As one of the most popular types of window treatments, roller shades feature modern finishings with a sleek profile and simple adjustments. Add automation to this classic favorite? Motorized roller shades will amaze you. Curious about what’s possible? Discover the endless possibilities available when you choose motorization.
Why Are Roller Shades So Popular?
It really comes down to simplicity and style. The ability for window shades to offer incredible light control, but also disappear into the headrail–when not in use–is a winning combination. With today’s wide selection of fabrics and contemporary finishes, it’s no surprise that the various types of roller shades we offer would reign supreme. (Yes, there are 7 different versions!)
How Do Motorized Roller Shades Work?
It’s control YOUR way. Use the remote, the app on your phone–or a voice command, to make instant adjustments, saved settings or triggered opening and closing with integration. Open them up to let warm sunlight stream into your home in the morning. Close them halfway to block the light from shining in your eyes. Close them up tight for privacy and a good night’s sleep.
Lighting Control
Open the shades in an instant when you want the morning sunlight to fill your kitchen. Close your motorized roller shades in the afternoon when direct light is flooding your home. With a simple voice command or one-tap adjustments, it’s easy to create the ideal atmosphere no matter what you need.
Safety
Old, outdated window coverings feature cords that tangle and twist. These cords are dangerous to children and pets. Motorized roller shades do not have cords, which means you no longer have to worry about dangling cords.
Energy Savings
Early morning sunshine can warm your home, but the last thing you need is for the hot midday and afternoon sun to turn your home into an oven. Not only that, but heat rises. There’s nowhere for that heat to go, but into the bedrooms of your home. By the time your first floor cools down, you’ll realize that it’s now settled itself in for the night, causing restless, uncomfortable nights of sleep.
Blocking entering sunlight is a big step in cooling your entire home. We also offer the collection of Sonnette Cellular Roller Shades that combine cellular shades in roller shade form to insulate the interior of your home.
Privacy
It’s up to you and your home to determine what levels of privacy you need. Street-facing rooms require more privacy, especially at night, when you don’t want an open view into your home. But, those windows are also the perfect spot for Mr. Fluffy to sit as the kids walk by on their way home from school. Motorized roller shades deliver, opening in time to welcome the kids, but closing as the sky darkens for a feeling of security.
Convenience
Motorized roller shades add convenience, and it’s not just about adjusting the shades while you sit on the couch–although that’s a nicer feature than you might think! Automation saves money, removes worry and adds efficiency to your day. Overall, it makes life easier. Those hard-to-reach windows? They’re a cinch to adjust with motorized roller shades. Those daily tasks–like closing the shades before you leave for the day? You no longer have to participate. After all, you can set them on a schedule. Or, open the app while you’re at the office to make sure they’ve closed properly. On vacation? Keep the adjustment schedule moving, and no one will know you’re thousands of miles away on a beach.
What’s Stopping You?
There might be a few things keeping you from choosing motorized roller shades, and they are very common. Typically, those hesitations involve cost, power sources and installation.
Professional Installation
Anytime you add power to an area of your home, it’s a good idea to get the pros involved. Don’t let this deter you. At Skyline Window Coverings, we have expert installers that have been trained to install Hunter Douglas products. This will keep you from finding your own contractor–not knowing whether they are qualified or not. By working with professionals, you also can rely on us to guide you through the set-up of your new window shades. We want you to start using them from Day One, experiencing all they have to offer. We also like to mention that our clients’ favorite windows to add motorized shades to are typically the ones where a tall ladder is involved. We would strongly recommend you not choose this as a DIY.
Power Sources
This is a frequently visited topic with clients, but not normally one that keeps them from choosing motorized roller shades. Power for automated window shades can be hard-wired, battery operated–both disposable and rechargeable, and solar powered. Many homeowners have chosen to use disposable batteries, changing them every couple years or so. The rechargeable battery packs were a huge hit–so many previous disposable battery users converted to this new system, as it could be retro-fit.
The solar powered source is expected to also be met with high demand. Hard-wiring the power of motorized shades is something most clients choose to do when building a new home or remodeling. It’s convenient when the walls are already exposed.
Cost
One thing that’s true when it comes to motorized shades vs traditional shades? Cost. There is a cost associated with adding automation to window shades. However, it may be less than you realize. The cost of automation has leveled off since its introduction–just like any type of technology. Don’t let the worry of cost keep you from finding out more. Believe me when I tell you–we give quotes for motorization all the time. Clients are often pleasantly surprised to find affordable options.
It’s Easy to Get Started.
It all starts when you reach out to our team at Skyline Window Coverings. Come visit one our showrooms to try out automation in person. Then, schedule with us. We’ll come to you for a free design consultation where you’ll work one-on-one with a window covering specialist. We’ll be happy to answer any questions and get you started on choosing the right window treatments and features for your home. Contact us today.
