The Cost of Waiting: Why You Shouldn’t Delay Shade Decisions in New Builds

Early Integration of Motorized Shades Optimizes Functionality and Design

Custom motorized shades have become extremely popular in smart home upgrades. These automated window coverings offer convenience, beauty, and enhanced security, effortlessly managing natural light and privacy. 

While battery-operated systems are available, the most reliable motorized shades are hardwired. For those building new homes, the ideal time to integrate this technology is during the initial design and planning phase, when open walls make it relatively easy to run the necessary wire. 

Unfortunately, with everything going on in new builds, window coverings often become an afterthought. Here, we’ll explore the reasons why early integration is essential to the functionality and aesthetics of motorized shades.

SEE ALSO: Motorized Window Treatments Matter for Travelers

Why Wired Is the Best Motorized Shade Solution

The main benefit of wireless shades is their ease of installation. Because they are wireless, they offer homeowners looking at retrofit applications a way to enjoy this incredible technology without tearing into walls. 

These batteries, however, will need to be replaced at some point. Today, automated window coverings are available for all types of windows, from skylights to large architectural and picture windows. Installed in hard-to-reach places, changing batteries is not the most convenient option. In addition to being difficult to replace, floor-to-ceiling windows may rely on heavy motorized shades or draperies that require hardwiring to function at peak performance.  

The Result of Delayed Decisions

If you’re building a new, modern home, you have a lot on your plate, working with designers, builders, and architects to create the home of your dreams. As with many smart systems, it’s essential to consider automated shades early on. 

So, what happens if you wait too long to decide on hardwired motorized shades? 

Exposed Wires

During the design phase, before the drywall goes up, is when low-voltage wiring is most straightforward to install. This wiring design accounts for all low-voltage devices and placements, including wiring for whole-home audio-video, LED lighting, security systems, thermostats, and more. Proper wiring ensures signals reach their intended destinations and that all technology is appropriately placed.

For windows, low-voltage wiring runs inside the walls to the top of the windows. It also extends outside the walls for connection to the shades. In new builds that wait until the walls are up to consider shades, some wiring protruding from the frame may remain visible, detracting from the sleek, elegant appearance.  

Incompatible Framing

Much of today’s home design centers around sleek, clean lines. To accomplish this minimalist approach, builders install concealed boxes or pockets in the ceiling where the shades hide when open, leaving your beautiful view unobstructed. Another approach is adding a fascia or decorative valance.

All these options require early consideration in the framing stage. At this stage, there are many options for a discreet installation, including incorporating it into the window frame. After the walls are up, the ability to seamlessly blend in motorized shades diminishes. 

Higher Retrofit Costs

Planning low-voltage wiring during the design phase enables seamless integration. Once the walls are up, retrofitting motorized shades requires major modifications to conceal wiring, resulting in increased expenses and a less-than-optimal design. 

The Benefits of Early Planning

Thoughtful planning is both a cost-saving and confidence-boosting practice when it comes to automated shades. If you’re looking for a minimalist or modern design aesthetic, early planning offers a much cleaner, low-profile look. 

At Sierra Integrated Systems, we create customized smart homes by partnering with the global leaders in home automation. In motorized shades, that brand is Lutron. To discover the limitless options in automated shades, contact Sierra Integrated Systems.