How much are wooden blinds – that’s a loaded question to be sure. Because you see, there are several factors hidden inside this question you need to consider first. For instance, the size and type of the window, quality, state of the materials, labor and installation cost, etc all factor into the total cost of window blinds.
Wooden blinds on average cost $122, while the price per blind can range from about $42 to as high as about $200, depending on the brand, color, and size.
If you’re dead set on using wooden blinds, remember that these blinds sit at the higher end of the pricing range, compared to other types such as vinyl blinds, plastic blinds, faux wood blinds, etc. As wood is a natural material, the cost to harvest and process sustainably and ethically hikes up the price of the blinds.
So, how much do wooden blinds cost?
The average cost of wooden blinds is $122, while the price per blind can range from about $42 to as high as about $200, depending on the brand, color, and size. Homeowners spend around $700 on average for installation. Professional installation costs can be as low as $160 to $6000 for high-end prices. The installation price varies as it includes the cost of the blinds, labor, and supplies.
Here you can learn all things related to wooden blind prices, how to estimate the cost, what makes the difference in prices, and much more. When shopping for wooden blinds for your window, don’t forget to check the information here before making a decision.
How to Estimate the Cost of Wooden Blinds
If you’re looking to buy wood blinds for your new home or trying to replace the old ones, just buying new blinds won’t be enough. You need to consider the cost of installation as well. Moreover, the number of blinds and their size affect the total price. Here are the top factors to consider when estimating the cost of the wooden blinds:
Size and Type of Windows or Blinds
Windows come in all the different shapes and sizes, still, most windows follow the standard sizing. Sliding glass doors are usually 80 inches tall and 60-72 inches wide. Vertical blinds for windows this size cost around $50-$200, depending on the material. For larger or custom-shaped windows, you’ll need to pay more. High-end materials or automation again hikes the price. For instance, motorized blinds usually cost $400-$600 each, whereas traditional Venetian blinds only cost $25-$140 each.
Determine Quantity and Finish
To determine the quantity, you need to first check how many windows in your house need blinds. Do you want to install wooden blinds in every room or some specific rooms or on certain windows? Also, consider do you need corded blinds or cordless blinds. For the blinds, settle on a slat size beforehand, 2 inches size being the most common. Wooden blinds with larger slats will increase the cost so better to stick with 2 inches.
Brands
Most prominent name brands come with a higher price tag for wooden blinds. Several blind manufacturers offer both ready-made and custom blind options at a versatile price range. Brands like Blinds To Go or Budget Blinds provide lots of quality blinds at lower prices.
Labor and Installation
For blinds to be installed and operated properly, it takes a lot of time and effort. Especially if your house has a lot of windows, to begin with, you’ll have hard work ahead. That’s why labor and installation take up a large chunk of the cost. Labor costs can run from $35-$100 per hour. A complete house installation can cost between $140-$440 for labor and around $50 per window. On average, window installation costs up to $700. Also, the blind installation cost varies due to geographic location. Some metropolitan cities tend to have higher average prices compared to remote areas.
Ready-Made vs Custom Wooden Blinds Cost
One of the first things to consider when purchasing blinds is whether you want prefabricated or custom blinds for your windows. Most people prefer ready-made or prefabricated blinds for their lower costs and excellent availability. However, custom blinds are more fitting if you have a specific size or design requirements. Here is the average cost range per wooden blind on a 24” x 36” window.
| Type | Cost per Window (Materials Only) |
| Ready-Made | $30 – $225 |
| Custom | $60 – $300 |
What’s the difference between ready-made and custom blinds? Well, it depends on several factors such as price, size, design, warranty, etc.
Typically, ready-made blinds cost less than custom ones. But these only work for standard window sizes and if you have windows outside the standard mold, the ready-made blinds will hardly fit. For that, you’ll need custom blinds as they can be made to fit any size or type of window.
Similarly, you have a limited choice of design while shopping for ready-made blinds. But you have unlimited options at your fingertip with custom blinds. Another important thing is to consider the warranty, as ready-made blinds rarely come with a warranty and need replacements often. However, custom blinds often offer a guarantee against defective quality or materials.
| Ready-Made | Custom |
| Budget-Friendly | Expensive/Premium |
| Only fits standard windows | Custom-fit to any window |
| Limited design combo | Unlimited design combo |
| No warranties | Comes with warranties |
Window Blinds Cost by Size
Even though there is a standard sizing for windows, they come in many different sizes. As a result, window blinds come in a lot of different sizes as well. To make your blinds fit the windows right, you need to find the right size for your home windows first. Typically, blind size ranges from 18 x 48 inches to 60 x 72 inches. However, you can custom-made your blinds into any size you want.
