In this guide

What Size of Blinds Do I Need?

One of the first steps in any installation project is understanding the standard window blinds size. Window blinds come in many different sizes. Finding the right size for your home windows is key to a successful and stylish project. Here are some of the most common window blind sizes and the average cost for the materials.

Window Blinds Cost per Square Foot

You can also look at the cost of window blinds per square foot. Professionals often use this measurement and, while the final price depends on the materials and type of blind you choose, you can expect these general costs per square foot.

Window Blinds Cost by Material

Window blinds can be made of different materials, which have several pros and cons. Some materials are advised for certain kinds of blinds. For example, slat blinds are usually made of aluminum, vinyl, faux wood and wood. On the other side, vertical blinds are often made of fabric, and roller blinds ² may be made of other materials, such as bamboo. The following table may help you choose. These costs are for materials only.

Vinyl Window Blinds

Vinyl blinds are the most affordable blinds, although they don’t last long. They are well-known for their easy maintenance and are available in many colors and designs. You can find vinyl blinds that will work in just about any space. You should pay $11 - $120 per window.

Metal Blinds Cost

Metal blinds are a reliable choice for durable, budget-friendly blinds. They are easy to clean and long-lasting. Metal is often used for the slim and sturdy mini blinds. They suit low-budget blind projects as you can usually find metal blinds in-store or online for $15 to $40.

Plastic Blinds Cost

Plastic blinds are lightweight and more commonly used in homes with pets or young children as they are inexpensive to install and replace. Plastic blinds are manufactured to resist UV rays protecting you and your family from too much sunlight. The average price range for plastic blinds is $20 to $50.

Aluminum Blinds Price

Aluminum is an inexpensive material, but it can be dented easily and damaged. These blinds are lightweight and slim for simple installation and operation. The small slat size makes aluminum a good option for doors. The cost to add aluminum window blinds to a room is $20-$70 per window.

Synthetic Blinds

Synthetic blinds are made to last with affordable materials that block the light and create a stylish environment. There are many different colors and designs to choose from, including those that mimic some more expensive materials. Most retailers offer synthetic blinds for prices around $25 to $50, which is typically cheaper than the natural materials.

PVC Blinds Price

PVC blinds are made from a type of vinyl that’s relatively durable and easy to install. This material is commonly used in popular plastic household products. One of the biggest advantages of these blinds is UV protection. When properly maintained, these blinds can last for ten years, if not longer. The typical price point for PVC blinds is between $30 and $60.

Bamboo Blinds Cost

Bamboo is an eco-friendly material regarded for its aesthetic appeal but it can warp or fade, especially when exposed to the sun and other elements regularly. As a natural wood, bamboo offers an elegant, luxurious look that’s easy to maintain and complements many interior design choices. Expect to pay $30-$80 per window.

Faux Wood Binds Cost

One of the main characteristics of faux wood blinds is their durability. Their appearance is very similar to real wood without the higher price tag. They are readily available from nearly all blind retailers, so they make a good choice for quick projects. It is an affordable alternative to wood, and it's easier to maintain. They are made from a wood substitute such as PVC, vinyl, composite, or foam wood. Faux blinds cost $30 to $95 per window.

Fabric Window Blinds

Sheer fabrics allow light to come through. However, fabric blinds can be stained or acquire mold. Woven fabric resists dust quite well. These blinds produce a soft, filtered, sunny glow for those who prefer more light. The cost to install fabric blinds is $20-$70 per window.

Leather Window Blinds

Luxury living often features leather window blinds, made from this fine material for a beautifully smooth finish. While it’s not as common as some of the other blind materials, leather blinds are available and priced around $75 to $100.

Window Blinds Prices by Type

There are many different types of blinds to choose from, depending on your style preferences and overall interior design in each room. There are traditional styles like Venetian blinds, or more modern touches such as cordless blinds, and they come in so many different colors to match each space. You can see the differences and select which variety best suits your needs.

Roller Blinds Cost

Roller blinds most closely resemble standard window shades. They usually don’t have slats, instead featuring a material made to lay flat, like woven bamboo or fabric. Usually these work best for bedrooms and office windows. Roller blinds are priced per square foot and are slightly cheaper than other blinds. The cost for these blinds is $10-$140 per window.

