Control light, privacy, and comfort with a single touch. Powered by world-leading Somfy® technology for seamless home automation.
The Architectural Challenge of Two-Story Windows
Two-story great rooms and soaring vaulted ceilings are hallmark architectural features in modern upscale homes across the United States and Mexico. While these grand window expanses fill living spaces with natural architectural beauty, they create severe functional challenges when unmanaged.
Direct glare can ruin television viewing and screen visibility, while concentrated ultraviolet (UV) radiation damages wood flooring, valuable artwork, and interior upholstery. Furthermore, unshaded upper glass acts as a thermal funnel, capturing solar radiation during summer and radiating heat loss in winter.
Why Manual Window Coverings Fail on Vaulted Windows
Attempting to operate manual corded or wand-driven blinds on upper-tier windows positioned 14 to 24 feet off the floor is impractical and hazardous:
- Safety Hazards: Using tall ladders or extension poles to adjust cords daily poses continuous fall risks for homeowners.
- Aesthetic Clutter: Exceptionally long, dangling cords or extension wands disrupt the clean aesthetic of architectural rooms and create child safety hazards.
- Wear and Tear: Operating heavy, large-scale manual shades via long cords places uneven tension on brackets and roller mechanisms, leading to premature gear failure.
Engineered Motorized Solutions for High Windows
At INTERBLINDS SHUTTERS, we design custom motorized window treatments specifically engineered for hard-to-reach architectural openings.
Custom Commercial-Grade Solar Roller Shades
High-performance solar shade fabrics with 1%, 3%, or 5% openness factors block up to 99% of harmful UV rays and cut aggressive screen glare while preserving panoramic outdoor views. Heavy-duty aluminum hem bars ensure stable tracking on multi-story drops.
High-Torque Somfy® Tubular Motors
Large window expanses require specialized internal motors designed to lift substantial fabric weight quietly and smoothly. As an official Somfy partner, INTERBLINDS SHUTTERS integrates precision high-torque motors capable of synchronous multi-shade movement.
Power & Control Options for Two-Story Openings
Powering and operating shades 20 feet above floor level requires thoughtful engineering during product selection:
- Hardwired Low Voltage (24V DC / 120V AC): The gold standard for new construction or major remodels. Hardwiring delivers permanent, maintenance-free power directly from central distribution panels.
- Solar Panel Trickle Chargers: For existing homes without wall pre-wiring, discreet solar panels mounted behind the glass continually recharge internal lithium-ion batteries, completely eliminating manual battery maintenance.
- Voice & Automated Scenes: Control upper shades effortlessly via Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, Google Assistant, or multi-channel RF wall switches configured for one-touch operation.
High Window Shade Comparison Matrix
Shade Style | Glare & Heat Control | Recommended Power Source | Ideal Application
|
|---|---|---|---|
Motorized Solar Roller Shades | Optimal (Cuts glare, preserves view) | Solar Panel Trickle / Hardwired DC | Two-story great rooms & sun-exposed living spaces |
Cellular / Honeycomb Shades | Maximum Thermal Insulation | Hardwired AC/DC or Extended Lithium Battery | Vaulted bedrooms & extreme temperature climates |
Dual Motorized Roller System | Complete Flexibility (Day solar screen + Night blackout) | Hardwired Low-Voltage 24V DC | Multi-purpose home theaters & great rooms |
Ready to Experience Smart Living?
Transform your home with custom motorized blinds tailored to your style and budget.
Contact us today to schedule your Free In-Home Consultation and let’s elevate your home’s style together!