Motorized shades and blinds are a modern, elegant window
treatment solution for windows you can't reach well or ones you'd like to be
able to control together instead of opening each window separately. Motorized
window treatments come in several different styles and types.
Shades vs. Blinds
Motorized window treatments come in two main styles — shades
and blinds. Shades have a motorized lift motor that allows you to raise and
lower the entire window treatment. Blinds have horizontal pieces called slats
or vanes and use a motorized tilt motor to tilt the slats open and closed.
Some window treatments have slats that operate as blinds and
also allow users to raise and lower them like a traditional shade.
Styles
Motorized shades and blinds come in a wide variety of
styles, so if you want to upgrade to motorized window treatments you'll most
likely be able to find something that complements your personal style and your
existing decor.
Cellular shades are shaped like a honeycomb. They offer a
contemporary look and are one of the more affordable options. Pleated shades
are another budget-friendly option that adds interest to your windows with the
folded design.
If you want a more traditional look, consider Roman shades.
Roman shades are made of fabric that folds up evenly when the shade is up and
creates a streamlined, smooth look when the shade is down. Roller shades are
another classic, simple option that come in many different fabric textures,
colors, and patterns.
Blinds are a good choice for rooms where you want to be able
to let some light in without completely sacrificing privacy or shade. Motorized
blinds usually have slats made of wood, faux wood, or aluminum.
Motor Types
You can choose from several different motor types when you
decide to install motorized shades or blinds in your home.
Battery-Powered
Battery-powered blinds are one of the easiest and most
aesthetically-pleasing options. The window treatment is attached to a tube at
the top with a battery pack and motor above it to power the blinds or shade.
Battery-powered shades are good options for windows that
don't have a nearby outlet. The biggest downside to battery-powered blinds and
shades is battery replacement. If you use lithium batteries rather than regular
alkaline AAs, you'll be able to go longer between battery changes.
Hardwired
Hardwired blinds and shades cost less for energy than battery-powered
treatments do, but they must be installed on windows that are near an outlet.
Installing most types of hardwired motorized shades or blinds isn't a DIY
project — you'll likely need an electrician, but once the window coverings are
installed you won't need to do any maintenance to keep them powered.
DC Power Adapter
If you want to use electricity to power your blinds but
don't want to or can't opt for hardwired blinds, consider buying a unit that
has a DC power adapter. Window treatments that use a DC power adapter plug into
an outlet and connect to the lift or tilt mechanism and the motor with a wire.
Hiding the wire is the biggest downside of DC adapter blinds.
Solar-Powered
Solar-powered motorized blinds and shades are an
environmentally-friendly way to upgrade to motorized window coverings. You'll
have a small solar panel that connects to the motor at the top of the blinds or
shade that converts sunlight into an energy source for the motor.
Control Options
One of the biggest benefits of motorized window treatments
is how convenient and easy they are to use. You can choose the type of control
that works best for your lifestyle and the layout of your home.
Many motorized blinds and shades come with a physical remote
you can use to raise and lower or tilt your window treatments. Another popular
option for controlling your blinds and shades is to use an app. Many motorized
window treatment companies offer mobile apps for phones and tablets.
Some people opt for a wall control in a convenient location
in their homes or connect the motorized blinds or shades to a programmable
timer.
Sylvan's and Philip's Drapes & Blinds serves
customers in west Los Angeles, Malibu, and Bel Air, California and surrounding
areas.
Contact us
today for a free estimate.
