Motorized Curtains for Safety, Security and Easy Operation
Motorized curtains (sometimes referred to as electric curtains) have become essential window treatments in homes with children, pets or infirm or elderly residents. With today’s technology, they are not only functional but fashionable and affordable. Motorized curtains may be operated by batteries, switches, remote control, sun sensors or timers, making them ideal for people who travel frequently and want to maintain their home security. They are also a great option for skylights, cathedral windows or windows over bathtubs that are hard to reach, and they eliminate the problem of unsightly cords.
BudgetBlinds.com sells Somfy motorized window curtains that are available in a wide variety of designs, fabrics and texture and can be controlled with hand-held remotes or wireless timers, sun sensors or wall switches. They also offer room-darkening benefits that make them a great choice for media room or home theater motorized curtains. Budgetblinds.com offers free in-home consultations.
Another option for motorized curtains is Lutron’s Sivoia QED drapery track system which is fully programmable and offers smooth, near-silent operation. The custom-built tracks are available in both straight and curved configurations, and the system can be dual-mounted for hanging two fabrics over a window or sliding door. Lutron offers free quotes and consultations.
The erod motorized drapery rod fits almost any type of window and is easy to install. Learn more in this Lowe’s product video:
You can also buy a motorized curtain system for the drapes you already have in your home if you don’t want to replace them. Home Controls offers products from Add-A-Motor, Makita and Somfy. One of their best sellers is the Add-A-Motor Drapery Control Motor that sells for around $100. The motor attaches to the loop end of your window covering cord or chain without modification. It can traverse drapery or vertical blinds up to 12′ wide (center opening). The motor attaches to the loop end of the window covering cord or chain without modification and can traverse drapery or vertical blinds up to 12′ wide. Installation only takes 15 minutes. It can be used with with any AC switch, ordinary lamp timer switch, wireless remote control or various X10 controllers. Stop positions are independently adjustable; you can completely open or close your drapes, or anything in between. Add-A-Motor products are also available at Smarthome.
The Makita Automatic Drapery Opener 18 Ft ADO Kit includes the motor, timer, remote control, rod assembly, two 9 foot tracks, mounting brackets and an installation video and sells for around $800. This system can carry 60 lbs. of draperies over a 20-ft span; you can double capacity by using two motors, one on each end. The infrared remote control allows you to control the opening and closing of your draperies easily from your bed or armchair, and the timer allows for hands free operation. You can preset the times you want your drapes to open or close up to four times per day. While you can install this system yourself, you may prefer a professional installation if you are not that handy with tools.
