Why Is Hunter Douglas So Expensive? A Look at Value and Quality Alternatives
At Shaded In The Sun, we are the trusted window treatment experts for homeowners throughout Oklahoma City, Edmond, and the surrounding areas. A question we hear frequently from homeowners is: "Why is Hunter Douglas so expensive?" It's a valid question. Hunter Douglas has built a powerful reputation for innovation and quality, but their premium price tag isn't the only path to exceptional window treatments.
This article will honestly answer that question and then introduce you to two other industry-leading brands — Graber and Norman — that deliver outstanding design, durability, and innovation, often at a more attractive value.
Call Brent & Edna today at 405-259-5599
for your window treatment questions.
Unpacking the Hunter Douglas Price Tag
Before exploring alternatives, let's address the main question. Hunter Douglas's pricing is typically influenced by several key factors:
- • Aggressive Brand Marketing: Hunter Douglas invests heavily in national advertising and brand recognition. This creates significant overhead that is factored into the final product cost.
- • Proprietary Innovation & R&D: They are true innovators, developing exclusive, patented systems like PowerView® Automation and unique shade designs. You are paying a premium for this exclusive research and development.
- • American Assembly: Many of their products are designed and assembled in the U.S.A., which generally involves higher labor costs compared to overseas manufacturing.
- • Exclusive Dealer Network: Their products are sold through a tightly controlled network of dealers, which helps maintain price integrity and a premium brand experience.
While these points justify the cost for some, we believe you shouldn't have to pay a "brand tax" to get incredible, long-lasting window treatments. That's where brands like Graber and Norman shine.
The Smart Alternative: Discover the Graber Advantage with Shaded In The Sun
For nearly a century, Graber has been synonymous with quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. As the premier Graber dealer serving Edmond and Oklahoma City, Shaded In The Sun can guide you through their collection, which offers a perfect blend of timeless style and modern performance.
An Unmatched Range of Styles
- Whether your home is modern, traditional, or somewhere in between, Graber has a solution. We can help you navigate their vast selection, including energy-efficient Cellular Shades, chic Layered (Zebra) Shades, organic Natural Woven Shades, and elegant Roman Shades. Their collections also feature premium Wood, Faux Wood, and Vertical Blinds, as well as classic Wood and Composite Shutters.
Advanced Motorization and Safety
Experience the convenience of smart-home living without the premium price. Graber Motorization offers reliable, quiet, and easy-to-use control for your shades. For families, Graber is a leader in safety, offering a wide array of cordless lift options—many of which are available as a free upgrade—to ensure a safe environment for children and pets.
Visualize Before You Buy
Feeling overwhelmed by options? We utilize Graber's powerful Visualizer tool, allowing you to upload a photo of your room and see exactly how different blinds or shades will look. This, combined with the free physical swatches we can order for you, ensures you make a confident decision.
Convinced by Graber? Let's Talk! 405-259-5599
Award-Winning Excellence: Experience Norman® with Shaded In The Sun
Norman is globally recognized for setting the bar in quality, durability, and forward-thinking features. Their commitment to excellence has earned them numerous industry awards, and we are proud to offer their custom-made products to our clients.
The Gold Standard in Shutters
Norman is perhaps most famous for its shutters. Products like Woodlore® (the world's best-selling shutter), Woodlore® Plus, and premium Normandy® Shutters are engineered for longevity, featuring reinforced joints and a superior finish that resists chipping and fading. They offer a custom, designer look that adds significant value to your home.
Award-Winning Innovations
Norman doesn’t just make great shutters. We can introduce you to groundbreaking products like SmartDrape™, a unique, soft vertical shade with individually-vaned construction you can walk through. Other innovations include the versatile Portrait™ Honeycomb Shades and the sleek Soluna™ Roller Shades, many of which can be fully motorized for ultimate control.
Solutions for Every Window Shape
From perfectly arched windows and sliding glass doors to hard-to-reach skylights, Norman excels at creating custom solutions for specialty shapes. As your design partner, Shaded In The Sun ensures a perfect fit, no matter how unique your windows are.
Your Home, Your Budget, Your Perfect Choice
While Hunter Douglas is a great company, it's clear that exceptional quality is not exclusive to one name. Brands like Graber and Norman stand as powerful Hunter Douglas alternatives, offering:
- • Incredible Value: Achieve a high-end look and smart-home functionality for a more accessible investment.
- • Proven Durability: Both brands back their products with robust, limited lifetime warranties.
- • Stunning Design: You don’t have to compromise on style. From fabrics to finishes, the options are virtually limitless.