Manual or remote controlled blinds?

When choosing new blinds, it can be hard to narrow down all your options. So in this article we’ll take an in-depth look at one of the choices you’ll face: manual blinds versus motorised, remote controlled blinds. Both are great options, but the product you opt for will depend on where your blinds will be fitted, and what works best in your home.

Remote controlled blinds

Remote controlled blinds are motorised indoor blinds that can be raised or lowered at the touch of a button. Whether they’re battery-powered or mains controlled, motorised blinds are an ultra-convenient smart home solution that even gives you control when you’re out of the house.

Advantages of remote controlled blinds

• If you have limited mobility, remote controlled blinds will make life easier. You don’t need to move around or reach into an awkward area to adjust your blinds just as you want them.
• Concerned about home security? Remote controlled blinds bring peace of mind. When linked to your smartphone, your motorised blinds can be open and closed whenever you like, even if you’re out.
• They’re safer for children’s bedroom blinds. No cord means that remote controlled blinds are a better choice if you have little ones in your home. 
• Just looking for convenience? When you’re cosy and settled in your favourite armchair, there’s no need to get up. So even if the light changes as you watch a film, you can stay exactly where you are and let the remote do the work!
• Motorised blinds are available in a range of styles from Allegro Blinds: roller blinds, Roman blinds, Venetian blinds and pleated blinds.

Manual blinds

You’ll be familiar with manual blinds: these are traditional window coverings that are adjusted using a cord or chain. Available in a wide variety of styles, common types include venetian blinds, pleated blinds and roller blinds. You can even buy blackout blinds for bedroom windows.

Advantages of manual blinds

• If cost is your main concern, manual blinds come out cheaper. You might decide it’s worth the pounds saved to open and shut your blinds without the aid of extra technology.
• Sometimes, things are just better done yourself. You might find it difficult to achieve just the right adjustment with a remote control, and prefer the autonomy that manual blinds offer.
• Want more choice? There’s likely to be a wider variety of different styles available if you opt for manual blinds.

Mains or battery operated blinds: what’s best?

There are pros and cons to both battery operated remote controlled blinds, and those powered from your mains electricity supply.

• Battery-powered motorised blinds are charged before installation, making them simpler and cheaper to install than their mains-powered counterparts. The disadvantage is that they’ll need taking down for recharging about every 6 months.
• Mains-powered motorised blinds are wired into your mains electricity supply, requiring the services of a professional electrician. Once installed, they are particularly suited to large or heavy windows, as the action is much more powerful. 

Get in touch

Here at Allegro Blinds, we supply and install a wide range of both manual and motorised blinds, catering to every style, taste and budget. 

To find out more about our range of blinds or to arrange a free home visit and quotation across St Albans, Watford, Harrow, Welwyn and Dunstable/Luton, please contact your local branch or send us an enquiry.