Sustainability Benefits

Sustainability Benefits

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Research & Associations

Research & Associations

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Our Eco Responsibility

Our Eco Responsibility

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Explore the research and benefits behind solar shading and our contributions to a more sustainable world

We’ve been manufacturing solar shading products for over 160 years. Over that time we’ve learnt a few things about limiting unwanting glare from the sun and taking control of your immediate environment. In recent years we’ve become passionate about sharing our knowledge with industry peers and educating as many people as possible about the benefits our products bring to the modern world.

In this section of our site, you can find information on the sustainable benefits blinds, awnings and canopies offer, alongside a wealth of further reading resources should you want to delve deep into the topic. You can also learn about what we do as a business to improve our carbon footprint and our long term commitments to a more sustainable future.

Testimonial background
We're committed to manufacturing the best and most sustainable solar shading products on the market

Matthew Garnett, Managing Director

James Robertshaw
We are thrilled with the Shade Sails by James Robertshaw and we know the children and teachers are too.

Anne Hamilton, Head Teacher

Evelina Children’s Hospital School
The blinds really suit the contemporary, urban aesthetic of the building.

Pete Smith, Home owner

Passivhaus

Sustainability & Energy Saving FAQs

Can solar shading improve the comfort of individuals inside the building?

Solar radiation is an vital issue in all building projects as it has substantial impact on the internal environment and affects the design of HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning) systems. Selection of solar shading should always be one of the first steps in the design of HVAC systems, as the demand for power and the energy consumption are greatly influenced by solar shading. Shading makes it possible to prevent extra solar heat from entering the building and to avoid the need for additional cooling to remove this heat, which costs precious energy and, subsequently, money. In winter time, however, the free heat from the sun is very welcome to reduce the building’s heating cost.

What are some case studies or examples of successful solar shading installations that have improved sustainability and energy efficiency in buildings?

Harness the power of the latest technologies to get the most out of your blinds, shutters and awnings. With new features being introduced all the time, you are sure to find a solution to make your life easier. From motorised blinds that open and close at the touch of a button or voice command to the latest innovations in fabrics and blind design, manufacturers constantly strive to improve usability and value. The iconic all-glass Shard building with views across London is a shining example of how state of the art shading can allow such structures to be built. Automation ensures shading is always in the optimum position for energy reduction, temperature and light control and health and wellbeing.

Do you offer solar shading products made from sustainable materials?

In short, yes! We are a committed player working with sustainable textiles, our mission is to act now to build a better tomorrow. Manufacturing innovative composite solutions for architectural and landscaping applications. Our high-end, solar protection solutions combine durability, safety, design, comfort and eco-responsibility.

In what ways does solar shading contribute to environmental sustainability?

Rising energy costs have made energy efficiency a top priority for everyone. Blinds and awnings are a proven way to save energy. They should be considered like other building energy efficiency measures and are typically low cost and can make a real difference. In the winter, during the day when it is sunny, open blinds to benefit from the free solar energy from the sun and close them in the evening to provide extra insulation and reduce heat loss to save energy and money. In summer, the process is reversed and closing the shading during the day can stop heat build-up in the room while opening them during the evening when the temperature is cooler allows some of the heat to escape with ventilation.

Should buildings in the UK be cooled or heated in terms of energy efficiency?

Research commissioned by the BBSA in some London flats, showed that internal operative temperatures (the temperature we feel) reached a scorching 47.5°C in rooms without shading. Rooms which had external blinds reached a maximum of just 28°C, a 41% reduction. Those with internal blinds closed peaked at 32°C. which is still too hot but the apartments in the research had limited ventilation to help remove the heat built up in the apartment during the day. Shading and ventilation are both needed to reduce overheating in homes. Closing blinds or shutters during the day helps to prevent solar gains and opening them again in the evening, along with windows and doors can help keep your home cooler.

Outdoor Solutions

Outdoor Solutions

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Indoor solutions

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