Selling Motorized Blinds

The windows are measured, treatment style and color have been selected; your next question should be, "Would you like that manual or motorized?"

Motorized window coverings have gone mainstream, and to the design and decorating professional new to motorization, we urge a relaxed but cautious approach.

Making Motorized Blinds Relevant

Paramount to sales is product knowledge and the ability to make your product relevant to your customer. Some will be drawn to the high tech, leading edge image of motorization, but there are aspects of motorization that can be relevant to the majority.

· Convenience: Things once viewed as gadgets for the lazy such as automatic garage door openers, automobile power locks and windows and microwave ovens, are now considered conveniences. Motorized window coverings are coming into their own as a way to simplify the everyday household. Would your clients prefer to manually open a sunroom full of blinds? Or will they love the convenience of operating banks of blinds from a panel of switches located near the entrance of the room?

· Security: Putting home lighting on timers has long been accepted to deter home intruders. Motorization allows your customers to further the "lived in" look by putting their blinds on timers so they raise and lower during the day.

· Controlling UV Damage: Motorized blinds with comfort control sense the rise in temperature caused when sun conditions increase. By closing blinds to this sun intensity the investment made in room flooring and furnishings is protected from UV damage.

· Safety: Much has been written about the dangers of hanging operational cords on various types of window coverings. Motorized coverings have no loose hanging hazards.

· Reduced Wear and Tear: Motorization eliminates the pulling of operational cords through cord locking devices, which is the main weak link in most lift system coverings.

What You Need to Ask Your Client

Has there been any pre-wiring accommodation to the windows for the blinds? If yes, was the wiring done to accommodate high or low voltage? If no, from where will your electrician be able to source power? It is important to make notes of all lighting, switches and power outlets.

Is there more than 1 blind? Is there a particular grouping of operation that your customers desire? We find that many people want the choice of individual or group operation. Some individuals also look for a master exit switch, closing all motorized shades as they leave the premises.

How do your customers want to control their blinds? While wall switches are less expensive, allowances must be made for the cost of wiring to the switches. Often it is more reasonable to have remote operation. Now is the time to upgrade to the many options (timer, comfort control etc.) available.

Who will do the wiring to the blinds? Obtain a list of electricians experienced in wiring for motorized blinds. Clients are often nervous of things electric, and being able to provide them with the names of pre-qualified professionals can help close a sale.

First Time Jitters?

Don't let fear of the unknown keep you from offering this exciting option to your customers. We firmly believe in motorization and will provide you with all the information and support you need to offer it with confidence. You can fax, email or phone us to discuss your project. Send us drawings for consultation. Ask us questions. We will share with you our knowledge and expertise, and provide you with wiring diagrams and control option literature for your use.

We look forward to expanding your horizons.