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Platform on sun and daylight control, shutters, patio covers and closures
This article could also have been in Z&R 2 - Theme Screens - or in Z&R 6 - Theme Shutters - or Z&R 7 - Theme Outdoor Blinds. But it is also in place in Z&R 1. After all, the question of which product is the best solution in a given situation is always topical. The personal preferences of the end user play a role, as well as sound advice from the sun protection specialist.
Screen awnings. (Image: Isotra.)
The Roman architect Vitruvius once said, "Architecture is about upholding three principles: durability, utility and beauty. It cannot be put into words any better. After all, contemporary architecture is not only about interesting design, but also about the functionality of the applied solutions. Clients expect architects and other building professionals to
- including shading specialists - develop a vision when designing a residential or commercial building. This involves not only reducing operating costs, but also securing ease of use.
This also applies to the choice of a suitable sun protection system, which must not only protect the interior of rooms or spaces from overheating, but also meet other expectations, for example - often not least - in terms of aesthetics. However, the market offers many different sun protection solutions, which perform different functions, which only increases the dilemmas of architects and clients and makes the choice of a sun protection product more difficult.
Roller shutters. (Image: Aluprof.)
Screens are now one of the most popular forms of sun protection. Therefore, they are frequently used not only in commercial construction, but also in residential construction. Screens not only protect from intensive solar radiation, but also from the prying eyes of unwanted persons. They also provide an effective optical barrier to light entering the room. At the same time, the view to the outside does not have to be obstructed. With careful fabric selection, screens can also be a stylish design element that gives a living space or office a unique character. Screens do not have a security function like shutters, which normally add more to the sense of security. We prevent nosiness and help improve privacy.
Outdoor shutters in turn also have their specific characteristics. Compared to other shading systems, their construction is more durable and sturdy, withstanding both severe weather conditions and mechanical factors. When cold, roller shutters form a barrier that effectively protects the space behind from heat loss. In heat, they protect against overheating, which can reduce the use of air conditioning and further reduce the operating costs of a home or building.
The security aspect is also an important feature of roller shutters. That shutters protect against burglary has already been mentioned. In addition, roller shutters increase privacy. Mounted in accordance with the system supplier's guidelines, they also often have good acoustic properties, making noise from outside perceived as significantly less annoying. A number of suppliers have roller shutter systems in which an insect screen is also integrated, so that annoying insects are kept out.
Exterior blinds. (Image: Aluprof.)
Exterior blinds provide effective protection from extreme heat while maintaining optische comfort. A characteristic feature of this type of sun protection is the ability to adjust the angle of the slats so that the optimum degree of shading/darkening can always be chosen.
Exterior blinds are also trendy products with an industrial look, which are often used on large glass surfaces due to their possible size. Because of their "open" construction, this type of blinds does tend to be slightly more sensitive to harsh (weather) conditions than srcreens or shutters.
Contemporary architecture means not only a beautiful and modern appearance, but also functionality of the applied solutions. Thus, the choice of an appropriate system depends mainly on the needs and expectations of the client. Considering the advantages and disadvantages of the available solutions, exterior roller shutters seem to be the most versatile solution, because in addition to the sun protection function, they can also fulfill many other practical functions, such as blackout, burglary protection and - last but not least - energy saving. The latter aspect is important in view of increasingly stringent regulations regarding energy-efficient construction and energy policies that force EU member states to reduce energy consumption in all aspects of our lives. But the choice of a suitable sunshade depends on more factors than just pure rationality and practicality. Personal preferences, for example. The sun protection specialist can do no more than provide the best possible information so that the end user can make a considered decision for himself whether it will be screens, shutters or outdoor blinds.
