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How to Budget for Blackout Window Shades

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How to Budget for Blackout Window Shades

A practical plan for buying custom blackout cellular shades without draining your savings.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $900 before anything else
Across the 0% window $50.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $900 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

You wake up in total darkness, and the streetlights outside finally stop creeping across the ceiling. Installing custom blackout cellular shades changes how a bedroom sleeps, keeping the room pitch black and cutting down morning noise. The whole measurement and installation process takes about two weeks from the day you order, but getting the pricing right takes a bit more legwork.

The best time to shop custom blind sales is right at the start of the year, when manufacturers drop prices to clear out winter inventory. Before you hand over any deposit, get at least three different quotes from local blind installers and online custom shops to make sure you are not overpaying for the materials.

That 0% intro window is a hard deadline, not free money. If you still have a balance left when those 18 months are up, deferred interest kicks in on the original amount and wipes out any savings you got from the January sale.

The steps

  1. 01

    Get multiple quotes

    Call three different window treatment installers in your area and price out the exact same cellular shade specs. You will usually find a wide gap between local shops and big-box brands. Use the lowest quote to negotiate or pick the installer who includes free measuring.

  2. 02

    Shop the January sales

    Wait for the start of the year sales events when custom window treatments see their steepest discounts. Ordering during this window can knock a chunk off that $900 price tag. Make sure the sale price includes the mounting hardware and custom cuts.

  3. 03

    Double-check your measurements

    Decide whether you want inside mount shades that sit flush inside the window frame or outside mount shades that overlap the trim for better light blocking. If the installer is measuring for you, confirm that they guarantee a proper fit. A bad measurement means light leaks around the edges.

  4. 04

    Spread out the payments

    If you are using the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, you get 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. For a $900 purchase, you need to pay about $50.00 per month to clear the balance before the clock runs out. Set up autopay so you do not have to think about it.

  5. 05

    Schedule the installation

    Once the shades arrive, clear out the furniture beneath the windows so the installer has room to work. Test each shade up and down before the technician leaves to ensure the cords or cordless mechanisms glide smoothly.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Are cellular shades actually better at blocking light?

Yes, because the honeycomb structure traps air for insulation and blocks light much better than standard blinds. Pair them with side channels if you want absolute darkness in the room.

Should I measure the windows myself?

Only if you are comfortable buying standard sizes from a retail store. For custom blackout shades that cost around $900, make the installer take the measurements so they are responsible if the shades do not fit.

What happens if I miss a monthly payment?

Missing a payment can trigger a late fee and potentially end your promotional rate early. Keep a close eye on the due date every month.

Can I install them myself to save money?

You can if you buy stock sizes and own a power drill. Custom shades often come with free or discounted professional installation as part of January promotions, which usually makes it worth letting the pros handle it.