Use Shading to Block Solar Heat Gain

Indeed, shading plays a crucial role in preventing excessive solar heat gains in buildings, particularly in low-energy designs where high insulation and airtightness necessitate the management of thermal inertia to avert future overheating. Properly integrating shading devices can reduce indoor temperatures and help ensure occupant comfort while significantly diminishing the heat load on mechanical cooling systems.

Exterior Window Shades

Exterior shades are the most effective passive cooling solution, as they block solar gains from entering the space entirely. Designers can explore various types of exterior window shading.

Fixed Shading

Attached fixed shading devices, including overhangs, louvres, and external shading panels, are designed to block direct solar radiation in summer when heat is undesirable but allow desirable solar gains in winter (Mulville et al., 2025). The effectiveness of these systems relies on the meticulous calculation of solar angles and facade orientation.

Dynamic Shading

include operable blinds, external shutters, and automated electrochromic glazing, which adjusts based on outdoor conditions to optimize heat gain control and daylight penetration (Tripathi & Shukla, 2024).