Venetian Blinds Cost

Also known as Persian or Slat blinds, these are the most common types of blinds you’ll find. The classic style features horizontal rows of slats that can be tilted at angles to let in more light. The entire body of the blinds can be lifted up as well. You can select from several nice choices with natural stain finishes and cordless and security options. Expect to pay $11-$215 per window.

Cordless Blinds Cost

Cordless blinds work best for rooms where privacy and light-control are top priorities. So, TV rooms, offices, bedrooms, and bathrooms are ideal. Homes with pets and/or children also benefit from the added safety of cordless blinds, since the cords on normal blinds are known to be strangulation hazards. Cordless blinds can be adjusted easily by lifting them up or pulling them down. Some models are adjusted by remote controls. This type of blind can be more expensive than other designs, but the cost varies depending on material. The price for cordless blinds is $12-$135 per window.

Solar Blinds Cost

These window blinds for the future are well-suited for sunny environments where homeowners want to reduce their energy bills and harness the sun’s natural energy. A roller and tube mechanism allows for a single sheet of fabric to cover the window. Depending on the quality of the solar blinds, expect to pay on average between $30 and $120.

Shoji Blinds

Shoji blinds are unique in that they are made out of rice paper. They block bright sun rays while letting in light for a bright, airy living space. This window treatment is common in Japan, where it originated. Shoji blinds are gaining global popularity, especially with its affordable average price of $35 to $60 per blind.

Vertical blinds Prices

Vertical blinds have large vertical slats that reach from the floor to the top of the window/door. The slats can be tilted like horizontal slat blinds, and can be pulled back to uncover the window/door. These suit more dramatic interior design and bigger spaces. They are often found in dining rooms, living rooms, or kitchens leading to an outdoor terrace or patio. You should pay $50-$115 per window for these blinds.

Pleated Window Blinds

When looking at louver window blinds, many homeowners are intrigued by the pleated variety. Unlike other types of blinds, pleated blinds are made from one continuous piece of material without slats. The fabric adds texture and dimension to many rooms, which explains its popularity. The average price range for pleated window blinds is $50 to $125.

Roman Blinds Cost

Roman blinds are produced from one piece of fabric without pleats for a smooth, stylish look when opened or closed. A few elegant fabric folds and easy-to-use mechanisms for pulling the blinds up and down mean Roman blinds are a top choice for minimalist modern homes. The normal range for Roman blind prices is $50 to $130.

Cellular Blinds

Cellular blinds are often referred to as honeycomb shades with individual cell shapes within the blinds to contain trapped air and serve as a barrier between the window and the inside of the home. Cellular blinds reduce heat transfer and help with energy efficiency and insulation in most homes. A fairly reasonable price for cellular blinds available in various colors is between $55 and $100.

Panel Blinds Prices

Panel track blinds are used to cover large sliding glass doors, such as those that open onto a deck or patio. They are usually mounted on the ceiling or high up on the wall and slide across on a track allowing people to go in and out. They stack completely to the side or stay closed across the entire window or door for more privacy. Plan to pay at least $120 to $300 for these blinds.

Average Cost of Window Blinds by Brand

There are many leading blind manufacturers known for quality materials that go well in any home. Some brands are more affordable than others, and it depends on what kind of look and light control you are going for. Plus, some brands are considerably more affordable than others, so your budget may determine which brands work for you. Here are some of the most popular brands to consider for your blind installation project.

Hampton Bay Blinds

The Home Depot brand Hampton Bay offers quality blinds and shades, which are some of the most affordable on the market. You can get blinds for as low as $15 to $40. There are room darkening, cordless, and mini blinds available. The faux wood blinds are a good option for cost-effective room upgrades.

Achim Window Blinds

Achim is a family-owned home furnishing company offering fresh, light faux wood plantation blinds and mini blinds. The light filtering properties of the plantation blinds make a nice addition to many homes. This company also offers cordless, room darkening, and vinyl varieties. The blinds are priced around $20 to $60.

Chicology Window Blinds

Chicology prides itself on simple, affordable blinds with a fun selection. They offer faux wood, vinyl, vertical, and panel track blinds, shades, and curtains. The company is known for kid-friendly blinds and shades with minimal choking hazards. Cordless faux wood blinds are $25 to $50.

