Your guide to choosing, styling, and caring for window treatments — from the only national franchise that sells, installs, AND repairs. Expert insights from 60+ local teams and 25+ years of experience.
From motorized everything to the return of Roman shades — here's what's driving window treatment design this year, and what trends are actually worth your money.
What's the best window treatment for energy efficiency?
Cellular (honeycomb) shades. Their honeycomb construction traps air between the window and your room, creating an insulating barrier that can reduce heat loss by up to 40% in winter and block solar heat gain in summer. They're the single most energy-efficient window treatment available.
For maximum efficiency, choose double-cell shades in a top-down/bottom-up configuration. This lets you control light from both directions while maintaining insulation. In extreme climates, pair cellular shades with insulated drapes for a one-two punch. Bloomin' Blinds offers free energy consultations to help you choose the right opacity and cell size for your climate zone.
Are motorized blinds worth it?
For most homeowners, yes. Motorized blinds add convenience, child safety, and energy savings that justify the investment. They eliminate dangling cords (a top child-safety hazard), can be scheduled to open and close automatically for energy management, and integrate with smart home systems like Alexa and Google Home.
The cost premium for motorization has dropped significantly — expect to add $100–$300 per window depending on the motor type (battery vs. hard-wired). Battery-powered motors are easiest to install and last 1–2 years per charge. Hard-wired motors are better for whole-home installations. Most Bloomin' Blinds customers who go motorized in one room end up upgrading the rest of the house within a year.
How much does it cost to repair blinds?
Most blind repairs cost a fraction of replacement — typically $50–$150 per window depending on the issue. Common repairs include broken tilt mechanisms, stuck lift cords, bent slats, and motor resets. Bloomin' Blinds is the only national franchise offering on-site repair, and many fixes are completed in a single visit.
Before you throw out damaged blinds, get a repair quote. Vertical blind track replacements run $75–$125. Restringing horizontal blinds costs $50–$100. Motor diagnostics for motorized shades are typically $75 for the service call. Compare that to $300–$800+ for a new custom treatment. Our technicians carry common parts and can often fix the issue the same day.
What window treatments are best for bedrooms?
Blackout cellular shades or blackout drapes. Both block 99%+ of light, which is essential for quality sleep. Cellular shades offer a clean, modern look and add insulation, while blackout drapes provide a softer, more traditional aesthetic and can be layered with sheer curtains for daytime light control.
For the best bedroom setup, consider a dual-shade system: a light-filtering shade for daytime privacy plus a blackout shade for sleeping. Motorized dual shades let you switch between the two with a remote or voice command. For nurseries, always go cordless — it's both a safety requirement and gives you the cleanest look. Room-darkening roller shades are a budget-friendly alternative at roughly 60% the cost of cellular.
Do shutters increase home value?
Yes. Shutters are one of the few window treatments appraisers count as a permanent improvement to the home. Real estate professionals estimate that plantation shutters can return 70–80% of their cost at resale and make homes sell faster by improving curb appeal and interior staging photos.
Unlike blinds and shades (which are considered personal property), shutters are typically classified as a fixture — they stay with the house and are included in the appraisal. Composite and vinyl shutters offer the best ROI because they resist moisture and warping. Hardwood shutters command the highest perceived value but cost more upfront. In markets like the South and Southwest, shutters are practically expected by buyers.
How long do custom blinds take to install?
Most custom orders are ready for installation within 2–4 weeks from the date of your order. Installation itself typically takes 2–4 hours for a standard home (5–15 windows). Bloomin' Blinds handles everything — measuring, ordering, delivery, installation, and cleanup — so you don't have to lift a finger.
Rush orders are sometimes available for an additional fee (1–2 week turnaround). Shutters take longer — typically 4–6 weeks — because they're custom-built to exact measurements. During peak seasons (spring and fall), lead times may extend by a week. Your local Bloomin' Blinds team will give you an exact timeline at your free in-home consultation, and most teams offer flexible scheduling including evenings and weekends.
