The 4 Reasons Smart Shading is Under-Specified  

With the evenings getting lighter, it serves as a reminder that summer is on its way, and with it hopefully some glorious sunshine. Whilst we're not usually blessed with long scorching summers, we do get the odd run of high temperatures - and we Brits are not set up to cope!  

In the heatwaves we have seen in recent years, countless households across the country have spent time opening and closing their curtains and blinds around the house trying to let in light but also keep rooms cool. It’s a tough balancing act. 

Despite the increasing popularity of Smart Homes, the inclusion of smart shading (curtain and blind control) is often not part of the plan, so let’s look at the reasons why.   

Budget Cuts 

When the budget gets tight, the items that aren't seen as a 'must have' tend to be the things that get cut, and often that means smart shading. It’s not that blind and curtain control is expensive in fact as a proportion of build cost it’s a fraction compared to big-ticket items such as Bathrooms and Kitchens.  

Unfortunately, it is often seen as less important, or something to be sourced by interior designers or the homeowner at a later stage, meaning that by the end of a project that has reached its budget, smart shading is no longer a possibility. 

Smart shading has so many benefits besides convenience, and it is definitely one of the most underspecified aspects of a smart home system design. It really deserves more attention than it gets. 

Where is the wow-factor? 

We can see that in comparison to all the super cool functionality that a smart home offers, smart window treatments don't immediately scream WOW. But as well as all the amazing benefits they provide, smart shading can really bring together the visual aesthetic of a room.  

There are so many options, not to mention fabric choices, so smart shading is anything but boring. Our friends at Umbra offer a free fabric sample service and you can read more on their blog about which fabric is best for heat reflection. 

Smart Shading is Under-appreciated 

We're just going to say it as it is. The benefits of smart shading are not fully understood or communicated, which leads to shading automation and control being seen as unnecessary. If more integrators and homeowners really understood the significant role that curtains and blinds played in the home, we think it would be a different story. 

You see, these pieces of fabric and material are not just there to look pretty or frame a beautiful view. Shading, especially smart shading, can have a huge impact on comfort, security, and energy efficiency. They are a triple threat to traditional window treatments! 

No such thing as 'standard' 

If you've ever moved house, you'll know that there is no such thing as a standard window. And this is one of the obstacles that integrators face - knowing how to specify the best smart shading products for each project.  

When specifying smart shading products there are multiple factors to consider including the size of the window aperture, mounting type, material type, weight, calibration, power supply, motor size, and location.  

*Phew*... we can see why it can feel a bit overwhelming. And that's why it's important to engage with a specialist. Although we supply keypads for smart shading control, we refer installers to Umbra for advice and guidance about curtain and blind product specification as they are smart shading specialists.  

Have we managed to pique your curiosity about including smart shading in your next project?  

What Next?

If you've got questions, then please email us at sales@ivoryegg.co.uk or reach out to The Umbra Team and don't forget to tell them we sent you! 

Read Next: Selling Smart Shading To Your Clients: The 3 Main Benefits.