How Do Motorized Window Shades Work?

One of the hottest trends in interior design in recent years has been motorized and electric window treatments. Designers and homeowners alike love their clean lines and no-frills appearance that lets the window treatment itself shine. And, thanks to years of improvement, motorized shades have recently become an upgrade that almost anyone can enjoy, instead of being confined to wealthy homeowners. However, most of us are still only used to good, old-fashioned window shades, blinds, and curtains. If you’re unsure how motorized shades work, Southwest Blinds & Shutters is here to help. We’ll explain the basics of motorized window shades so you can have a better idea of what this appealing upgrade offers.

Updating a Winning Design

The modern design of non-motorized window shades is based on hundreds of years of refinement, which is a testament to just how functional these window treatments are. That’s why motorized window shades are, in many ways, quite similar to traditional shades. You can still get the classic appearance of folded ROMAN SHADES, or the elegant simplicity of roller shades. In fact, the overall appearance of electric shades is still just as customizable as their regular cousins, so you can still select different fabric patterns and weights, depending on your preferences. The difference in motorized window shades lies, unsurprisingly, in the motor.

Small electric motors drive these shades, creating nearly silent operation in a tiny package, so you don’t have to worry about these motors being a bulky eyesore. Instead, motorized window shades are sleek and have a seamless profile, free of dangling cords. The electric motors at the heart of motorized window shades are typically either hardwired or battery powered so as not to ruin the appearance with a bulky electric plug. Typically, motorized window shades have a footprint that is a similar size or smaller than traditional shades.

The Utmost Convenience

Besides the gorgeous appearance of the shades, the real beauty of motorized window treatments lies in how easy they are to use. Sure, traditional shades aren’t exactly difficult to operate, but they’ve got nothing on the ease of motorized options. Whether you prefer an app on your smartphone or a remote control, opening and closing motorized window shades is as easy as tapping your finger.  And, thanks to precision controls, you’ll find that you can fine-tune the light levels in your home much easier than with traditional shades.  You can instantly brighten up a room for reading a book or darken it completely to watch a movie, all without getting up from the couch.

As if that wasn’t enough, most motorized window shades can be programmed to follow a set schedule, opening and closing at different parts of the day per your preference. That makes these window treatments a great option for regulating your home’s energy efficiency even while you’re out and about. During the winter, program your shades to open while the sun is shining, and in the summer, block out extra heat in the middle of the day.

Motorized Window Treatment Experts

There’s a lot to like about motorized window shades, which is why they’re incredibly popular with homeowners. At Southwest Blinds & Shutters, we have over 18 years of experience working with custom window treatments, including motorized and electric options, and we can help you find the best options for your home. Contact us today with any questions or to find out more about our motorized window shades.