Explore the research and benefits behind solar shading and our contributions to a more sustainable world

Solar radiation is an vital issue in all building projects as it has substantial impact on the internal environment and affects the design of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems. Selection of solar shading should always be one of the first steps in the design of HVAC systems, as the demand for power and the energy consumption are greatly influenced by solar shading. Shading makes it possible to prevent extra solar heat from entering the building and to avoid the need for additional cooling to remove this heat, which costs precious energy and, subsequently, money. In winter time, however, the free heat from the sun is very welcome to reduce the building’s heating cost.

Harness the power of the latest technologies to get the most out of your blinds, shutters and awnings. With new features being introduced all the time, you are sure to find a solution to make your life easier. From motorised blinds that open and close at the touch of a button or voice command to the latest innovations in fabrics and blind design, manufacturers constantly strive to improve usability and value. The iconic all-glass Shard building with views across London is a shining example of how state of the art shading can allow such structures to be built. Automation ensures shading is always in the optimum position for energy reduction, temperature and light control and health and wellbeing.

In short, yes! We are a committed player working with sustainable textiles, our mission is to act now to build a better tomorrow. Manufacturing innovative composite solutions for architectural and landscaping applications. Our high-end, solar protection solutions combine durability, safety, design, comfort and eco-responsibility.

Rising energy costs have made energy efficiency a top priority for everyone. Blinds and awnings are a proven way to save energy. They should be considered like other building energy efficiency measures and are typically low cost and can make a real difference. In the winter, during the day when it is sunny, open blinds to benefit from the free solar energy from the sun and close them in the evening to provide extra insulation and reduce heat loss to save energy and money. In summer, the process is reversed and closing the shading during the day can stop heat build-up in the room while opening them during the evening when the temperature is cooler allows some of the heat to escape with ventilation.

Research commissioned by the BBSA in some London flats, showed that internal operative temperatures (the temperature we feel) reached a scorching 47.5°C in rooms without shading. Rooms which had external blinds reached a maximum of just 28°C, a 41% reduction. Those with internal blinds closed peaked at 32°C. which is still too hot but the apartments in the research had limited ventilation to help remove the heat built up in the apartment during the day. Shading and ventilation are both needed to reduce overheating in homes. Closing blinds or shutters during the day helps to prevent solar gains and opening them again in the evening, along with windows and doors can help keep your home cooler.