The price tag on automated shades can catch people off guard—especially when they start thinking it’s just “window coverings with a remote.” But once you see what goes into making these shades look, feel, and work like magic, it makes a lot more sense.
Think about it: you’re not just paying for the fabric or the mechanism. You’re investing in convenience, smart-home integration, energy efficiency, and design that fits your life. And just like building a custom home or remodeling a kitchen, the cost of installing motorized or automated shades depends on a few key pieces coming together.
Knowing what influences the installation price can help you budget better, avoid surprise expenses, and choose upgrades that matter to you.
1. The Type of System You Choose
Not all motorized shades are created equal. Some run on rechargeable batteries, while others need to be hardwired into your home’s electrical system. Some options pair with your smartphone and other devices that integrate into a complete smart-home platform. Each of these adds a different layer of complexity—and cost.
Battery-powered systems are often the least expensive upfront. They’re simple to install and don’t require electrical work. But if you want something sleek, permanent, and voice-activated, hardwired systems with intelligent controls are the way to go. Just expect the cost of automated shades to rise with those features.
The more advanced the system, the more time and skill it takes to install, where labor pricing starts to climb.
2. Size and Quantity of Windows
The number of windows you’re covering—and how big they are—has one of the biggest impacts on total cost. It’s not just more material. It’s more wiring (if applicable), hardware, and setup time.
Covering five standard windows with motorized roller shades is one thing. Installing shades on a full floor-to-ceiling glass wall in your great room is another story. Wider shades often require stronger motors or dual-motor systems to lift evenly and quietly.
And keep in mind that some homeowners want multiple shade layers on one window—like a light-filtering option for the day and a blackout one for night. That’s double the installation work for the same space.
3. Wiring and Power Requirements
This is where things can get a little technical—but it matters. Battery-powered shades are easy to retrofit into almost any space. But if you’re going for hardwired shades, the electrical components can add cost and complexity.
If your home is still under construction or in the middle of a remodel, running wires to each window is easier and cheaper. In an existing home with finished walls, your installer may need to fish wires through the drywall or get creative with conduit placement. That labor adds up.
In some cases, a licensed electrician may need to get involved to tie into your panel or run new outlets. That’s an added expense many people don’t factor in when calculating the cost of automated shades.
4. Customization and Fabric Options
This is where your style choices start to influence the price. Custom colors, patterns, textures, and specialty fabrics (like solar screen or blackout materials) can increase the budget. So can designer hardware and low-profile cassettes.
Motorized Roman shades or layered draperies, for example, typically cost more than simple roller shades. There’s more sewing involved, more fabric, and more precision required to keep everything moving smoothly.
If you choose motorized treatments for wide sliders, arched windows, or curved walls, expect additional fabrication fees to reflect the extra effort required to make everything line up and function flawlessly.
5. Brand and Feature Selection
The brand of shades you choose—and the motorization system they’re built around—can be a significant cost driver. Some brands specialize in entry-level automation. Others are known for their ultra-quiet motors, advanced integrations, and higher-end finishes.
Features like voice control, remote app access, scheduled timers, and light sensors are amazing—but they’re not free. Each one adds a little more to the automated shades cost.
You’ll also find that well-known brands often offer better warranties, smoother performance, and compatibility with smart-home ecosystems. You’re paying for reliability and longevity, not just looks.
When the Price Feels Like a Surprise
For many people, it’s not that automated shades are too expensive—it’s that they didn’t realize what went into them. The value was there, but the information wasn’t. That’s where the frustration sneaks in.
They might’ve expected off-the-shelf pricing, only to learn that seamless installation involves electricians, programming, design choices, and multiple layers of coordination. If you’ve ever had a product installed that didn’t feel worth what you paid, you’re probably hoping this won’t be one of those situations.
That’s why transparency matters. A good window treatment expert will walk you through each variable, from budget-friendly options to high-end upgrades, and help you make choices that feel good both now and later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I install automated shades myself to save money?
In most cases, it’s not recommended—especially if your system involves hardwiring, smart-home integration, or custom sizing. DIY installations can void warranties or cause damage if not done correctly. Professional installation ensures that everything works as it should.
Are automated shades noisy when operating?
Most high-quality automated shades are designed to operate quietly. While you might hear a soft hum from the motor, it’s usually subtle and won’t disrupt your space. Quieter motors are often available in premium systems if the noise level is a top priority.
Are there maintenance costs for automated shades?
Minimal. Battery-powered shades may need recharging or battery replacement every 1–2 years. Otherwise, regular dusting and occasional remote or app updates are all required to keep them running smoothly.
Your Smart Home Deserves Smart Shades—Without the Guesswork
The cost of automated shades isn’t just about buttons and motors. It’s about building a more comfortable home, saving energy, and getting the function and style you want—without having to think twice once it’s installed.
At Best Blinds and Sexy Shutters, we’re not just here to measure windows. We help you make choices that fit your lifestyle and space while keeping your budget in check. Our team walks you through each component clearly so you know what you’re getting and why it matters.
Ready to take the next step toward effortless living? We’d love to help you bring it all together—beautifully.
Reach out to our team today, and let’s talk about what your shades could be.
