Cutting-edge solar shading solutions
Designed to achieve energy benefits and ensure thermal comfort in buildings, solar shading solutions offer a wide range of options. Some are particularly innovative, like expanded metal.
What are solar shading solutions?
This term generally refers to devices that protect indoor spaces from solar radiation, contributing to energy efficiency and reducing heating and cooling costs.
Solar shading solutions are systems applied to the exterior of transparent glass surfaces.
Their use optimises thermal gains during colder months, keeping indoor spaces warm. In hotter periods, they reduce temperatures, acting as a barrier against solar rays.
Suitable for structures with large windows, solar shading solutions are also a valuable option for regular residential buildings.
Examples of solar shading solutions
A distinction must be made between solar shading solutions and darkening closures.
- Solar shading solutions reduce the surface exposed to solar radiation.
- Darkening closures, on the other hand, are additional elements for windows and include shutters, blinds, and roller blinds.
Among solar shading solutions, we have:
- sun awnings;
- canopies;
- adjustable louvres;
- sunscreens.
These devices can regulate light and thermal flows and adapt to changes in temperature and light. Another characteristic that defines the role of shading solutions is that they are combined with fixtures or glass surfaces.
There are different types of shading solutions:
- interior solar shading solutions;
- exterior solar shading solutions;
- integrated solar shading solutions.
Going into detail, interior shading solutions are installed inside a space and block solar radiation after it has already entered through the glass surfaces.
Exterior shading solutions provide better performance because they are positioned outside the structure, blocking radiation before it spreads indoors.
They are further divided into:
- fixed solar shading solutions: these are integrated with the external facade and define its architectural appearance. They protect against solar rays while allowing visibility to the outside.
- mobile solar shading solutions: they are activated only when needed, for example when solar radiation significantly affects the facade.
Finally, the term integrated shading solutions refers to those inserted between the two layers that make up the glass surface.
Expanded metal sunscreens
An effective shading system can be achieved using expanded metal. It has all the qualities needed to serve as a protective screen for a facade, ensuring living comfort and contributing to energy savings.
To mitigate external heat, the mesh created by the expanded metal is an optimal solution. The manufacturing techniques allow for the production of models with variable openings, facilitating control over radiation onto glass walls. Simultaneously, the arrangement promotes a better use of natural light, enhancing the perception of the surrounding environment.
The mesh does not completely obstruct the view thanks to its transparency, making it ideal for the natural flow of light and air. It is not a standard product: it takes on shapes and colours that transform it into a functional and aesthetic component. Energy efficiency is accompanied by architectural harmony that materialises in movement and visual lightness.
Moreover, expanded metal is not just optimal but also an intelligent solution. Its flexibility is fully expressed as even mobile sunscreens can be made from it. It is not a static, fixed product, but adapts to different moments of the day.ta.
A sustainable choice
An exterior cladding made of expanded metal represents creativity, long-term durability, ease of maintenance and weather resistance.
It creates interplays of light and shadow, with its colours standing out under changing natural illumination throughout the day. Cutting-edge production processes are essential for bringing sustainability, structural climate performance and indoor environmental quality to fruition in projects.
By applying special panels that do not compromise transparency and lightness, expanded metal enhances thermal insulation.
Sustainability in the production of expanded metal begins right from its manufacturing. It generates no waste, and at the end of its long lifecycle, it can be easily entirely recycled. All of this contributes to optimising the final outcome and defining the versatile nature of this material.e.
