When it comes to choosing the right fabric for solar protection, we often focus on just one of its characteristics without taking into account the complexity of factors that influence its functionality. It is essential to understand three key concepts that affect the effectiveness of a solar protection fabric: absorption, transmission and radiation. These three factors are what will determine how the fabric interacts with sunlight and, therefore, how it will improve the comfort of spaces.
Absorption refers to the material’s ability to retain solar energy. A fabric that absorbs more energy will provide greater protection from heat, but may also generate more heat within it. For example, darker shaded fabrics absorb more solar energy, making them ideal for creating areas of intense shade, such as on an outdoor patio or pergola where greater solar protection is needed. However, in a close or indoor space, this absorption could generate more heat, so it is not recommended for environments where coolness is sought.
Transmission, on the other hand, is the amount of light that the fabric allows to pass through it. Depending on the level of transmission, the space can be kept naturally lit or, conversely, a darker and cooler ambience can be achieved. For example, lighter fabrics allow more light to pass through, which can be beneficial for interiors where you want to take advantage of natural light without overheating the space, such as in a living room or dining area. Meanwhile, darker fabrics create a shadier and cooler atmosphere, ideal for spaces where privacy and intense sun protection are desired, such as on a balcony or terrace with direct sun exposure.
Finally, radiation refers to the heat that the material radiates back into the environment. A fabric that reflects solar radiation can help maintain a lower temperature in the space. For example, light-coloured fabrics have a greater ability to reflect solar radiation, which makes them an excellent choice for areas where sun exposure is constant, such as terraces or windows. On the other hand, dark fabrics, by absorbing more heat, tend to radiate more temperature, which can be useful for creating cool, shaded areas in outdoor areas.
Each of these factors plays a crucial role in choosing the perfect fabric for your project. By understanding how each fabric handles absorption, transmission and radiation, you’ll be able to make better decisions, ensuring it does its job.
With this information in mind, choosing the ideal fabric for your project becomes a much easier process. At Sauleda, we offer a wide variety of options, each designed to suit your specific needs, with an extensive range of unique designs to suit any project.
