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Windows Design Dilemma

motorized privacy blinds/shades/what?

4 years ago

I'm a bit overwhelmed with this decision. Our new house has some big honking windows. I want the simplest possible shades, probably some variety of white. We don't need insulation or sun protection (big overhangs on the roof), but we do need nighttime privacy. That's actually the only reason we want them. They have to be motorized, in part because the windows are tall, and in part because arthritis prevents me from easily managing cords. We have put in the wiring already.

I got a quote from a local Graber installer, through Costco (which would get us a cash card). He said we should get Lightweaves roller shades. But I need to get some other quotes. Every company has something different.

My questions:

1. Any recommendations on the best night privacy window covering types? Cellular? Roller shades? Something else?

2. Recommendations for least obtrusive look?

3. I've already read through many threads about brands. Any caveats re bad brands? Any good experiences that might be different from what has already been said (e.g., I already know people like Hunter Douglas, etc.)?

Thanks!

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Comments (6)

PRO
Patricia Colwell Consulting
4 years ago
I yhink you need to post pictures of the space including the windows.
Molly D. Zone4B
4 years ago
I just had installed Horizons motorized blinds for my great room. I did a linen textural fabric that almost matches my trim with a 6” “self” valance. (Shades of Elegance?) Similar to you, I didn’t want anything busy and blocking my trim. I just lower them for the sun in the morning- rest of the day it’s up hidden. The motorized function works well-I like it better than the HD motorized in my bedroom.
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Molly D. Zone4B
4 years ago
I should add I had difficulty with HD trying to make a large roller shade on a cassette. Once it was cut crooked and then the next wouldn’t roll straight. The ones I mentioned above are not on a cassette. The valance is separate. It also gives less of a gap on the sides because there’s no cassette. Hopefully some blind experts will weigh in!
suezbell
4 years ago
As to your ... empathy extended.

You don't want to be reaching up for shades and the newer mini-blinds don't even have strings -- you have to reach up for them as well..

You need to be able to open and close whatever window treatment you have standing at the side of the window.

Consider either vertical blinds or drapes designed to pull open and closed from a side cord.

Vertical blinds can be vinyl (relatively inexpensive) or wood or faux wood or fabric. Whether they are suitable depends upon your style/decor.

Drapes could also have sheers on an inner rod for a bit of daytime privacy but could be closed at night or on a cloudy day when the lights are on for even more privacy. With the right rod, you could open and close them w/o reaching up.

https://www.wayfair.com/Symple-Stuff--Bembry-Heavy-Duty-Single-Curtain-Rod-and-Hardware-Set-31131-L6262-K~W002066057.html?refid=GX294078696632-W002066057&device=c&ptid=820037231436&network=g&targetid=aud-354999624471:pla-820037231436&channel=GooglePLA&ireid=87285191&fdid=1817&gclid=EAIaIQobChMIhIHjtafy5AIVyODICh0eRQfqEAkYAyABEgJkCPD_BwE
suezbell
4 years ago
My dad used to say that the more stuff you have on a car, the more that can go wrong with it -- and that applies to everything else as well. Would not add any "automatic" "electric" "remote" stuff to my drapes. Just use a good cord controlled rod.
PRO
Fenstermann LLC
4 years ago
Dear Molly: I guess you don't know us yet. We are an American company specialized in German made window fashion - we don't compromise on form and function with our products.

www.PleatedBlindsStore.com is your first source to find some ideas about what you are looking for, but feel free to call me and discuss your needs on the phone at 619.665.9446.

We have over 700 fabrics in roller shades, over 500 in pleated blinds, 170 in honeycomb and so on. We will be more than happy to guide you through the process..

Panel Blinds by Fenstermann LLC · More Info

Pleated Blinds Made in Germany by Fenstermann LLC · More Info

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