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 conditioning costs in summer.
Hiring a 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 impacts the cost to install blinds?
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 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 specialist in Chantilly, Virginia charges a $125 base fee (or $150 for locations further than 50 miles) plus a fee for each additional blind:
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:
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.
What is the difference between window blinds and shades?
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.
How much do window blinds cost?
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:
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:
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 and blinds installation specialist near you on Thumbtack.