So that summer is really “cool”

Solar shading systems are essential elements of modern buildings that not only provide comfort, but also reduce energy consumption and protect the building fabric.

To ensure their efficiency and longevity, regular maintenance is necessary. In this blog post, we look at the different types of construction, how they work, potential hazards, maintenance tasks and the benefits of regular inspection.

Construction methods of sun shading systems

Sun shading systems are available in various designs that differ in terms of function and area of application:

• External systems: These include roller shutters, external blinds and awnings. They offer the best protection against heat, as they intercept sunlight before it enters the building

• Internal systems: pleated blinds, roller blinds, vertical blinds and Venetian blinds are installed inside the building and provide privacy and light regulation, but are less effective against heat

• Façade-integrated systems: Modern buildings rely on smart solar shading systems such as electrochromic (EC) glazing or movable slats that adjust automatically depending on the incidence of light

How sun shading systems work

The basic function of sun shading systems is to direct or block sunlight to create a pleasant indoor climate.

• Manual systems are operated by hand crank or pull strap
• Electrical systems use motors and control systems that are often connected to sensors for wind, sun and temperature
• Automated systems work with intelligent controls that adapt to the time of day and weather conditions to optimize energy consumption

What is important for the safe and reliable use of sun shading systems?

Without regular maintenance, various hazards can arise:

• Mechanical defects: Worn cable pulls, defective motors or broken slats can impair the function
• Risk of injury: Inadequately secured sun shading systems can tear off in strong winds and cause damage
• Fire risk: Electrical systems can pose a risk due to short circuits or faulty wiring
• Limited functionality: dirty or jammed slats lead to poor light regulation

Activities for a long service life

Regular inspections and maintenance ensure perfect functioning and increase the service life of the systems. The manufacturer’s instructions must be followed in particular.

Important maintenance tasks include:

• Cleaning: Removing dirt, dust and leaves, especially from external blinds and awnings
• Lubrication of moving parts: Joints and cable pulls must be greased regularly
• Checking the mechanics: Checking cable pulls, springs and bearings for wear
• Function test of the motors: Ensure that electric drives run smoothly
• Check sensors and control systems: Adjust settings and replace defective components if necessary

The location and intensity of use of the system and the quality of the components used have a significant influence on the frequency and intensity of maintenance activities.

Location factors:

• Particularly in dirty (e.g. next to a road, under trees, in workshops, etc.) or windy environments (e.g. by the sea, in the mountains, etc.), the cost is significantly higher due to the increased soiling or greater load

Intensity factors:

• Every use causes a certain amount of wear and tear due to the many moving parts – the more often the more wear and tear

Quality factors:

• The quality has a direct effect on wear and is the basis for a long service life

When selecting a product, you should therefore pay attention to these requirements and choose the product that best meets the above requirements. A higher product quality (and usually a higher price) clearly pays off in the long term, especially with frequent and difficult use.

Advantages of regular inspection and maintenance

Reliable monitoring and maintenance are essential to ensure that the investment can be used economically and reliably for as long as possible.

Regular inspection and maintenance of sun shading systems brings numerous benefits:

• Energy saving: Efficiently operating systems reduce the cooling load in summer and reduce the heating requirement in winter
• Increased service life: Well-maintained sun shading systems have a longer service life, which minimizes repair and replacement costs
• Improved safety: Reduces the risk of damage from falling or defective elements
• Increased comfort: Perfectly functioning sun shading systems help to improve the indoor climate and living comfort

Resume

Solar shading systems are a valuable investment in the comfort, usability and energy efficiency of buildings. Regular maintenance can maintain their functionality in the long term and guarantee safety. Whether manual, electric or automated – the right maintenance ensures that sun shading systems work optimally and fulfill their purpose reliably for a long time.

As you can see, correct inspection, maintenance and testing are essential for the reliability and efficiency of buildings and systems. In order not to overlook these important tasks, our MyBuilding24 app helps you to easily and reliably keep an eye on all maintenance obligations and reminds you in good time when they need to be carried out.

If you want to keep your properties, systems, machines and devices in top condition and have your inspection and maintenance obligations under control, then use our My Building24 APP or follow this link and register today – https://mybuilding24.com/de/ – to keep your building running efficiently and reliably for a long time to come.