Add Smart Window Treatment Control to Your Existing Home Without Tearing into Walls
Want motorized shades but worried about the mess and expense of rewiring? You're not alone. Most homeowners assume that adding smart shades means cutting into drywall, fishing wires, and dealing with a small renovation project. Retrofit battery shades completely solve this problem. Lutron's battery-powered systems provide full smart home integration and automated control without the wiring hassles, making them ideal for existing Houston homes where renovation isn't practical or desired.
SEE ALSO: Beat the Heat: How Motorized Shades Cut Energy Bills and Boost Comfort
Why Battery Shades Make Sense for Retrofits
With battery-powered shades, professional installation takes hours, not days. There's no electrical work, and no drywall repair afterward. The shades mount just like traditional window treatments, but with smart functionality built in.
Texas homeowners particularly appreciate the glare control. Lutron's sheer and light-filtering fabrics reduce harsh afternoon sun while preserving your views; you don’t need to choose between natural light and comfort. West-facing rooms that turn into saunas by 3 PM stay cooler without going dark. The fabrics also block UV rays that fade furniture and artwork, protecting your investment while keeping rooms bright and livable.
Lutron's Battery Technology Advantages
Lutron's battery shades operate on standard D-cell alkaline batteries, available at any store. Expect a replacement in 3-5 years. When batteries run low, the shades will move at half speed as a warning.
Replacing batteries takes just two minutes—the headrail tips forward to reveal the battery compartment—no tools or shade removal needed.
A standout feature is Intelligent Hembar Alignment. Multiple shades in the same room move in perfect synchronization, staying aligned within 1/8 inch even as batteries age at different rates. Available in roller, honeycomb, and wood blind styles up to 12' x 12', with whisper-quiet motors.
Integration with Lutron Control Systems
Battery shades integrate seamlessly with Lutron's lighting control systems, including RadioRA 3 and HomeWorks. Control everything from elegant keypads, the Lutron app, or voice commands through Josh.ai.
Coordinated scenes make daily life easier. "Good morning" raises bedroom shades and brightens kitchen lights. "Movie time" closes shades and dims lights automatically. Schedule shades to close during peak afternoon sun, reducing cooling costs without lifting a finger.
Why Choose FE SmartHome
FE SmartHome has installed Lutron systems throughout the Houston area for 25+ years. Contact FE Smart Home for a consultation on your shading needs.