters are of inferior quality, as often the way that retailers trim costs is by using inferior quality materials.
It is possible to get good quality Plantation shutters cheaply, or to at least trim the costs by following some of the subsequent tips.
Tip #1: Check Resale Lists
Builders or homeowners and DIY enthusiasts often return mis-measured Plantation shutters (and other blinds) to the store they brought it from. It is amazing how often blinds are bought but then it is discovered that they don’t exactly fit, so they have to be returned and exchanged for another size. In most stores, these items then have to be offered at quite large discount prices, even bigger discount prices if the packaging has been opened.
Tip #2: Research at a store, but buy online
Do all of your researching at a store, such as Home Depot or Lowes. Find out what type of shutters you like best, talk to the salespeople and get all the information you can to make an informed decision. Note down the product number and name of the shutter you want to buy and then go online and search for it. Chances are you will be able to find it online at one third to half the sale value in the store when it comes to buying Home Depot plantation shutters at least.
Some people think it is too much trouble to buy something as expensive as Plantation shutters online, as there’s too much risk of ordering the wrong size. It can happen, so if you are going to order online make sure you measure your window correctly, and according to the instructions given on the website.
Tip #3: Freebies
If ordering on line, order from a store that gives free shipping and handling. See if the store offers free custom painting. If buying from a store, not online, ask for free delivery and installation.
Tip #4: For the Brave at Heart–Buy a Shutter Kit
Yes, they do exist, and you can order them online. You can buy a ’shutter’ kit which gives you the wood and materials needed to assemble and then install your own shutter. This may be a better option for the handyman, but it can definitely save you money plus you get to tell everyone that you made them yourself.
Tip #5: Buy directly from the Factory
Cut out the middle man, and the added expenses of going through him, by buying directly from the factory. This could definitely be an option if you’re thinking of re-doing all of your windows, and you are prepared to place a larger order. It may not work if you are only buying one set of shutters, but it wouldn’t hurt to ask. You might end up with a bargain.
Tip #6: Buy Last year’s Design
Check out the store for old stock, last year’s designs. Plantation shutters don’t really go out of style, and there really won’t be much difference between Plantation shutters made a year or so ago, and brand new designs. No one will be able to notice any difference once they are up, so why not save yourself some money by getting last years’ shutters. Most stores offer a substantial discount on old stock that they are trying to get rid of, take advantage of that.
Tip #7: Install the Shutters Yourself
Or if you are not that handy with tools and DIY projects, invite someone over to help you put them up and treat them to a great dinner, or offer to help them with something in return. It’s amazing how many people would be willing to do a trade like that. Offer to watch their kids for an evening, if they help put up your Shutters. Be inventive, I’m sure there’s some trade you can make!
Tip #8: Buy Faux wood Plantation Shutters
Instead of investing in the more expensive wood Plantation shutters, buy faux wood or even vinyl plantation shutters instead. They look just as nice but are oftentimes considerably cheaper.
2 Comments
Great tips! It’s funny, because people often do the reverse of “Research in Store, Shop Online.” But you’re right; if you’re trying to save some money by doing the installation yourself, buying online is the way to go. However, I personally don’t recommend DIY plantation shutters for complex installations.
No, I really wouldn’t recommend a complex install either, unless the person really knew what they were doing. These days though its pretty easy to get someone to come put them up for you, as a side job to earn a little extra money.