Traditionally, shades are raised and lowered by hand, and while that works in most cases, it’s inconvenient. In some cases, it might even be more trouble than it’s worth. Especially with large windows.
The easy solution to that problem is to get motorized shades installed in your home.
These are easy-to-use solutions that enhance your at-home experience and require minimal effort to install.
Here’s a quick rundown of how motorized window shades work.
What are Motorized Window Shades?
Motorized window shades are fairly straightforward. Like any other type of shade, they hang down from the top of a window to filter out light and give you a bit of privacy.
Traditionally, you have to fuss with the shades to put them up and down, and if you find yourself frequently adjusting them, that gets annoying.
A motorized shade system places a small motor within the tube of the shades, and when you press a button, the shades roll up. Press it again, and the shades go down. You can simply enjoy the convenience of operating your shades with a touch of a button.
How Do Motorized Window Shades Work?
When talking about how motorized window shades work we must say that different brands use different mechanisms, and features can vary, but in general, motorized window shades consist of three primary parts.

First, there’s the shade itself. These can be light-filtering shades of various kinds, blackout shades, or anything else compatible with the overall system.
Then, there’s a motorized winding mechanism. The motor rotates inside the tube, which and your shades are rolled up or down effortlessly.
Finally, there’s a power source. This can require a direct connection to your home, but a lot of modern systems are battery-powered to make the system even more convenient. Rather than having to worry about power cords or anything like that, a battery takes care of it.
How the motorized window shades work depends on the system you get. Some are simply activated with a button on the system itself, and that’s typically the most straightforward method.
Others can be manipulated with a remote, and some smart home devices are compatible with certain models. What is beautiful is that with new technology, shade motors are now compatible with 3rd party automation for those retrofitting their home to be a smart home.
Also, available through after-market systems, you can use your WiFi network to operate the shades with app control for those without a smart home system.
How Long Do Motorized Window Shades Last?
With motorized window shades requiring you to install motor systems, you might be wondering how long it will be before you have to mess with the system again. Well, you’re in luck.
Motorized window shades typically last between five and ten years. Somfy motors come with a 5 year warranty, but are extremely reliable motors. With Somfy, we have seen motors lasting ten to fifteen years and even up to twenty years in some cases. Of course, this is heavily dependent on how often you use them, whether there are issues in the environment that can cause premature damage, etc.
A battery-powered motorized window shades are also an option to wired motor shades. With an overnight charge, they can provide power for twelve to eighteen months.
In any case, these are extremely easy to install and maintain. So, having to mess with them once per decade isn’t a lot of work.
Where to Get Motorized Window Shades
Now that you understand how motorized window shades work you need to find perfect shades for your home.
You want motorized shades that last, perform properly, and are made by a company that puts you first.
If you’re looking for the best motorized window shades for your home, Shade Reserve has you covered.
We offer high-quality window shades in Orange County that combine style, functionality, and durability to enhance the look and comfort of your home.
Contact us today!