Motorized Shades vs Manual Shades: Which Is Worth the Extra Cost?
January 21, 2026
Get sun when you want it, shade when you need it. Zinga's Indianapolis designs and installs custom retractable awnings for patios, decks, and balconies.
When it comes to decking out our homes or businesses, we’re all about maximizing comfort, utility, and style. That’s why we believe our retractable awnings, with their incredible standard features, are the perfect addition to any building. Designed with your needs in mind, these awnings offer a blend of functionality and aesthetics you won’t find anywhere else.
At Zinga’s, we understand the importance of versatility and convenience. That’s why our retractable awnings come with numerous standard features you’ll love. Right off the bat, they’re motorized, making it super easy to retract or extend them based on your needs. Plus, they feature integrated LED lights, ensuring your outdoor spaces are well-lit even after sunset. But that’s not all.
We’re committed to offering you the best. Our awnings come in over 30 fabric options, allowing you to choose the one that best complements your decor. We know every space is unique, and we believe in providing solutions that cater to your individual needs. With our retractable awnings, you’re not just getting a product, you’re investing in a solution that enhances your lifestyle.
We’ve all been there on a sweltering summer day, the sun’s intense blaze making the outdoor patio unbearable. Well, that’s where retractable awnings come into play. They’re our private cloud on a sunny day, our shield from the scorching sun. As we extend them out, they instantly transform our outdoor space into a comfortable haven, allowing us to enjoy the warmth of the day without the risk of harmful UV rays.
Retractable awnings aren’t just practical, they’re also an aesthetic addition to our homes. As they unfurl, they add a pop of color to our outdoor spaces, in hues ranging from the soft blush of a summer sunset to the deep blues of a tranquil ocean. It’s not just shade they provide, but a splash of style as well. They’re adjustable too, so we can control how much sun we let in. Want to bask in a bit of gentle morning sunlight? We can partially retract the awning. Need full protection from the harsh midday sun? We extend it all the way.
But the beauty of retractable awnings is more than just their versatility. They’re durable, designed to withstand the elements. Whether it’s a searing summer day or a cool, breezy afternoon, our awnings stand strong. Rain or shine, they’re our reliable companions for outdoor relaxation. So, next time the sun’s rays seem uninviting, don’t let it keep us indoors. With our retractable awnings, we’ve got the perfect solution for sun protection outdoors.
At Zinga’s, we’ve been offering custom window treatments, including retractable awnings, for 25 years now. We’re based in Indianapolis, and we know a thing or two about weather and how to use it to your advantage. We believe that retractable awnings are more than just a style statement; they’re a practical addition to any home. They’re not just about giving your home a facelift; they have a significant role in energy efficiency and comfort.
Retractable awnings provide shade when you need it and sunlight when you want it. They’re a fantastic way to control the temperature in your home without using extra energy. Here are three reasons why we think they’re a must-have:
So, if you’re considering custom window treatments, don’t overlook the significant benefits of retractable awnings. They’re a practical, stylish, and energy-efficient addition that we’re confident you’ll love.
Explore our shading systems, designed to bring comfort, protection and style to your windows, patios & outdoor living areas.
Schedule ConsultationWe bring sample products & fabrics directly to your home so you can see and feel the products in your home.
We take precise measurements of all your windows and provide you a no pressure quote at the time of your consultation.
Installation completed by Zinga's employee who are experts in their craft. Free yourself of the stress of installing.
I will come back and update post issue resolution. Overall I would tell you to look elsewhere for your blinds. It has been a frustrating experience. The sales person was completely unrealistic with timeframe to get installed and the worst part was he sold me an automation solution that is not technically possible with product installed. I was very clear about what I wanted and now have blinds that cannot be automated. Two blinds arrived in wrong configuration and one was broken from factory. The partner they use to build blinds clearly had QC issues. Time will tell how they hold up. To be fair the installation team was great. I’d give them a 5 star as they were efficient, courteous and clean up as they went. Post sale service has also been responsive thus far to resolve product issues. This is third new build since 2020 I have installed new blinds in and sadly easily worst experience of them. As promised I want to be fair and update my review. The install and post sale resolution team have been very good. Install was done well and post sale follow up on issues has been very good. I’d give them both 5 stars separately. I do think front end sales still needs work to support the rest of team to manage expectations correctly. I will post final update once final resolution has been completed.
