sunshading

Sunshading refers to systems and strategies designed to control solar irradiation entering a building. The goal is to reduce unwanted heat gain, minimize glare, and protect interior furnishings while preserving daylight. Sunshading complements insulation and glazing technologies and is a central aspect of passive solar design and energy efficiency.

Methods can be exterior or interior. Exterior shading devices include overhangs, horizontal or vertical louvers, brise-soleil screens, shading fins, pergolas, and vegetative canopies. These reduce direct sun before it reaches the glass. Interior solutions include blinds, shades, curtains, and movable panels, often used in conjunction with exterior shading to manage daylight levels.

Design considerations include climate, sun path, window orientation, and the performance of the glazing (shading coefficient, SHGC, visible transmittance). Fixed elements may maximize annual savings in hot climates, while adjustable devices allow seasonal control. Aesthetic integration, durability, and maintenance are also important. The concept is frequently evaluated in energy simulations and building codes.

Materials and installation: common exterior shading materials include aluminum, steel, wood, and fabric screens. Movable devices can be manually operated or motorized. Integration with building systems such as automated shading linked to daylight sensors is common in modern buildings. The effectiveness of sunshading depends on proper sizing, placement, and coordination with glazing and insulation strategies.