Value-Priced Shutters: Quality at a Reasonable Cost

Shutters can make a dramatic difference in the look and functionality of your home. But custom shutters often come with premium price tags that put them out of reach for many homeowners. That’s where value-priced shutters come in – they offer an affordable solution without sacrificing quality. In this article, we’ll explore what makes a quality, budget-friendly shutter and where to find great value options to fit your style and budget.

What are Value-Priced Shutters?

Value-priced shutters hit the sweet spot between cheap discount shutters and high-end designer brands. They use smart manufacturing and materials to lower costs without compromising on:

• Durability
• Appearance
• Functionality
• Warranties

Reputable value shutter brands include names like Select Blinds, Budget Blinds, and Excel Shutter Products. They offer excellent mid-range shutters at reasonable prices.

With some savvy shopping, you can find stylish shutters for hundreds less than premium brands. Even better, value shutters are readily available at home improvement stores for convenient pickup or delivery.

Key Features of Quality Value-Priced Shutters

You want to ensure any shutter provides certain features for longevity and performance. Here’s what to look for with value-priced options:

Durable Materials

Quality value shutters use materials like:

• Engineered wood – Composite wood made of wood fibers bonded with adhesives creates a moisture-resistant, durable core.
• Vinyl – PVC vinyl is colorfast and resists cracking, chipping, and warping.
• Aluminum – Lightweight but dent-resistant aluminum is a budget-friendly metal.

Compare costs to benefits when selecting materials. For example, vinyl is very affordable but can’t match the elegance of real wood.

Sturdy Construction

Quality construction is vital for shutters that last. Look for:

• Reinforced side frames – Sturdy frames prevent “sagging” and keep shutters hanging straight.
• Thick louvers – Thicker louver slats are more durable and resist bending. 1-1/2 inches is ideal.
• Tiered designs – Tiered or cascading shutter panels add depth and sophistication.
• Hidden tilt bars – Concealed internal tilt bars allow smooth louver operation.

Custom Sizing

One major perk of value-priced shutters is the ability to order custom sizes to fit any window precisely. Avoid settled-for standard sizes that won’t give you the coverage you want.

Color and Finish Options

While not as extensive as premium brands, value shutters offer popular neutral colors like white and beige. Stained wood grain finishes add affordable elegance.

Light-Blocking Features

Look for light-blocking enhancements like:

• Side channels – Guide rails that shutters slide into help block light on the edges.
• Magnets or straps – These hold shutters firmly closed to prevent light gaps.
• Backer boards – Light-blocking boards that mount behind shutters.

Warranties

Reputable value brands offer warranties of 1 year or more. This guarantees your shutters against early defects.

Smart Shopping Tips for Value Shutters

Follow these tips to scout out bargains on budget-friendly shutters:

Price shop multiple retailers

Compare quotes from big box stores, online retailers, and local shutter companies. But make sure you compare the same materials and features.

Look for sales and promos

Retailers often discount shutters during seasonal sales or limited-time promos. Sign up for email alerts so you’re notified of deals.

Buy in bulk

Ordering all your shutters at once rather than in phases can unlock extra bulk discounts.

Install DIY

Skip professional installation to save on labor costs, especially for easy DIY vinyl or aluminum shutters.

Select standard colors

If you’re flexible on colors, choose from retailer’s standard palette of most popular, in-stock colors to avoid custom color upcharges.

Avoid upgrades

Stick to standard features like classic louver styles and tilt options to control costs. Skip unnecessary upgrades like decorative trim moldings or specialty hardware.

Compare material costs

Look at total costs for different materials like wood, faux wood, vinyl, and aluminum to find the best value material for your budget.

Where to Buy Quality Value-Priced Shutters

Here are some of the top places to shop for stylish discount shutters on a budget:

Big Box Stores

Major home improvement retailers like Home Depot and Lowe’s offer their own value-priced shutter brands:

• Allen + Roth at Lowe’s
• Hampton Bay and Home Decorators Collection at Home Depot

Pros: Convenience, ability to see shutters in person, frequent sales/discounts, easy online ordering

Cons: Limited style selection in-store, restocking fees if exchanges needed

Online Retailers

Online retailers like Select Blinds, Shutterfly, and Shutterstock have massive selections and low prices because of their online-only model.

Pros: Huge selection of styles and materials, easy online design tools, competitive pricing, promos and sales

Cons: No ability to see shutters in person before ordering, shipping costs

Local Shutter Companies

Specialized local shutter retailers have lower overhead costs than large national brands. They pass the savings to customers.

Pros: Can see product samples in person, support small business, personalized service

Cons: Limited selection, may be appointment-only showrooms

Wholesale Outlets

Warehouse stores like Costco, Sam’s Club, and Costco offer shutters in bulk from major brands.

Pros: Deep bulk discounts, surprise discounts/coupons sometimes offered, satisfaction guarantees Cons: Limited style and size options, membership fee may offset savings

Are Value Shutters Right for You?

Ultimately, choosing value-priced shutters is about aligning your priorities – would you prefer maximizing cost savings orpremium features and personalization?

Those looking for budget home upgrades can’t go wrong with quality value options that still offer style, durability and functionality well below designer prices.

However, homeowners wanting a custom designer look with premium materials and artisan details may find the lower-priced tiers too limiting. In that case, investing in higher-end shutters brings gratification that offsets the additional costs.

For most homeowners, reputable mid-range value shutters hit a sweet spot of quality meets affordability. Take the time to shop around, and you can save hundreds compared to luxury brands but still enjoy attractive, durable shutters that enhance your home’s style and function for years to come.