Energy saving blinds can influence building energy demand by controlling solar gains at windows. In summer, external shading can reduce direct solar radiation before it reaches the glazing. In winter, opening shading during suitable daylight periods can allow solar gains, while closed roller shutters can add an insulating air layer in front of the window. The actual effect depends on glazing, orientation, building design, control strategy and user behaviour.
Automated external shading can react to time schedules or sensor inputs and support a defined shading strategy. The resulting effect on cooling or heating demand depends on the building, climate, glazing and control settings.
WAREMA has assessed the life-cycle CO2 effects of selected window awnings, roller shutters and external venetian blinds. Such assessments depend on product, building and use assumptions, so results should be interpreted in that context. In operation, external shading can reduce solar heat gains at glazed areas and can therefore lower cooling loads where cooling is used. The effect varies with facade orientation, glazing, climate and control strategy.
In air-conditioned buildings, external shading can reduce solar gains through windows and may therefore reduce cooling loads. Automated control can help operate the shading before rooms have already heated up, provided sensors, limits and control logic are configured for the building.
In buildings without active cooling, external shading can reduce direct solar radiation at windows and support summer thermal comfort. During colder periods, closed roller shutters can create an additional air layer in front of the glazing. A study by Hauser commissioned by IVRSA, as cited by WAREMA, reports heating-energy reductions of up to 30% for certain automated shading scenarios. Actual savings depend on the building and operating conditions.
Funding programmes and eligibility requirements for building refurbishment can change. Before planning a project, check the current official information for national, regional and local programmes and confirm which measures and technical requirements are eligible.
WAREMA Project Consulting supports architects and specialist planners with solar-shading concepts during the planning process. The scope can include facade integration, product selection and control requirements for the project.
Visit us at one of our Sunlight Experience Centres or contact your local WAREMA specialist retailer for advice and a project-specific quotation. The specialist dealer search helps you find a suitable contact in your area.