| Size in Inches | Ready-Made Cost per Window (Materials Only) | Custom Cost per Window (Materials Only) |
| 24” x 36” | $30 – $45 | $60 – $90 |
| 24” x 60” | $40 – $70 | $80 – $120 |
| 36” x 48” | $50 – $80 | $100 – $150 |
| 36” x 72” | $60 – $90 | $120 – $180 |
| 48” x 60” | $70 – $100 | $100 – $210 |
| 60” x 48” | $80 – $110 | $160 – $240 |
| 60” x 72” | $90 – $120 | $180 – $270 |
Window Blinds Cost by Type
Based on your personal style, preference, and interior design, there is a multitude of different types of blinds you can choose from. If you like traditional style, you can go for Venetian blinds, or opt for cordless blinds if you prefer a more modern touch. See and choose for yourself which best suits your needs.
Below is the cost of blinds based on a single 24” x 36” window and only the most common types of wooden blinds are mentioned here.
| Types | Best Used For | Cost for Ready-Made per Window (Materials Only) | Cost for Custom per Window (Materials Only) |
| Venetian | Most windows | $11 – $215 | $50 – $350 |
| Vertical | Large Windows and Sliding Doors | $50 – $115 | $100 – $300 |
| Roller | Bedroom and Office Windows | $8 – $140 | $50 – $300 |
| Cordless | Large Windows, Bedroom, and Bathroom | $12 – $135 | $50 – $275 |
Venetian Blinds
The most common type of blind is the Venetian blind. Having more of a traditional style, these are also known as Persian or Slat blinds. The classic style features horizontal rows of 2-inch slats that can be tilted at an angle to filter light or shut it out. They are safe for privacy as well. Suitable for most windows, Venetian blinds cost range from $11-$215 per window for ready-made and $50-$350 for custom.
Vertical Blinds
These blinds have large vertical slats that reach from the floor to the top edge of the window. The slats can be tilted to allow light to come in and pulled back to uncover the window. The vertical blinds kind of work as a full-length curtain. They are more suitable for bigger spaces like dining rooms, living rooms, or kitchens leading to an outdoor terrace or patio and fit dramatic interior style better. Typically, you have to pay around $50-$115 per window for ready-made vertical blinds, and the price increases to $100-$300 for custom ones.
Roller Blinds
Roller blinds closely resemble standard window shades and offer a simpler style. Usually, these blinds don’t have slats, rather a long metal tube is installed at the top of the window. The flexible material is rolled around it like woven bamboo, vinyl, or fabric. As they provide a decent amount of privacy, they’re mostly used for bedrooms and office windows. You can get roller blinds for $10-$140 per window when ready-made and $50-$300 for custom.
Cordless Blinds
Cordless blinds are a great alternative for homes with children and pets as cords on standard blinds may pose a strangulation hazard. These are made to be lifted and lowered without using cords thus minimizing the safety risk. More expensive and sophisticated versions can be remotely controlled even. Cordless blinds are ideal for rooms like offices, bathrooms, and TV rooms where privacy and light control are essential. The price for cordless blinds goes from $12-$135 when ready-made and $50-$275 for custom per window.
Labor Cost to Install Window Blinds
When considering the cost of window blinds, keep in mind the labor cost to install window blinds as well. Some companies offer professional installation services if you buy the blinds from them. It can cost $50-$100 per standard window including labor and materials.
However, if you hire a professional contractor, they can install them for a lot less. Professionals usually charge $15-$50 for each window to install blinds. For a single-story house with 8 x 27” windows, the labor cost would be $120-$400. Also, some professionals install blinds by charging per hour, and the cost may end up around $35-$100 per hour.
| Window Blinds Installation Cost | |
| National average cost | $700 |
| Average range | $300-$1,000 |
| Low-end | $160 |
| High-end | $6,000 |
Inside vs Outside Mount Blinds Cost
Before installation, you should decide whether to hang the blinds on the inside or outside the window frame. You need to take the correct measurements before purchasing your blinds so they can fit perfectly.
Outside Mounts
Hanging your blinds outside the window frame can make both the blinds and the window look larger and more prominent. For outside mounts, measure from the outer edges of the frame, and if there’s a window sill, measure from the top edge of the frame to the sill. You should measure 1-3 inches past the sides of the window for maximum light blockage. Typically, outside mount blinds cost around $60-$125 per blind.
