Designing with Solar Zip-Screen
Selection of cartridge size - key rules
The first step is the correct selection of the size of the zip-screen cassette. Although it may seem like a technical detail, it is fundamental to the aesthetics of the entire facade.
There are four basic cartridge sizes available:
- 85 mm - for the smallest windows
- 95 mm - universal for medium windows
- 105 mm - for large glazing
- 125 mm - for the largest glazing
When designing, you should be guided by several rules:
The principle of minimization: We always strive to use the smallest possible cartridge that meets the technical requirements for a given window. The smaller cassette is less visible and blends better with the facade.
The principle of visual consistency: If there are windows of different sizes on one facade, all zip-screens on this facade should have a cassette of the size that fits the largest window. This ensures a uniform, harmonious appearance of the facade.
The principle of proportion: The size of the cassette should be proportional to the size of the window. Too small cassette on a large window will look inadequate, as will an oversized cassette on a small window.
Integration with architecture
The solar zip-screen system can be integrated into the building architecture in several ways:
Surface mounting: The classic solution, where the cassette is visible on the facade. In this case, it is necessary to take into account its presence in the design of the facade from the beginning and choose the appropriate color to blend in with the other elements.
Flush-mounted installation: The most elegant solution, where the cassette is hidden in the warming layer. However, this requires taking into account the appropriate thickness of the insulation layer and planning the installation details already at the design stage.
System in the lintel: A solution dedicated to new construction, where the cassette is integrated into the window lintel. Requires coordination with the construction project.
Technical aspects affecting the design
When designing with the use of solar zip-screens, several important technical aspects must be taken into account:
Solar Power Supply: Solar versions do not require power supply, which significantly simplifies the design of the electrical installation. However, care must be taken to ensure that the solar panel is properly exposed to daylight.
Guides: The system requires the installation of side guides. Appropriate space and method of fixing them to the door frame or facade must be provided.
Servicing: It is necessary to provide service access to the cartridge and mechanisms - especially important for flush-mounted installation.
The choice of color scheme
The zip-screen systems offer a wide range of colour options, both in cartridge and fabric. When choosing colors, it is worth being guided by the following tips:
Cassette and guides: Most often selected in the color of the window joinery for visual consistency. It is also possible to apply the color of the facade if we want the system to be less visible.
Fabric: The choice of fabric color should take into account:
- The degree of darkening of the interior
- All-round visibility
- Reflection of sunlight
- Harmony with the color scheme of the facade
Recommended solutions for different types of buildings
Single-family houses:
- Cassettes 95-105 mm
- Preferred surface mounting or in a layer of insulation
- Colors to match the carpentry
Office buildings:
- Cassettes 105-125 mm for large glazing
- Recommended flush-mounting
- Uniform color throughout the facade
Public buildings:
- Mixed solutions depending on the function of the premises
- Possibility to use different degrees of transparency of fabrics
- Group Automation
Proper planning of the solar zip-screen system at the design stage avoids later compromises and ensures an optimal result both in terms of functionality and aesthetics.
