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How do Automated Window Coverings Work?

Automated window coverings work through a combination of motors, control systems, and sometimes sensors to allow for remote nonautomatic control of your blinds, shades, shutters, or drapes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of how they function:

1. Motor:

• The core of the system, the motor, is integrated into the window covering's mechanism. It drives the opening, closing, raising, or lowering of the window covering.
• Motors can be powered by batteries, plugged into an electrical outlet, or hardwired into your home's electrical system.

2. Control System:

• Remote Control: Most automated window coverings come with a remote control that allows you to operate them from a distance.
• Wall Switch: Some systems include wall-mounted switches that function like traditional light switches.
• Smartphone  App: Many modern systems offer smartphone apps that enable you to control your  window coverings from anywhere.
• Voice  Control: Integration  with smart home assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple Siri allows for voice control.
• Automated  Scheduling: Some systems allow you to set schedules for your window coverings to open or close at specific times.

3. Sensors:

• Light  Sensors: These  sensors detect the amount of sunlight and adjust the window coverings  accordingly to maintain desired light levels or reduce heat gain.
• Temperature  Sensors: Some advanced systems can adjust window coverings based on room temperature to improve energy efficiency.
• Motion  Sensors: These sensors can detect movement and adjust the coverings for privacy or to prevent glare.

How are Automated Window Coverings Controlled?

1. Manual Operation:

• Using a remote control, wall switch, or smartphone app, you can manually adjust the window coverings to your preferred position.

2. Automated Operation:

• Scheduling: Through an app or control system, you can set schedules for your window coverings to open or close at specific times of the day. For instance, you might schedule them to open in the morning to let in natural light and close in the evening for privacy.
• Sensors: If equipped with sensors, the system can automatically adjust the window coverings based on sunlight, temperature, or motion. For example, the coverings might close during the hottest part of the day to reduce cooling costs or open during the winter to let in more sunlight and warmth.

3. Smart Home Integration:

• Automated window coverings can be integrated into broader smart home systems. This integration allows them to work in conjunction with other smart devices. For instance, they can be set to close when you activate your home’s security system or open when your smart thermostat detects a certain temperature.

Motorized vs Automated Window Coverings

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Motorized window coverings allow you to adjust window shades or blinds with the press of a button, usually a hand-held remote, wand, wall switch or smart phone application, adding ease and efficiency to your daily routines. On the other hand, automated window coverings go a step further. They can be set up to adjust themselves based on certain triggers, such as time of day or sunlight levels, providing an unrivaled level of convenience and energy efficiency.

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What are the Benefits of Automated Window Coverings

• • Convenience: Easily control your window coverings without having to manually adjust them.
  • Energy Efficiency: Automated coverings can help manage heat gain and loss, reducing heating and cooling costs.
  • Enhanced Security: They can be programmed to open and close even when you’re not home, giving the appearance that someone is present.
  • Improved Comfort: Adjusting automatically based on light and temperature, they can help maintain a comfortable indoor environment.
  • Accessibility: Ideal for hard-to-reach windows or for individuals with mobility issues.

Types of Automated Window Coverings

Automated window coverings are available in a wide variety of styles and types, offering options to suit different needs, preferences, and aesthetics. Here are the main types of window coverings that can be automated:

1. Blinds  

Automated blinds can be controlled to tilt, open, or close with the touch of a button or through an automated schedule. They are available in various materials and styles:

• Venetian Blinds: Made of horizontal slats, these blinds can be tilted to control light and privacy.
• Vertical Blinds: Featuring vertical slats, these are ideal for large windows and sliding doors.
• Wood and Faux Wood Blinds: These provide a natural look and can be motorized for convenience.

2. Shades  

Shades are a popular choice for automation due to their sleek design and versatility. Types of shades that can be automated include:

• Roller Shades: These can be rolled up or down to control light and privacy.
• Cellular Shades (Honeycomb Shades): Known for their energy efficiency, these shades can be automated to adjust throughout the day.
• Roman Shades: These fabric shades fold up neatly and can be automated for easy operation.
• Solar Shades: Designed to reduce glare and UV rays while maintaining an outside view, these can be automated for optimal sun protection.

