Considering motorised blinds for your home or office in Perth? You’re not alone!
Are you considering upgrading your home with blinds, but not sure whether to opt for manual or motorised systems? To help you decide, it’s a good idea to learn more about motorised vs manual blinds to see which options best suit your needs and budget in Perth.
Motorised blinds cost can vary significantly based on various factors, including type, installation method, and automation options. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the price of motorised blinds, compare battery vs hardwired blinds, and discuss the automation cost involved in transforming your space.
Considering all these factors will help you make an informed choice about your outdoor space. For a more comprehensive look at design options and installation, see our guide to motorised outdoor blinds in Perth.
What Are Motorised Blinds?
Motorised (also called electric or automated) blinds use a small, quiet motor to raise and lower the blind fabric or slats. You can control them with a remote, wall switch, smartphone app, or voice command as part of a smart home.
Factors Affecting Motorised Blinds Cost
The cost of motorised blinds in Perth can range from $300 to $1,500 AUD per window, depending on several factors:
At Smarter Outdoors, we offer a wide selection of motorised blinds tailored to the unique needs of Perth homes and businesses, ensuring competitive pricing and expert installation.
- Material: Fabric, wood, or synthetic materials can influence the price.
- Size: Larger windows will naturally cost more to cover.
- Type: Different styles such as roller, Roman, or vertical blinds have varying costs.
- Installation: Professional installation can add $100 to $300 AUD to your total cost.
- Brand and motor: Premium motors (quieter, higher torque, longer warranties) cost more.
- Control method: Simple remotes are cheaper than full smart home automation.
- Fabric performance: Blockout, sunscreen (openness factor), and thermal fabrics affect price.
- Location: Outdoor blinds need weather-resistant components and can cost more.
- Quantity: Ordering multiple blinds can reduce the per-blind cost.
- Customisation: Cassette headboxes, side channels, pelmets, and colour-matched hardware add cost.
When considering the price of motorised blinds, it’s important to remember that their durability, energy efficiency, and convenience often offset the initial outlay. Quality smart outdoor blinds in Perth are an investment that can significantly improve your lifestyle and the usability of your outdoor living areas all year round.
Typical Costs by Blind Type (Guide)
| Blind Type | Motorised Price Range (AUD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor roller (blockout/sunscreen) | $300 – $900 | Most cost-effective; great for living areas and bedrooms |
| Roman | $500 – $1,200 | More fabric and fabrication complexity |
| Venetian/wooden | $500 – $1,000 | Motorisation hardware can be specialised |
| Vertical | $450 – $1,000 | Good for large sliders; track motor adds cost |
| Outdoor blinds (zip/track) | $900 – $1,500+ | Weather-resistant, wind-rated systems with powerful motors |
Ranges above are indicative for Perth and vary with size, fabric grade, control method, and installation access.
Battery vs Hardwired Blinds
When considering motorised blinds, a significant decision involves choosing between battery vs hardwired blinds.
| Criteria | Battery Blinds | Hardwired Blinds |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Cost | Lower initial cost | Higher initial cost due to wiring |
| Maintenance | Battery replacement needed | Less frequent maintenance |
| Control Options | Remote control or app-based | Integrated with home automation systems |
Battery blinds tend to be more affordable initially, but the long-term costs of battery replacements should be considered. Hardwired blinds, while more expensive upfront, can integrate seamlessly with your home automation systems.
But are they really worth the extra dollars?
For a comprehensive breakdown of the differences between motorised vs manual blinds, including their functionality and value, refer to our detailed guide.
When to choose battery vs hardwired
- Choose battery for existing homes, rentals, or where cabling is impractical. Ideal for small to medium windows and retrofits.
- Choose hardwired for new builds, renovations, large spans, and heavy outdoor blinds where consistent power is best.
Pros and cons at a glance
| Battery | Hardwired | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Lower install cost; no electrician; clean finish; easy retrofit | Always powered; no battery swaps; best for large/heavy blinds |
| Cons | Recharge/replace batteries; may be slower under heavy load | Higher upfront cost; needs cabling and licensed electrician |
| Best fit | Bedrooms, studies, apartments, existing homes | Open-plan living, high-use areas, outdoor alfresco |
Understanding Automation Costs
Automation adds another layer to the cost of motorised blinds. Depending on the system, automation can add anywhere from $200 to $1,000 AUD for smart home integration. Factors affecting automation costs include:
- Type of System: Basic remote control systems are cheaper than advanced smart home setups.
- Installation: Professional installation may incur additional costs.
- Integration: Costs can rise if your system needs to be compatible with existing smart home devices.
If you’re looking to enhance your home even further, discover our home automation solutions and see how motorised blinds easily integrate with other smart home features.
