Installing plantation shutters yourself can save significant money—often $100-$200 per window compared to professional installation. While it requires careful attention to detail, the process is manageable for anyone comfortable with basic DIY tasks. This guide walks you through everything from preparation to final adjustments, with tips to avoid common pitfalls.

Important Disclaimer

DIY installation may void some manufacturer warranties. Check your warranty terms before proceeding. If your shutters are expensive or your windows are unusual shapes, professional installation might be worth the extra cost for the warranty protection alone.

Is DIY Installation Right for You?

Before committing to DIY, honestly assess your situation:

DIY Installation Is Suitable If:

  • Your windows are standard rectangular shapes
  • You're comfortable using power tools (drill, level)
  • You can lift and hold panels weighing 5-15kg
  • You measured carefully (or had professional measurement)
  • Your walls are standard plaster, timber, or brick
  • You have patience for precise work

Consider Professional Installation If:

  • Windows are arched, angled, or unusual shapes
  • Multiple large windows make the project overwhelming
  • Your walls are difficult materials (concrete, cement sheet)
  • Warranty protection is a priority
  • You're not confident with DIY tasks

Tools and Materials Required

Gather everything before you start. Having the right tools makes the job much easier.

Essential Tools

  • Cordless drill/driver: Essential for driving screws. A hammer drill helps for brick walls.
  • Spirit level: At least 600mm long for checking plumb and level.
  • Tape measure: Steel tape for accuracy.
  • Pencil: For marking screw positions.
  • Screwdriver: For final tightening and adjustments.
  • Step ladder: Appropriate height for your windows.
  • Safety glasses: Especially important when drilling.

Helpful Additional Tools

  • Clamps or an extra pair of hands for holding frames
  • Masking tape for protecting surfaces
  • Vacuum for cleanup
  • Stud finder (for wall-mounted outside frames)

Supplied Materials

Quality shutter kits typically include:

  • Shutter panels (usually hinged together)
  • Frame sections (top, bottom, sides)
  • Mounting screws and plugs
  • Hinge screws for panel attachment
  • Cover caps for screws
  • Installation instructions specific to your product

Read Manufacturer Instructions First

This guide provides general principles, but always follow your specific manufacturer's instructions. Different brands have different frame systems and attachment methods. The supplied instructions take precedence over any general advice.

Installation Process: Inside Mount

Inside mount (fitting within the window reveal) is the most common installation type.

Step 1: Prepare the Window Reveal

  • Remove any existing window treatments (blinds, curtains, tracks)
  • Clean the reveal thoroughly—dust affects adhesion and finish
  • Check for and remove any protruding nails or screws
  • Verify your shutter dimensions match the opening (allow for specified clearance)

Step 2: Assemble the Frame

Most shutter frames arrive in sections that connect together:

  • Lay out all frame pieces and identify top, bottom, and sides
  • Connect corners according to manufacturer instructions (usually screws or cam locks)
  • Check the assembled frame is square by measuring diagonals
  • Don't fully tighten corner connections yet—you may need adjustment

Step 3: Position the Frame

  • Lift the frame into the window opening
  • Centre it within the reveal, checking gaps are even on all sides
  • Use the spirit level to check it's level (horizontal) and plumb (vertical)
  • Insert shims (small wedges) if needed to correct any lean

Step 4: Mark and Drill

  • Mark screw positions through pre-drilled holes in the frame
  • Remove the frame and drill pilot holes at marked positions
  • For brick reveals, use masonry bits and insert wall plugs
  • For timber reveals, pilot holes prevent splitting

Step 5: Secure the Frame

  • Reposition the frame in the opening
  • Drive screws starting with the top corners
  • Recheck level and plumb before fully tightening
  • Complete remaining screws, checking alignment as you go
  • Tighten corner connections once frame is secure

Step 6: Attach Shutter Panels

  • Hold the panel in position against the frame
  • Align hinges with pre-positioned hinge plates or marked locations
  • Insert and tighten hinge screws
  • Check panel opens and closes smoothly
  • Repeat for additional panels

Step 7: Final Adjustments

  • Test all louvres for smooth operation
  • Adjust hinge tension if panels don't stay in position
  • Insert screw covers to hide fixings
  • Clean any fingerprints or marks

Installation Process: Outside Mount

Outside mount (attached to wall or window face) follows similar principles with key differences:

Key Differences

  • Frame sits proud of the wall rather than recessed
  • You need to find studs or use appropriate wall anchors
  • Precise positioning is more visible—take extra care with leveling
  • Larger frames may need additional support during installation

Finding Secure Fixing Points

For wall-mounted frames:

  • Use a stud finder to locate timber studs (usually 450mm or 600mm apart)
  • Screw into studs wherever possible for strongest hold
  • For plasterboard without studs, use quality wall anchors rated for the weight
  • For brick, use appropriate masonry fixings

Weight Considerations

A full-size shutter panel can weigh 10-15kg. The frame and multiple panels add up quickly. Ensure your fixings are rated for at least twice the total weight to provide adequate safety margin.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Panels Don't Hang Level

  • Check the frame is level—adjust shims if needed
  • Ensure hinges are aligned correctly
  • Some hinges have adjustment screws for fine-tuning

Panels Swing Open or Closed On Their Own

  • Frame isn't plumb—loosen screws and adjust
  • Floor or ceiling may not be level—minor adjustments to frame angle can help
  • Magnet catches (if supplied) may need repositioning

Louvres Don't Stay In Position

  • Tension pins may be too loose—gently tighten with small screwdriver
  • Some movement during bedding-in is normal
  • Contact supplier if tension cannot be adjusted

Visible Gaps Around Frame

  • Small gaps (1-2mm) are normal and allow for movement
  • Larger gaps may indicate measurement errors
  • Some suppliers offer gap filler strips for minor discrepancies
  • Silicone caulk (matching colour) can fill very small gaps

Time Estimates

Realistic timeframes for a DIY installer:

  • First window: 1.5-2 hours (learning the process)
  • Subsequent windows: 45-90 minutes each
  • Large or complex windows: Add 30-60 minutes
  • Full house (10 windows): Allow a full weekend

Cost Savings Analysis

Professional installation typically costs $50-$150 per panel or $100-$200 per window. For a house with 10 windows averaging 2 panels each:

  • Professional installation: $1,000-$2,000
  • DIY cost: $0 (assuming you have basic tools)
  • Potential savings: $1,000-$2,000

This saving is significant, but weigh it against the time investment and any warranty implications.

When to Call a Professional

Don't hesitate to seek help if:

  • You discover the opening is significantly out of square
  • Supplied components don't seem to fit correctly
  • You encounter unexpected wall construction
  • Something doesn't feel right—trust your instincts

A professional can often rescue a partially-completed installation, and it's better to ask for help than to damage expensive shutters.

JB

Written by James Barrett

DIY enthusiast and contributor to Plantation Shutters Australia. James has installed shutters in four of his own properties and helped numerous friends with their installations.