It is more effective to block the suns heat from reaching your glass window or wall than dealing with the heat once it has entered your building environment. The right type of shading device must be chosen to avoid compromising natural light entering your building. Shading may be provided by a shading system or feature design that allows flexibility for seasonal changes or daily weather changes that may occur. For example, North facing windows should be shaded with devices that provide protection from the summer sun and, where required, allow the sun to enter the building in winter. In this case, shading can be provided by adjustable fabric pergolas, awnings, louvre’s, shutters or trees.
Useful Information
Vs. Internal Shading
External shading is much more effective in keeping your building cool than internal blinds or shutters.
Correct Installation Is Highly Important
Incorrect external shading devices can restrict natural light and make your internal living space dark.
Direction Plays A Factor
The most appropriate shading for your windows depends on the direction they face.
South Facing Windows
South facing windows require shading for low angled sunrise and sunset rays.
Eastern & Western Windows
Eastern and western windows should be well shaded from the morning and afternoon sun.
Planting Trees As Natural Shading
Natural shading like tall dense trees or shrubs should be used where possible but avoid planting large evergreen trees near north facing windows, they cast a long shadow in winter, limiting the amount of heat and light entering the building.
Impaired View
Be aware that fixed vertical shading like walls and louvers will provide summer shading but block views and winter sun.
Vertical Shading - Aesthetic Implications
Adjustable vertical shading covering the entire window is ideal but may not be aesthetically pleasing from the outside.
Striking The Right Balance
Ideally you want to strike a balance with all elements so that the overall experience for your building inhabitants is visually pleasing, comfortable and relaxing.
Custom Designs
Pergolas, awnings, louvre’s, shutters and trees must fit the overall design and theme of your building.
Receive the week’s most popular stories in your inbox every Saturday morning