Typical automation items and pricing (guide)
| Automation Component | Indicative Cost (AUD) | What it does |
|---|---|---|
| Handheld remote or wall switch | $80 – $250 | Simple up/down/stop, group control |
| Smart hub/bridge | $200 – $500 | App control, scenes, schedules, voice |
| Voice control enablement | $0 – $100 | Often included with hub; setup time may apply |
| Sun/wind sensor (outdoor) | $150 – $400 | Auto retract in wind; lower in strong sun |
| Integration labour | $150 – $300 | Pairing, app setup, scene programming |
Expert insight: “If you’re planning a renovation, run power to likely blind positions now. It keeps your options open for hardwired motors later and reduces visible cabling.” — Senior Installer, Perth
Installation Process & Timeline
Step-by-step
- Consultation & measure: Confirm sizes, fabrics, motor type, and control method.
- Quote & approval: Finalise selections and timeline.
- Fabrication: Custom-made blinds manufactured to size.
- Pre-wire (if hardwired): Electrician runs cables and wall plates.
- Installation: Mount brackets, fit blinds, connect motors, test limits.
- Automation setup: Pair remotes, connect to hub, configure scenes/schedules.
- Handover: Usage demo, maintenance tips, warranties.
Typical timeline: 2–4 weeks from order to install (seasonal peaks may extend this). Same-day install is common for battery systems; hardwired jobs may require two visits (pre-wire and fit-off).
Maintenance & Running Costs
- Battery care: Rechargeable lithium motors often last 6–12 months per charge with average daily use. Replacement packs (when needed) typically cost $60–$120.
- Power usage: Hardwired motors use very little electricity—only when moving. Standby draw is minimal.
- Cleaning: Dust regularly; spot clean fabrics as per manufacturer guidance. Outdoor systems may need occasional track/lubrication checks.
- Service: A quick annual check keeps limits accurate and fabrics tracking smoothly, especially for outdoor blinds exposed to wind and dust.
Return on Investment & Benefits
- Energy efficiency: Automations can lower heat gain in summer and retain warmth in winter, reducing HVAC costs.
- UV protection: Protect floors and furnishings with timed lowering during peak sun.
- Privacy & security: Schedule blinds while away to simulate occupancy.
- Accessibility & convenience: Perfect for high windows, large spans, and people with limited mobility.
- Outdoor living: Create a weather-smart alfresco with smart outdoor blinds that respond to wind and sun.
Real Perth Examples (Guide)
- Family home, North Perth: 6 motorised indoor rollers (blockout in bedrooms, sunscreen in living), 1 smart hub, 2 remotes. Supply and install approx. $4,200–$5,200.
- Alfresco in Joondalup: 2 motorised outdoor zip/track blinds with wind sensor and wall switch. Supply and install approx. $2,600–$3,400.
People Also Ask
Are motorised blinds noisy?
Quality motors are very quiet—typically a soft hum. Outdoor motors are slightly louder due to higher torque.
Can I add motors to my existing blinds?
Sometimes. Rollers are the easiest to retrofit if tube size and condition suit. Older or damaged blinds may need replacing.
Do motorised outdoor blinds work in windy Perth conditions?
Yes. Choose wind-rated track systems and consider a wind sensor to auto-retract in strong gusts.
Will motorised blinds work during a power outage?
Battery blinds will. Hardwired blinds won’t operate unless paired with a backup power solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average cost of motorised blinds in Perth?
The average cost ranges from $300 to $1,500 AUD per window, depending on various factors such as size, material, and installation.
How do I choose between battery and hardwired motorised blinds?
Consider your budget, the convenience of battery replacements, and whether you want integration with smart home systems. Battery blinds are usually more affordable upfront.
What additional costs are associated with automating blinds?
Automation costs can vary widely, typically adding $200 to $1,000 AUD for smart home integration, depending on the complexity of the system. For further details, explore our insights on smart blinds vs automated blinds for a better understanding of costs and integration.
Can I integrate motorised blinds with my existing smart home?
In most cases, yes. A compatible hub allows app control, voice commands, groups, and schedules. Confirm compatibility at the quoting stage.
What maintenance do motorised blinds need?
Keep fabrics clean, recharge or replace batteries when needed, and have outdoor blinds checked annually to maintain smooth tracking and wind performance.
Conclusion
Understanding motorised blinds cost is essential for making an informed decision for your home or office in Perth. By considering factors such as material, size, installation, and automation, you can find the right solution that fits your needs and budget. For even more inspiration on elevating your space, browse our range of outdoor blinds perfect for Perth conditions.
For more insights, check out our guides on maximising your Google Business Profile and home automation solutions.
Explore the cost of motorised blinds in Perth, including price comparisons, battery vs. hardwired options, and automation costs.