Five Reasons to Motorize Your Window Treatments

Motorized window treatments used to feel like a luxury reserved for sleek modern homes or tech enthusiasts. Not anymore. Today’s motors are quieter, more affordable, and available for nearly every type of shade or drapery. More and more homeowners are choosing motorization simply because it makes daily life easier. Here are five reasons why it might make sense for your home.

1. They’re safer for kids and pets.
   Motorized shades eliminate dangling cords, which can pose a serious risk for children and pets. In fact, many traditional corded shades are no longer allowed under current safety standards. With motorization, you also gain the convenience of adjusting shades from another room using your phone—handy when you want to darken a nursery without waking a sleeping baby.
2. Rechargeable motors are low-maintenance.
   The newest window treatment motor systems use lithium-ion rechargeable motors. About every two years, you plug in a charger into the motor overnight and you’re set for another two years. There’s no longer a need to replace batteries or run electrical wiring to your windows, which makes motorized shades surprisingly flexible and easy to install throughout the home. An added benefit is these motors are whisper quiet.
3. Motorization works for many styles.
   Roller shades aren’t the only option. Today’s motors work beautifully with Roman shades (including fabric and natural grasses), honeycomb shades, panel track systems, zebra shades, and even drapery. One of the simplest pleasures is opening your shades with a tap on your phone in the morning and letting natural light ease you into the day.
4. Even tricky windows can be covered.
   High windows and unusual shapes—think triangles or trapezoids near the ceiling—used to be a challenge. Now, bottom-up motorized shades can manage these specialty windows, including blackout options that help control light and heat. Technology has finally caught up with architectural creativity.
5. Motorized shades are more affordable than you might expect.
   Prices have dropped significantly as technology has improved. A basic Power Motion motor for a standard 60″ x 60″ window starts at $175 and doesn’t require a remote or an app. A gentle tug on a side wand activates the motor, which does all the lifting. It’s an especially helpful option for anyone who finds heavy shades difficult to operate.

Motorized window treatments aren’t about flashy gadgets, they’re about comfort, safety, and ease. If you’re curious to see what might work in your home, Mix offers free one-hour in-home consultations, complete with samples, measurements, and pricing. Appointments can be scheduled with Pat Benson at 510-559-3229, or you can learn more at www.mixmontclair.com.