If you already have a covered patio in Houston, motorized outdoor blinds are one of the easiest ways to make it usable all day. They block low afternoon sun, cut wind and keep mosquitoes out, then disappear into a slim cassette at the push of a button. String Lights Outdoor measures, manufactures and installs motorized outdoor blinds for Houston homes, and we make our blinds in-house in Texas, which keeps lead times short.
Who does this kind of work?
There are three types of companies you will usually find:
- Interior blind companies that also sell outdoor products. They may not have experience with wind, rain and humidity.
- Online sellers that ship a kit and leave measuring and installing to you.
- Outdoor shade specialists like us, who measure, build to size, install and service the system locally.
For an outdoor blind that has to handle Houston weather for years, a specialist is usually the safer choice.
Types of motorized outdoor blinds
Zip-track screens
The fabric edges lock into side tracks, which keeps the screen tight, reduces flapping in the wind and helps keep bugs out. This is the most popular choice for Houston patios.
Cable-guided shades
Guided by steel cables instead of tracks, these work well where a cleaner look or wider spans are needed. They are lighter on wind protection.
Under-pergola and roof shades
Horizontal shades that run under a pergola or skylight to add overhead shade. See an example below.
Choosing the fabric
Outdoor screen fabrics come in different openness levels. A more open fabric keeps more of your view and airflow. A tighter fabric blocks more heat and glare and gives more privacy. Many homeowners choose a medium openness for daytime comfort, or a privacy fabric on the side facing a neighbor. Darker colors usually give a clearer view out, while lighter colors reflect more heat. We bring samples to your home so you can see them in your own light.
What installation looks like
- Measure and check the structure. We confirm your patio beams or columns can carry the screen and that there is power for the motor.
- Choose fabric, frame color and controls. Remotes, wall switches, smart-home and app control, and sun or wind sensors are all options.
- Manufacture to size. Each blind is built to your exact openings in our Texas facility.
- Install and program. Most homes are finished in a day, and we show you how to use and care for the system.
Caring for outdoor blinds in Houston
Motorized outdoor blinds need very little maintenance, but a few habits help them last:
- Rinse the fabric with a hose and mild soap a few times a year to remove pollen, dust and mildew.
- Let wet fabric dry before rolling it up for long periods, when you can.
- Keep the tracks clear of leaves, spider webs and debris so the fabric runs smoothly.
- Raise the blinds in storms and high winds, or let a wind sensor do it for you.
- Check remotes and batteries once a year. If a remote stops working, see our guide what to check first.
Because we make our blinds in Texas, replacement fabric or parts can be produced locally if something is damaged. That is one of the biggest practical benefits of working with a local manufacturer: you are not waiting on overseas shipping for a simple repair.
Motorized patio blinds FAQ
Do I need an electrician?
Motors need power near the top of each blind. If an outlet or junction box is not there, we can coordinate the electrical work. Some options use rechargeable or solar motors.
Will the blinds stop mosquitoes?
Zip-track screens close the gaps at the sides, which makes them very effective at keeping insects out when fully down.
What happens in high wind?
Zip screens are built for wind, and an optional wind sensor raises them automatically when gusts get too strong. Raise them during storms.
Can I control them from my phone?
Yes. Many motors work with app control and smart-home systems. Learn about Somfy remote controls.
How long does it take?
Because we manufacture locally, lead times are typically shorter than imported products. We will give you a schedule with your quote.
Get motorized blinds for your covered patio
String Lights Outdoor has been building outdoor living spaces since 2016 and has been based in Houston since 2020. Our team handles the full project: site visit, design, engineering coordination, manufacturing, installation and after-sale service. We also manufacture our motorized blinds in-house in Texas.
The best first step is a design consultation ($500), which includes a free 3D design and a measurement drawing for your space, so you can see the finished project and make decisions with real numbers.
- Call 281.720.7272 or 832.866.2626
- Schedule a meeting online
- Request a quote
- Visit our showroom: Decorative Center of Houston, Suite 5002
Watch one of our recent projects: