Brise soleil is a type of solar shading that can help keep buildings cool with no need for machinery. It works by keeping out unnecessary sunlight and preventing excessive solar gain. Let’s look at the features and benefits.
Brise soleil in more detail
Brise soleil is a type of architectural feature that will keep out direct sunlight when this is needed the most. It is not designed to block light; instead, sunlight is allowed to enter during periods when it is not at its strongest, such as in winter and during the morning and evening. This enables solar gain at some periods but cuts out excessive levels that can cause buildings to become too hot.
Why might you consider brise soleil?
Brise soleil from companies such as https://alusystems.uk/brise-soleil-solar-shading can reduce the costs associated with cooling systems and air conditioning whilst increasing comfort for people inside the buildings. Solar gain via unshaded windows can reach 700 watts/m but can drop almost sevenfold with the help of effective solar shading.
Brise soleil can also help property owners comply with building regulations aimed at preventing overheating and use passive cooling rather than mechanical methods. This is both better for the environment and helps keep costs down.
Other benefits of brise soleil include increased productivity and comfort levels within the building and a reduction in glare, which can be important in offices and other commercial premises. The fact that light is still allowed into the building prevents the need to use blinds and reduces the requirement for artificial lighting inside.
Positioning of brise soleil
Brise soleil works best when it is located on elevations that face south, as this is where the highest levels of solar gain occur. Horizontal brise soleil will block out the sun while it is at its highest points but let it in when it is at a lower level. Vertical brise soleil can also be used on west and east-facing facades to block out evening and early morning sun; what’s more, there is even adjustable brise soleil, which follows the sun.