Outdoor patio shades can turn a sunny and sweltering outdoor space into an oasis. They drastically cut down heat and glare. Many outdoor spaces require larger shades. In these cases motorization and automation is the best option to control your shades. Motorization can be used on both smaller and larger shades and are often preferred to a clutch cord both for aesthetics and functionality.  But unlike smaller openings, where you have the choice of a cord or motor, motors are required on large openings to properly operate the shades.

Motorized outdoor shades can work via remote control or by using a smart hub, which allows you to control the shades by phone or voice assistant. The remotes come either handheld or fixed to the wall. For shades up to 12 feet wide, rechargeable motors are an option. These shades must be charged approximately two times a year. Larger openings require a 110v motor. These shades are permanently hooked up to power and don’t require charging. Smaller motorized shades can also come with a 110v motor if you prefer not to charge your shades.

Motorized outdoor shades are installed either with cable guides or zippered tracks to keep the shades steady in windy conditions. Cable guided shades should be kept in the up position when not in use. Zippered shades can stay in the down position and are built to withstand tropical storm force winds.

There is little to no maintenance involved with the motorized patio shades. The rechargeable motor shades must be charged one to two times a year. The motors are warrantied for five years. The cost of a motor vs. a manual shade will depend on what brand motor you purchase and what works best for your home. These are all details that are discussed prior to purchase.