When you think of home automation, the first thing that comes to mind is probably not window shades. There are many ways to automate your window shades for almost any budget and any size home. Though it may not seem like the most exciting thing to automating your home, when you integrate automated window shades you’ll get to enjoy a number of benefits and will be able to incorporate you’re window shades into Your overall home automation if you so desire. Below, we take a closer look at the two primary reasons we think of all homeowners should install automated window shades.
2 Reasons to Install Automated Window Shades
1. Automated window shades are convenient.
While convenience may not be your top priority, it is a benefit we cannot overlook. Imagine programming your window shades so that when your alarm goes off the lights begin to slowly turn on and your window shades begin to open revealing a beautiful sunrise. Four imagine that you are cozy on the couch and watching a movie and you have already programmed your window shades to close with the sunset – you never even have to get up or lift a finger for this automated process to begin.
2. Automated window shades improve security.
It can be nice to have your window shades open and letting some light but when you are away from home you probably want to have them closed for security. In the hustle and bustle of life it can be easy to forget to close your shades. With automated window shades, they can be controlled from an app on your phone which means you can open or close them anytime you want from anywhere in the world which greatly improves your home security.
Guide to shades
Size and shape
The most common to consider when buying shades is the shape. Typically, one can find shapes like arches, circles, rectangles, and bays. Beyond the shape, homeowners should also consider how the shade will open, as it helps them to determine the coverage needed. Automated shades mostly slide and hang from the top with casement.
Purpose
There are many products available on the market with variation to the purpose. Homeowners must pay attention to their functional needs. For instance, one might need blinds for privacy, while others are simply looking to improve the aesthetics of their space. Either way, understanding needs helps to make the right decision.
Maintenance
Regular dusting and cleaning is essential to maintain the integrity and lifespan of shades. Based on the choice, individuals should make several adjustments to their maintenance routines. For instance:
Cotton and linen drapes will benefit from a quick machine wash. However, they will get damaged in the dryer. So, stay consider of putting linens and other delicate materials in a drying machine.
Dusting and vacuuming are essential for everyday maintenance. People can use deep cleaners for vinyl blinds and remove dirt with mild detergent wash. Using bleach or harsh chemicals could cause the material to fade.
Vacuuming on a regular basis helps to reduce dust buildup and maintain the natural shine. People should avoid using excessive amount of cleaners while washing the fabrics on machine. Once finished, use compressed air or hairdryers to blow them out.
Tips to follow
Experts recommend several steps to for automated window shades and fabrics. Homeowners need simple tools and measures to improve the look of their installations. Learning these techniques will also help them clean their windows without any hassles.
Materials
One need to gather up cleaning supplies and materials to tackle shades. Essentially, they need a vacuum cleaner with soft brush attachments. Microfiber cloths will also prove useful to clean around the frames. Then, make a mixture of dishwashing liquid with warm water and baking soda to remove hard to remove dirt sediments.
Dusting
Most blinds hang in a vertical position. Therefore, hold the bottom of an installation and wipe the surface using a microfiber cloth. Repeat this step from start to bottom in a downward motion. People can also use vacuum cleaners to remove surface-level dust particles.
Deep clean
Blinds in high traffic areas are exposed to grimes and greases. As a result, they reduce deep cleaning methods to remove the stubborn sediments. Let the fabrics soak for about an hour and rinse with warm water. Use a cup of dishwashing soap and baking soda to finish off the process.
