These days, there is no shortage of design options and features for custom blinds. Edwardsville, IL homeowners can choose from an assortment of colors, styles, patterns, and more. However, one of the biggest decisions is whether to buy motorized or manual blinds.
While this might not seem as important as choosing a color that compliments the home’s interior design, the choice of custom blinds in Edwardsville, IL can make a big difference in several ways. As a result, many homeowners struggle to make up their minds.
Fortunately, this guide from BlindQuest can make the design process easier. Keep reading to see how motorized blinds compare to their manual counterparts.
Price
One of the biggest differences between motorized and manual custom blinds is their cost. Homeowners can expect to spend quite a bit more money on motorized blinds. Not only do the products cost more because of the motor itself, but the installation process is usually a bit more intensive. With that being said, the higher price comes with more value because there are so many reasons to love motorized blinds.
If homeowners are looking to stick with a budget, manual binds are still a great choice. They come in a variety of more affordable styles, and the installation is much more straightforward.
Convenience
The main reason that people choose to use motorized blinds is because they make life easier! Instead of spending time going around the house and manually opening every blind, homeowners can automate the task. For example, they can be programmed to open and close at certain times. Some of the top-of-the-line blinds even have sensors to raise or lower based on sunlight and heat.
Unfortunately, these motors may malfunction or fail to work when a home loses power. In these cases, it’s much more convenient to have manual blinds that homeowners can quickly adjust as needed.
Safety
Another reason to love motorized blinds is that they don’t have any cords or strings that can be a strangulation hazard for children or pets. Instead, homeowners can enjoy the additional safety benefits that come with motorized custom blinds. These include the ability to lock the blinds into place and to adjust the shades from any location. Why is this important? It allows homeowners to remotely open or close blinds so that they make it look like they are home even when they are away.
Durability
In most cases, manual blinds wear out sooner than motorized. This is because they are typically made out of cheaper materials, and the mechanical systems can become damaged over time. Homeowners might find that the strings or chains break or get lodged in the mechanisms. Motorized blinds, on the other hand, are usually made out of higher-quality materials, so they are expected to last longer.
Homeowners should keep in mind that, although manual blinds may wear out faster, they are usually more affordable to fix. Though it doesn’t happen often, it can be quite expensive to replace a motor if it breaks.
UV Protection
Many people don’t realize the natural light that comes into their homes can actually be damaging their interiors and furnishing. However, the harmful UV rays can cause fading to fabrics, wood, and other materials. Fortunately, the sensors on motorized blinds can sense when too much sunlight is coming into the home, and they can help block out the UV rays.
Manual blinds can provide protection from the sun as well, but they can’t do it on their own. Instead, homeowners would have to be mindful of the increase in sunlight and make the adjustments themselves.
Aesthetics
Finally, many homeowners prefer the look of a motorized option when designing their custom blinds. Edwardsville, IL customers who want to accomplish a sleek and uniform aesthetic will love the way motorized blinds help them achieve that goal. Since all of the motors can be synchronized, homeowners can easily make sure that every blind in their house is aligned at the same height.
Though there are plenty of stylish customization options for manual blinds, it’s nearly impossible to make sure they are in perfect alignment. Not to mention, the tangled strings can take away from the final look.
Learn More About Choosing the Right Custom Blinds for Your Home
Still not sure whether to choose motorized or manual custom blinds? Edwardsville, IL homeowners are encouraged to contact BlindQuest right away. They can provide more information on the two options, and they can even assist customers with the entire design process.