Small Luxuries: Motorized Window Coverings Offer Benefits to All

Motorized blinds and draperies were thought of as an indulgence available only to the elite several years ago. But today's hardware, technology and pricing have made this onetime luxury easily available to the general public. Motorized blinds, shades and draperies offer many benefits for many people. Parents with young children, the elderly and even just the average person will benefit from having motorized window coverings, which eliminate the need to fuss with wands or cords. If you suffer from mobility or dexterity issues, or are just tired of dealing with tangled cords, this investment can help your window coverings function flawlessly.

Hunter Douglas Window Fashions » The basics: Motorized blinds come in different systems: hardwired, plug in, RF radio frequency and battery operated. All are controlled from either a handheld remote control or a wall switch — with just a click, the window coverings magically open and close.

Cost: Prices start at around $550 for a battery-operated system with a remote, not including the cost of the shade. The size of the shade will determine the required system, which will determine the final price.



Advantages and Uses

Motorized blinds eliminate any cords. This is a great benefit for households with young children, where cord dangers lurk at every window.


If you have a large window, the weight of one blind can sometimes be too heavy for one person to lift. This is a perfect situation for a motorized blind.


Living Room Automated System » When your windows are very high, a motorized shade can help maximize functionality. I would recommend that an installation like this be hardwired with either a remote or wall switch, so you can avoid having to get the ladder out to change the batteries.


Drop-Down Motorized Screens » Motorized shades can also be used in outdoor settings — you might consider them for your lanai or patio enclosure.


Master Bedroom Motorized Draperies » If you're more of a drapery fan, look for motorized versions of draperies. This is a another good option for extra-large windows.


TM81B Motorized Track » This image shows what the motor and track look like for drapery installations. Again the width, length and weight of the drapery will determine the motor size and final price.


Hunter Douglas Blinds, Shades, Shutters and Motorization » Accessories

Remote controls make motorized shades even more of a luxury. You can group up to 16 shades on one remote in this Hunter Douglas model, and can assign a name to each shade in the remote for individual shade control.


Sunroom Motorized Solar Shades - $595.00 » Motorized shades can also be used in conjunction with a sun sensor. The sensor is placed on the window glass via a suction cup, and the shades are lifted or lowered according to the sun's intensity.


Solar Vue Motorized Shades » Most reputable shade companies also offer a programmable timer that you can set how you like — for example, you can program it to perform your regular window routine while you're away on vacation to increase your home security.

More Houzz guides to window treatments

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