Arched windows are one of Las Vegas's most popular architectural features—and one of the most challenging to cover. The good news is that custom plantation shutters can be made for virtually any window shape, from simple radius tops to complex Palladian designs. Here's everything you need to know about getting shutters for your specialty windows.
Quick Answer
Yes, you can get custom shutters for arched windows. Options include sunburst (fixed fan) designs, fully operable arch shutters, or combination styles with a fixed arch and operable rectangle. Expect to pay 30-50% more than rectangular shutters due to custom manufacturing. Most arched shutters take 4-6 weeks to manufacture.
Types of Specialty Window Shapes We Cover
Las Vegas homes feature many architectural window styles. Here are the specialty shapes we regularly fit with custom shutters:
Arched/Radius Top Windows
The most common specialty shape in Las Vegas homes:
- Half-round arches: Perfect semicircle on top of rectangular window
- Quarter-round arches: Smaller curve, often above transoms
- Eyebrow arches: Gentle curve, less than half-circle
- Gothic/pointed arches: Peaked arch style
Circle and Oval Windows
- Full circles: Often found in entryways and bathrooms
- Half circles: Semi-circular accent windows
- Ovals: Horizontal or vertical orientation
Angled Windows
- Triangles: Common in A-frame sections and gables
- Trapezoids: Angled tops, often in vaulted ceiling areas
- Rake windows: Windows that follow a roofline angle
Polygonal Windows
- Hexagons: Six-sided accent windows
- Octagons: Eight-sided, popular in traditional designs
Combination Windows
- Palladian windows: Arched center with rectangular sides
- Arch over French doors: Curved transom above doors
- Multi-section arrangements: Various shapes in one opening
Shutter Design Options for Arched Windows
There are three main approaches to covering arched windows with shutters:
Option 1: Sunburst (Fixed Fan) Design
The most popular and affordable option:
- How it works: Louvers radiate from center point like sun rays
- Louvers are fixed: Don't open/close, but angled for light control
- Benefits: Beautiful focal point, lower cost, easier installation
- Best for: Decorative arches, windows you don't need to adjust
- Cost: 30-40% premium over standard shutters
Option 2: Fully Operable Arch Shutters
Maximum functionality but highest cost:
- How it works: Curved louvers that actually tilt open and closed
- Benefits: Full light and privacy control
- Challenges: Complex engineering, longer lead time
- Best for: Bedrooms, media rooms needing complete darkness
- Cost: 50-75% premium over standard shutters
Option 3: Combination Design
Best of both worlds:
- How it works: Fixed sunburst top + operable rectangular bottom
- Benefits: Lower cost than full operable, still functional
- Most popular: This is what 70% of our customers choose
- Best for: Most applications—practical and attractive
- Cost: 35-45% premium over standard shutters
Design Tip
If your arched window is high and difficult to reach, a fixed sunburst design makes the most sense. You wouldn't adjust it often anyway, and it provides consistent light control while showcasing the window's architecture.
Cost Guide for Specialty Shaped Shutters
Custom shaped shutters cost more due to specialized manufacturing:
| Window Shape | Price Premium | Estimated Cost (36"x60") |
|---|---|---|
| Standard rectangle | Base price | $300-$450 |
| Simple arch (sunburst) | +30-40% | $400-$600 |
| Arch (operable) | +50-75% | $500-$750 |
| Circle/oval | +40-60% | $450-$700 |
| Triangle | +35-50% | $400-$650 |
| Eyebrow arch | +40-55% | $425-$675 |
| Gothic arch | +50-70% | $475-$750 |
| Octagon | +45-60% | $450-$700 |
Prices are estimates and vary by size, material, and design complexity.
What Affects Custom Shutter Pricing
- Shape complexity: Simple arches cost less than Gothic or compound curves
- Size: Larger specialty windows require more engineering
- Operable vs. fixed: Moving parts add significant cost
- Material: Polywood/composite usually works best for curves
- Frame style: Some frames work better with curves than others
The Custom Measurement Process
Arched and specialty windows require precise measurement—this isn't a DIY project:
How Professional Templates Work
- Initial assessment: We examine the window and discuss design options
- Template creation: Create an exact cardboard or foam template of the shape
- Multiple measurements: Document width, height, depth, and curve radius
- Photo documentation: Capture all angles for the manufacturing team
- Template verification: Hold template against window to confirm fit
Why DIY Measurement Fails
Arched windows are rarely perfect geometric shapes. A window that looks like a half-circle might actually be an ellipse, or have subtle irregularities from settling. Templates capture the actual shape, not the theoretical shape, ensuring your shutters fit perfectly.
