I get your point about automated blinds being pricey—had a similar experience myself. Decided instead to invest in passive shading solutions like strategic landscaping and reflective window films. Cheaper, reliable, and surprisingly effective... plus no firmware worries!
Good call on the passive shading—landscaping especially can be a game changer. I've recommended reflective films to clients before, and they're usually surprised how much heat they block without sacrificing natural light. Still, automated blinds aren't always a firmware nightmare... had a client whose cat figured out the manual controls and kept messing with them. Automation saved their sanity (and blinds). Guess it depends on your pets as much as your budget, haha.
"Automation saved their sanity (and blinds). Guess it depends on your pets as much as your budget, haha."
- Fair point about pets, but honestly, automated blinds still feel like overkill to me.
- Reflective films are solid though—cheap, effective, no firmware updates needed.
- My dog ignores blinds completely... guess I'm lucky there.
- Automated blinds do seem a bit much for most situations, but reflective films aren't always ideal either—depends on your window orientation and local climate. I've found simple blackout curtains strike a good balance: affordable, pet-proof, and zero tech headaches.
Blackout curtains are solid, especially if pets are involved. Tried automated blinds once—my cat thought they were a new toy... expensive mistake. Now I stick to quality curtains: simple, reliable, and no surprise vet visits.
