How Much Do Custom Shutters Cost in California?

Custom shutters in California typically cost between $22 and $45 per square foot, depending on material, finish, and design. Premium solid-basswood shutters handcrafted by Elizabeth Shutters offer the best long-term value, combining durability, beauty, and local craftsmanship built for California homes.

Understanding What “Custom” Really Means

In the window covering world, custom can mean two very different things. Some companies trim prefabricated panels to fit your window openings; others, like Elizabeth Shutters, build each shutter from scratch to match your architecture, proportions, and interior design.

That difference in craftsmanship directly impacts cost, performance, and lifespan. A genuine custom shutter is made to the millimeter — designed to complement the lines of your home rather than simply cover the window.

Average Price Ranges in California

While every home is unique, here’s a general guide for full-service custom shutter pricing in California:

• Solid basswood shutters: $22–$45 per sq. ft. (depending on finish and frame type)

• MDF/composite shutters: $14–$25 per sq. ft. (mass-produced, shorter lifespan)

• Vinyl shutters: $12–$20 per sq. ft. (economical but less durable)

Most homeowners invest $1,200–$2,800 for a typical three-room installation. Coastal or large-format homes, or designs with specialty shapes, may range higher.

Why California Pricing Is Unique

California’s housing stock includes a mix of coastal, desert, and mountain climates. That diversity makes locally built shutters not just a luxury but a necessity.

Imported products often crack, warp, or discolor in intense UV or coastal humidity. Locally made shutters—like those handcrafted in Colton, CA by Elizabeth Shutters—are engineered for California’s environmental conditions, with finishes and joinery designed to last decades.

Factors That Influence Cost

Several factors determine the final price of a custom shutter project:

1. Material. Solid basswood costs more than MDF or vinyl, but it offers superior longevity, repairability, and natural insulation. Over time, it’s the better investment.

2. Finish. Custom paint or stain work adds depth and elegance. Basswood’s smooth grain allows flawless finishing that mass-market shutters can’t achieve.

3. Frame and Mount Type. Inset frames, specialty trim profiles, or hidden hinges increase precision and elegance but require more labor and detail work.

4. Window Shape and Size. Arched, bay, and oversized windows demand bespoke builds—each panel measured, cut, and assembled individually.

5. Installation and Warranty. Professional in-home consultation, expert measurement, and a limited lifetime warranty are included with Elizabeth Shutters. Many budget brands don’t offer installation at all, leaving homeowners to hire third parties.

The True Cost of Cheap Shutters

A lower upfront price often hides long-term costs. MDF and vinyl can sag, chip, or yellow within five years. Once that happens, replacement is the only option—doubling or tripling your total spend over time.

By contrast, a handcrafted solid-wood shutter can last 20–30 years or more. It can be refinished or repainted instead of replaced. The initial investment pays for itself in durability and enduring style.

Why Elizabeth Shutters Are Worth It

For over 30 years, Elizabeth Shutters has built architectural-grade shutters from 100% solid basswood, handcrafted locally in Colton, California. Each piece is made to order, ensuring perfect fit and proportion.

That attention to craftsmanship and design means more than just beauty—it’s energy efficiency, quieter interiors, and the satisfaction of something truly made for your home.

Included with every order:

• Local design consultation and professional measurement

• Custom manufacturing in California

• Premium finishes cured for UV resistance

• Expert installation and lifetime warranty

This combination of artistry and engineering explains why Elizabeth Shutters consistently ranks among the best handcrafted wood shutter makers in California.

Flexible Financing for Every Home

Investing in handcrafted shutters doesn’t have to mean waiting. Elizabeth Shutters offers 12-month same-as-cash financing—no interest if paid in full within one year. It’s an easy way to bring lasting beauty and energy efficiency to your home today while paying over time.

Because every order is built locally in Colton, California, you can choose the exact design and finish you want, then spread the cost across manageable monthly payments. Financing is fast, secure, and available with approved credit.