If you’re on board with smart home technology, you probably know how valuable it can be. If not, you’re probably searching for ideas about how it can make your life easier. At Integrated Windows, we are your Omaha source for all things smart home! When it comes to smart blinds and other automated window treatments, we’ve got answers! Let’s discover answers to today’s most asked questions…
Which Window Coverings Can Be Motorized?
The quick answer is ALL of them! We have remote control blinds, motorized shades, automated drapery…even smart shutters! Every category of window coverings has options for automation.
What’s the Difference?
Let’s start with what is the same: They all have motors that power the adjustments. None of them can be manually adjusted. Now, for the differences: There are motorized shades that can be adjusted with individual power at the window, controlled with a wand that lies alongside the window. Remote control blinds are adjusted with push-button control, from a wall-mounted remote or tabletop remote. Some features of the remote allow favorite settings and scheduled adjustments. When you get into the smart shades category, you will find differences here, as well. Some window treatments utilize an app that allows you to set schedules and save settings. Others get integrated into the smart home system you prefer, allowing for triggered adjustments and voice commands.
When looking for information, please know that the terms, remote, motorized, automated and smart are continually used to describe motorized function.
How Does the App Work?
Hunter Douglas works tirelessly to offer the best user experience for their automated window coverings. The app is a big part of that. It’s a simple and effective way to get the most of your smart blinds and shades. It walks you through the setup, or when you want future changes. See examples of the function:
How Are Motorized Shades Powered?
The motor is in the headrail, and it can be powered by hardwiring or battery usage. If your home is under construction, or being renovated, hardwiring is a great choice. Simple low voltage wiring is needed alongside the window. However, adding power to the window area when not under construction is not really practical. Many homeowners choose battery power.
When it comes to battery-run blinds, there’s even differences. Disposable batteries are often changed every one to two years, based on the amount of usage. Hunter Douglas introduced their rechargeable battery wand a couple of years ago, which revolutionized the industry. This battery wand can replace the use of disposable batteries, creating a sustainable, less expensive way to power window coverings in the long run.
Are They Loud?
Smart blinds have been described as “whisper” quiet, just a hum as they adjust into place.
How Much Do Automated Window Treatments Cost?
This is one of the most asked questions. And, it should be! Don’t hesitate to ask. The best thing you can do as a homeowner is budget for projects. Smart shades are more costly than manual shades, but the actual cost can depend on a number of factors:
- How many windows you would like to cover
- What type of control suits you (individual/wand, remote, app controlled, smart integration)
- Which window coverings you select
- Additional features you choose (dual shades, top down)
How about Some “Hidden” Savings?
While we’re on the topic of cost, don’t forget that there are some not-so-noticeable savings opportunities that come with motorized shades. We’ve got these shades in our own homes, and we’ve heard from past clients. Almost everyone says the same thing: I wish I had done this sooner! They also share some of the benefits they love:
- Easily maintain interior temperatures
- Use of natural light instead of overhead
- Time saving for multiple windows
- Ease of adjusting hard-to-reach windows
One More Consideration…
We know you have a lot of choices for smart blinds. One of the reasons we’ve shared the questions past clients have asked is that we want you to know that we’ve been doing this a long time, and we aren’t afraid to answer you questions–you’ll always have someone to call for questions. That matters in today’s world, especially when it comes to technology. Your automated blinds will be professionally installed, and you can expect to be guided through the setup. We want you to take advantage of all of the benefits and features. After the installation, we will be available for calls and questions as you have them. Get in contact with our team at Integrated Windows to schedule your free in-home consultation.