UK Window Blinds: Pricing, Kit & Getting Clients
Startup Cost: £50–£300 | Difficulty: Beginner | Time to Start: 7 Days | Business Type: Local
Window blind installation is a straightforward business that requires basic DIY skills and minimal equipment. You can start by offering your services to friends and family, then expand to new build estates and other local areas.
What is Window Blind Installation?
Window blind installation involves fitting blinds to windows in homes and businesses. This can include various types of blinds, such as roller blinds, venetian blinds, and vertical blinds. The process typically involves measuring the windows, cutting the blinds to size, and installing them using a cordless drill and other tools.Video Breakdown
The video linked below provides a comprehensive guide on how to start a window blind installation business in the UK. It covers the initial investment, tools needed, pricing, and earnings potential. Watch the full video on YouTube for the full walkthrough.Key Takeaways
- Initial investment: £100-£300 for basic tools and marketing materials
- Ongoing costs: Trade supplier costs for blinds and other necessary materials
- Tools needed: Cordless drill with hammer setting, masonry bits, spirit level, pencil, masking tape, and stepladder
- Pricing: £25-£35 per window blind, with a minimum call-out fee of £45
- Earnings potential: £50 per hour for a 2-3 hour job
Startup Costs in the UK
MicroBiz365 keeps costs under £300; free tools and our PDF where possible.| Item | Approx. Cost (UK) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Basic branding | £0-40 | Includes business cards, flyers, and other marketing materials |
| Tools | £0-50 | Includes cordless drill, masonry bits, spirit level, and other necessary tools |
| First materials or checks | £30-100 | Includes blinds, screws, and other necessary materials |
Tools & Equipment Needed
- Cordless drill with hammer setting
- Masonry bits
- Spirit level
- Pencil
- Masking tape
- Stepladder
How to Start
- Start by offering your services to friends and family to gain experience and build confidence.
- Target new build estates where homeowners are likely to need window blind installation services.
- Print flyers advertising your services, including a discount for new customers.
- Distribute the flyers in areas with new build homes, and be prepared to book out a whole week of work on one street.
- Focus on delivering high-quality service and asking satisfied customers to recommend you to their friends and neighbors.
Earnings & Scaling
You can earn £50 per hour for a 2-3 hour job, which is a common time frame for installing blinds in a three-bedroom semi. As your business grows, you can increase your pricing and take on more complex jobs. Companies like Blinds2go, a well-known online made-to-measure blinds retailer, often charge higher prices for their services, but as a local business, you can offer competitive pricing and focus on building a strong reputation.Pros, Cons and Risks
Pros:
- Low startup costs
- High earning potential
- Flexibility to work on your own schedule
Cons:
- Requires physical effort and manual labor
- May require additional training or certifications
Risks:
- Competition from established businesses
- Unpredictable income
UK-Specific Tips
- Register your business with HMRC and obtain any necessary licenses and permits.
- Use platforms like Etsy or Facebook Marketplace to advertise your services and reach a wider audience.
- Consider partnering with trade suppliers to source materials and equipment.
FAQ
What kind of training do I need to start a window blind installation business?
You don't need any specific training to start a window blind installation business, but having basic DIY skills and knowledge of tools is essential.
How do I find clients for my window blind installation business?
You can find clients by advertising your services on local platforms, distributing flyers in new build estates, and asking satisfied customers to recommend you to their friends and neighbors.
What kind of equipment do I need to start a window blind installation business?
You'll need basic tools like a cordless drill, masonry bits, spirit level, pencil, masking tape, and a stepladder to start a window blind installation business.
Conclusion
Starting a window blind installation business can be a lucrative venture with low startup costs and high earning potential. By following the steps outlined in this guide and focusing on delivering high-quality service, you can build a successful business and expand your client base. For more business ideas, browse more ideas on MicroBiz365.
