Benefits of Shading
Shading systems are invaluable tools of climate resilience to reduce energy use and carbon emissions as well as support our health and wellbeing.
As summers grow hotter, even in places with mild climates, overheating has become an urgent issue in new and old buildings. Shading – especially external shading – is very effective at preventing heat from the sun from entering the building. During winter, shading systems work in reverse, helping to insulate buildings by reducing heat loss through windows.
Enhanced comfort and wellbeing
Staying warm or keeping cool according to the time of year, avoiding extreme temperatures as well as managing light levels and maintaining privacy can trigger positive emotional and mental responses. Shading helps create a comfortable environment, minimising glare and enhancing productivity.
For every 1°C reduction in indoor overheating, workers’ performance improves, contributing to higher productivity in offices and workplaces.
Improved energy efficiency
Benefits of shading during summer
Climate change is causing record-breaking temperatures and more prolonged droughts with days exceeding 35°C becoming more common. Regions such as southern Europe are facing critical levels of heat stress. Shading – and especially external shading – prevents heat from the sun entering the building
Benefits of shading during winter
Shading has been proven to help reduce heat loss through windows, reducing demand for heating during the winter.
Research has shown that shading can reduce heat loss through windows by up to 33 per cent.
During the winter, open blinds and shutters in the day to get the heat from the sun and close them at night to retain warmth.
Protection against UV Rays
Long-term exposure to UV radiation is known to increase the risk of skin cancer, early ageing and eye impairment.
Shadings act as a barrier, keeping dangerous UV rays out of your indoor living areas. It allows natural light to flood the space without the dangers of excessive sunlight.
Over time UV radiation can also seriously harm household items. It can cause curtains, furniture, carpets and artwork to lose its colour.
Shading is a sustainable technology
Shading is a sustainable and energy-efficient solution for mitigating building overheating and optimising daylight management. It is a passive technology has been around for thousands of years.
It is more sustainable and cost-effective than relying on energy-hungry air conditioning, which also increases CO₂ emissions.
Using less power is one of 10 ways identified by the United Nations to help fight the climate crisis.
Shading not only keeps us cool but also reduces our carbon footprint, helping fight climate change one window at a time.
Electricity demand surged by 10% compared to normal summer peak demand during the 2003 heatwave in France, where temperatures hit 40°C.
Passive measures can dramatically decrease greenhouse gas emissions from cooling by reducing the demand for mechanical cooling, such as air conditioners.
Future proofing using solar shading
