One easy way to refresh your room while you’re remodeling your kitchen is to update your blinds, and this is something a lot of people forget about when they concentrate on the bigger projects they have going on. This is a type of window covering that lets you control how much light gets into the house through your windows, and it also controls how visible the inside or outside is to anyone who goes by. If you have many windows, you may wonder how much do blinds cost? This is a common question when you’re trying to increase your home’s privacy levels and decorative appeal.
As a bonus, high-quality blinds can help insulate your home during hot or cold weather, and this can help you save on your energy bills all year-round. If you’re wondering how much do blinds cost, you have to consider all of the factors that come into play when you start looking at different options. After all, there are hundreds of options, so it can take a while to find the ones that match your design aesthetic. It also makes it harder to get a true estimate when you start asking how much do blinds cost?
The average cost to purchase and install blinds on your windows ranges from $400 up to $1,000. Most people find themselves spending around $700 to cover eight 27-inch windows with faux wooden slate blinds. If you want vinyl one slat blinds for eight windows, your costs could drop down to $200. To add motorized wooden slate blinds to eight windows, you’ll go to the higher end of the spectrum at around $5,000.
When you’re figuring out how much do blinds cost for your budget, you’ll also have to include labor if you don’t plan on doing it yourself. Your labor costs can fluctuate between $140 and $400 for an entire house blind install. This works out to around $50.00 a window. The final cost will depend on how high-end the blinds are, and motorized ones will take more time. If you’re curious and wondering how much do blinds cost, this guide is for you. We’ll outline the biggest factors to consider below.
Installing new blinds is one easy way to refresh how your room looks. They come in dozens of styles, colors, and choices that allow you to match your blinds to your design aesthetic. Blinds by Anders Adermark / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Contents
Sizing Your Blinds
Before you do anything else, you want to size your windows. This is especially important if you installed replacement windows recently because your blinds have to fit well. Window blinds come in a range of sizes, and each one will impact your estimates for how much do blinds cost. Measuring your window and finding the correct dimensions will help you pick out blinds that fit, and you’ll need the length and width of each one. The average window sizes and blind costs include but are not limited to:
- 14-inches by 10 inches – $20.00
- 18-inches by 14-inches – $25.00
- 36-inches by 18-inches – $30.00
- 36-inches by 22-inches – $35.00
- 48-inches by 26-inches – $40.00
- 48-inches by 30-inches – $45.00
- 48-inches by 34-inches – $50.00
- 60-inches by 50-inches – $60.00
- 72-inches by 70-inches – $70.00
- 84-inches by 100-inches – $80.00
- 84-inches by 120-inches – $85.00
Blind Type and Price Points
Now that you know how much do blinds cost by size, you want to pick out a type. There are several types of blinds available. The overall interior design of each room and your style preferences will come into play here. You can pick modern looks like cordless blinds or are more traditional Venetian blind. They also come in a huge range of colors to match or complement your decor, including:
Cellular
Better known as honeycomb shades, this blind comes with individual cell shapes inside the blinds. These combs help to contain trapped air to serve as a small barrier between the inside of the home and the window. This blind will reduce heat transfer and boost your home’s energy efficiency and insulation. These blinds come in several colors, and if you’re wondering how much do blinds cost for this style, they range between $55.00 and $100 each.
Cordless
Where light control and privacy are top priorities, like in the bedroom or bathroom, these are the blinds you want. Homes with children or pets can benefit from the added safety feature these blinds bring. You can adjust them easily by pulling them down or lifting them up, and some come with remote controls to make adjusting them easier. The cost will vary based on the material, but they’re usually on the high end of the spectrum. So, how much do blinds cost? They range between $35.00 and $135 a piece.
Panel
You’ll use these larger blinds to cover your sliding glass doors, or any larger doors that open to a patio or deck. You can mount them straight onto the ceiling or very high up on the wall. They slide open and closed along a track to allow people to enter and leave again. You can stack them to the side to get them out of the way or keep them closed across the entire window or door to increase your privacy. How much do blinds cost for this type? They start at $120 and go up to $300 for each blind you need.
