The benefits of Solar Shading Systems on modern buildings.
Reducing Solar Gain and Cooling Loads
Fixed horizontal fins are ideal for south facing façades, intercepting direct sun before it penetrates the glazing and heats up the building. Angled or vertical blades are more suitable for east and west facing façades as the sun is lower in the sky and horizontal blades would be ineffective.
Managing Daylight Quality Inside
Brise Soleil do not have to be obtrusive and in many cases can be designed to diffuse the sun’s rays to reduce the impact of sudden increases in light levels. Deep horizontal blades of Brise Soleil can reduce contrast and evenly distribute daylight throughout interior spaces thereby creating more comfortable working environments and reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day.
Meeting Energy Efficiency Regulations
In many cases Solar Shading Systems are now used as a means of building compliance and in addition to the building’s insulation and glazing specification, a Solar Shading System can be used to help meet the requirements of Part L of the Building Regulations in relation to limiting solar heat gain in both new and refurbished buildings.
Protecting the Facade
Many façade systems also act as a protective covering for the exterior of a building, and by virtue of their position, can also offer protection to the façade itself from rain and wind-driven debris. By protecting the exterior of the building from rain and wind-driven debris the façade protection afforded by solar shading can also help to extend the life of building materials such as glass and frame work.
Influencing Planning and Visual Identity
The detail of the Solar shading elements can also be used as a positive element in the external appearance of a building, often being picked up in the Planning conditions for particularly visible buildings or those of a large floor plate. If you are looking for Brise Soleil, see //alusystems.uk/brise-soleil-solar-shading/.
Getting the orientation and the correct blade geometry in the design phase will make all of the above points more achievable.
