Keep the Heat Under Control: Exterior Accessories for Roof Windows

When the summer sun becomes relentless and indoor spaces start to overheat, we naturally look for ways to improve comfort at home and in the workplace. Rooms located directly beneath the roof can be particularly susceptible to heat build-up. If you have a usable loft or attic fitted with roof windows, you want to be able to enjoy the space comfortably throughout the year, whatever the weather. Fortunately, there are solutions that can help maintain a more comfortable indoor temperature, even on the warmest days.

Fig. 1. An awning blind can help reduce solar heat gain while still allowing you to enjoy views of the surroundings.

Exterior Accessories Can Be Up to 8 Times More Effective

One way to help manage high indoor temperatures during the summer is to reduce the amount of solar radiation reaching the glazing. Exterior accessories for roof windows can play an important role in this.

According to tests carried out by FAKRO, exterior accessories can be up to 8 times more effective than products installed on the interior side of the window. This difference is linked to their position on the window. Installed outside the roof window, exterior accessories help reduce solar radiation before it reaches the glazing and transfers heat into the room.

Help Protect Interiors During Summer

The FAKRO range includes awning blinds and shutters for roof windows. One of these solutions is the AMZ Komfort exterior awning blind. Its fabric is available with different openness factors, helping to control the amount of solar radiation entering the room.

An important benefit of an exterior awning blind is that it can help limit heat build-up while still allowing you to see outside. This can help reduce overheating while keeping interiors bright and comfortable. You can continue to enjoy views of the outdoors without having to squint in strong sunlight.

Fig. 2. Awning blinds can be operated using a wall switch, remote control or the FAKRO Smart app.

The AMZ Komfort awning blind can also help reduce glare, which can be particularly useful when working at a computer. By limiting glare, the blind can improve visual comfort and help reduce eye strain. In addition, reducing prolonged exposure to sunlight can help protect furnishings and decorative elements from fading, helping them maintain their appearance over time.

Control the Heat Remotely

Electric versions of the awning blinds are available, providing additional convenience for everyday use. Depending on the system, they can be operated wirelessly or through a wired connection using a remote control, wall-mounted switch, keypad or mobile application.

Models based on the Wi-Fi system can be controlled using the dedicated FAKRO Smart app, allowing users to manage their blinds remotely wherever an internet connection is available. Electric operation also allows individual schedules to be created for opening and closing the blinds, making it easier to manage indoor conditions in loft and attic spaces.

One option worth considering is the AMZ Komfort Z-Wave Solar awning blind. This model does not need to be connected to the mains electricity supply, as it uses energy generated by an integrated solar panel. The blind can be operated using a remote control or set to work automatically. It responds to the intensity of sunlight, extending in strong sunshine and retracting during overcast conditions.

Fig. 3. The solar-powered roof window awning blind can automatically extend in strong sunlight to help reduce heat build-up in the loft or attic and retract during cloudy weather to allow more natural daylight indoors.

This solution provides both solar protection and everyday convenience, with automatic operation requiring minimal user intervention.

Exterior Shutters for Room Darkening

The FAKRO range also includes ARZ Komfort exterior shutters for roof windows, which can help reduce heat build-up in loft and attic spaces. Unlike awning blinds, these shutters feature a curtain made from aluminium slats, providing increased resistance to weather conditions.

The ARZ Komfort shutter also provides room-darkening functionality. Like the awning blinds, it can be electrically operated using Wi-Fi, or Z-Wave. A solar-powered version controlled by remote control is also available.

Fig. 4. An exterior shutter can help improve comfort in loft and attic spaces by reducing solar heat gain, providing room darkening and enhancing privacy.