A pleasant coolness does not "fall from the sky" on its own in hot summer days, even in attic apartments where the roof windows face the sun. Interior overheating must be prevented, for example, by air conditioning, or through a more traditional, healthier, and energy-efficient solution in the form of suitable shading elements. The outdoor shading from VELUX can capture most of the heat from solar radiation, and its effect is, after all, year-round.
Outdoor shading technology offers solutions where internal shading alone is not enough. Compared to internal shading, it provides an effective barrier to heat that would otherwise easily pass through glazed surfaces into the interior. And it is advisable to shade windows in attic rooms that are exposed to direct sunlight during tropical days. "Interior roller blinds and shades can handle light, but they are inadequate against overheating the interior. Many people do not realize that outdoor solutions are the only effective protection against heat. When we need to regulate the temperature in the room using shading accessories, we must stop the heat before it even reaches the window glass," explains the essence of shading operation Jakub Mrázek, a product specialist at VELUX.
The lightweight VELUX solar-powered external roller blind creates coolness and silence
The new product from last year, the lightweight external roller blind VELUX SSS combines the ability to maintain a cooler climate indoors while effectively darkening the space. It is made from a sturdy polyester fabric coated with PVC and reinforced with aluminum slats. The fabric does not let light through, is UV resistant, and does not degrade over time.
At the same time, the lightweight VELUX external roller blind helps muffle noise from rain (reducing noise by 7 dB) and, thanks to its solar power, has very convenient remote control with quiet operation and smooth positioning.
Compared to a standard solar-powered external roller blind, it is significantly more affordable. At the same time, it is not such a robust solution and, on the contrary, catches the eye with its modern, lightweight design. The photovoltaic cell is discreetly integrated into the upper frame, and the lightweight VELUX external roller blind with its elegant slim frame creates a visually compact whole when combined with a black roof covering. It is controlled by a simple remote control with three buttons for open/close/stop functions. Additionally, the supplied wall control is factory-paired with the blind for simplified and expedited installation.
The new product is also suitable for older windows
The lightweight VELUX external roller blind with solar-powered remote control can also be retrofitted to older VELUX windows. In this case, the blind can still be operated remotely without the need for complicated electrical installation at the window. Remote control is powered by solar energy. The motor's battery is regularly recharged by a photovoltaic power supply that operates based on daylight, thus independent of the intensity of solar radiation. "The battery with the solar source ensures sufficient charging for up to 100 operations, even when the sun is not directly shining and the battery is not charging," adds Jakub Mrázek. In terms of functions, the lightweight VELUX external roller blind represents a middle option between external roller blinds and awnings.
The VELUX external roller blind ensures maximum protection against heat
The robust VELUX external roller blind made of maintenance-free aluminum construction is a more complex solution, resistant to even the most demanding weather conditions, and primarily provides maximum protection against the sun. It can block up to 97% of sunlight. In summer, it excellently protects the interior from overheating, and in winter, it prevents heat losses, thus reducing heating costs. The external roller blind allows for complete darkness in the room throughout the day, providing perfect privacy protection and undisturbed sleep. It also reduces noise from falling raindrops and hail.
The VELUX external awning reduces indoor temperature while preserving the view
A simpler option for external shading of roof windows and protection of attics against heat is the VELUX awning made of transparent mesh. This shading element also prevents sunlight from penetrating through the roof window, thus helping to reduce interior overheating. However, it does not obstruct light passage and does not hinder the view from the window. VELUX awnings are made from 100% polyester mesh that withstands weather influences and ensures long-lasting durability.
The smart control system VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO adapts to household routines
Intelligent systems have already secured their place in shading technology. VELUX products are also equipped with them. The smart control system VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO can also be applied to VELUX outdoor shading with remote control and solar power, even retroactively. The automatic control system for roof windows and blinds uses sensors and a mobile app to work with real-time weather forecasts. How does it operate? Before a storm or strong winds, it smartly ventilates; in case of high temperatures, it sensibly postpones ventilation or, at a certain hour, lowers the blinds if you wish to be awakened by sunlight in the morning. Sensors monitor the amount of light, heat, and clean air (CO2 levels) in the interior, and, based on the evaluated data, roof windows with the VELUX ACTIVE system can automatically open, close, and shade. "An important feature of the VELUX ACTIVE system is also its ability to learn. The system analyzes and processes daily activities, gathering information about when you are accustomed to getting up, ventilating, and what temperature you prefer at home. Therefore, it can adapt better to the specific household's routines. Based on this detailed input information and connection to the NETATMO network, which provides the system with weather development data, VELUX ACTIVE is very efficient in deciding when and how intensively to ventilate or shade," concludes Jakub Mrázek from VELUX.