Installation Guide

Shutter Installation Process: What to Expect

Updated December 2024 • By the Shutters Cheap Team • 6 min read

Getting plantation shutters installed shouldn't be stressful. When you know what to expect at each step, the process goes smoothly and you end up with window treatments you'll love for decades.

Here's a complete walkthrough of our installation process - from your first call to the final walkthrough.

The 5-Step Shutter Installation Process

1 Free In-Home Consultation

Duration: 30-60 minutes

This is where it all starts. We bring our mobile showroom to your home with full-size samples you can hold up to your windows. During this visit, we:

  • Discuss your style preferences and budget
  • Show you material options (poly vinyl vs. wood)
  • Explain louver sizes and frame styles
  • Answer all your questions
  • Take preliminary measurements

What you get: Clear understanding of options and a ballpark price range.

2 Precision Measurement & Written Quote

Duration: Usually same visit, or scheduled follow-up

Once you've selected your preferred style and material, we take exact measurements of every window - to 1/16" accuracy. This precision is crucial because:

  • Shutters are custom-made for each window
  • Improper fit causes gaps or binding
  • We check for square (many Vegas homes aren't perfectly square)
  • We note any obstacles (handles, locks, trim)

What you get: Written quote with exact pricing, our Lowest Price Guarantee, and no hidden fees.

3 Order & Manufacturing

Duration: 3-6 weeks

Once you approve the quote and sign off on specifications, we place your order with our manufacturing partners. Your shutters are built to your exact specifications:

Material Typical Manufacturing Time
Poly Vinyl Shutters 3-4 weeks
Composite Shutters 3-4 weeks
Basswood Shutters 4-6 weeks
Custom Shapes/Colors 5-8 weeks

What happens: We call you when shutters arrive to schedule installation at your convenience.

4 Professional Installation

Duration: 3-6 hours for average home (10-15 windows)

Installation day is when the magic happens. Our professional installers:

  • Arrive at the scheduled time with all materials
  • Lay drop cloths to protect your floors
  • Remove existing window treatments (if applicable)
  • Install frames securely into window openings
  • Mount shutter panels and adjust for perfect operation
  • Clean up completely - no mess left behind

5 Final Walkthrough & Care Instructions

Duration: 15-20 minutes

Before we leave, we walk through the entire installation with you:

  • Demonstrate how to operate each shutter
  • Show you the proper way to tilt louvers
  • Explain cleaning and maintenance
  • Review warranty coverage
  • Ensure you're 100% satisfied

What you get: Complete confidence in using and caring for your new shutters.

Ready to Get Started?

Schedule your free in-home consultation today. We'll bring samples to your home and give you an exact quote on the spot.

Call 702-528-1926

How to Prepare for Installation Day

A little preparation ensures installation goes smoothly:

Before Installation Day

  • Remove existing curtains, blinds, or window treatments
  • Clear furniture 3-4 feet from windows
  • Remove fragile items from windowsills
  • Take down wall decorations near windows
  • Ensure clear pathways for installers carrying panels

On Installation Day

  • Have an adult 18+ home the entire time
  • Secure pets in a separate room
  • Point out any concerns or special requests
  • Keep garage or entry accessible for material loading
  • Have A/C running if it's summer (helps installers work efficiently)
Pro Tip: Installation day is a great time to work from home. You can go about your day in other areas of the house while installers work room by room.

What About My Old Window Treatments?

We can remove your existing blinds, curtains, or shades as part of the installation. Just let us know during scheduling. If you're keeping your old treatments, have them removed before installation day.

Common Removal Scenarios

  • Standard blinds: We remove and dispose of at no charge
  • Curtains/drapes: We remove; you keep the hardware and fabric
  • Old shutters: We remove and dispose of
  • Specialty treatments: Ask during consultation

Timeline: Consultation to Completion

Week What Happens
Week 1 Free consultation, measurement, and quote approval
Weeks 2-4 Manufacturing (poly vinyl) or Weeks 2-6 (wood)
Delivery Week We call to schedule installation at your convenience
Installation Day Professional installation (3-6 hours typical)

Total time: 3-6 weeks from consultation to completed installation for most homes.

Planning an Event? If you have a specific deadline (holiday, party, home sale), let us know during your consultation. We can often expedite orders or prioritize installation scheduling.

After Installation: Care & Maintenance

Quality shutters require minimal maintenance:

Regular Cleaning (Every 2-4 Weeks)

  • Dust with a microfiber cloth or duster
  • Start from top louver and work down
  • Tilt louvers to access both sides

Deep Cleaning (Every 3-6 Months)

  • Wipe with damp cloth and mild soap
  • Dry immediately with soft cloth
  • Never use harsh chemicals or abrasives

Warranty Coverage

Your shutters come with comprehensive warranty protection:

  • 25-Year Product Warranty: Covers manufacturing defects
  • 10-Year Color-Fast Guarantee: Protection against fading
  • Installation Warranty: Proper fit and function

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does installation take?

For an average Las Vegas home with 10-15 windows, installation takes 3-6 hours. Larger homes or complex installations may take a full day.

Is installation messy?

Not at all. We use drop cloths, clean as we go, and leave your home spotless. The only evidence we were there is your beautiful new shutters.

Do you install on weekends?

Yes! We offer Saturday installations for homeowners who can't take weekday time off. Schedule availability may vary.

What if a shutter is damaged during installation?

We carry backup panels and can resolve most issues same-day. In rare cases where a replacement is needed, we expedite the order at no charge.

Schedule Your Free Consultation

Family-owned since 2003 • 4.9★ Google Rating • Lowest Price Guaranteed

Call 702-528-1926 View Our Shutters

Have questions about the installation process? Call us at 702-528-1926 or check our pricing guide for cost information.