You’re still walking over to every window to pull cords or twist rods. Morning and night, same routine. It’s annoying, especially if you have tall windows or hard-to-reach spots. Meanwhile, your neighbor just taps their phone and all their shades adjust perfectly.
Welcome to the future. Motorized shades in NYC for apartments and homes are taking over, and once you understand why, you’ll want them too.
What Are Motorized Shades and How Do They Work?
Motorized shades have small motors built into the roller or track. You control them with a remote, wall switch, phone app, or voice commands. Press a button and your shades go up or down. That’s it. No cords, no pulling, no hassle.
The motors run on batteries or plug into your electrical system. Battery-powered versions last 1 to 2 years before needing replacement. Hardwired ones never need battery changes but require professional installation.
Most systems connect to WiFi, letting you control shades from anywhere. Stuck at work and forgot to close the shades? Open your app and close them remotely.
Why Are Motorized Shades Becoming More Popular?
Sales of motorized window treatments jumped 43% in the past three years. People finally realized that manual shades are outdated.
Smart home technology is everywhere now. Your thermostat, lights, and security are smart. Why should your shades be dumb? Motorized shades in NYC fit perfectly into modern connected homes.
Prices dropped too. Five years ago, motorized shades cost twice what they do now. Better technology and more competition brought costs down to reasonable levels.
Also read: Top Benefits of Installing Motorized Shades in Your Home
What Are the Benefits of Motorized Shades Over Traditional Shades?
Convenience is obvious. But there’s more to it than just being lazy. Though honestly, being able to control all your shades without getting off the couch is pretty great.
Do Motorized Shades Save Energy?
Yes, they actually do. You can program shades to close during the hottest part of the day in summer. This blocks heat and reduces air conditioning costs by up to 15%.
In winter, open them during sunny hours to let warmth in. Close them at night to keep heat from escaping. Manual shades require you to remember all this. Motorized ones do it automatically.
Most people don’t bother adjusting manual shades throughout the day. It’s too much work. Automated shades never forget, so you save money month after month.
Are Motorized Shades More Convenient Than Manual Shades?
Way more convenient. Got floor-to-ceiling windows? Reaching those manual shades is a pain. Motorized versions let you control them from anywhere.
Hard-to-reach windows over staircases or behind furniture become easy to manage. Elderly people or anyone with mobility issues love motorized shades because they don’t need to walk to each window.
You can set schedules. Shades open automatically in the morning to wake you with natural light. They close at sunset for privacy. You never think about it.
How Do Motorized Shades Integrate With Smart Home Systems?
Most motorized shades work with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. Just say Alexa, close the bedroom shades, and it happens.
They also connect to other smart devices. Your security system can close all shades when you arm it. Your lights and shades can work together to create scenes. “Movie mode” dims lights and closes shades with one command.
Some advanced systems use sensors. When the room gets too bright, the shades automatically close. When sunset hits, they adjust for privacy. All without you touching anything.
Are Motorized Shades Worth the Investment?
They cost more upfront but add value and save money long-term.
How Much Do Motorized Shades Cost Compared to Traditional Shades?
Traditional manual shades for a standard window run $100 to $300 installed. Motorized shades in NYC for the same window cost $400 to $800 installed.
Whole-home installation varies wildly based on window count. Expect $3,000 to $10,000 for a typical apartment with 6 to 10 windows.
But consider this: motorized shades last 10 to 15 years and save 10% to 15% on energy bills annually. For a $200 monthly energy bill, that’s $240 to $360 saved per year. They pay for themselves over time.
Plus, homes with smart features sell faster and for more money. Buyers love move-in-ready smart technology.
What Should You Consider Before Installing Motorized Shades?
- Think about power sources first. Battery-powered is easier to install but needs occasional battery replacement. Hardwired never needs batteries but costs more to install.
- Window size matters. Large or heavy shades need stronger motors, which cost more. Super tall windows might need special installation.
- WiFi coverage is important. Shades need a good signal to work reliably. If your WiFi is spotty in certain rooms, fix that first.
- Consider future expansion. Start with the rooms you use most. You can always add more shades later. Most systems let you add new shades to existing controls easily.
Ready to Stop Struggling With Old-Fashioned Shades?
You’re tired of the daily routine. Walking to every window, pulling cords that stick, twisting rods that don’t turn smoothly. Your tall windows are especially annoying. And you keep forgetting to close shades before leaving for work, letting your AC work overtime.
Manhattan Shades specializes in motorized shades in NYC apartments and homes. We handle everything from consultation to installation. Our systems work with your existing smart home setup, or we’ll help you start fresh. Control your shades from your phone, voice, or set schedules so you never think about them again.
