SOLAR / SUN SHADES.

Filter heat and glare while preserving the view. Openness factors from 1% to 14% match every sun condition — west-facing summer rooms to north-facing offices.

Why this matters

SHADE THAT LETS
YOU SEE OUT.

Solar (or 'sun') shades are mesh fabric that filter solar heat and UV while preserving outward visibility. Lower openness percentages (1-3%) block more heat but reduce view-through; higher percentages (10-14%) preserve view but let more heat through. The right choice depends on the window's exposure and what you're trying to accomplish.

We carry the full range from major fabric mills (Mermet, Phifer, Sheerweave) and install in any frame system from Lutron to Hunter Douglas to commercial Draper. We help pick the right openness for each window.

20+

Year Lifespan

$500-2K+

Per Window

Day Install

Materials & Options

PICK YOUR OPENNESS.

1-3% Openness (Maximum Heat Block)

West-facing rooms in summer, dark TV rooms. Best heat rejection, limited view-through.

Heat priority

5% Openness (Balanced)

The standard. Excellent heat rejection AND preserved view-through. Most installs.

10-14% Openness (View Priority)

Premium view rooms — you barely see the shade is there. Less heat rejection.

View priority

The Build

MEASURED FOR EACH EXPOSURE.

Site Survey

Each window's exposure (N/S/E/W), summer-sun angle, view importance documented.

Fabric Selection

Openness % chosen per window. Color (charcoal, beige, white) selected.

Measure & Order

Professional measure. 4-8 week production.

Install & Test

Install + heat-block effectiveness verified on hot afternoon.

FAQ

SOLAR / SUN SHADES QUESTIONS.

What openness should I pick?

5% is the standard balance. 1-3% for west-facing summer rooms with serious heat issues. 10-14% for premium view-priority rooms.

Will I still see out at night?

Yes during the day, less so at night. Solar shades are one-way — see out during day, see in during night when interior lights are on. Add blackout shade for nighttime privacy.

Heat rejection vs glare reduction?

Both — solar shades block ~80-95% of solar heat (depends on openness) and dramatically reduce glare on screens.

Charcoal vs white fabric color?

Charcoal: best view-through, hides dirt. White: brighter interior, slightly less view-through. Beige is the popular middle.

Cost per window?

Manual roller solar shade: $500-$900. Motorized: $900-$1,800. Premium Lutron: $1,500-$3,000.

Heat reduction in actual degrees?

West-facing room with no shade: surface temps to 100°F+ in afternoon. Same room with 5% solar shade: 75-80°F. Real difference.