How Long Does It Take to Install Blinds or Curtains?

Many homeowners wonder how long it takes to install blinds or curtains when redecorating a room, moving into a new home, or replacing outdated window treatments. While hanging a simple curtain rod may only take a few minutes, installing multiple blinds, custom window coverings, or motorized systems can take several hours. The total time depends on the number of windows, the type of window treatment, the wall material, and whether the blinds are installed inside or outside the window frame, and whether you install them yourself or hire a professional.

Quick Answer

Installing blinds or curtains usually takes 15 minutes to several hours depending on the number of windows, the type of window treatment, whether the installation is inside or outside the window frame, the amount of measuring and hardware installation required, and whether the project is completed as a DIY installation or by a professional. A single ready-made curtain rod may take about 15 to 30 minutes to install, while outfitting an entire home with custom or motorized window treatments may take several hours or even a full day.

Average Blinds and Curtain Installation Time

Typical installation timelines include:

Single curtain rod: 15 to 30 minutes
Single set of standard blinds: 20 to 45 minutes
Large picture window: 30 to 60 minutes
Bay windows: 1 to 2 hours
Entire room: 1 to 3 hours
Whole house (10 to 20 windows): Half day to full day
Motorized blinds: Additional programming and setup time

Simple curtain rods often install faster than custom blinds or motorized systems.

What Can Delay Installing Blinds or Curtains?

Several factors may slow down the installation process, especially when installing multiple window treatments or working with custom products.

Measuring and Alignment

Accurate measurements are essential for a proper fit. Installers may need to:

measure window openings
locate wall studs
level mounting brackets
adjust bracket spacing
trim blinds for a proper fit (when permitted by the manufacturer)

Taking extra time during this step helps ensure the blinds or curtains hang evenly and operate correctly.

Wall Material

The type of wall can affect installation time. Drywall is generally the easiest to work with, while brick, concrete, tile, or metal surfaces may require specialized drill bits, anchors, or additional tools. Installing into concrete, brick, tile, or masonry often requires specialized drill bits and anchors, which can slow the process.

Custom Window Treatments

Custom-sized blinds, oversized curtains, layered window treatments, or motorized systems often require more careful installation. Motorized blinds may also need battery installation, electrical connections, remote pairing, or app setup before they are ready to use.

Missing or Damaged Hardware

Lost brackets, missing screws, incorrect brackets, damaged hardware, or incompatible mounting systems can delay installation. Discovering these issues after work has begun may require replacement parts before the project can continue.

Uneven Walls or Window Frames

In some homes, especially older ones, walls and window frames may not be perfectly level or square. Installers may need to make adjustments to keep blinds or curtain rods straight and ensure the finished installation looks balanced.

Incorrect Measurements

Ordering blinds or curtains in the wrong size can bring the project to a halt. If replacement products must be ordered, installation may be delayed by several days or even weeks, depending on product availability.

Hidden Studs or Utilities
Finding secure mounting locations while avoiding electrical wiring, plumbing, or metal framing may add installation time.

Multiple Large Windows
Installing oversized blinds, wide curtain rods, or treatments throughout an entire home generally takes longer than installing a single standard-sized window.

What Window Covering Installs the Fastest?

Different types of window coverings require different amounts of time and effort to install. Weight, mounting hardware, and whether electrical setup is required can all affect the installation process.

Ready-Made Curtains

Ready-made curtains are usually the quickest option because only the curtain rod brackets and rod need to be mounted before hanging the curtains. Most standard installations take about 15 to 30 minutes per window.

Mini Blinds

Mini blinds are among the fastest blinds to install. They are lightweight, typically include pre-made mounting brackets, and can often be installed in 20 to 30 minutes once the window has been measured.

Faux Wood or Wood Blinds

Faux wood and real wood blinds are heavier than mini blinds and require sturdier mounting brackets. Their additional weight means installers often spend more time leveling the brackets and securing the hardware properly.

Cellular Shades

Cellular shades, sometimes called honeycomb shades, are generally straightforward to install but require accurate measurements to ensure a snug fit inside the window frame. Installation is usually similar to standard blinds.

Roman Shades

Roman shades can take longer because they are often heavier and require precise positioning so they fold and operate smoothly. Some styles also use more complex mounting hardware.

Vertical Blinds

Vertical blinds, commonly used on sliding glass doors and large windows, generally take longer to install because of their wider headrails and larger mounting brackets. Hanging and aligning each individual vane also adds to the installation time.

Motorized Blinds

Motorized blinds are typically the most time-consuming option. In addition to mounting the hardware, they may require battery installation or electrical connections, pairing with a remote control or smartphone app, programming, and testing to ensure they operate correctly.

In general, lightweight ready-made curtains and mini blinds install the fastest, while large custom treatments and motorized blinds usually require the most time.

How to Install Blinds or Curtains Faster

A little preparation can save time and help prevent mistakes during installation. Before you begin, gather your tools, verify your measurements, and make sure you have all the necessary hardware.

You may help speed up installation by:

measuring every window twice before purchasing blinds or curtains
labeling each blind or curtain by room if installing multiple window treatments
laying out all hardware and tools beforehand
charging cordless drill batteries before starting
reading the manufacturer’s installation instructions in advance
completing one window before moving on to the next to establish a consistent installation process
asking another person to help lift and position wide or heavy window treatments safely

Taking a few extra minutes to prepare before installation can reduce delays, minimize errors, and help ensure your blinds or curtains fit and operate properly once installed.

