Motorised outdoor blinds are great for homes that have large outdoor living space windows or skylights.

Motorised blinds typically cost around $1,000 to $2,000 for a basic set (although some sets can be as expensive as $6,000). Installing these types of window treatments can also be pricey; depending on what your needs are, prices may range from $200 to more than $1,000. There are several factors that determine how much the installation will cost. One factor is whether you hire blind installers to complete it or if you choose to do it yourself. Another factor is the number of indoor blinds that need motorisation and if you want clear PVC blinds or ziptrak blinds.

What are motorised outdoor blinds?

Motorised outdoor blinds are great for homes that have large outdoor living space windows or skylights.

These kinds of windows tend to let in a large amount of light, which can make rooms appear warmer and more inviting. Unfortunately, some rooms need the opposite effect. For instance, if your home office has an abundance of natural lighting during the summer months, it can be distracting while you're trying to complete work projects. By closing the curtains or motorised roller blinds, you can block out this unwanted light and help keep your focus on what's important. The motor system allows the roller blind to open and close with ease.

This can also be helpful for homes that have an outdoor area where it's difficult to reach windows, including upper walls. When you can't easily operate your window coverings, there's a risk of leaving the shade up all night long and letting in too much light could prove costly on your energy bill. If this is something you wish to avoid, consider investing in automated shades or sheer curtains.

What kinds of motorised outdoor blinds are available?

There are many different types of external blinds that fall under the category of motorised alfresco blinds.

Vertical blinds are the most common option. Vertical blinds are known for their versatility, as they can be easily used in all kinds of decorating styles. The battery-powered motors are installed behind the blinds, so there's no need to worry about unattractive panel boxes or cords showing on your outdoor space.

Roller shades are another popular option because they're easy to maintain and provide additional quality components that help with insulation from the sun's rays. The spring-loaded roller shades also work well for large windows.

Mini blinds are best for rooms that receive minimal sunlight. These types of window treatments can be opened and closed quickly while still maintaining their stylish look. They are highly recommended by most interior designers in Australia.

Wood shutters are typically installed in rooms where privacy is a top concern, such as bedrooms or bathrooms. When you use the motor system to close the shutters, it creates an appealing look that's similar to plantation shutters.

It's also possible to purchase motorised outdoor window covering accessories separately from your window treatment system. For example, some systems come with custom made remote controls that allow you to operate the product from far away without needing to stand near the windows giving them the wow factor.

Can I use a motorised outdoor blind with my smartphone?

Motorised outdoor blinds are often controlled with push-button control systems, hand-held remote controls or smartphone apps that you install after purchase. Remote control motors are relatively simple, although some require multiple remotes in order to open and close all of the window coverings in your home. Hand-held remotes can be easier for many homeowners to use because you only need one device. App-based systems operate via Bluetooth technology, which means they require pairing to your device. Some app-based systems work with smart home hubs that allow you to connect them with other devices in your household, such as thermostats or door locks, and control them all using one application.

What factors should I consider when buying motorised outdoor blinds?

There are many factors to take into consideration before making a purchase of motorised outdoor blinds. Check the warranty. Warranties vary significantly based on the company you choose to purchase from but generally range from 1 year to 25 years.

What is the best material for outdoor blinds?

You'll also want to look closely at the window treatment material, since it's one of the most important factors in determining your new purchase. For example:

Cotton is considered an ideal fabric for outdoor blinds thanks to its breathability. It can even be used on both indoor and outdoor products. Cotton is also more attractive than many other fabrics, including polyester, which means that you won't need to worry about your window coverings detracting from your decor or interior design. They are also easy to cut or modify.

Polyester will still help block out sunlight without being too heavy, which makes it a good choice for rooms with high humidity levels or lots of moisture in the air. Polyester is also less expensive than most other materials, so if cost is a concern, this might be your best choice.

Canvas is often used on outdoor blinds that are meant to be permanent fixtures, as it's highly durable and won't tear over time. However, canvas is heavier than cotton or polyester so you'll need to weigh the pros and cons before choosing this material.

How do I maintain motorised outdoor blinds?

Most products require minimal maintenance in order to remain in good condition and come with a user manual. However, you'll want to monitor product cleaning since dirty window coverings won't be as effective at blocking out light. In most cases, a simple wash will be sufficient, but it also helps to occasionally vacuum your window coverings or use upholstery cleaner on them as well. To maintain the motor, you'll want to look out for signs of damage or malfunctions, which may include malfunctioning remote controls, error messages on the control panel, unusual sounds coming from the motor unit, increased energy consumption and worn battery contacts. These are all telltale signs that your window coverings need maintenance.

What are the benefits of outdoor blinds?

Many homeowners choose motorised outdoor blinds because they're able to open and close them with minimal effort. This means you can adjust light levels in your home at will without having to constantly apply pressure to traditional window coverings. In addition, many types of motorised outdoor blinds come with a number of cosmetic options such as different colours or fabric patterns that allow you to enhance your decor by matching your window coverings with the furniture in your home. In addition, many types of outdoor blinds can be used on both indoor and outdoor windows since they're usually made with a lightweight material that includes a protective coating. This means you won't have to worry about them being damaged when exposed to rain or other elements, allowing you to keep your window treatments up year-round if desired.

What are the disadvantages of motorised outdoor blinds?

Motorised outdoor blinds don't come without their downsides though, so it's important for homeowners who are considering this option to consider these potential cons as well:

Many motorised products require considerable installation time and may also require professional assistance from time to time in order to ensure that your window coverings remain in good condition. In addition, homeowners may find that motorised outdoor blinds are more costly than traditional options due to the cost of the technology and other factors, however, this can vary depending on the type you choose.

Efficient shading is a great way to save on cooling expenses during the summertime. For more information, take a look at the Your Home website.