Sun solutions

Renson

Julie De Brabandere, Regional Manager for Renson Oceania, tells WFA the new Fixscreen Go rounds out the range of Renson screens.

“With the new line of high-quality screens from Renson, you can cater to every customer’s budget.

“Fixscreen Go is an entry-level version of the windproof vertical screen. It has the same high quality Renson is known for, but is more affordable, meaning more customers can enjoy the benefits of high-quality, durable sun protection fabrics.

“A pioneer in windproof sun protection fabric, Fixscreen has been a household name in the sector for many years. The sleek design and extensive customisation options, along with the endless possibilities it offers and the high-quality finishing that goes into it, are among the factors that have contributed to its success. But that kind of quality doesn’t come cheap,” says De Brabandere. “To offer the best solution to customers who are on a more limited budget, Renson is introducing the Fixscreen Go IM1, which brings together the key elements of the Fixscreen range in an even more affordable solution, and which also has an even more compact head box size measuring 85 x 85 mm.”

De Brabandere says the focus of the range is to deliver “the bare essentials” but to deliver them exceptionally well. “While the choices are limited to one type of fabric and just seven basic colours, Fixscreen Go is still a solution of the highest quality that can be put to a broad range of uses. The Sergé fibre glass fabric is standard, while other colours and fabrics are possible, with a surcharge applicable. The maximum dimensions, 3 m wide by 2.5 m high, cover the most common types of window.

She points out that Renson’s Connect&Go fast, safe assembly and disassembly system has not been included as a feature within this range, in line with its “bare essentials” positioning.  

“That said, you don’t have to compromise at all when it comes to ease of installation. With the Click&Save feature, you click the fabric set into place or replace it with just as little effort. Simply put: ease of installation is a Renson forte.”

De Brabandere says the surface-mounted Fixscreen Go is the first product in the new Go range, and other models will gradually be added to this line over the coming years. “The idea is to provide a solution for every type of window for every type of budget.” 

Renson has also added Topfix Solar to its Solar series. “An expert in sun protection fabric, Renson launched its complete range of solar-powered screens at R+T Stuttgart trade fair. 

“The Fixscreen Solar is already a trusted, practical and durable surface-mounted screen for vertical windows. A ‘solar’ version for minimalist windows, Fixscreen Minimal Solar, was also presented recently. And that range is now complemented by the Topfix Solar for horizontal windows such as dormers, verandas, or skylights.”

“The new Topfix Solar completes the range, and that up to 12 m², which is unique. Topfix Zenithal sun protection offers an effective and stylish solution for dormers, verandas, and skylights. The solution is also solar-powered, an advantage on roofs, because the roofing doesn’t need to be opened up to feed through a power cable.” 

“The fact that the Solar series, with its solar cell, helps save energy, both for the end customer and the installer, speaks for itself. This is because the screens do not require an external electrical connection, a major advantage, especially for post-installation. 

“Installation is carried out without drilling or channelling for a cable feed. No additional sockets are needed. What’s more, the installer doesn’t even need to be inside the house.”

De Brabandere tells WFA that Renson is also doing pioneering work on the development of an extra large screen that can span a width of up to 7m in a single piece, as much as a full extra metre, both in front of the window and in a free-standing set-up. 

The XL screen, currently at concept stage, will be available from 2025 and has been available for preview at R+T Stuttgart and Fensterbau in Nuremberg. 

“However, customers don’t have to wait until the standardised XL screen is available,” says De Brabandere. “Our Renson Services are happy to assist with project requests right now. This experienced services team evaluates each case and assesses the feasibility of a solution like this using a bespoke approach.” 

“Last but not least, windproof solar shading blinds can prevent for overheating on balconies and under pergola’s as well, guaranteeing your privacy there at the same time. They prevent people from looking in, while you still retain your view to the outside. With these freestanding blinds you are able to create the ideal climate on your balcony or patio, but it helps anticipating to overheating indoors as well.”

“As a frontrunner in the sector, innovation is a top priority at Renson. Among other things, energy-efficient operation, a long service life and added value for home comfort are a common thread running through the range,” she adds. 

Shann

“In the realm of external blind coverings, a crowded product offering doesn’t equate to a surplus of quality products,” says Shann National Product & Marketing Manager – Window & Industrial Fabrics, Melissa Vine. “Innovation often takes a backseat to functionality, yet in an industry where every detail matters, from aesthetics to performance, Atmosphere external mesh continues to emerge as the market leader.

“Atmosphere, by Shann Window, isn’t just another external screen mesh, it is the tried and tested market leading product that has been performing on homes and commercial buildings for more than 16 years, and looking incredible while doing it.”

Vine notes that Atmosphere’s key point of difference “isn’t just its features, though they are undeniably impressive.”  

“With a well stocked range and unparalleled ease of handling and installation, Atmosphere simplifies fabrication with its excellent lay flat properties and incredibly low fault count, across the ample stock holding readily available right around the country.”

“But Atmosphere isn’t just about convenience; it’s about enhancing outdoor spaces in stunning ways, enjoying the beauty of the outdoors without compromise. From the 0% colours that offer privacy, to the 5% and 1% colours that preserve panoramic vistas while keeping glare at bay, Atmosphere allows you to maximise sun control, allowing natural sunlight to filter through the space or block out its harsh rays.

