It seems like everyone is talking about home automation these days. The Internet of Things and Connectivity has led to some incredible innovations like smart homes and automation of just about anything. Just about any device in your home has the capability of being controlled remotely, from your television to your lights to your security system, and even your window treatments.
Yes, now you can open and close, raise and lower your blinds, shades, and drapes without getting up from the sofa.
So, what’s the big deal about motorized window treatments and electric blinds? A lot, actually. They offer several outstanding benefits and add to the beauty of your home.
Are Motorized Blinds Worth It?
This is the most common question we get and with good reason. Before you put your hard-earned money on automating the window treatments in your home or getting motorized awnings, you want to make sure that it is a good financial decision. Makes sense.
The truth is most people do find that it is well worth the money to invest in motorized blinds. They offer a privacy measure that is hard to find elsewhere. Just program your system to automatically open and close your shades and blinds, or you can open and close them whenever you feel the need.
Convenience is another often mentioned advantage of motorized blinds and shades. With the touch of a button, you can raise or lower them. Have you ever gotten into bed and realized that you forgot to lower the shade in the living room? You have to get us, go into the other room to draw it yourself. If you had an automated system, you could grab your phone, hit a button, and draw the shades without even sitting up.
One of the most common reasons that people give for automating their blinds and shades is that they save energy. They help cut your light bill by helping you control how your home and cooling/heating system handles the sun’s movement during the day. Is your home in direct sunlight at 3 pm? Program your system to draw the shades then. Is your home in the shade in the morning? Program it to raise the shades during that time.
You can even program it so that when you are away at work or even on vacation, the blinds and shades will be raised and lowered at key points throughout the day to help maintain a consistent temperature.
Can I Make My Blinds Smart?
Smart device capability depends on the brand. We carry Lutron products that absolutely can be connected to your smart devices. Before you shop for smart blinds, think about what you want from your system. On one end of the spectrum, you have devices that do just about everything except bring you a cup of coffee. At the other end, you have devices that are barely evolved above an old-school remote control. And of course, there are countless variations in between.
Take this into consideration before you buy. Just how “smart” do you want your system to be? Does it fit into your budget? How will the device fit into your décor? Will it be hidden or noticeable? Can you live with that? Does it fit into your lifestyle and meet your needs? If you have limited mobility or have windows that are difficult to access for whatever reason, automation is probably a necessity.
Can I Automate My Blinds?
Are you thinking about automating your blinds and shades or investing in a smart system with shade automation? We can help you find just what you need for your home and family. Contact Valley Drapery & Upholstery today and talk to one of our knowledgeable, friendly décor experts. It’s your home, live in it your way.