In the world of window treatments, there are two primary purposes to achieve. The first is to add beauty and decor to a space such as with top treatments and elegant side panels. The second is to add functionality to the windows such as with traversing drapes and motorized blinds. Both of these purposes are equally important. The ultimate goal is to find the perfect balance of the two.
Windows are a beautiful architectural feature found in almost every structure. They provide natural light and ventilation as well as an amazing view of the outside world.
Not all windows serve the same purpose and throughout the course of a day, the same window may need to provide several different services. This is where window treatments come into play.
Functional window treatments allow the same window to operate in all the ways that it needs to with the added bonus of looking stylish and adding to the decor of the room.
At Gotcha Covered, we love window treatments and all the amazing things that they can add to a space, but we also know that in order for a window treatment to add function, it must be easy and convenient to operate.
What good would it be to have a shade that is not easy to open or close? Most likely, that shade would remain fully opened, not providing any of the light control or privacy it is intended for, or fully shut in which case, you have lost the purpose of having a window there in the first place.
The goal is to ensure that window treatments are equipped to be efficient, and easy to operate. That is where motorization and smart home systems come into play. Convenience and accessibility are available like never before with the technological advancements of fully functional and customizable window treatments.
In this article, let’s discuss three of the most common problems seen when it comes to adding functional window treatments to certain windows and how to solve them using motorization and smart home systems.
Window Treatment Challenge #1: Accessibility
Solution: Motorized Window Shades
One of the most common issues with functional window treatments is accessibility. Windows that are hard to reach are beautiful additions to any room, but present a unique challenge when it comes to adding window treatments.
If the window treatments are not easy to open and close, they will stay in one position and never serve their full purpose.
Skylights are a perfect example of out of reach windows that are a beautiful design element in any home, but might require some sort of shade or blind for added light control. No one wants their skylights covered up all the time, so adding a window treatment that can be opened and closed throughout the course of a day becomes essential.
Adding motorization to blinds and shades gives instant access to high and out of reach windows or skylights. Connecting motorized blinds and shades to automated programs allows for easy control from practically anywhere.
Motorization has made huge technological advances over the past few years. Motorized window treatments can be battery operated or hard wired.
Development of batteries in terms of size, power, and lifespan has improved greatly. This creates a whole new range of options for adding motorization to window treatments. Since battery operated motors run on a lower power output, there will be certain restrictions to the size and weight of the window treatments.
If battery operated motorization is not an option for your windows, then they will need to be hard-wired. This technology has also made significant advancements and is not as intrusive as it was before. There are also some benefits that come along with using hard-wired motors such as having a consistent power without ever having to replace or recharge batteries.
Think that motorization is just not a possible solution for your window treatments? Think again! There are several misconceptions about motorized window treatments that we address in the article, 4 Common Misconceptions About Motorized Window Treatments.
Determining the best motorization option for your windows is key. The Gotcha Covered Design Team is phenomenal at assessing your needs and finding just the right solution for any hard to reach windows or skylights.
Window Treatment Challenge #2: Safety
Solution: Motorized Cordless Blinds
Everyone wants to feel safe in their own home. While windows offer beautiful views from the inside out, they also work the opposite way. Any time you can see out, it is also possible to see in.
No one wants to live in a cave, but a certain level of privacy is desirable. Window treatments are the perfect solution to add privacy to windows when needed.
During the day, windows are wonderful for allowing natural sunlight to enter. When the day turns to night, interior lights come on and the illuminated interior of your home becomes very visible.
Instead of manually closing all the window shades in your home as soon as the sun sets, what if you could push a button to have them close automatically? Better yet, what if you could program your window treatments to all close at a certain time of the day?
Motorized window treatments that are integrated with a smart home system can be programmed to open and shut throughout the day or night. Different operating systems work in a variety of ways, so be sure to take advantage of the expertise of your Gotcha Covered Design Team to determine what programming options are available.
Another advantage of motorized window treatments that are integrated with a smart home system is the fact that you can operate them from almost anywhere. Imagine being able to close your motorized blinds or shades before getting home at night?
smart home systems can add to the security of your home since functions such as window treatments and lights can be controlled from outside of the home. Having these automated programs makes it look like someone is home whether they are or not, making your home feel more secure.
Window treatments can add another layer of protection to your home by preventing sun damage to furniture, artwork, and other valuables. Constant sun exposure can cause fading or other damage. Window shades can block these harmful effects from too much sunlight and UV rays.
You may not be able to spend your days going from room to room opening and closing window shades. Motorized window shades can be programmed to close during certain times of the day to help protect your valuables.
Safety is extremely important for households with small children and pets. Window cords are a serious child safety hazard that can be avoided simply by utilizing cordless window treatments. Motorized blinds and shades are the perfect solution for these homes since they do not have a lift cord.
Not only are cordless window treatments safer, but they also eliminate the hassle of long window cords getting tangled up. Cordless window treatments also tend to last longer since the typical wear and tear that comes from raising and lowering the treatment is removed.
All of these elements make motorized blinds and shades an extremely attractive option by adding to the safety and security of any home.
Window Treatment Challenge #3: Energy Efficiency
Solution: smart home Systems
One of the greatest benefits that window treatments add to a home is an increase in energy efficiency.
It is estimated that almost 50% of the heating or cooling in a home is lost through the windows. This means that the money spent in running your heating system or AC will be wasted if nothing is done to prevent this loss.
Window treatments provide a layer of insulation to windows helping to prevent energy loss. Of course certain window treatments will be more energy efficient than others. One of the most energy efficient window treatments available is cellular shades, also known as honeycomb shades. These shades get the name “honeycomb” from the shape of the individual cells that make up this shade. These cells trap pockets of air creating a barrier between window pane and the rest of the room. This barrier works as an insulating layer which prevents energy loss through the window.
Cellular shades come in a variety of materials, colors, textures, and styles. Their energy efficiency will range depending on whether they use a single, double, or triple cell layer. When considering cellular shades, it is important to consider all of the needs of your space. The Gotcha Covered Design Team will be able to show you a wide variety of options that will best serve the needs of your space.
Cellular shades are also available in a variety of operating options. They can be cordless, motorized, or top down/bottom up depending on the needs of your room. Motorized shades can also be connected to an automated system to give you greater control over your window treatments.
By using a smart home system, your windows can remain energy efficient even when you are not at home! Program your motorized window shades to raise and lower as needed to keep your home the optimal temperature all year long.
An added bonus to keeping your home energy efficient is a decrease in utilities. Adding energy efficient window treatments is a great way to lower your monthly energy bills and save you money - but only when these treatments are used properly.
Learn more about how window treatments can help save you money each month in the article, Window Treatments Could Save You Hundreds Each Month.
Motorization and smart home systems make it convenient to raise and lower your window shades as needed, including windows that are high or hard to reach. Keep your home at an optimal temperature year round with the push of a button simply by integrating motorized window treatments with a smart home system.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, your windows should perform the way they are intended to conveniently and effortlessly. Motorization and smart home systems have come a long way and are a great option to add to any custom window treatment.
With so many options to consider, working with a Gotcha Covered Design Team Expert is the best way to take the first step. Their expertise can help get you started on the right path to finding the perfect motorized window treatments to fit your needs, style, and budget. They can also set up your smart home system to put control at your fingertips.
Call us at (888) 650-6187 or schedule a free design consultation today! We are now offering virtual and in-home consultations.
About the Author: Brooke Carr, Gotcha Covered
Brooke joined the Gotcha Covered family in 2018 as the Social Media Coordinator. She works closely with our corporate teams and our Gotcha Covered franchisees to develop insightful and helpful content for our brand.