Bella View Window Blinds

As the house brand of American Blinds, Bella View is a popular choice for affordable and stylish window treatments. There are four main options to choose from with Bella View blinds: Advantage, Trademark, Legacy, and Prestige. Bella View prices are around $35 to $90 on the low end. You can pay more for blinds with motorized tilt and cordless lift features.

Blinds to Go Prices

Blinds to Go provides quality blind products and often has special sales so you can get a deal on a wide range of blinds. Faux wood blinds are typically $40 to $70, with other choices such as aluminum, vinyl, and panel blinds. Woven wood shades ³ and vertical fabric blinds suit a lot of interior design choices.

Bali Blinds Cost

Bali blinds can be purchased as designed by the manufacturer or custom made. They specialize in faux wood blinds that are highly durable and moisture resistant. They also sell wood, vinyl, vertical, and mini blinds, along with cellular shades ⁴, solar shades, shutters, and drapery. The average cost of Bali blinds is around $50 to $75.

Graber Blinds Prices

Graber Blinds are highly-regarded, energy-efficient window treatments that can be custom ordered. They have faux and natural wood, composite, vertical, vinyl ¹, and aluminum blinds. Faux wood blinds from Graber start around $60 to $75. Cellular, layered, and exterior solar shades are other window treatment solutions generating big sales for Graber Blinds.

Levolor Blinds Cost

Levolor is known for luxurious blinds that come at a slightly higher price tag. Because of their quality and versatility, they are considered well worth the extra cost. Faux wood blinds are priced at $95 to $125. They offer customizable options online. Homeowners have come to expect fantastic light control and privacy from Levolor.

3 Day Blinds Prices

3 Day Blinds lives up to its name by producing custom blinds in a few days. They offer room darkening and automated options. With over 40 years in the business, the company is a recognized source of blinds, shades, and shutters. Faux wood blinds that resist bending and snapping are priced around $100 to $150.

Budget Blinds Cost

As the name suggests, Budget Blinds is an affordable retailer of custom window treatments. They sell blinds made from faux wood, composite, natural wood, aluminum, and vinyl. They offer vertical and motorized blinds. Shutters and shades are also available. Expect to pay between $100 and $200 for new blinds.

Somfy Blinds Cost

Somfy brings customers smart home solutions with a series of motorized blinds, curtains, and shades. Somfy products keep energy costs to a minimum and add a layer of luxury to any room. Their motors and smart controls continue improving to match industry standards and provide solutions for modern homes. Somfy blinds retail for $270 to $400.

Hunter Douglas Blinds Cost

Hunter Douglas is a renowned American blind manufacturer with a wide variety of window coverings. Duette honeycomb blinds are energy-saving blinds, priced around $275 to $400. Silhouette blinds cost slightly less at around $100 to $250. Duette has a built-in ⁵ room darkening system and enhanced insulation. Silhouette diffuses natural light and doesn’t obstruct the view with blinds that are close to clear.

Window Blinds Installation Cost

Prior to installation, old blinds can be removed by unmounting them from the brackets ⁶. It’s possible to recycle blinds if they are made of aluminum. You will need to remove all strings ⁷ and non-aluminum parts before recycling.

Then, you should determine whether you want to hang your blinds on the inside or outside of your window casings. This is important for establishing how you should make your measurements. Measurements should be made prior to purchasing your blinds so that you can have a perfect fit.

Professionals usually charge $10 to $20 per standard window to install blinds. For a one-story house with 8 windows of 27-inches, the labor cost would be $80 to $200. Check with your contractor because most offer to remove old blinds for $10 to $30 per window.

When looking at the labor cost to install window blinds, keep in mind that this depends on where you buy your blinds. Some companies include the installation cost if they offer professional installation services. It may cost $50 to $100 per standard window for labor and materials. If you purchased blinds on your own, a handyman could install them for $10 to $25 each. Prices vary slightly per contractor.

Installation materials like mounting brackets ⁸, screws and power drills are usually provided by the professional installation team. Many will also measure your windows for you.

Blinds Replacement Cost

It’s important to replace blinds if they are damaged or no longer open or close properly. You may also wish to replace blinds to increase your home’s energy efficiency or update your interior design.

