Smart blinds and automated shades are becoming a must-have for Houston homeowners. Offering convenience through voice control and stunning designs, it’s easy to see why. Therefore, they’re perfect for controlling light and privacy for hard to reach windows and can even be scheduled to suite your lifestyle.
What Are Smart Blinds & Motorized Shades?
Smart shades, motorized blinds, power, automation…there’s a bunch of terms out there. They are often used interchangeably. What’s important to know is what the difference is between the different systems so you’ll find your favorite. If shades, blinds, shutters or drapery move with a motor, they can fit in this category. But, how they move and continue to move is another story.
Let’s define it this way: the word motorization describes window coverings that move with a motor, controlled with a tap. It might be a remote, a device, or even the wand that hangs alongside the window. It’s designed to be instant–and convenient.
The word “automation” tells a little more of a story. The features of automated window coverings are enhanced with intelligence to integrate with your smart home system. They can be adjusted with a simple tap, but they can also adjust without effort. Schedules, voice command and family favorites are all possible. When integrated with your smart home system, the sky’s the limit. We’ve even got a guide if you’re wondering which rooms need motorized shades.
Types of Automated Shade Systems
Have you ever found yourself asking for help from technology throughout your day? This convenience has been changing lives. And with smart home features, it makes small tasks around your home that much easier! We’re here to talk about one more way technology can help you out–that’s with automated shades. Think…convenience, privacy, and energy efficiency all in one!
Motorized Shades (Hardwired & Battery Powered)
Motorized shades are ideal for large and hard to reach windows. The ones you wish you could get to, you now can! They are able to be hardwired into your home to operate seamlessly. Homeowners also have the ability to have battery powered motorized shades if hardwiring is not preferred or possible. Even battery operated the operation will last a long time.
Rechargeable Battery Systems
Rechargeable batteries are also available now for our automated shades, which is a huge plus on top of everything else. These smart shades deserve a place in your home, and you surely deserve the ease and splendor of them. The Hunter Douglas option for this power source is the rechargeable battery wand.
Wand Motorization Systems (SoftTouch™)
The SoftTouch™ offers individual window motorization. Using a sleek wand that rests along the window’s edge, it can operate an adjustment with a gentle tap up or down with it’s magnetic connection. The wand releases if excessive pressure is applied for added safety.
Smart Shades (WiFi/App Connected)
Smart home technology has become a whirlwind in the last few years. These shades don’t just open and close with the press of a button, or simple voice command. You’re also able to set custom schedules, add privacy and security to your home when you’re away, and personalize settings for certain areas or individual windows. Motorization for smart blinds and shades powered by Somfy has never been better.
Control Options for Smart Blinds
There are a range of control options to fit your lifestyle. From simple remotes to full smart home automation. And even wall mounted switches are available. It’s easy to adjust shades directly through phone apps or use voice commands. Automated schedules allow blinds to open and closed based on the time of day, or daily activity schedule. Even activating when you’re not home to maintain privacy. This can all be done with Alexa, Google Assist, and Siri. And one of our customer’s favorite are motorized roller shades.
Best Shades for Motorization
Looking for something with modern finishings, a sleek profile and simple adjustments? Roller shades may be it. As an industry favorite, roller shades are classic, and by adding automation, they’ve upped their game. Roller shades offer incredible light control, privacy and energy efficiency, but are also unassuming. They disappear into the headrail when not in use for a seamless look. These features, along with today’s wide selection of fresh fabrics and contemporary finishes, are a winning combination. With many types of roller shades offered (7 to be exact!), it’s no wonder why they get our vote for most popular.
Automation can be added to all categories of window coverings. You can have shades, blinds, draperies or even shutters designed the “smart way”. Sheer shades are an excellent choice because their delicate, light-filtering vanes adjust smoothly and consistency. Honeycomb shades pair perfect with motorization since they’re lightweight and are ideal for large windows.
Roman shades are an amazing choice due to their elegant folds being laid properly and smoothly by automation. This guarantees no lifting or uneven tugging. Vertical gliding panels work great with motorized options for sliding doors that looks modern and incredible reliable. Even drapery benefits from optional motorization. Those long panels glide along the track adding luxury and function.
Why Houston Homeowners Love Smart Blinds
Houston homes are constantly facing the intense sunlight and soaring heat. Thus, smart shades are more than just an upgrade, they’re a total game changer. With motorized solutions tailored for expansive window walls, homeowners can effortlessly improve energy efficiency, enhance privacy, and maintain a more comfortable home. As home automation continues to evolve, automated shades are emerging as the stylish, smart solution for controlling light, heat, and comfort throughout the day.
Cost Factors for Motorized Shades
Investing in your home is smart, but it can be costly. It’s wise to do your research and budget for each project so there are no surprises. Window Treatments with brand recognition like Hunter Douglas will increase the value of your home if you decide to sell–more so if they are automated. Consider these factors that contribute to the cost of automates shades when choosing:
- The number of windows you’ll be covering
- Which type of automation (individual window/wand, remote control, smart home integration)
- The type of window shades you choose
- Added features (top down, dual shades)
Depending on the brand you choose, you may need additional components for smart home integration. Additionally, Hunter Douglas has worked hard to ensure their automated shades are compatible with the most common smart home systems, like Control4, Elan, Logitech and more. Enjoy simple control with Alexa and Siri. But, our experts can help get a more narrowed down estimate with a free in-home consultation.
Professional Installation Matters
The keyword here is professional. There are many factors like power source, wiring, fabric calibration–and more–that is best left to the experts. You might be surprised to learn that installation is one of the most important aspects of bringing automated window shades into your home. This isn’t something that’s a quick DIY.
With premium products, installation should be handled by certified installers. Many times, areas have window shade automation because they’re hard to reach. So, that means a long way to fall if someone who isn’t professionally trained gives it a try. Precise setup ensures your motorized shades function smoothly and correctly from the start.
Real Customer Example: Motorized Honeycomb Shades
Take a look at a real-life example of how motorized honeycomb shades can transform a home.
This Creative Blinds project showcases how effortless automation, energy-saving design, and sleek modern styling come together to create comfort and convenience in everyday living.
Schedule Your Free Consultation in Houston
The next step is simple! Contact us today to set up your free in-home design consultation to discuss incorporating Window Shade Automation into your home. Secondly, you’ll look at samples, get measurements, and let our expert designers hear your vision. Stop by one of our showrooms to see how our window treatments can drastically enhance your life. Lastly, we can’t wait to start!