Pleated
When you want louver window blinds, many people go toward the pleated type. Pleated blinds feature on pieces of material without any slats, and this sets it apart from other blinds. The fabric can easily add dimension and texture to your room, and this can boost your decor. How much do blinds cost for this type? They range between $50.00 and $125 each.
Roller
Roller blinds mimic the look of standard window shades. They usually won’t come with slats, but they do have a material like fabric or woven bamboo that will lay flat. They work nicely in office windows or bedrooms, and you’ll buy them per square foot. This makes them slightly cheaper, and you’ll want to set aside $10.00 to $140 per window when you’re figuring out how much do blinds cost.
Roman
Roman-style blinds use a single piece of fabric without any pleats. This gives you a very stylish and smooth look when you open them or leave them closed. You’ll get a few fabric folds with mechanisms that are easy to use to pull the blinds up or let them fall back down. This is very popular in modern and minimalist homes, and the price ranges from $50.00 to $130 each.
Shoji
This is a very unique blind that comes made out of rice paper. They let light in while blocking bright sun rays to give you a very airy and bright living space. You’ll find these blinds used a lot in Japan, and this is where they originated from. How much do blinds cost in this style? They’re a more budget friendly option at $35.00 to $60.00 a blind.
Solar
If you live in a sunny environment like in the desert, these blinds are a solid choice for you. They can help you lower your energy bills while harnessing the sun’s energy. You’ll get a tube and roller mechanism on these blinds that allows them to have a single fabric sheet covering the window. Depending on the quality, you’ll have a price range to contend with when you figure out how much do blinds cost. They range from $30.00 to $120 each.
Venetian
Better known as Slat or Persian blinds, these are one of the most common blind types available. It’s a very classic style that features horizontal rows of slats that you can angle or tilt to allow more light to stream in. You can lift the entire blind body up as well. They have cordless options, security styles, and dozens of colors with natural stain finishes. How much do blinds cost for this style? They range between $11.00 and $125 a window.
Vertical
If you pick vertical blinds, they come with long vertical slats that reach to the top of the door or window to the floor. You can tilt these slats like horizontal Venetian blinds, and you can pull them back to reveal your door or window. They work best in bigger spaces with more dramatic decor. You’ll find them in living rooms, dining rooms, and kitchens that lead out to your balcony, patio, or terrace. How much do blinds cost for this style? They range between $50.00 to $115 per window.
Your type of blind will have a big impact on how much do blinds cost for your specific project. You want to stay inside your set budget, so consider the type carefully when you shop. Blinded by ☼zlady / CC BY-NC 2.0
Cost for Different Blind Materials
Your window blinds can come made from different materials. Some materials work better for different types of blinds. Slat blinds typically feature vinyl, aluminum, wood, or faux wood. Vertical blinds usually have fabric, and roller blinds use a lot of bamboo. The following will give you an idea how much do blinds cost by material choice.
Aluminum
This is an inexpensive material to use for your blinds, but it’s easy to ding and damage. It’s a very slim and lightweight option that offers a simple operation and installation. It has a small slat size that makes it very popular for using on doorways. How much do blinds cost for aluminum ones? You’ll pay between $20.00 and $70.00 a window.
Bamboo
You’ll use bamboo if you want an eco-friendly blind. Bamboo has a lot of aesthetic appeal to it, but it can fade or warp. This can happen more frequently if you expose these blinds to the elements or sun regularly. As a natural wood, these blinds offer a luxurious and elegant look that is very easy to upkeep. It complements many interior design choices, and you’ll pay between $30.00 and $80.00 a window.
Fabric
Sheer fabric blinds let sunlight stream through. But, fabric blinds can grow mold or gain stains very easily. Woven fabric will resist dust collection very well, and this makes them friendly for people who suffer allergies. If you prefer more light, they’ll give you a filtered and soft glow. How much do blinds cost in this style? They range from $20.00 to $70.00 per window.
Faux Wood
Faux wood blinds are extremely durable. You get the look of real wood without having to break your budget. You can get this type of blind from almost any blind retailer, and they make a good pick for fast remodel projects. They’re easy to maintain, and they’re an affordable alternative. They can use foam wood, vinyl, PVC, or composite. How much do blinds cost? The price range starts at $30.00 and goes up to $85.00 a window.
