How much does it cost to install blinds?
The national average cost of blinds installation is between $180-$300. The total price will depend on the type of blinds, the size of your windows, and the number of windows you want to cover, but does not cover the price of the blinds themselves.
Every time you walk into that room at a certain time of day, the blazing sun beams right into your eyes. You may have to retreat to another area or switch seats until the sun changes position in the sky. Blinds and window shades can solve this problem, and they don't have to be an expensive home improvement project.
On top of looks, installing blinds can also increase energy efficiency, help keep your home cooler, and reduce air conditioning costs in summer.
Hiring a professional blind and shade installer can help ensure your new blinds fit your budget and your window frames, and also can save you time and hassle. Before you hire someone, get an estimate on how much this project will cost with this guide.
What's in this cost guide?
The price of installation depends on the number of blinds, windows, and installation method. The cost can vary widely, from $100 to have a handyman install one or two inexpensive prefabricated blinds you've already purchased, to thousands of dollars for custom blinds in a whole house or apartment.
For example, a Thumbtack pro and window blinds installation specialist in Portland, OR charged $1,500 to install custom white faux wood blinds throughout an apartment. Another pro, based in Baltimore, MD charged $2,200 to install wood blinds in a family room and kitchen of a home. However, not all homeowners will pay this much.
Number and size of blinds
Installation costs range from $180 to $300, which breaks down to $30 to $50 per blind. Some installers charge by the hour while others charge a base rate plus an additional fee per blind based on the size of the window.
For example, a Thumbtack pro and installation specialist in Chantilly, Virginia charges a $125 base fee (or $150 for locations further than 50 miles) plus a fee for each additional blind:
- $30 for those up to 48 inches
- $45 for 49-84 inches
- $65 for 85-120 inches
Based on this, it would cost you $185 for them to install blinds on two standard-sized windows, or $245 to cover four windows.
The company also charges an additional fee per window for unusually high windows or skylights that require additional equipment:
- $20 for windows 10-14 feet high
- $40 for windows over 14 feet high
Installation method: inside vs. outside mount
There are two main blind installation methods: inside mount and outside mount. Inside mount blinds are installed inside the window frame for a sleek look, while outside mount blinds are installed on the drywall or moulding outside the window frame to block more light.
The installer will plan the install, mark and drill holes, mount the head rail or other hardware, install the blinds, and haul away your old blinds, curtains, or shades. If you want cornices to hide the head rail or other hardware and beautify your window covering, this will add to your total cost.
The main difference between blinds and shades is their makeup and their function. Blinds are made with slats and can be opened in more than one way while shades are made of one piece of material and can only be lifted up or pulled down. Pleated shades may look like blinds, but they function like window shades.
Because of the difference in function, blinds allow more control of the light that you let in a window.
Keep in mind that the cost of installation does not include the price of the blinds. You can buy your own or have the installer supply the blinds, which may be more expensive. The price of your window blinds will depend on the type, material, and whether or not you opt for custom blinds.
There are three main types of blinds:
- Slat blinds: These have horizontal slats that can be tilted, usually using a turning wand, and raised and lowered using a cord. They can be made of aluminum, vinyl, wood, and faux wood.
- Vertical blinds: These are usually made of fabric, have large vertical slats and are used for sliding doors and large windows. The slats can be turned to open using a wand, or pulled up to uncover the entire window.
- Cordless blinds: These can also be tilted open or lifted up or down. They have no cords and can benefit families with safety concerns for children. Cordless blinds are controlled by the bottom rail of the blind. Motors can be added so you can adjust them with a remote control.
Prefabricated window blinds are the least expensive option because they come pre-cut to fit standard windows and with a head rail and any other hardware you need to install them. Custom window blinds are more expensive because they are made to fit your window and are typically made of high-quality materials.
You can buy slat, vertical, and cordless blinds in a range of materials. Popular materials include: aluminum, fabric, vinyl, faux wood, and wood.
Here are price ranges for blinds you can purchase on your own based on shopping the options available at Home Depot:
| Blind type | Average cost per window |
| Slat | $10-$165 |
| Vertical | $10-$185 |
| Cordless | $10-$140 |
| Wood | $50-$180 |
| Room darkening | $10-$225 |
| Custom | $50-$225 |
| Motorized | An additional $30-$80 per motor |
The price varies widely based on the blind type, size, material, and manufacturer. Cheap blinds can save you money now but may not last as long as higher quality ones.
How can I save money on installing blinds?
Rather than cut costs on quality, save on blind installation with the following tips:
- Remove your old window treatments. Paying an installer to take down and haul away old blinds, curtains, or shades can cost you $60 to $200. Save money by grabbing a screwdriver to remove old hardware and window treatments on your own.
- Meet with an installer before you buy blinds: Most installers offer free estimates. The installer can visit your home, offer solutions based on your budget and give you advice on the right blinds to buy.
- Check big box stores: Home improvement stores like Home Depot often offer good prices on window treatments. You also may find discounts up to 30% off of custom blinds.
- Opt for prefabricated blinds: A ready-made or cut-to-width option is often a cost-effective alternative to expensive custom blinds. Before you purchase anything, be sure to measure your windows to make sure you get the right size.
Whether you're giving your living room a refresh, or you're upgrading to darker blinds so you can go to sleep in total darkness, an installation specialist can help. If you're ready to get started, read reviews and find a shades and blinds installation specialist near you on Thumbtack.