Most blinds last around seven to ten years. If your blinds are reaching that age, check out the condition and think about a replacement. Professionals charge between $10 and $25 per blind replacement, plus the cost of the new blind, which usually falls between $10 and $100 depending on the type of blind. Extra fees may be charged for trimming blinds or blind disposal. This could add $20 to $30.

Window Blinds Installation Prices by Location

Another way to look at window blinds installation is by location. The cost varies depending on where you are installing the blinds and how many windows there are to cover. Your contractor may offer special pricing for certain areas or projects, so always be sure to ask. Here are the average costs per location.

Kitchen Blinds Prices

Kitchen blinds are a go-to choice for most homeowners who want to maintain a sense of privacy and control their heating and cooling costs. Some kitchens have a few small windows, while others have floor-to-ceiling windows depending on the home design. You can plan on paying at least $60 to $100 for kitchen blinds.

Bathroom Blinds Prices

Whether you choose regular or waterproof bathroom blinds, remember that the various bathroom window sizes impact the final price. It’s a good idea to put blinds in bathrooms with larger windows for privacy. This project costs $75 to $125 on average. If you just have one tiny bathroom window, it may cost less than if you have large or hard-to-reach windows like skylights.

Blinds for Bedroom Windows

Privacy is of utmost importance in the bedroom, which is why so many homeowners invest in quality blinds to help them sleep soundly at night. Keeping the blinds closed prevents light from filtering in too early in the morning and disrupting a good night’s rest. To appropriately cover bedroom windows, homeowners pay, on average, $85 to $125 per bedroom blind.

Living Room Window Blinds

One of the most important rooms in the house for blind installation is the living room, where families spend a lot of time. You want to be able to relax in front of the TV at night with the blinds drawn for added security. Most living room windows are easily accessible. However, some livings rooms have many windows and a great deal of space that needs to be covered. On average, homeowners pay between $90 and $150 for living room blinds.

Basement Window Blinds

Basement window blinds may be added to downstairs bedrooms, bathrooms, storage areas, or living spaces. Contractors bring all their materials to the basement. They may need a ladder for hard-to-reach spots. While the price depends on how many windows are in the basement, you can expect to pay at least $100 to $150 for a basement blind installation job.

Patio Blinds Prices

Patio blinds are popular due to the sliding glass doors that often lead from kitchens to backyard living and entertaining spaces. Most homeowners feel more comfortable with vertical patio blinds that protect the home’s security and lighting near such a large window. These blinds are often larger and take slightly more labor to install. Budget at least $120 to $155 per patio blind installation.

Attic Window Blinds

Some homeowners prefer attic window blinds to increase security in their home’s upper level, especially if they use it for storage or entertainment. Attic windows are not the easiest to reach and may require a ladder and several trips up and down the stairs for access. These labor considerations may increase the installation cost. You can expect to pay $125 to $160.

Bay Window Blinds Cost

Homeowners with bay windows ⁹ appreciate the sweeping views and natural light flooding in, but the right blinds help by providing privacy and insulation. Bay windows with blinds add a layer of security and sophistication. Mini blinds for bay windows are available if light control is a concern. The impressive size and scale of bay windows mean they require tall blinds. Professional installers will measure and ensure that the blinds are appropriate for the space. Adding blinds to bay windows is slightly more complicated than traditional windows. You should budget at least $150 to $200 to install bay window blinds.

Blinds for Bow Window

A curved bay window is also known as a compass window. It’s lovely to have blinds covering this area. The bow window’s unique shape and design require additional labor for blind measurement and installation. Contractors charge more as more work is required. These windows tend to be large and tall, which can increase the price. Plan to pay at least $175 to $225 for bow window blinds.

Skylight Blinds Cost

Blinds for skylights are a special order item from window treatment specialists. Due to the unique size and shape of skylights, these blinds are custom made. Since skylights are not easily accessible, motorized blinds are typically preferred for remote operation. Expect to pay upwards of $200-$250 each for blinds for your skylights. Most skylight blinds are cellular blinds with light-filtering features.