Leather
Leather is a more luxurious blind that allows you to get a beautifully smooth finish to it. This isn’t an extremely used material for everyday use, but you’ll see it in more high-end decor. If you want leather blinds, you’ll pay between $75.00 and $100 each.
Metal
If you’re after a budget-friendly but durable blind, consider metal. They’re very long-lasting, and they’re easy for you to keep clean. You’ll find it for sturdy but slim mini blinds. How much do blinds cost for metal ones? They are very affordable at $15.00 to $40.00 each.
Plastic
If you have a home with young children or pets, it’s common to install plastic blinds. They’re easy and inexpensive to replace or install. Plastic blinds come made to resist UV rays, and this can protect everyone from too much light. How much do blinds cost with plastic materials? Expect to pay between $20.00 and $50.00 each.
PVC
When you think of PVC, you’re more likely to think of hydroponic systems for your plants than you are blinds, but PVC blinds are popular. PVC offers a high level of UV protection, and they can last up to a decade if you take the time to maintain them correctly. If you’re wondering how much do blinds cost for PVC, they range from $30.00 to $60.00 each.
Synthetic
These blinds are made to last, and they use affordable materials that work to create a stylish look while blocking the light. You can choose from several different designs and colors, and this includes faux options that mimic the look of more high-end blinds. They’re typically cheaper than other materials, and you can find them between $25.00 and $50.00 each.
Vinyl
If you’re wondering how much do blinds cost for vinyl, you’ll pay between $11.00 and $120 per window. These are usually more affordable options, but they break down quickly. They are very easy to maintain, and you get the choice of several styles and colors.
Blind materials vary from one to the next with price points, and there are more luxurious options you can pick out that will increase your total project costs. Consider which one will look best with your design aesthetic and go with it. Blind_ambition by Tim Ford / CC BY-SA 2.0
Location Impacts Your Blind Installation Costs
You have to consider where you want your blinds installed when you figure out how much do blinds cost. The cost will fluctuate depending on how many windows you want to cover and where you want them. The most common costs include:
Attic
Blinds in your attic can increase your home’s security on the upper levels. This is important if you use it for entertainment or storage purposes. Attic windows are generally more complicated to reach, and they may need several trips with a ladder. You will pay between $125 and $160 for labor, not including materials for this location.
Basement
You can add blinds to the downstairs bathroom, bedroom, living spaces, or storage areas. Your contractor will have to carry all of the materials and tools to the location, and they may need a ladder. How much do blinds cost will depend on how many windows there are here. You’ll typically pay between $100 and $150 for this location.
Bathroom
During a bathroom remodel, it’s common to update your blinds. Your window size impacts the price, no matter if you choose waterproof or regular blinds. They can help increase your privacy levels, and the project will cost less if you only have one or two small windows versus a skylight. How much do blinds cost here? They cost between $75.00 and $125.
Bedroom
In the bedroom, privacy is paramount. This is why many people splurge on higher-quality blinds here to help them sleep better. Blocking the light can stop it from coming in too early and waking you up. So, how much do blinds cost if you want to pay more to block the light? On average, you’ll spend between $85.00 and $125 a blind.
Bow Window
Also called a compass window, it’s nice to install blinds in this area. It has a unique design and shape that makes it more labor-intensive to install blinds here. In turn, you’ll pay more in contractor fees. They tend to be tall and large, so how much do blinds cost? For bow window blinds, you’ll typically pay between $175 and $225 each.
Kitchen
This is the go-to choice for many people who want to control their energy costs while getting a sense of privacy. Some kitchens come with a few small windows, but you could have floor-to-ceiling options. For kitchen blinds, you’ll pay between $60.00 and $100 each.
Living Room
Arguably one of the most important rooms in your home for blinds is the living room. You want to be able to watch your TV and relax with the blinds closed at night for extra privacy and security. These windows are usually accessible to keep your costs low. How much do blinds cost here? On average, the price ranges from $90.00 to $150 for this room.
Patio
If you’ve built a deck or have a patio, adding blinds is a popular way to section off the sliding glass doors that lead to it. Vertical patio blinds are one of the best choices to help protect your home’s security while controlling the lighting. They are more labor-intensive to install, so how much do blinds cost? Expect to pay between $120 and $155 each.
