From reducing heat gain in summer to preventing heat loss in winter, shading systems offer real performance benefits. Window shading is more than just decorative. Window shades play a critical role in energy conservation across both residential and commercial buildings.
This page outlines the key ways shading contributes to energy efficiency, why architects and homeowners are embracing these systems, and how WSAA is supporting innovation and sustainability across the industry.
While older buildings may consume large amounts of energy to maintain comfort, even modern, highly insulated structures are prone to overheating.
Dynamic solar control through the use of internal and external shading helps address both challenges.
The International Energy Agency (IEA) recognises dynamic exterior shading as a key feature in energy-efficient building envelopes. Automation and solar-responsive design have been identified as high-return technologies in achieving future energy goals.
Window shadings and outdoor sun shades can be very effective at making a home more energy efficient, as they shade and blockout the sun in summer and insulate from the cold in winter.
WincovER helps to compare the energy efficiency of the various types of window shadings. However, to benefit the most from your window shadings and outdoor shades, it is important to open and close them at times when they will provide maximum benefit.
Whether you're building a new home or improving an existing one, window orientation, and shading placement all play a vital role in passive design. These guidelines help you choose suitable products and apply practical strategies that maximise natural light and reduce energy use.
