What affects the cost of motorized shades?

Why there's no price list here

Search for motorized shade prices and you'll find numbers all over the map. That's because a shade isn't one product. It's a fabric, a size, a motor, a power source, a control system and an installation, and each of those varies from window to window. Rather than post a number that wouldn't match your home, we measure, talk through what you need and give you a written, itemized quote. This guide explains the pieces in that quote so nothing comes as a surprise.

1. Window size and count

Bigger shades use more fabric and need stronger tubes and motors. Very wide windows may need to be split into two or more shades, each with its own motor. The number of windows matters too, both for materials and for how many motors and controls the project needs. If you're deciding where to start, motorizing the tall and hard-to-reach windows first and using manual shades elsewhere is a common approach.

2. Fabric

Fabric is often the biggest single variable after size. Basic light-filtering and solar fabrics sit at one end, while specialty weaves, natural textures, high-performance solar fabrics and blackout fabrics with special backings sit at the other. A double roller means two fabrics and often two motors on one window. Roman shades and cellular shades are built differently from roller shades and quote differently too.

3. Motor and power

The shades we install are battery-powered or rechargeable. Motor size depends on the weight and width of the shade. Larger shades need larger motors, and some products offer options like quieter motors or charging accessories. Our battery vs. hardwired guide explains how power affects both cost and day-to-day living.

4. Controls

A single remote per room is the simplest setup. Wall keypads, multi-room remotes, a hub for app control and schedules, and integration with voice assistants or a smart home system each add parts and setup time. We confirm what your existing system supports before we quote, so you only pay for features that will work. See smart shade control.

5. Hardware and finish

An exposed roll with brackets is the most minimal option. A fascia or cassette that covers the roll gives a more finished look and blocks light over the top. Side channels for blackout rooms add parts and labor. Recessed pockets in new construction are planned with your builder.

6. Mounting and access

Standard windows at normal heights are straightforward. Two-story glass, windows over stairs, clerestories and openings that need tall ladders take more time and care. Mounting into stone, steel, concrete or unusual trim also takes longer than mounting into wood. Our large and vaulted window page covers these in detail.

7. Project logistics

Second homes where we coordinate with a property manager, gated communities, rentals that need installation between guest stays and remote cabins all affect scheduling. They're part of the plan, and we talk about them up front.

How to keep a project in budget

• Motorize the windows you can't reach or use most; go manual on the rest
• Choose one or two fabrics for the whole house rather than a different one in every room
• Start with remotes and add a hub or app control later if the system allows it
• Tell us your priorities at the consultation, and we'll suggest where to spend and where to save

When you're ready, here's how the consultation works.