How Much Do Custom Window Treatments Cost by Type?
There are many different types of window treatments, so it’s not easy breaking them down by cost. For simplicity’s sake, this guide places them into three categories.
| Window Treatment Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Blinds and Shutters | $600 – $2,700 |
| Shades | $900 – $2,600 |
| Valances, Drapes, and Curtains | $1,800 – $3,000 |
Blinds and Shutters
Blinds and shutters have differences in the way they're installed, but both use slats that can be open and closed to control the amount of light let into the room. Blinds tend to cost less than shutters because shutters are installed into the window frame itself to make them more sturdy. You may pay as little as $600 for mini blinds, and as much as $2,700 for what are known as "plantation shutters."
Shades
Shades come in many varieties. There are Roman shades, roller shades, solar shades, cellular shades, and even motorized shades. These may cost you anywhere from about $900 (Roman shades) and $2,600 (motorized shades).
Valances, Drapes, and Curtains
Valances, drapes, and curtains are often the most extravagant form of window treatment available, and as a result, they tend to cost more. Valances only cover the top half of the window and are not quite as expensive as full drapes and curtains, which could run as much as $3,000.
Custom Window Treatment Cost Breakdown
So where does your money go when you get a custom window treatment? Mostly, it goes to the cost of the treatment itself and the labor to install it. However, there are other factors you should consider.
Materials
The materials vary depending on what kind of window treatment you want, and the price can have a wide range. For example, premade curtain panels cost anywhere from $20 to $300 per set.
Labor
You will pay anywhere from $35 to $100 per hour to install a window treatment, and it takes about a half hour to do so. If you want eight windows done, expect that it will take workers four hours to do so.
Size
The size of the window can have a big impact on price, with the price swinging by as much as 50% in either direction if it is significantly larger or smaller than an average-sized window.
Customizations
Window treatments can act as a piece of art in your home. It takes up valuable real estate on your walls, so it’s worth investing in the right treatments. When choosing a window treatment, the more custom you go, the more expensive it will get. Considering customizations such as:
Color scheme
Light filtering or room darkening
Moisture resistance
Motorized or cordless
Between-the-Glass
Another popular option is to install blinds between two panes of glass, fully integrating them within your window. This high-end option protects your blinds from dust and debris, reducing the need for regular cleanings. It also comes in cordless or motorized options, providing even more ease of use. Integrated blinds usually require a full window replacement, costing on average $500 or more per window.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
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It costs $35 to $100 per hour to install a window treatment, so on a typical project where you're installing eight window treatments over four hours, you could save anywhere from $140 to $400 by doing this job yourself.
Installing window treatments requires some technical prowess and a great deal of care and consideration. After all, you want them to look good. If you're not confident you can do the job right or don't have much experience doing this type of work, it's best to leave it to a professional blind installation company near you.
When to Replace Your Window Treatment
Generally a window treatment will need replacing every five to seven years, depending on how well it’s maintained. Look out for the following signs to know when to replace a window treatment:
Worn, damaged, or broken slats or pieces
Faded colors
Malfunctioning mechanisms
You may also decide you want to upgrade your window treatments as part of a remodel or to match your new aesthetic.
How to Save Money on a Custom Window Treatment
Besides doing the work yourself, here are three simple ways to save money on this project.
1. Choose Blinds
Blinds are the least expensive option in most cases. You may be able to have some custom mini blinds installed for around $600. Shades are another low-cost option if you find that curtains and drapes will be a bit too much.
2. Do Fewer Windows
An easy way to dramatically lower the cost of this project is to simply dress fewer windows. Or, you could save the most expensive treatment for one or two windows that are the centerpiece of a room, and use a less expensive treatment on the others.
3. Go With Valances
This only applies if you're considering curtains and drapes, as valances usually cost more than blinds and shades. Valances add an elegant touch to any room, and because they only cover the top half of the window, they don't cost as much to install. So if drapes and curtains are blowing up your budget, valances might be a way to lower costs.
