How Much Do Window Treatments Cost?

Average Window Treatment Cost

The typical window treatment costs anywhere from $6 to $550 per window before you factor in labor. Custom curtains are generally much more expensive and can cost anywhere from $500 to $3,000 a piece. Here’s what you can expect to spend.

Window Treatment Cost Factors

There are a lot of factors that go into the total cost of window treatments. You can usually save money by repairing rather than replacing depending on the type of damage. For example, the cost to repair blinds is usually only around $75 to $175 versus an average of $700 to install new ones. Here are some factors that will affect the overall price.

Type of Treatment

Some treatments are just inherently more expensive than others, and a lot of this has to do with material. For example, curtains and drapery will almost always cost more than roman shades of the same quality because they use more fabric. Other treatments (like motorized shades) include expensive hardware and are tougher to install.

Size and Number of Windows

You’ll generally pay more to install window treatments across your whole home than you would for a window or two, but it depends. Some window treatments (like shutters) may be priced by the square foot, while others are priced per window. In this case, both size and number of windows matter. You’ll pay more for a bigger window because more materials are used. For a simple install, contractors may have a minimum charge. 

Materials

High-end materials like hardwood and silk cost more than budget-friendly materials like aluminum and vinyl. The higher the quality, the more you’re going to pay.

Purchase Location 

In areas with a higher cost of living, you’ll likely pay more for installation because labor costs are higher. The store also matters. A handmade window treatment from a local carpenter or tailor is going to cost more than one manufactured by a big box retailer.

Customizations

Custom window treatments often cost significantly more than premade options in standard window sizes because they take more labor to make and aren’t mass-produced.

Blinds Cost

The cost to install blinds is $700 on average across all varieties, but most homeowners spend somewhere between $210 and $1,250. Some types are more affordable than others.

Materials

Most homeowners spend $6 to $200 per set of blinds, and most homes need about eight blinds total. Materials cost an average of $640 for the whole house, but the total price will rise if you choose high-end or custom blinds.

Type of Blinds

Vertical or Roman Blinds 

Vertical blinds typically cost between $30 to $80 each, but you can purchase additional louvers to repair broken slats for as little as $10 each. The cost of roman blinds is a little higher at $30 to $120 per set. These are more similar to roller style blinds and typically use a pull cord.

Mini or Slate Blinds

Mini blinds (also called slate blinds) cost $6 to $90 per set. This type of window treatment is typically made from aluminum or vinyl and uses slats that are less than half the width of a standard Venetian blind. 

Roller Blinds

Roller blinds cost $8 to $190 per set. This type of blind is made from a single piece of fabric wrapped around a casing that unrolls to cover your window.

Custom Blinds

Custom blinds, which are a great option for non-standard window sizes, generally cost between $150 to $200 apiece. They can cost much more depending on the materials and size of the window. Hardwood costs more than faux wood.

Installation Costs

Most professional window contractors charge between $35 to $100 per hour to install curtains. It generally takes 30 minutes to two hours per window to install. If you’re installing blinds throughout a home, expect to pay up to $50 per window for labor.

Shades Cost

Homeowners spend an average of $1,600 installing shades across their entire house, but it depends on the quality and type. It can cost as little as $200 for roller shades or as much as $4,800 for app-enabled electric shades.

Shade Materials

Shades cost anywhere from $8 for a single roller shade to more than $2,600 for custom shades. You can also purchase a shade installation or mounting kit online for less than $15, but if you use a contractor, the cost of these basic materials should be worked into the price.

Type of Shades

Roman Shades

If you’re installing roman shades across your whole home, expect to spend anywhere between $380 to $1,360. The cost of roman shades is around $30 to $120 per shade, and the average homeowner spends $875 on materials and labor. 

Roller Shades

The average homeowner spends $1,100 to install roller shades across their entire house, though the project can cost anywhere from $200 to $1,925. Each shade costs between $8 to $190 depending on size and quality.

Solar Shades 

Solar shades, which are made from tightly woven UV-resistant fabric, cost anywhere from $340 to $2,000 to install across your whole home. The average homeowner spends $1,175, with each shade typically costing $25 to $200.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades look similar to blinds, but they also help insulate the home (see: increased energy savings). Most homeowners spend $340 to $2,400 on this project, with an average cost of around $1,370 for a full house install. Each blind costs $25 to $250.

Motorized Shades

Motorized shades and electric shades work using a remote control or app that can open and close the shades across your entire home. Each shade costs between $25 to $500, and homeowners typically spend between $340 to $4,800 on this project (or $2,570 on average).