“Whether you’re working, relaxing, simply enjoying the view, Atmosphere creates an ambiance that’s both inviting and comfortable.

“Atmosphere is more than an external screen mesh; it elevates outdoor spaces, making them functional and beautiful.  With Atmosphere, the possibilities are endless – transform your windows, transform your space, and transform your life.“ 

Uniline

Uniline offers two external fabric ranges, ScreenView 5% and its latest addition, ScreenShade 1%.  

George Lucas, Fabric Category Manager, explains that Uniline’s ScreenShade 1% Exterior Screen Fabric is an extra heavy awning fabric and is perfect for reducing sun glare. ScreenShade is available in a short range of the most popular Colourbond® colours. Ideally suited to pool and al fresco entertaining areas, it offers sun and glare protection and just enough inward light filtration with a high-level of privacy from the outside world during the day.

ScreenShade 1% Exterior Screen Fabric is backed by Uniline’s 10-year guarantee.

The fabric offers a wide range of benefits:

• Making the home more comfortable during hot weather by restricting heat from entering windows

• Reduces  cooling costs in summer 

• Significantly reduces sun glare

• As it’s a screen fabric it will not block out the view

• Allows light and breezes to filter through

• Provides daytime privacy

• Resistant to harsh weather

• Helps soft furnishings from fading

• Marketing support – customised for each company

Uniline’s ScreenView 5% Exterior Screen Fabric is a heavy-duty awning fabric and is available in a broad range of 10 contemporary Colourbond® colours which can match either interior blinds or an exterior façade.

ScreenView is perfect for external windows and for screening pool and al fresco entertaining areas. It offers sun and glare protection, fantastic outward visibility and just enough inward light filtration; offering a mid to high-level of privacy from the outside world during the day.

Shades range from light natural tones to the more industrially-inspired darker hues. ScreenView 5% Exterior Screen Fabric is backed by Uniline’s 10-year guarantee.

The fabric’s benefits include:

• Reduces cooling costs in summer

• Significantly reduces sun glare

• As it’s a screen fabric it will not block out the view

• Allows light and breezes to filter through

• Provides daytime privacy

• Resistant to harsh weather

• Helps protect carpets and soft furnishings from fading

• Marketing support – customised for each company

Shaw

Shaw recently responded to customer request by adding the colour Monument to its external screen range Dayscreen in 5% and 1% openness factors, Marketing Manager Sarah Harris tells WFA.

“This warm charcoal is currently very much on trend and complements popular exterior paint finishes, particularly for render and roofing systems,” she says.  

“Dayscreen now has 18 colours in 5% openness and seven colours in 1% openness. The range is developed to complement architecture and exterior colour trends Australiawide, including; painted render, brickwork, driveways and decking finishes. From darker tones through to natural shades, there is a colour option which allows customers to harmoniously continue their inside colour scheme outside. Dayscreen is a robust 2×2 weave with an excellent view to the outside, which is particularly clear in the darker colours.

The Dayscreen range is presented in a stylish, durable, easy-to-carry folder, with large removeable pieces in all colours. It is a perfect sales tool for the retail environment, giving technical information in clear icons and detailed specification notes.

Dayscreen is compatible with all lines in Shaw’s Shawscreen External Blinds program, the most popular and most innovative being ZipGrip, a low maintenance external side retention system, with a unique central locking system. The Shawscreen program also includes blind systems which suit different external installation scenarios; DeepSides is the ultimate in wide span exterior Blinds. WireSide is s a wire guided blind system with a contemporary design and a minimalist edge. FreeSides is a minimalist, straight drop blind solution which is a perfect alternative solution in situations where DeepSides or WireSides are not practical. 

The Dayscreen external sunscreen and the ShawScreen program are developed to withstand the rigours of the Australian climate, shading and protecting from the elements with style.

Dayscreen, along with all Shaw performance products, is stocked and distributed by efficient local warehouse teams located in NSW, QLD, WA,VIC and NZ. 

HVG

Paul Hunt – General Manager at HVG Fabrics, tells WFA that Visiontex Glisse, the company’s PVC coated fibreglass mesh engineered for enhanced stability and strength, is performing well. 

The fabric is offered in six colour options, mirroring the Visiontex Plus palette: Naxos (Carbon Black), Majorca (Graphite), Malta (Everest), Naples (Greystone), Rhodes (Platinum), Genoa (Havana).

“Visiontex Glisse stands out as a versatile fabric choice,” says Hunt. “Featuring a traditional 1 x 1 construction and a 94% UV block-out, it offers excellent weather protection and ventilation. Its fibreglass construction lends a unique finish and appearance, making it an exceptional option for various applications.”

Hunt adds that the market continues to show robust performance, and consumer demand for variety remains constant. 

“At HVG Fabrics, we take pride in offering a diverse range of fabric options, colour choices, and purpose-driven products to meet the needs of our customers. We are dedicated to staying ahead of trends and providing our customers with the latest and most innovative options in the market. 

“We recognise that each customer has unique needs, driving us to offer a diverse range of options to cater to all preferences.

“In addition to a wide selection of fabrics and colours, we prioritise durability, sustainability, and superior quality in our products. We aim to deliver items that not only look great but also perform well and last over time.

“Continuously seeking ways to enhance and diversify our product range, we remain focused on meeting the evolving needs of our customers. Our unwavering dedication to customer satisfaction fuels our pursuit of excellence in all aspects of our business.”