Inside Mount vs. Outside Mount Installation

One factor that can affect installation time is whether the window covering is mounted inside the window frame or on the wall above and around the window. Each mounting style has its own advantages and installation considerations.

Inside Mount

Inside-mounted blinds or shades fit within the window frame for a clean, built-in appearance. However, they require careful measuring to ensure a proper fit.

Benefits and considerations include:

clean, streamlined appearance
requires very accurate measurements
must fit completely inside the window opening
may leave small gaps that allow light around the edges

Outside Mount

Outside-mounted window coverings attach to the wall or trim surrounding the window rather than inside the frame. They are often easier to install and can provide greater light coverage.

Benefits and considerations include:

easier to fit than inside-mounted treatments
can make windows appear larger
helps block more outside light
often hides uneven or irregular window frames
works well when the window opening is too shallow for an inside mount

Choosing the correct mounting style before purchasing blinds or curtains can help avoid measurement mistakes and reduce installation delays.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

DIY Installation Works Well If:

You own a drill and basic hand tools.
You’re comfortable taking accurate measurements.
Your windows are standard sizes.
You only have a few windows to install.
The window treatments include clear installation instructions.
You have someone available to help with larger or heavier blinds if needed.

Professional Installation May Be Worthwhile If:

You are installing window treatments throughout an entire home.
Your home has very tall or hard-to-reach windows.
You are installing heavy wood or faux wood blinds.
You purchased motorized or smart blinds.
Your window treatments are custom-made.
You have large bay, bow, or specialty-shaped windows.
Your window frames are uneven or require modifications for a proper fit.

Tools You’ll Typically Need

Most window treatment installations require only a few basic tools:

Tape measure
Pencil
Drill
Drill bits
Screwdriver
Level
Ladder or step stool
Stud finder (optional)
Wall anchors
Mounting screws and brackets (often included with the window treatment)
Safety glasses

Should You Measure Before Buying Blinds?

Yes. Measuring before buying blinds is one of the most important steps, especially for inside-mount blinds or custom window treatments.

Measure the window width in three places: top, middle, and bottom.
Measure the window height in three places: left, center, and right.
For inside-mount blinds, use the smallest width and height measurements.
Check the manufacturer’s measuring instructions before ordering.
Double-check all measurements before buying custom blinds, since custom products may not be returnable.
Measure each window separately, even if several windows look the same.

Common Installation Mistakes

Avoid these common mistakes when installing blinds or curtains:

Taking incorrect window measurements before purchasing.
Installing mounting brackets out of alignment or crooked.
Overtightening screws, which can damage brackets or strip screw holes.
Forgetting to use a level, resulting in uneven blinds or curtain rods.
Using the wrong wall anchors for drywall, plaster, masonry, or other wall materials.
Hanging curtain rods too low or too close to the window frame, making windows appear smaller.
Choosing a curtain rod that cannot support the weight of heavy curtains.
Failing to securely fasten brackets into studs or appropriate wall anchors when needed.
Skipping the manufacturer’s installation instructions, which may include model-specific requirements.

If you’re tackling other home improvement projects, these articles may also answer your questions:

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does installing blinds or curtains take so long?

Measuring, leveling, and mounting hardware properly may increase installation time.

Can you install blinds yourself?

Many homeowners successfully install blinds and curtains themselves with basic tools.

Do large windows take longer to cover?

Usually yes. Larger or taller windows often require additional measuring and support.

Are motorized blinds harder to install?

Yes. Wiring, programming, and setup may increase installation time.

Can uneven walls affect installation?

Yes. Crooked walls or window frames may require adjustments.

Should curtain rods attach to wall studs?

Whenever possible, wall studs often provide stronger support for heavier curtains.

Can I install blinds without drilling?

Some temporary blinds and adhesive mounting systems allow installation without drilling, although they may not support heavier window coverings.

Should blinds be installed before curtains?

Yes. If using both, blinds are typically installed first so curtain rods can be positioned correctly.

How long does it take to replace old blinds?

Removing existing blinds usually takes about 10 to 20 minutes per window before the new window treatments are installed.

Do renters need permission to install blinds or curtains?

Many rental agreements allow removable curtain rods or temporary blinds, but drilling into walls or window frames may require the landlord’s approval.

Can one person install large blinds?

Yes, but wide or heavy blinds are generally easier and safer to install with two people.

Quick Summary

Most blinds or curtains can be installed in 15 to 45 minutes per window, while multiple rooms or custom window treatments may require several hours or an entire day. Careful measuring, using the correct hardware, and preparing tools in advance can help reduce installation time and improve the final appearance. Motorized blinds, oversized windows, and custom treatments typically take the longest to install.

Sources & References

The Home Depot. How to Measure for Blinds and Shades.
Lowe’s. How to Measure and Install Blinds.
The Home Depot. Blinds Installation Services.

Editorial Review

Reviewed by Claire Bennett

Managing Editor, Quick Answer Guide

Last reviewed: July 2026

Quick Answer Guide publishes practical, research-based answers to common questions about money, technology, health, travel, home improvement, and everyday life. Content is reviewed using official government resources, educational institutions, industry publications, and other authoritative sources when appropriate. Articles are updated periodically to improve accuracy and usefulness.