Technology has come a long way in recent decades and has impacted all aspects of life, including our homes. In the not-so-distant past, a tech-savvy homeowner might have an answering machine or programmable coffee machine. These days, many homes are equipped with smart devices that can do much more. Have you ever worried about whether you left the iron on or didn’t close the garage door? A smart home can tell you. 

Home renovations are an opportunity to implement smart home technology at the same time you’re changing the layout and sprucing up the decor.

About Smart Home Technology

Smart home technology essentially allows you to use devices to remotely control various features in the house. Depending on the device, it might incorporate Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, smartphones, remotes, or other wireless technology to connect appliances and devices. Many people rely on smart home technology for safety, convenience, and to improve their standard of living. 

Examples of Smart Home Technology

Many features in a home can be made “smart” these days. Depending on your lifestyle and personal preferences, you might want to incorporate some of these smart home features into your next home renovation.

Doorbells and locks

Whether you’re comfy on the couch or out on the town, a smart doorbell can tell you who is knocking on your door. Depending on the type of device you choose, you can enjoy features such as live video, two-way communication, night vision, and control over the sound and volume of the doorbell. If your visitor is welcome and you want to let them in, smart locks allow you to do so with the press of a button on your phone.

Security cameras and alarm systems

Keep an eye on your property with indoor and outdoor security cameras that feed directly to your smartphone or tablet. Get alerted when a motion sensor is triggered, use facial recognition technology to let you know who’s home, or watch videos in real time. 

Outlets

Make your small appliances smarter by upgrading your outlets. Whether you use them to turn lamps on remotely or make sure the coffee pot gets turned off, these smart home features are versatile and easy to use. Control individual outlets from your phone or connect them to a voice-activated virtual assistant. 

Heating and cooling

Balance comfort and energy efficiency with a smart thermostat that is easy to program and can be changed remotely. Coming home early? Change your thermostat settings before you head out so your home will be at the desired temperature when you get there. Some thermostats, such as those by Nest, learn from your behavior or change the settings when you leave the house, so you don’t even have to think about it. 

A/V systems

If you’re a person who likes to be surrounded by sound, consider a whole-house smart audiovisual system. No matter where you are in the home, you can control what you’re listening to right from your smartphone. You can also incorporate smart technology into your home theater to eliminate remote controls and control everything from a single device.  

Lighting

In addition to controlling lighting through smart outlets, you can also incorporate smart bulbs throughout your home. Bulbs with built-in sensors make automatic adjustments depending on natural light, occupancy, and other factors. You can even use smart bulbs to create specific moods by changing the colors they emit. 

Fireplaces

Get the ultimate in luxury with a gas fireplace that you can control without leaving your comfy chair. Just ask your virtual assistant or open the app to turn it off and on, adjust the settings, or set a timer.

Smart Home Technology and Home Renovations

If you’re planning a home renovation and want to incorporate smart home features, the sooner your contractor knows, the better. In some cases, smart devices may require specific wiring design, custom installation, or specialized equipment. If your contractor understands your goals at the beginning of the project, they are better equipped to provide accurate estimates and plan the renovation project based on your desired timeline.

Do you have home renovation ideas that you would like to discuss with a professional? The Detail Renovations team is here to help. We have experience with all types of renovations and home features, including installing smart home devices. Just give us a call to get started.