Inside Mounts
Hanging the blinds inside can give your blinds and the entire room a neat and tidy appearance. It also lets in more light inside. For inner mounts, measure the edges of the window glass where it meets the frame. Professionals recommend inside mounts to be as long as the window frame to be deep enough. Usually, inside mounts cost slightly more than outside mounts with around $75-$150 per blind.
| Type of Mount | Average Cost per Window (Installed) |
| Outside Mount | $60 – $125 |
| Inside Mount | $75 – $150 |
Enhancement And Improvement Costs
There are other options for more customization or improvement if you want something beyond your window blinds. You can install motorized blinds throughout your house or in a specific room whatever you wish. You can also go for outdoor or waterproof blinds if you have a patio or deck. There is another matter of micro or mini blinds. Just remember, any upgrade with automated, outdoor, or custom blinds will increase the cost as well.
Motorized Blinds
Motorized or automated blinds are a luxury convenience that comes with many types of blinds. Each blind has an individual motor and it’s controlled via remote control. Depending on the features, some high-end blinds can be programmed to open and close at set times, and this is also useful for windows that are hard to reach. As motorized blinds are cordless, they’re an especially safer choice around small children or pets.
To professionally install the motors with a remote will cost you around $150-$300 per motor. Popular choices for remote control blinds cost around $200-$300. And fully automatic blinds running solely on batteries going to cost more, with $250-$400 per blind.
Micro Blinds or Mini Blinds
These blinds are best for smaller windows that don’t have much space for large blind slats or panels. And they are better alternatives with much smaller slats to allow light in a shallower space. They are often used instead of traditional blinds for privacy or light control.
Micro blinds have the thinnest slats available, could be as small as ½ inch. While mini blinds are comparatively larger, with around 1-inch-thick slats. Micro blinds cost around $50-$125, whereas mini blinds cost between $45-$100.
| Type of Window Covering | Price per Window (Materials Only) |
| Mini Blinds | $45 – $100 |
| Micro Blinds | $50 – $125 |
Outdoor Blinds
Outdoor blinds are the ideal choice for patios, decks, and porches. These blinds provide great coverage from the sun and pests and protect privacy as well. They are made to withstand the elements and can be easily opened or closed. That means you’ll be able to enjoy outdoor time without being exposed to nosy neighbors. The basic price for patio blinds costs around $75-$250, but using high-quality materials or extra automation may increase the price.
Waterproof Blinds
Areas that have more moisture or humidity are more prone to be riddled with mold and bacteria. That’s why areas such as bathrooms, indoor hot tubs, or patios are good places to install waterproof blinds. These blinds are made from special moisture-resistant materials to protect against mold and bacterial growth build-up. Faux wood, aluminum, and vinyl work best as the waterproof blind choice materials. And usually waterproof blinds cost around $30-$50 each.
Eco-Friendly Blinds
Eco-friendly window blinds have great benefits as they help conserve energy and keep the bills down while protecting the environment. Natural wood or bamboo are certified green materials and popular choices for eco-friendly blinds. However, you should look out for brands that use wood from sustainable sources instead of using unethical means. Most eco-friendly blinds have a price ranging from $30-$250 depending on the material.
Additional Considerations and Costs
DIY
Installing window blinds may seem like a simple process and some DIY enthusiasts try to do their own blinds. However, this process takes a lot of time, materials, and proper measurements. It’s easier and more reliable to hire professionals to do their job, rather than trying it yourself and causing damage in the process. It’ll cost money but it’ll also save you from safety risks.
Second and Third Story Windows
Most cost for the window blinds is considered by counting only single-story house. If you decide to add blinds for each additional story of windows, it’ll increase the total cost by 100%. Usually, upper stories are warmer than lower ones, so you should choose more energy-efficient blinds for upper levels. Thus, it’ll take up the cost further.
Unusually Sized or Shaped Windows
If you have windows in the house that have non-standard shapes or dimensions, you won’t be able to have a good fit with ready-made blinds. Rather you’ll have to order your blinds custom-made. However, having custom blinds can increase the total cost by 30%-300% and that is an important consideration you have to make.
Buying In bulk
Some window blind dealers offer price deals for buying multiple sets of blinds. And some give discounts if you buy blinds for all the windows of the entire house. Ask around how much of a deal they can offer and plan your budget accordingly.
Cost to Replace Blinds
If your blinds are damaged or no longer operating properly, you should replace them with new ones. Before installing new ones, old blinds have to be removed by unmounting them from the brackets. Aluminum blinds can be recycled if you remove all non-aluminum parts, including cords beforehand.