Zinga's is a total class act from start to finish. The entire process was smooth, professional, and well-organized. Amber C and the warranty team were responsive, knowledgeable, and genuinely helpful - not rushed, not dismissive, just solid customer service done right. The cordless option is fantastic, the install was clean, and everything works exactly as promised. You can tell this company cares about doing things correctly and standing behind their work. Highly recommend Zinga's if you want quality products, clear communication, and a team that actually follows through. Wendy M.
Tyler and Peyton just completed the installation of our automated shades. They both were professional and efficient at their job. They arrived on time, did a great job with the installation, cleaned up after they were finished, and ensured we understood how to use and maintain the shades. Excellent customer service. Highly recommend Zingas!
Todd replaced our blinds for three large windows and the vertical blinds for a three section sliding glass door. I'm really happy with results. He did an excellent job! Will definitely recommend.
Adrian was my sales rep and he was amazing. There was some confusion about dates and scheduling the install. I reached out to Adrian and he contacted me immediately. Adrian reassured me that the issue would be taken care of by the end of the day and he stood by his word. The professionalism he displayed is so much appreciated!! Great job Adrian a trust worthy employee who stands behind his word !! Thank you!!
Ricky & Craig were here to install the Hub that connects all the shades on one place thru an app on your phone. Very convenient and easy for a homeowner to use, everything was explained as they initialized the control. They were very efficient, knowledgeable and friendly. I would highly recommend Zinga’s for shades.
Fred Jacobi did a great job installing a new blind cord. Fred is very professional with a great personality. If you are a Zinga's customer, I highly recommend Fred to take care of your needs/installations.
I was so very happy and impressed with this transaction. My salesman was upfront and totally honest with me. I received updates on my order on a regular basis. My installer Ricky was friendly and respectful. I believe I could not have this kind of service from any competitor. Blessings to Ricky and the rest of the Zinga’s employees who made this a great experience. Andy Frick
MAS electric and installers did a great job. Very fast and professional. Zinga’s communications could use some improvement, but overall I would recommend them. Justin, Drew, and Peyton worked through the weather and installed and tested the unit before they left.
Ricky and Rob came to install plantation shutters throughout my house, as well as a screened porch shade. What a fine job they did! They were fast and efficient and cleaned up so nicely, it was as if they were never here. They also were careful and tolerant about my pets. I couldn’t have asked for better service.
Ricky did an excellent job installing our plantation shutters. He was prompt, neat and knowledgeable. It looks wonderful
Phil, Todd and Ricky and true professionals. They arrived and put our outdoor screen along with indoor motorized blinds up in record time and did a great job.
Danny, Justin and Peyton did an excellent job installing our motorized screens. They were very knowledgeable about the product and explained all aspects of use and care of the screens and track. The work site was kept neat at all times and they cleaned the area before leaving. We highly recommend this crew and this company.
We just had window treatments installed through Zinga’s, and Mark did an amazing job! He explained everything from start to finish and was incredibly attentive to detail. For our new home, he made sure to protect the work area by putting towels down, which showed his care and precision. Our new windows look fantastic, and we couldn’t be happier with the service. Highly recommend them! Thank you, Mark 🙏🏻
Ricky and Todd installed my blinds and did an amazing job. They were quick and efficient and cleaned up after themselves leaving no mess. They even took their shoes off at my request. I will definitely refer then to my clients since I'm a realtor and I plan to use their services again to screen in my back patio.