Cost of Blinds for Whole House

Adding blinds to each additional story of windows increases the total cost by 100%, or less if you can get multi-window discounts. Because upper stories tend to be warmer than lower stories, you may also want to invest in energy-efficient blinds for these levels. If you decide to do multiple blind installations at once, you may be able to take advantage of lower blind costs per window, depending on the installation company you choose. Whether it’s a new house or a renovation of your current property, it’s often worth it to get all the blinds at one time. Here are the average costs for installing faux wood blinds on four 27-inch windows in each room.

Window Blinds Privacy

Privacy options are the best features of window blinds. Not only do blinds block out the light, but they also stop people from looking into your home. There are many possibilities to choose from, such as room darkening window blinds that help with sleep and security and help control the amount of sunshine that comes into a room. The blackout blinds cost is around $40 to $150 per blind just for materials. An extra $50 to $100 may be charged for labor for every blind.

Translucent window blinds are another in-demand choice, with sheer layers surrounding the blinds which can be rotated for a soft, muted view or full light. For homeowners who want privacy without the dark living spaces from blackout blinds, translucent window coverings are a good option. These light filtering blinds are between $45 and $160 plus the additional $50 to $100 per window for installation.

Window Blinds Insulation

Window blinds help with insulation and can keep heating and cooling costs down by absorbing light. The preferred energy efficient window blinds are blackout blinds, which do a great job of preventing light and heat from entering rooms, or motorized blinds that can be automated to close in the peak hours of sunlight. While all blinds offer quality insulation, these are the most efficient options on the market today.

Keep in mind that blinds naturally let in a tiny bit of light even when they are closed. For the best results with insulation, keep the blinds closed on days with extreme temperatures.

Window Blinds Benefits

Window blinds have been a popular feature in homes for decades due to the many benefits they offer. This, of course, includes the safety and privacy aspects. Homeowners can increase their security and deter theft and trespassing by keeping the blinds closed at night and when they are not home. Blinds help to control the amount of light in any room. You can pull them all the way up if you want a full view out of the window. Otherwise, keep them down and just close or open them depending on the desired light.

In addition to light control and safety, blinds assist with insulation and energy efficiency. They provide an attractive aesthetic appeal to boost the interior design and complete the windows in each room. Many people agree that kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, and more look incomplete without blinds or similar window coverings.

Motorized Blinds Cost

Motors can be added to many models of blinds to make them controllable via remote. Each window will need an individual motor. The cost of professionally installing the motors with a remote is $150-$300 per motor.

Motorized blinds operate without cords, which is a major benefit for homes with small children. Depending on the features included, the blinds may even be programmed to open and close at set times throughout the day. They are also a good option for windows that aren’t easy to reach.

Many homeowners are willing to pay around $200 to $300 for remote control blinds. Electric blinds cost $300 to $400 per blind and require a main power outlet and wiring. Fully automatic blinds that run solely on batteries cost between $250 and $400 per blind.

To take your window coverings to the next level, you may want to consider smart blinds, which have WiFi connectivity so you can close your blinds anytime from your phone. This is great for busy households where people are always on the go and may rush off and forget to close the blinds. Smart blinds are priced around $300 to $500 per blind.

Micro Blinds and Mini Blinds Cost

Micro blinds have much smaller slats to prevent more light from coming through and offer enhanced light control and insulation. These blinds are typically used on shallow windows and cost around $50 to $125.

Micro blinds have the thinnest slats available, around half an inch. Mini blinds are around an inch thick, so they are larger. Mini blinds essentially do the same thing as micro blinds, providing more light control than traditional blinds for windows with little depth, although with slightly more width than the micro alternatives. Mini blinds cost between $45 and $100.

Outdoor Blinds Cost

Outdoor blinds are a smart choice for decks, patios, and porches. These blinds promote privacy and protect against the sun and pests. They can be easily opened or closed so families can enjoy their outdoor time without being overly exposed to the elements. Patio blinds cost around $125 to $250 each. The higher quality materials and added automation features increase the price.

Bamboo and other natural materials are ideal for outdoor blinds. By keeping them well-maintained, you ensure they will last for a long time and hold up in all four seasons.

Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds

Hanging your blinds outside the casing can make both the blinds and your window look larger. For outer hangings, you should measure from the outer edges of the casing. If your window has a sill ¹⁰, measure from the outer top edge of the casing to the sill. You need less accurate measurements for outside mount blinds, which cost around $45-$75 per blind while inside mount ⁸ blinds may be slightly more around $50-$100 per blind.

Hanging your blinds inside can give them and the entire room a tidier appearance. They also allow for more light to come through. For inner hangings, measure the edges of the window glass where it meets the casing. Professional window installation companies recommend inside mounts as long as the window frame is deep enough. Otherwise, they use outside mounts for shallow windows or when window cranks get in the way.

Blinds vs Shades Cost

Because of their adjustable slat design, blinds give more control over how much light and air comes in through the windows. You can have the blinds pulled down and still enjoy a view, along with plenty of light and air. Since shades are typically solid, the only way to control the light, air, and view they permit is to pull them closed, open, or partially open. Fabric is often used for shades and adds insulation value. However, they are more likely to be worn and damaged with the soft fabrics compared to the hard surfaces of blinds.

The average cost to install window shades is around $800 for eight shades on 27-inch windows. This price can be compared to $700 for faux wood slat blinds for the same project.

Cost of Shutters vs Blinds

Shutters are some of the most durable window coverings. They can last for a lifetime when properly installed and maintained. The lack of cords eliminates the choking hazard for families with young children. The strong insulation properties make shutters an attractive investment for some homeowners, although there are a few downsides. Shutters let less natural light in than blinds and are often used for more formal areas. Plantation shutters are one of the most common types--wooden coverings fitted to the frame that open out similar to blinds with tilted louvers. Shutters offer extra protection in extreme weather conditions, making them good for homes in hurricane-prone areas. The average cost for hurricane shutter installation is between $2,300 and $7,900. U.S. homeowners can expect to pay $5,100 on average to install 320 square feet of hurricane shutters.

The cost of plantation shutters vs. blinds makes some homeowners think twice. Shutters may cost $200 to $375 each for materials and labor compared to the more economical option of blinds between $15 and $215.

Blinds vs Curtains Cost

Blinds give you more flexibility in terms of light control, but some light will always peek through because of the slat design. In comparison, curtains made of fabrics like cotton, linen, silk, or velvet completely block the light from coming in with full coverage. Curtains are more likely to stain and tear and may not last as long as blinds. However, curtains improve soundproofing and offer better insulation.

The cost to install curtains with materials and labor averages between $600 and $2,000, with $1,300 being the average for installing linen curtains on eight, 27-inch standard windows. Meanwhile, blind installation is similarly priced with the average range between $400 and $1,000 depending on the number of blinds and materials needed.

Prefabricated vs Custom Blinds Cost

Several differences exist between prefabricated and custom blinds. Prefabricated blinds are the best option for customers who want the least expensive option. These blinds fit standard window sizes and are made of materials with varying quality. The average price is between $15 and $50 per blind. However, homeowners should remember that prefabricated blinds usually do not come with warranties and guarantees. Custom blinds are more expensive than prefabricated ones. However, these can be made to fit any window size, and many feature higher quality materials. These blinds usually come with warranties and guarantees. Expect custom blinds to cost around $150 to $225 each.

Blinds Maintenance

Like any part of your home, it’s important to regularly clean blinds to maintain their style and functionality. Blinds collect dust easily, so it’s recommended to dust them at least once a month. Wipe them down with a cloth, rag, or old sock, preferably soaked with water and vinegar. Consider the cost to clean blinds professionally as well. Drapery cleaning companies charge between $100 and $200 on average to clean each set of blinds. Plus, blind cleaning is a great opportunity to notice any damage and basic repair needs, such as replacing slats or fixing tangled cords.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others

² Roller blinds: A window blind, mounted on a wooden or metal roller, that rolls up and out of the way when not in use

³ Woven wood shades: A window covering made from small strips of wood or natural fibers, arranged horizontally and woven together with cotton twine

⁴ Cellular shades: A fabric shade that folds flat when collapsed and expands into a honeycomb pattern. They are good for keeping heat out in the summer and keeping it in the winter

⁵ Built-in: An item of furniture, such as a bookcase or set of cabinets, that is built directly into the structure of the room. Built-ins are therefore customized to the room and not detachable

⁶ Brackets: A support that projects outward from one surface to hold another surface to it, such as attaching a shelf to a wall or piece of furniture. Brackets can also be used to strengthen joins between two materials