Windows with external sun protection: sustainably improving living comfort

Comfortable room temperatures and a high standard of living start with the right sun protection. External sun protection systems, such as roller shutters and fabric screens, block the sun’s rays before they reach the window, thereby reducing the build-up of heat inside. heroal systems can also be retrofitted as part of a modernisation project and help to improve your home’s heat protection during the summer.

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Advantages of windows with external sun protection

A comfortable indoor climate in summer

External sun protection blocks the sun’s rays before they even reach the window pane
The build-up of heat inside the rooms is reduced and heat protection in summer is improved
Living rooms and bedrooms remain noticeably comfortable, even on hot days

Privacy screens & greater comfort at home

Protection against glare whilst working, reading or watching television
Greater privacy thanks to effective screening against prying eyes
Individually adjustable natural light for a pleasant living environment

Tailor-made solutions for modernisation

Roller shutters and fabric screens for a range of requirements
Many systems can also be retrofitted to existing windows
A wide range of colours, designs and user-friendly control options

Windows with external sun protection: what are the options?

Anyone wishing to retrofit their windows with sun protection can choose from a range of different systems. The right solution depends on individual requirements. Whilst some systems are primarily designed for blackout and privacy, others allow for precise light channeling or combine effective heat protection with an unobstructed view of the outside. Among the most popular retrofit solutions are roller shutters and fabric screens. Both options protect against solar radiation and help to reduce the build-up of heat inside rooms. However, they differ in terms of their functions, design options and range of application.

Roller shutters – sun, privacy and thermal protection all in one system

Roller shutters are among the most versatile sun protection solutions for windows. Not only do they offer effective protection from solar radiation, but they also provide privacy and almost complete blackout. Furthermore, they can help to reduce heat loss through the windows during the colder months and provide additional burglary resistance.

Thanks to modern front-mounted systems, roller shutters can often be retrofitted and are therefore ideal for modernising existing buildings.

Advantages of roller shutters:

Effective protection from the sun and heat
Greater visual screening, more privacy and security
Option to completely darken living rooms and bedrooms
Additional support for heat insulation
Ideal for retrofitting

Textile screens – heat protection whilst still allowing a clear view of the outside

Textile screens are made from high-quality fabric. As their installation is carried out on the outside of the window, a large proportion of the solar radiation is blocked before it reaches the window. This reduces heat build-up inside the room whilst allowing daylight to enter.

Depending on the fabric used, textile screens also provide effective privacy protection from the outside without completely obstructing the view outwards. Thanks to their delicate design, they are particularly suitable for large window areas and modern façade designs.

Advantages of textile screens:

Effective heat protection for living spaces
Panel and privacy protection whilst still allowing a view outwards
Making the most of natural light despite sun protection
A sleek and modern look
Ideal for large windows

Roller shutters or fabric screens: Which solution is right for your home?


Criteria	Roller shutter	Textile screen
Heat protection	Very good	Good
Privacy screen	Very high	Depending on the tissue
Blackout	Very good	Depending on the tissue
Light channeling	Limited	Possible in some cases
Anti-glare	Very good	Very good
Retrofittability	Yes	Yes

Discover heroal’s sun protection solutions

heroal roller shutter systems

Built-in roller shutters

Built-in roller shutters are integrated into the curtain wall above the window opening and disappear completely into the curtain wall when open. Built-in roller shutters are mainly used in new-build properties. Find out more now.

Built-in roller shutters >

Front-mounted roller shutters

Front-mounted roller shutters are installed in front of the window. They are particularly suitable for retrofitting roller shutters. Discover the different design options for heroal front-mounted roller shutters now, for seamless integration into your façade.

Front-mounted roller shutters >

Top-mounted roller shutters

Top-mounted roller shutters are installed on the window before installation and then installed in the window opening together with the window. heroal top-mounted roller shutters are suitable for both retrofitting and new builds. Find out more now.

Top-mounted roller shutters >

heroal fabric screens

heroal VS

The heroal VS Z Zipscreen system impresses with its high wind resistance of up to 145 km/h, thanks to its zip-fastening technology. The slim guide rail allows for discreet integration into the façade. With a choice of 250 fabrics, it offers flexible design options and effective protection from the sun and UV rays.

heroal VS >

heroal VS Z

The heroal VS Z Zipscreen system impresses with its zip-fastening technology, offering wind resistance of up to 145 km/h. The guide rail, which is just 25 mm wide, allows for discreet integration into the façade. A range of 250 fabrics offers customised sun and UV protection, as well as flexible design options.

