Why plan early?
Shade pockets give a clean, built-in look and hide the shade when it is open. They are far easier to build before drywall.
Pockets and depth
The pocket must be large enough for the shade and its hardware. Your installer can provide dimensions.
Power for motors
Hardwired motors need low-voltage wiring at each window. Battery motors need no wiring but need occasional charging.
Control wiring
Plan keypad locations and, if you use Control4, wiring back to the equipment closet.
Coordinate trades
Share plans with your builder and electrician so pockets and wiring land in the right place.
Coordinating trades
- Architect or designer: decide which windows get pockets and the look
- Framer: builds the pocket to the installer's dimensions
- Electrician or low-voltage installer: runs power or low-voltage to each motor
- Drywall: finishes the pocket cleanly
- Shade installer: measures after drywall and installs
Recessed vs surface
A recessed pocket hides the shade completely for a minimalist look. When pockets aren't possible, a fascia or valance covers the roller neatly and is easier to add later.
Common questions
Do all windows need pockets?
No. Many projects use pockets on the main rooms and fascias elsewhere.
Which shades do you install?
See custom shades and Control4 shades.