Custom Shades

Most homeowners spend $900 to $2,600 on custom shades, but it depends on the type. Roman shades are budget-friendly while motorized shades come with a higher price tag. 

Installation Costs

Most contractors charge $35 to $100 per hour to install shades. On average, you’re looking at $140 to $400 in installation costs. Custom shades may cost more because contractors need to create the custom fit. Solar shades, which only take about 30 minutes to install, will cost less.

Shutters Costs

The cost to install shutters is typically between $1,125 to $3,900 or around $2,490 on average. It can cost as little as $100 or as much as $8,600 depending on the style, size, and quality of materials. 

Material

Most shutter panels cost between $70 to $1,150 each, but the price increases with the size of the window and the material. For the average 24-inch-by-26-inch window, you’ll usually pay around $140. Faux wood and composite are among the most affordable options, while hardwood and thermalite are on the high end.

Types of Shutters

California Shutters

California shutters are also known as traditional shutters and come in hinged or fixed styles. Each panel typically costs between $70 and $1,150 and homeowners usually spend an average of $2,494 to install California shutters in their home.

Plantation Shutters

The cost of plantation shutters is typically between $150 to $350 per window. Most homeowners pay between $1,300 and $4,500 (or an average of $2,900)to install them across their home

Custom Shutters

Custom shutters cost anywhere from $600 to more than $2,700. Custom plantation shutters tend to be on the higher end of the price spectrum, but it depends on the material and size of the window.

Installation Costs

A contractor will charge between $35 to $100 per hour to install shutters. Each window takes about two hours, though custom installation could take longer. Some contractors charge a square foot rate and bundle the labor in with materials. In this case, it typically costs $20 to $45 per square foot. Removal and disposal of old shutters could add $100 to $200 to the total cost of the project.

Drapes and Curtains Costs

Drapes typically extend past the windowsill and are made from a thicker material. Curtains are usually made from a lighter material, extend to the floor, and are used in combination with other window treatments like blinds or shades. Most homeowners pay around $370 to install each set or $2,950 to install them across their house.

Materials

Prices of curtains and drapes range from $20 to $300 per panel, but custom varieties typically cost between $250 to $1,500 each. You’ll also need other materials like a curtain rod or curtain rings. If you’re using curtains along with solar shades, expect to spend an additional $150 per window.

Valences

Valences are shorter than curtains and drapes, so they’re typically more affordable. Most homeowners spend an average of $1,825 installing valences throughout their whole home. Each valence typically costs $230, but it can be more or less depending on the size, material, and quality.

Curtain Rod

To hang curtains, you’ll need a curtain rod. Most curtain rods cost between $10 for a basic rod to $350 for a high-end rod. Sometimes, you can purchase curtains and rods together in a kit, which usually saves some money.

DIY Curtains Cost vs Hiring a Pro

If you install curtains on your own, you’ll only have to pay for the curtain, the curtain rod, hooks or rings, and basic supplies like screws to mount the rod. This will save you between $140 to $400 on labor costs, but it’s not the best option if you need a custom curtain (unless, of course, you have a sewing machine and know how to use it). 

Though many homeowners prefer to hang their own curtains if they’re doing a single window, a curtain installer near you can make a large job a little easier—especially if you’re looking to install add-ons like shades or need a custom fit.

Window Treatment Installation DIY vs Pro

Some types of window treatments are easier to install than others. Handy homeowners often hang their own curtains, but it starts to get complicated when you’re trying to install custom shutters or motorized blinds. In this case, hiring a window blinds installer near you costs more, but they’ll be able to ensure a perfect fit and help you select a window treatment that aligns with your vision and budget. 

FAQs

How much do custom window treatments cost?

Most homeowners spend an average of $800 to install custom window treatments, but it typically costs anywhere from $150 to $3,000 per treatment, with additional costs for labor. Blinds tend to be on the low end, while custom curtains and drapes are on the high end.

What is the lowest cost window treatment type?

Mini blinds are generally the least expensive at $8 to $90 per blind, but you can also find affordable roller shades and valances as long as you avoid high-end materials.

Why are window treatments so expensive?

The cost of window treatments is largely dependent on the size of the window, the materials, and the labor involved. You can purchase curtains online and install them yourself for less than $50, but high-end materials and custom fits are always relatively expensive. Remember, a lot of the cost is materials. Drapery is usually more expensive than roman shades because it uses more fabric.

Are motorized shades worth the cost?

Many people prefer motorized shades because they don’t have to get up and close them when they want privacy or to block out the sun. They’re more than just convenient. They can make life a lot easier for people with mobility issues.