Motorized shades: they’re tasteful, convenient, and can even help save energy in your New York, NY, home. They’re the perfect addition to any modern lifestyle, and with a home automation system, you won’t ever have to lift a fingeror remember to raise the blinds.

But if you’re new to motorized window treatments, you may have questions about the process, which brands are the best, and how to make the most of them. That’s why we’ve put together a handy guide to answer the most common smart-shading questions. 

SEE ALSO: Show Your Home Some Love with Motorized Shades

How Can I Control Motorized Shades? 

You aren’t limited to one or even two ways to control your automated shades. You can choose from the following methods:

• Dedicated remote 
• Voice control
• Smartphone/tablet app 
• Wall panel/smart switch 
• Automated schedule or sensor

With a smart home system like Control4, you set your shades to automatically raise and lower at preferred times of the day. Maybe you want the blinds to raise to let the morning sunin while you’re waking upand lower to eliminate the sun’s glare through your office window. After sunset, blinds can descend automaticallyfor built-in privacy.  4

What Brands Are the Best? 

We aren’t the only ones who think Lutron manufactures the most superior line of motorized shades. The New York Time’s Wirecutter named Lutron’s Serena shades “the best smart shades” because of their responsive quality and incredibly quiet motor. Lutron’s shades sync with every major smart home system and voice assistant, making them intuitive to control. 

What Are My Fabric Options? 

Lutron offers extensive shading options with varying model types, materials, and opacities. Looking for wood blinds, blackout shades, or sheer roller shades? They have it all. Another option is Lutron’s Hyperion solar-adaptive shades, which automatically adjust throughout the day in response to the sun’s position across your windows. 

Can I Connect Motorized Shades to a Smart System? 

Yes! You can integrate your shades to a system like Control4 to use in sync with smart lighting, thermostats, security devices, and sensors. Tap a scene like “Good Night” and watch your lights turn off, shades lower, and doors lock. 

Can I Use Motorized Window Treatments Without a Smart System? 

You can certainly use window treatments with a simple remote control. But remember, you won’t be able to create automated scenes or sync shades with lighting, thermostats, sensors, etc. 

How Long Does the Installation Take? 

Time estimates vary greatly depending on the size and scope of your home’s project. Once we’ve narrowed down a shading solution, it could be as quick as a one-day installation, or it could take weeks for a complete project (especially if you’re building a full smart home system). 

Where Can I Find Motorized Shades in New York?

If you’re searching for smart shades in the New York City area, Total Home Technologies is your destination for all consultations and installations. You can learn more about motorized window treatments in our blog series here. Also, feel free to use our online contact form to schedule a consultation!