3. Shutters  

Automated shutters offer a classic and elegant look with the convenience of automation:

• Plantation Shutters: These can be motorized to tilt open or closed, providing control over light and privacy.

4. Draperies and Curtains  

Automated draperies and curtains add a touch of luxury and are ideal for large windows or patio doors:

• Motorized Tracks: These systems allow you to open and close drapes or curtains with a remote, app, or voice command.
• Curtain Rods: Motorized rods can be used to automate traditional curtains.

5. Sheer and Layered Shades  These shades combine the benefits of blinds and shades, offering light control and privacy:

• Sheer Shades: Made with alternating sheer and opaque fabrics, these can be automated to adjust light and privacy levels.
• Layered Shades: Similar to sheer shades, these feature layers of fabric that can be adjusted to control light and privacy.

6. Skylight Shades  Automated shades for skylights are perfect for hard-to-reach windows, providing control over natural light and insulation:

• Motorized Skylight Shades: These can be raised or lowered with a remote or automated schedule.

7. Outdoor Shades  Automated outdoor shades are designed to provide shade and privacy for outdoor spaces:

• Patio Shades: These can be lowered or raised to block sun and wind, offering comfort in outdoor living areas.
• Pergola Shades: Automated systems for pergolas can control light and temperature in your outdoor space.
• Retractable Awnings: These awnings can be extended or retracted with the touch of a button, offering flexible shade and protection from the elements

What is the Cost of Automated Window Coverings

The cost of automated window coverings can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of window treatment, the brand, the size of the windows, the complexity of the automation system, and any additional features. Here's a general breakdown of what you might expect:

1. Type of Window Covering

• Blinds: Automated blinds can range from $300 to $700 per window.
• Shades: Motorized shades typically cost between $350 and $1,000 per window.
• Shutters: Automated shutters can range from $500 to $1,500 per window.
• Draperies/Curtains: Motorized drapery systems can range from $500 to $2,000 per window

2.Brand and Quality:

When it comes to top-notch automated window coverings, brands like Somfy, Rollease Acmeda, and Norman Window Fashions lead the industry with innovative and high-quality products. At Glow Blinds and Closets, we are proud dealers of these renowned brands, offering you the best in automated solutions for your home. Schedule a free consultation with us today to discover the perfect window coverings to enhance your living space.

• Size of the Windows:

• Larger windows will require more material and more powerful motors, increasing the overall cost. Custom sizes can also add to the expense.

• Complexity of the Automation System:

• Basic remote-controlled systems are usually less expensive than more complex systems that integrate with home automation systems (like smart home hubs) or offer app control, voice control, or scheduling features.
• Advanced systems that integrate with smart home ecosystems (e.g., Alexa, Google Home, Apple HomeKit) or offer features like sunlight sensors and energy efficiency settings will be on the higher end of the price spectrum.

• Installation Costs:

• Professional installation is often required for automated window coverings, adding to the overall cost. Installation fees can range from $150 to $200 per window, depending on the complexity of the installation.

Comparing Costs: Manual vs. Automated Window Treatments

While motorized and automated window coverings offer many benefits, they are indeed an investment.

The typical cost surcharge percentage between a manual window covering and an automated window covering can vary, but it generally ranges from 50% to 100% or more.

This variation depends on several factors, including the type of window covering, the brand, and the specific features of the automation system.

Conclusion

Automated window coverings represent the pinnacle of modern home convenience, offering a blend of comfort, energy efficiency, and enhanced security. While they come at a higher cost compared to motorized and manually operated options, the benefits they provide make them a worthy investment for many homeowners. Whether you're looking to improve accessibility, save on energy bills, or simply enjoy the luxury of automated control, these advanced systems can transform your living space into a smarter, more comfortable home.

Ready to upgrade your window coverings? Contact us at (855) 994-3161 or schedule your free consultation here to explore our range of automated solutions and find the perfect fit for your home.

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