Fixed screens
|
|
These metal perforated sheets, suitable for balconies and deck access buildings, can lend a unique aesthetic to a building while also contributing to residents’ privacy. Where they are placed, however, is crucial - to avoid interference with ventilation and views, which can be significantly reduced.
| Overheating mitigation | High | Effective in all orientations. Effectiveness depends on the screen's free area |
| Winter solar gains | Low | Blocks useful solar gains |
| Daylight | Low | Reduced all year round |
| Ventilation | N/A | Depends mainly on the position of the screen. The impact of the free area of the screen will increase the closer to the window it is installed |
| Wind resistance | High | Robust fixed element |
| Operability | N/A | Operation is not required. Suitable for reduced mobility occupants. The performance is always as per design |
| Maintenance | Low | Inspect fixings |
| Cost | £ |
|
"These patterned screens - with William Morris roses - shield west-facing access decks from bright sunlight." Colby Lodge, London. Pollard Thomas Edwards |
The article is an extract from Shading for Housing, Design guide for a changing climate, published by the Good Homes Alliance and the British Blinds and Shutters Association in 2023. You can download the guide in full at: https://bbsa.org.uk/new-design-guide-on-shading-for-housing/
--BBSA
[edit] Related articles
Featured articles and news
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.
Licensing construction in the UK
As the latest report and proposal to licence builders reaches Parliament.
Building Safety Alliance golden thread guidance
Extensive excel checklist of information with guidance document freely accessible.
Fair Payment Code and other payment initiatives
For fair and late payments, need to work together to add value.
Pre-planning delivery programmes and delay penalties
Proposed for housebuilders in government reform: Speeding Up Build Out.
High street health: converting a building for healthcare uses
The benefits of health centres acting as new anchor sites in the high street.
The Remarkable Pinwill Sisters: from ‘lady woodcarvers’ to professionals. Book review.
Skills gap and investment returns on apprenticeships
ECA welcomes new reports from JTL Training and The Electrotechnical Skills Partnership.
Committee report criticises UK retrofit schemes
CIOB responds to UK’s Energy Security and Net Zero Committee report.
Design and construction industry podcasts
Professional development, practice, the pandemic, platforms and podcasts. Have we missed anything?
C20 Society; Buildings at Risk List 2025
10 more buildings published with updates on the past decade of buildings featured.
Boiler Upgrade Scheme and certifications consultation
Summary of government consultation, closing 11 June 2025.
Deputy editor of AT, Tim Fraser, discusses the newly formed society with its current chair, Chris Halligan MCIAT.
Barratt Lo-E passivhaus standard homes planned enmasse
With an initial 728 Lo-E homes across two sites and many more planned for the future.
Government urged to uphold Warm Homes commitment
ECA and industry bodies write to Government concerning its 13.2 billion Warm Homes manifesto commitment.
From project managers to rising stars, sustainability pioneers and more.
Places of Worship in Britain and Ireland, 1929-1990. Book review.