Generally, most blinds last around 7-10 years. So, you should check the condition and think about replacement when your blinds get closer to that age. Professionals usually include the disposal or removal cost in their service which is around $10-$25 per blind replacement. They may charge an extra fee up to $20-$30 for trimming or disposal of blinds.
When to Replace Blinds
With proper maintenance, both natural wooden blinds and faux wood blinds can last years. However, like any other regularly used items, blinds tend to wear out. When your blinds start to show the years of use and don’t function well as before, you should consider it’s time to replace them.
- Warping and Bending: Wooden blinds tend to warp or bend in extreme heat, humidity, or direct sunlight. When some slats are warped or bent, the blinds won’t be able to fold up properly. You can replace a couple of individual slats, but in case of major visible damage, total replacement would be better.
- Discoloration: With time, yellowing or discoloration occurs which also deteriorates the material. Besides, many older blinds may not be UV resistant as newer blinds so they’re prone to damage from direct sunlight. In that case, you should install new blinds.
- Stretched, Frayed or Disintegrating Cords: If your blinds aren’t properly sized for the windows, the edges can be stretched or frayed and end up damaging the wall. Also, the cords may disintegrate due to failed internal mechanisms or being worn out. This could lead to your blinds falling at any time and injuring someone. So, better to check the blinds often and replace them before something untoward happens.
- Child Safety: Cordless blinds are a safer choice compared to corded blinds. Cords pose a strangulation risk for small children. If you have little kids in the house, getting cordless blinds is the smart option. And if you have traditional corded blinds, you can replace them with cordless ones. As it’s better to be safe than sorry.
- Outdated Style: Most people change their interior décor more frequently than change their blinds. As a result, the blinds become old, no longer matching the color or style of the current décor. This becomes a concern particularly when you’re trying to sell your house. Discolored or outdated blinds will certainly bring down the value of your house.
- Difficult Operation: Sometimes worn-out blinds make operation a lot more difficult instead of smoothly going on. Old mechanisms make it harder to lift the blinds higher and lower, or some slats refuse to close all the way. Also, it often happens that blinds aren’t completely blocking light. For instances like this, it’s smarter to replace the blind instead of replacing a small part.
- New Windows: In case you’ve remodeled your house and added some new windows, you should install new blinds as well. Instead of keeping some of the old blinds and making a mismatch of new-old blinds for the windows, you should do a complete makeover. Thus replace all the blinds with new ones.
How to Save Money on Blinds
The price of a blind per window may not seem much, but when you need to buy several blinds for installation, the cost of them can pile up quickly. With some careful considerations, you can easily save up some money while getting your window blinds. Here they are:
- Decide the best style that fit your house and budget both. Without getting the most expensive one, rather go for blinds that suit your interior.
- Get ready-made blinds if possible. When building your house, make sure you have all the windows standard-sized so that it’s easier to fit with ready-made blinds.
- If you’re replacing old blinds, do it yourself to save on removal and disposal fees.
- Compare prices at local home improvement stores in case there are discounts on materials or installation.
FAQs
What is the average cost of wooden blinds?
The average cost of wooden blinds is $122, while the price per blind can range from about $42 to as high as about $200, depending on the brand, color, and size.
Are wooden blinds more expensive?
Generally, wooden blinds are more expensive than most common types of blinds. Different types of blinds such as roller blinds, vertical blinds, faux-wood blinds, aluminum Venetian blinds, etc all less expensive than wooden blinds. However, wooden blinds tend to be cheaper than Roman blinds.
How much should I expect to pay for blinds?
How much you should pay for blinds depends on the size of your windows, and the style and materials of the blinds you like. For instance, cheaper blinds for four windows may cost as little as $40, whereas more intricate or custom designs could take the price as high as $800 or more. On average, the total cost to install blinds for an entire house is $700, with the typical range being $200-$1200.
Are wood blinds more expensive than faux wood blinds?
Wood blinds are way more expensive compared to any versions of faux wood blinds. Faux wood blinds are more known as the more economical option between the two. Depending on the size and quality, natural wood blinds may have a few hundred dollars difference from faux wood blinds.
How long do blinds last?
Depending on how much they’re used, most blinds are expected to last 7-10 years at least. Many companies offer a warranty for a part of that time to help with repairs thus extending the life of the blind.
How much do blinds cost per window?
The average cost of blinds per window largely depends on the material and the size of the chosen blind. On average it can be $50 per window and $10 on the low end. However, custom, motorized, or high-end materials can drive the price up to as much as $150-$300 per window.