heroal VS Z >

heroal VS C

The heroal VS C fabric sun protection system is guided by slender stainless steel cables and is ideal for narrow curtain walls and window frames. Thanks to its compact box size, wide range of designs and extensive choice of colours and finishes, it blends harmoniously into the building’s appearance and is also ideally suited for retrofitting.

heroal VS C >

heroal HS

The heroal HS horizontal awning effectively protects patio roofs and conservatories from the heat by reflecting solar radiation before it reaches the glass roof. The zip guide and counter-tension system ensure optimum fabric tension. Thanks to its slim design, wide range of fabrics and variety of colours, it is integrated harmoniously – even when retrofitted.

heroal HS >

Twice as handy: sun protection and insect screen in one system

heroal roller shutters and fabric screens can be combined with a tensioned insect screen frame. This means you not only benefit from effective protection from the sun and prying eyes, but can also enjoy fresh air whilst the window is open, without insects getting into the house – a practical solution for greater comfort in everyday life and when modernising windows.

Insect screens >

Design & Customisation

That’s why heroal’s sun protection solutions are the right choice

As a family-run business with over 150 years’ experience, we stand for uncompromising quality. Our products are durable, well-designed and tailored to your needs. With heroal’s external sun protection systems, you can noticeably improve the comfort of your home. Roller shutters and fabric screens reduce the build-up of heat indoors, protect against glare and create a pleasant indoor climate. Thanks to a wide range of design options and bespoke versions, the systems can be seamlessly integrated into the architecture of your home.

Effective protection against heat and glare for a comfortable indoor climate
Customisable solutions featuring roller shutters or fabric screens
A wide range of design options thanks to numerous colours and design choices
Over 3,500 specialist partners worldwide
Certified quality from Germany
A family-run business for more than 150 years

Be inspired

FAQ

How can I find a heroal specialist partner near me?

You can quickly find a certified partner near you using the heroal specialist partner search. Simply enter your postcode or town to find suitable specialist partners for your sun protection needs.
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Can external sun protection be fitted retrospectively?

Yes, roller shutters and fabric screens can usually be retrofitted to existing windows. This is often done using a front-mounted system, which is fitted to the outside of the window and is therefore particularly suitable for modernisation projects. The solution best suited to your building depends on the structural conditions and your individual requirements.
How much does the retrofit cost?

The cost of retrofitting an external sun protection system depends on various factors. These include, amongst other things, the chosen sun protection solution, the size of the window, the number of units, and the desired features and control system. For an accurate cost estimate, we recommend consulting a heroal specialist partner.
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Which is better: roller shutters or fabric screens?

Which solution is right for you depends on your requirements. Roller shutters offer versatile protection from the sun and prying eyes, and can also help to completely block out light and enhance burglary resistance. Fabric screens combine effective sun protection with the use of natural light, as well as a delicate façade design. Nowadays, a combination of both solutions is often used – for example, fabric screens in living areas where natural light and views need to be preserved, and roller shutters in bedrooms where complete blackout is particularly important. Our specialist partners will help you find the right solution for your home.
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Is external sun protection suitable for refurbishment projects?

Yes, external sun protection is ideal for refurbishment projects. Many systems can be retrofitted and adapted to existing buildings.
Can external sun protection be combined with a smart home system?

Yes, heroal sun protection systems can be integrated into smart home solutions. This allows roller shutters and fabric screens to be conveniently operated via smartphone, tablet or automated control systems and adapted to individual needs.
Can roller shutters and fabric screens be combined with insect screens?

Yes, heroal sun protection systems can be combined with suitable insect screen solutions. This means you benefit from effective protection against solar radiation and unwanted insects, without having to compromise on comfort or an attractive appearance.
Is façade refurbishment necessary for the retrofit?

No, in many cases, external sun protection can be retrofitted without the need for a comprehensive façade refurbishment. This is often achieved using a front-mounted system that is installed in front of the window. It can frequently be integrated into the existing building structure with relatively little effort. The exact options available depend on the specific structural conditions on site.

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Successful together: the benefits of working together

Everything from a single source

heroal offers complete solutions for windows, doors, sun protection and more - perfectly coordinated and individually adaptable to your requirements in terms of security, comfort and energy-efficiency.

Individual design

Design your home according to your wishes: With over 500 RAL colour shades, exclusive shades from Les Couleurs^® Le Corbusier^®, surfaces in wood, concrete or rust look and 250 textiles for sun protection, you can enjoy maximum freedom in the best quality.

Service & specialist partners

Benefit from simple planning with our configurators, the inspiration finder and many references - and find the right expert to implement your project via our network of specialist partners.

Quality & responsibility

With heroal, you can rely on a family-run company with over 150 years of experience and 100% production in Germany. Our durable, sustainable systems and the highest quality workmanship ensure a high-quality, energy-efficient and sustainable home.