As a company that provides window shade automation to clients every day, we know we offer a high quality product. We have also heard stories about other brands…so, what’s the scoop? Today, we are sharing the top considerations homeowners should have when shopping for motorized blinds, and we even asked AI to share its thoughts on what’s being slated as most important to homeowners…
How Does Hunter Douglas Stack Up?
We partner with Hunter Douglas because we firmly believe it to be the best brand on the market for high quality materials, style options and operating systems. They stand behind their products and put a great deal of resource into innovation. But, enough of our opinion. We asked AI to rate Hunter Douglas when it comes to window shade automation in a brand comparison, and this is what they had to say:
“Often praised for high quality, stylish designs, and reliable motorization, especially with PowerView®. Good integration with smart home systems is frequently mentioned. Many appreciate the wide range of fabric and style options.”
We couldn’t agree more. Now, let’s break it down so you can make reliable decisions for your own windows.
Installation
AI reports, “Professional installation is often recommended for motorized blinds, especially for wired systems or integration with smart home hubs.”
We see installation as a key factor in how your motorized window coverings will perform. We know that professional expertise is required, due to wiring, shade calibration and location of windows. Oftentimes, homeowners choose window shade automation for hard-to-reach windows; it makes sense, but that can lead to some challenging installs. Our team has been well-trained to meticulously install the shades with expertise. Incorrect installation can cause the edges of the fabric to rip and snag over time. We also trust our installers to guide homeowners through the process of activating the smart shades, scheduling adjustments and saving settings for the ideal scenes.
What do our customers think?
We love this review from Google, from a client that perfectly describes her experience with the team, as she went from a troublesome experience with another brand, to the Skyline difference:
Skyline to the rescue! We had been dealing with old Graber power shades that were a nightmare. They were not always responding to the remote, they would roll up crooked and eventually, we just stopped trying to use them.
Chrissy from Skyline came for an in-home consultation and took into consideration our existing paint color, our southwest exposure, and our very tall windows facing a busy intersection when making her recommendations. Her sample books were huge but she didn’t overwhelm us with choices. She showed us how the darker or lighter colors would affect the room when open and closed. Her suggestions were perfect which made it easy to feel comfortable with our final choice. She offered details on how to get the best fit in the windows by suggesting we remove a small piece of trim.
We decided on a “top-down, bottom up” shade that would help control the intense afternoon sun while also allowing us to maintain privacy by just lowering the top portion of the shade. We also opted for the full powerview system and hub so we could easily control them from our phones or ipads while in the home or even when away. We have integrated Alexa controls in our lighting, TV and now we added the new shades to our Alexa voice controls. Mike showed us how easy it was to add it to our Alexa App. We now control our shade scenes by talking to Alexa.
Mike called when he was on his way to my home. He was very professional in his installation. He took time to protect our new floors from ladders and tools and was very detailed in his approach to the install. He took his time to show me exactly how to use the app and the powerview portion of the shade, which wasn’t hard at all. I was creating new scenes myself right after he left. He used a very cool 360 degree laser light to check the level of all 6 new shades to ensure they were perfectly matched. He didn’t leave until I was totally comfortable with all the products. He even helped to integrate our older hunter Douglas shades in the guest room with the new hub.
We couldn’t be happier with Skyline or the product. They were installed just a day before the coldest weather Chicago has had since the 80’s. The insulating nature of the shades did wonders for the sub zero temps. They make a huge difference in the winter. We raised just one shade and immediately, we felt the cold air from the window. There’s a reason this company has so many perfect reviews. We couldn’t be happier.
The Power Source
AI reports, “For battery-powered options, ease of battery replacement and longevity are important.”
Deciding on a power source for your motorized window treatments is a big decision. We often recommend hard-wiring for homes that are being built or renovated, since running the low-voltage electrical is a minor addition to walls that are already unfinished and offering ease of access. This option keeps you from thinking about the power source in the future.
On the other hand, many homeowners do not have open walls, thus driving them to pursue other power options. AA batteries have long been considered a good choice for powering remote control shades. They are readily available and easy to change. But that’s not the only option you have, since innovation is leading us to be more responsible with our planet. Hunter Douglas developed a rechargeable battery wand that powers the motorized shades–not just the ones that you order going forward, but this option can be retro-fit on previously purchased and installed window coverings. This is a game-changer for anyone who has had to dispose of AA batteries, knowing they are necessary, but they also add to everyday waste. The rechargeable wand makes us feel like we are making a difference in our clients’ lives, as they choose to make more sustainable household decisions. And now…we also have a solar powered charging option! Be sure to ask your designer to tell you more about it!
Integrating with Your Smart Home
AI reports, “Compatibility with your existing smart home ecosystem is a crucial factor for many.”
We always express that when it comes to smart home tech, we have something for everyone. If you are new to the concept of smart shades, we can start off at the beginning, helping you understand the differences between the levels of motorization. But, if you’re like many homeowners, you already have some type of smart system in your life. That means, you don’t want to learn another system or question whether or not the technology will be compatible. Hunter Douglas has worked diligently to ensure ease of use and compatibility with window shade automation. Making everything work together seamlessly is an important factor in bringing a brand into your home. As we mentioned, your install team will be vital in kicking off the use of your new shades, understanding how everything works together and various features and benefits that will help you use this technology to its full potential!
Sound Levels
AI reports, “Quiet operation is a key feature that many customers look for in motorized blinds.”
There have been amazing advancements in window shade automation over the last couple of decades, and the noise level of the moving shades has been one element to see innovation. Having all of the benefits of motorized shades can be wonderful, but if they’re noisy every time they move, it kind of ruins the experience for you. Many companies will boast of “whisper quiet” operation, but don’t let that description be the deciding factor. This is one of the reasons our clients appreciate stopping by a showroom. Not only can you play with the adjustments and the operating features, but you can experience firsthand exactly how the motor sounds. It won’t affect just you–the sound will have an influence on everyone in the family, including your furry companions. You don’t want them running for cover each time the window shades adjust.
Let’s Explore Your Options!
At Skyline Window Coverings, we work one-on-one with you to determine the best selections for your home, from styles and fabrics, to operating systems and innovative features. Our designers listen to you to help understand how to best improve your life–and your home. Let’s work together to create the ideal atmosphere and look. Get in touch for your free in-home design consult.