Should You Cover the Arch?
Not every arched window needs shutter coverage on the curved portion. Consider these factors:
Leave the Arch Open If:
- The arch faces north or east (minimal direct sun)
- You want to showcase the architectural feature
- The window is very high and unreachable
- Budget is limited—cover just the rectangular portion
- You have sufficient privacy from the angle
Cover the Arch If:
- It faces west or south (significant heat and glare)
- You need complete darkness (bedroom, media room)
- Privacy is a concern from neighboring properties
- You want a unified, finished appearance
- The window is easily reachable for adjustment
The Las Vegas Factor
In our desert climate, west-facing arched windows are notorious for heat gain. Even though covering the arch costs more, the energy savings and comfort improvement often justify the investment. We've seen AC bills drop 15-20% after covering large west-facing arches.
Material Recommendations for Specialty Shapes
Not all shutter materials work equally well for curved and specialty shapes:
Polywood/Composite (Recommended)
- Best for curves: Engineered material forms complex shapes precisely
- Heat resistant: Won't warp in Las Vegas temperatures
- Moisture resistant: Ideal if arch is in bathroom or high-humidity area
- Most popular choice: 85% of our specialty shape orders
Real Wood
- Works for arches: But requires more careful manufacturing
- Risk of warping: Higher in extreme heat and with complex curves
- Beautiful finish: Shows natural grain in the curved sections
- Best for: Interior-facing arches in climate-controlled spaces
Vinyl
- Limited options: Most vinyl lines don't offer specialty shapes
- Not recommended: For Las Vegas specialty windows
Common Las Vegas Home Styles with Arched Windows
Understanding your home's architecture helps with design decisions:
Mediterranean/Tuscan Style
Common in Summerlin, Henderson, and newer developments:
- Half-round arches over entryways
- Palladian windows in great rooms
- Arched transoms above French doors
- Best approach: Sunburst designs that complement the architecture
Spanish Colonial Revival
Found throughout Las Vegas:
- Multiple arched windows often grouped together
- Deep window wells requiring inside mount
- Best approach: Consistent design across all arches for unified look
Contemporary/Modern
Growing in popularity:
- Unusual shapes: triangles, trapezoids, asymmetric
- Large glass areas
- Best approach: Clean lines, minimal frames, crisp white finish
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you put shutters on arched windows?
Yes, plantation shutters can be custom-made for arched windows. Options include: fixed sunburst shutters that follow the arch curve with stationary fan-shaped louvers, operable arch shutters with functional louvers in the curved section (more expensive), or combination designs with a fixed arch top and operable rectangular bottom. Custom templates ensure perfect fit.
How much do arched window shutters cost?
Arched window shutters typically cost 30-50% more than standard rectangular shutters due to custom manufacturing. A standard arch window (36"x60") ranges from $450-$800 depending on complexity. Perfect arches cost less than eyebrow arches or Gothic styles. Sunburst (fixed) designs are most affordable; fully operable arch shutters cost the most.
What window shapes can have plantation shutters?
Nearly any window shape can have custom shutters including: arched/radius top windows, circle and oval windows, triangle and trapezoid windows, hexagon and octagon windows, Palladian windows (arch with side rectangles), eyebrow arches, Gothic pointed arches, and rake (angled) windows. The only limitation is very small windows under about 12 inches.
Should I cover the arched part of my window?
It depends on your needs. Leave the arch uncovered if: you want to showcase architectural detail, the window faces east/north with minimal heat, or budget is limited. Cover the arch if: it faces west/south and causes heat issues, you need complete light control for a bedroom or media room, or you want a unified look with other shuttered windows.
How long does it take to get custom arched shutters?
Custom arched shutters typically take 4-6 weeks for manufacturing, compared to 2-3 weeks for standard rectangular shutters. Complex shapes like Gothic arches or perfect circles may take 6-8 weeks. Rush orders are sometimes available for an additional fee. Installation usually takes 1-2 hours per arch window.
Our Specialty Window Experience
Since 2003, we've fitted thousands of specialty-shaped windows in Las Vegas homes. Our experience includes:
- Successfully fitted windows other companies said "couldn't be done"
- Developed techniques for precise curve matching
- Relationships with manufacturers who specialize in custom shapes
- Portfolio of completed projects for you to review
Free Specialty Window Consultation
Have arched, circular, or unusually-shaped windows? We'll visit your home, take precise measurements, show you design options, and provide an exact quote—all free with no obligation.
Call (702) 881-0322 to schedule your consultation.
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