Electric Blinds Cost Factors
Many factors go into the cost of installing electric blinds. For example, different types of blinds will have wide-ranging price tags. It's helpful to know the main cost factors that go into putting in electric blinds because then you can spot opportunities to save money. Here are some of the main ones.
Window Size
The size of your window impacts the overall cost. While the installation cost likely won't increase dramatically, the materials cost will. On average, expect to pay between $25 and $84 per square foot.Â
While taking approximate measurements yourself is a good way to get rough size and price estimates, it's better to let a local window blinds installer take accurate measurements when they come to give you your quote.Â
Number of Windows
The more blinds you have, the more you'll pay in total, but the lower the cost per square foot. Often, blinds dealers can give you a better price per unit when you buy in bulk.Â
Similarly, you may get a better price per window for installation costs when you're having blinds put up on multiple windows. This is because the installer is already at your property, so the minimum callout fee, travel time, fuel, and other travel expenses will be spread across all the blinds, thus lowering the cost per window.
Type of Shade
The type of shade can have a significant impact on costs. Basic shades can start at $25, but high-end models can run as high as $500. Budget-friendly fabrics tend to be fairly thin, plain, and offer shade only. Higher-priced fabrics are usually thicker, come in a wider range of materials, styles, prints, and textures, and offer additional features.Â
For example, some shades may have thermal or insulating qualities to block or retain heat. Others use blackout fabric to help ensure daylight doesn't seep through, which is a great option for children who go to bed before it's dark or for light sleepers who are regularly disturbed by early morning light seeping through.
Labor Costs
Labor costs differ depending on how challenging the project is and labor rates in your area. You could save money by installing the electric blinds yourself.Â
However, unless you have experience installing motorized blinds, it's best to let a handyperson or window specialist take this task off your hands and ensure it's done correctly the first time.
Power Source
Battery-powered blinds are the least costly when it comes to electric blinds since they don't require electrical installation, although they’re slightly less convenient because of the need to replace batteries or recharge the battery pack.Â
Plug-in models are mid-priced options. These are more convenient than battery-powered blinds but still don't require additional installation time for the electrical components.Â
Conversely, hardwired models cost the most in terms of installation because they're convenient, don't have a visible plug stuck in the wall, and require additional labor time for the wiring.Â
Smart Home Integration
If you've already got a smart home system or are budgeting for the cost of home automation, then which blinds you choose is an important consideration. While all smart blinds can integrate with some smart home systems, they can't integrate with all of them, even via third-party apps or extra products.Â
Whichever blinds you choose, make sure they're compatible with your smart home system. For example, many smart blinds are compatible with Google Nest and Savant but may not integrate with Samsung, Philips, Sonos, or vice-versa.