Fixed v dynamic solar shading: the differences

Solar shading helps manage the amount of sunlight and heat entering a building. By blocking or redirecting sunlight, solar shading can reduce the need for air conditioning and artificial lighting. There are two main types of solar shading: fixed and dynamic. Knowing the differences between these two types will help you when deciding which one to use.

Fixed Solar Shading

Fixed solar shading includes shading devices that stay in one place and cannot be adjusted. These devices are built into the structure of the building and are designed to block or direct sunlight.

Brise Soleil can be either fixed or dynamic, depending on the design. A brise soleil specialist like https://alusystems.uk/brise-soleil-solar-shading/ will be able to provide you with a variety of solar shading systems to suit your needs.

Key Features of Fixed Solar Shading:

– The common types include overhangs, louvres and fins which are placed over windows or on the building’s exterior.

– The effectiveness of fixed shading depends on how well it’s designed. Designers consider factors like the direction the windows face and the location of the building.

– Fixed shading can block out a lot of heat during the summer, but it might also block heat during the winter, which could increase your heating costs.

– Since there are no moving parts, fixed shading is low maintenance.

Dynamic Solar Shading

Dynamic solar shading refers to shading systems that can adjust and adapt to changing conditions. These systems can move or change their settings automatically or manually, depending on things like the sun’s position or the weather.

Key Features of Dynamic Solar Shading:

– Dynamic shading can change its angle throughout the day, so you can better control the amount of sunlight that enters the building.

– Common Types include motorised blinds, curtains, retractable awnings, canopies and internal shutters .

– Dynamic shading is more energy-efficient because it can adapt to the conditions, letting in light when needed and blocking it when it’s too hot.

– Dynamic shading is more expensive to install, but it can save money on energy bills in the long run.