How Much Do Shades Cost in 2023?

Creating and maintaining an optimal home environment can be a tall order, especially if you live and work in a busy area with heavy traffic. On top of controlling sunlight filtering into your apartment and preventing glare on a laptop screen, you need to mitigate noise pollution to enjoy a serene and comfortable space. While top-notch soundproofing solutions and window treatments can cost you an arm and a leg, window shades make for a budget-friendly alternative. With the tailor-selected model, you can block out sunlight, give your home more privacy, and even lower energy costs. Window shades add an insulation layer to the units, trapping ‘your perfect temperature’ inside the house and, thereby, minimizing the strain on your HVAC system.

The average cost of window shades is $547, falling in the range of $342 to $960. If you run out of money but badly need a window treatment, you can find cheap options running at $85. And those who want to get their hands on the high-end models should be ready to spend $3,450+.

The average price of window shades

National average cost	$547
Low-end cost	$85
High-end cost	$3,450+
Average cost range	$342 - $960

Window Shades Cost by Type

Do you still picture unit shades like fabric draperies with a built-in cord for lifting them up? Knock it off! The modern market is jam-packed with various types to match any interior and needs. As they all have their peculiarities and price tags, we’ll scrutinize each one at a time. Please note that the rates below are specified for a 48x44 sq. ft. shade for materials only. 

If you want a professional to guide you through selecting the ideal window shades for your apartment but don’t have any by your side, no worries. MyHomeQuote is here for you. Furnish your requirements in the following form, and we’ll match you with a reliable contractor in no time. 

The Cost of Roller Shades

Many homeowners interested in pocket-friendly and minimalistic window coverings go for roller shades. They are easy to operate and clean, meaning you won’t have to go all out to keep them in mind condition. Plus, they allow for customizing light control. And the roller shade cost is quite affordable, from $55 to $76.  

The Cost of Roman Shades 

If you really fancy drapery and want to add such an elegant element to your space while benefiting from the functionality of blind, Roman shades can be an excellent choice. They are available in a slew of colors and patterns (yes, your favorite floral one is available, too). You can also choose from numerous fold options. How much do Roman shades cost? The price fluctuates between $95 to $156.

The Cost of Solar Shades

Designed to lower solar heat gain, these shades aid in protecting interiors from damaging UV light while improving your home energy efficiency. This type is the best bet for a home office as it allows you to wave bye to glare on PC screens and smart displays without blocking the view. The cost is between $52 and $88.

The Cost of Motorized Shades

If you have hard-to-reach windows or mobility issues, shades equipped with a motor mechanism can become a godsend. Some models are compatible with smart home systems, so you can control home lighting with your smartphone. How much do motorized shades cost? Your expenses can vary based on the number of motors needed and the selected model of window shades. On average, you can pay from $100 to $500. 

The Cost of Cellular Shades

Also referred to as honeycomb shades, this type is created to boost your window insulation. So, you can improve your home energy efficiency while blocking out light and noise. There are two options to choose from – single and double cell. The cost falls between $40 and $280.

The Cost of Pleated Shades

Even though this type resembles the cellular one, it comes with a single layer of material only. These shades fold up as neatly when raised as Roman shades, but they are usually made of a lighter material, so you shouldn’t expect stunning insulation. And compared to the motorized shades cost, they are really cut-rate, as you can spend from $50 to $78. 

The Cost of Sheer Shades

If you can’t decide whether to opt for the elegance of classic shades or the functionality of blinds, don’t. With sheer shades, you can get the best of both worlds. Equipped with adjustable vanes, they offer sunlight control along with a clear view of the outdoors. The cost is between $95 and $160. 

The price of window shades by type

Type	Average cost
Roller shades	$55 - $76
Roman shades	$95 - $156
Solar shades	$52 - $88
Motorized shades	$100 - $500
Cellular shades	$40 - $280
Pleated shades	$50 - $78
Sheer shades	$95 - $160

The Cost of Window Shades by Size 

Suppose you have ten windows of different sizes throughout your house and want to equip each with a shade of the same type. In this case, you can pay a higher or lower price for each window treatment based on the required size. Want to know how much are the window shades? Check out the table below. 

The  price of window shades by size

Size	Average cost
24" x 36"	$63 - $95
32" x 36"	$68 - $96
36" x 48"	$80 - $115
44" x 40"	$92 - $125
48" x 44"	$110 - $137
52" x 48"	$128 - $146
60" x 44"	$135 - $155
62" x 44"	$142 - $166
72" x 48"	$155 - $180

The Cost of Window Shades by Material  

As now standard-looking homes neighbor unusual ones like renovated farmhouses, window shade manufacturers don’t zero in on a single material anymore. To meet the preferences and needs of modern customers, shades come in traditional fabric or vinyl, as well as leather, aluminum, PVC, and more. That’s why when you ask, “How much do motorized window shades cost?” you need to specify the size and material. 

Willing to receive a few personalized quotes from the best local contractors? With MyHomeQuote, this can be as easy as a pie. Submit your details using the form below, and custom estimates won’t be long in coming. 

The list of the most widely used materials includes but is not limited to:

• Vinyl. Even though it doesn’t stand out with a jaw-dropping visual appeal, it offers versatility and a long service life. Depending on the quality, the pricing can range from $27 to $95. 
• Plastic. If functionality and affordability come to the fore when choosing window shade material, you can save a penny by going for this option. On average, you can spend $28 to $62. 
• Metal. A sleek look combined with low maintenance makes this material a great choice for industrial-styled houses. You can choose from steel and aluminum (the latter is more popular) and pay from $58 to $73.  
• Faux wood. A mix of wood-vibe appearance and durability often go hand in hand with excess heaviness you should consider. These shades are available in multiple colors and styles. The price can vary from $56 to $90.
• Wooden. You can get spoiled by the choice of wood blends available on the market, including grasses, straw, and bamboo. But maintenance can be tricky, and the price is relatively high – from $60 to $134.
• Fabric. If you only fancy classic window shades, fabric is your #1 choice. You can come across zillion hues, textures, and designs. But the cost will be less affordable, from $105 to $210. 

The  price of window shades by material

Material	Average cost
Vinyl	$27 - $95
Plastic	$28 - $62
Metal	$58 - $73
Faux wood	$56 - $90
Wooden	$60 - $134
Fabric	$105 - $210

The Cost of Window Shades by Operating Principle

Your window shades can come either cordless or with a pull cord. Each option has its aesthetics, the level of user-friendliness, and price tags. Thus, cord options are more long-lasting and affordable – $120 to $220 with professional installation. But they can create a safety hazard for kids and pets who might become entangled in the cord. 

On the other hand, the cordless alternatives are pricey, from $140 to $325. They are deemed much safer and offer a clean, streamlined look. But they aren’t suitable for hard-to-reach places. Please note that the prices are specified for a 48x44 shade.

The price of window shades by operating principle

Cord shades	$120 - $220
Cordless shades	$140 - $325

The Cost of Window Shades by Place of Installation

Mounting inside or outside is another dilemma homeowners need to address. To simplify the decision-making process, you can analyze the type and size of your unit. For instance, narrow windows are not eligible for indoor installation. You should do this before ordering your brand-new window shades, as the place of installation affects the way you have to measure your window opening and determine the required dimensions. In each case, your expenses can be different. Check the following table to discover the possible price range. 

The price of window shades by place of installation

Outside	$40 - $80
Inside	$50 - $110