Technology for Blinds

Between Window Blinds

• Blinds do not have to hang on the inside of your windows, where they collect dust and can pose problems for small children and pets. When you get new windows, one option will be to have blinds hung between the window panes. There, the blinds stay clean and out of the way. Raising, lowering and opening the blinds can be done with a control knob at the side of the window frame.

Remote Control

• Electric blinds open and close or raise and lower with the push of a button. Such window blinds are ideal for individuals who have difficulty moving around or to control the light coming from windows that are out of reach. A bed-ridden person can easily open her blinds to let more light into the room by using the remote. The remote control feature can be combined with other window blinds features for effortless light control in a space.

Solar Shades

• Solar shades can resemble mesh window shades or look like fabric-covered blinds. These window coverings block out sunlight and solar heat from a home, which keeps rooms cooler when solar shades are lowered and warmer when they are raised. The mesh fabric lets you look out a window even when the shade is lowered, but sun glare and UV rays are reduced inside.

Home Automation

• Motorized blinds can be controlled individually or tied into a whole home automation system. Such systems can let you turn on the interior lights and close the blinds at the same time with the push of a button. Combining control of your electronics in a single system is best for new homes so the wiring can be installed before the walls are built, but retrofitting the system into a home can also be done. Look for home automation companies or light automation systems for your home to incorporate control of your blinds with the rest of your lights.