Electric external blinds are one of the most effective ways to control heat, glare and comfort in modern homes. Whether fitted to windows, sliding doors, large skylights or conservatory roofs, they work on a simple but powerful principle: stop the heat before it reaches the glass. By blocking solar energy at the exterior, these systems prevent it from being absorbed and re‑radiated through today’s double or triple glazing, dramatically reducing heat gain inside the home.
Advances in high‑performance external fabrics make this approach even more effective, especially for the increasingly intense UK summers. These modern textiles filter heat and glare while still allowing outward visibility, giving you cooler rooms without sacrificing natural light or views.
With smooth electric operation and options tailored to every opening, external blinds combine architectural elegance with exceptional solar control. The result is a more stable, efficient and comfortable living environment throughout the warmest months of the year
External blind systems have come a long way from the old fabric awnings of the past. Today’s designs use high‑performance materials, wind‑stable guidance and advanced motorisation to stop up to 95% of heat before it reaches the glass. Modern fabrics stay tight, resist fading and maintain clear outward visibility, while slim cassettes and recessed options keep the look clean and minimalist. They’ve evolved into true architectural shading solutions. Discreet, durable and incredibly effective.
External systems stop the sun’s heat before it reaches the glass, making them up to twice as effective as internal blinds. High‑performance fabrics can block up to 95% of solar heat, dramatically reducing overheating and improving comfort during warm months.
Because the shading sits outside the building envelope, the interior stays clean, minimalist and uncluttered. There are no internal cassettes, side channels or bulky mechanisms interrupting the window reveal. Just pure architecture and natural light inside the home.
Zipped systems use wind‑stable side channels that lock the fabric in place, eliminating gaps and preventing movement in winds up to 30mph. Cable‑guided systems use slim 5mm stainless‑steel cables instead of channels, ideal for sliding doors or areas where channels can’t be installed. Built‑In systems recess the headbox and channels into the façade, creating a clean, concealed architectural finish with the leading edge disappearing into the cassette.
All external systems such as ZIP screens, skylight blinds, and conservatory awnings stop solar radiation before it reaches the glass, dramatically reducing heat gain. This keeps interiors cooler, reduces glare, and lowers reliance on air conditioning while maintaining natural daylight.
Yes. The Solar Zipped model integrates a solar panel and rechargeable battery into the 110mm headbox, providing wire‑free installation and smooth Somfy motorisation. It can cover openings up to 4m wide × 3m high.
However many external systems still rely no the more powerful, mains powered motors so this needs to be considered from an electrical stand-point.
Yes. Every Harmonia ZIP Screen, Harmonia XL, Artemis skylight blind, and Perseus roof awning is custom‑built to the exact opening, ensuring precise tension, clean lines, and minimal visual impact.
Zipped, Cable‑Guided, and Side‑Zipped roof systems all offer strong wind resistance. With the fabric held securely in place, they can tolerate winds up to 30mph (Wind Class 3). Wind sensors can retract the system automatically in excessive conditions.
All systems use Somfy tubular motors for reliability, quiet operation, and smart‑home compatibility.
Options include Somfy io, RTS, and hardwired motors. Solar models use Somfy solar motors with integrated battery storage except TopScreen for conservatory roofs.
Yes. All systems integrate with modern smart‑home platforms, including Somfy TaHoma Switch. Optional sensors allow automatic operation based on sunlight, temperature, wind, rain, or time of day, ensuring comfort and system protection year‑round.
Absolutely. Harmonia XL’s Built‑In model is designed specifically for new builds, recessing into the façade with a 120mm × 165mm headbox and optional slim or wide recessed side channels for a seamless architectural finish.
Always plan ahead as these systems take time to be surveyed, manufactured and installed.
Allow 8-12 weeks in general so its always best to plan ahead of the summer.
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