If you don’t plan to outfit the entire house with your new blinds, it’s a good idea to concentrate on one location at a time. This will help you get a more accurate cost, but it’ll also help save you money if you don’t have your contractor moving around a lot. Blinds by Rich Renomeron / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
Installation Costs
Before you install new blinds, you have to remove and unmount the old ones from brackets. You can recycle the blinds if they’re aluminum, but you’ll have to get rid of any non-aluminum parts and strings first. Once you get the blinds down, you’ll want to decide if you want to hang your new blinds on the outside or inside of your window casings. This will help you get accurate measurements. You want exact measurements before you buy any blinds.
A professional will usually charge between $10.00 and $20.00 to install blinds per window. For eight 27-inch windows in a single-story home, your labor costs would range between $80.00 and $200. Most contractors will remove the old blinds for $10.00 to $30.00 a window. So, be sure you ask when you’re figuring out how much do blinds cost.
When you’re trying to figure out your labor costs, where you purchase your blinds from factors in. Some companies will include the blind installation costs if you buy the blinds from them. Per standard window for materials and labor, you could pay between $50.00 and $100 each. If you buy the blinds on your own, you can pay a contractor to install them for $10.00 and $25.00 each.
Blind Replacement Costs
If your blinds don’t close or open correctly or if they get damaged, you want to replace them. If you update your home’s interior design or you want to boost how energy-efficient your home is, you may want to replace them. Blinds can last between seven and ten years.
Any professional will charge between $10.00 and $25.00 a blind to replace them. You also have to include the cost of the new blind, and this can range between $10.00 and $100 a blind. Blind disposal and blind trimming can add more to the price, upwards of $20.00 and $30.00 each.
Price to Maintain Your Blinds
You want your home decor to look nice, so it’s essential that you update and maintain your blinds. Blinds will collect a lot of dust, so you should wipe them off at least once a month with a damp cloth. Use a vinegar and water solution to clean them. You could also choose to add professional cleaning fees when you’re figuring out how much do blinds cost? Professional companies will charge between $100 and $200 a visit. This is also a great time to look for damage and repair them as needed.
Where to Find Blind Installation Experts Near You
When you start looking at updating your blinds, you want to find a professional company in your local area to help you. This will help you get a more accurate estimate when you’re figuring out how much do blinds cost. Companies include:
Frequently Asked Questions
Asking questions when you contact the various local companies will help ensure you get a solid price quote that shouldn’t fluctuate hugely from one point to the next. Call a few companies and make sure you ask all of them the same questions. 339/336: The bench by Don Harder / CC BY-NC 2.0
1. What happens if you have unusually sized or shaped windows?
If you’re someone who has windows in unusual sizes or shapes, you may wonder how much do blinds cost to cover the area. You’ll most likely end up ordering custom blinds. This can increase your costs between 30% and 300% to have custom blinds made to fit the unique dimensions.
2. Can you get discounts for buying in bulk?
If you choose one company to install your blinds, ask if they sell blinds too. If they do, ask about discounts for buying in bulk to get enough to cover all of your windows. Some will give you a decent discount that can shave costs off your project.
3. How do you install window blinds?
Vertical and horizontal blinds feature different installation processes. However, you’ll install a bracket with both models to mount the blinds. You secure horizontal blinds on each end of the mount, and each vertical-style blind has to get mounted separately.
4. How much will you pay to have a professional install your blinds?
A professional company can cost between $10.00 and $20.00 per window if you have a standard horizontal vinyl or wood blind. You can hire a company to put up multiple blinds in one go. If you have eight widows that need blinds, you can pay around $100.
Bottom Line
How much do blinds cost? Now you know some of the biggest factors that go into deciding the price. You can create a working budget and call and get estimates from local companies to help you with this project. This way, you’ll be able to get the blinds you want to pull your room together and complete your remodeling project.
Jen is a master gardener, interior designer and home improvement expert. She has completed many home improvement, decor and remodeling projects with her family over the past 10 years on their 4,500 sf Victorian house. She is also a passionate farmer who keeps goats, chickens, turkeys cows and pigs on her farm, and an instructor for her community’s Organic and Sustainable Farming project.