Understanding Density Levels for Solar Screens

When choosing solar screens for your home, it’s important to consider how much light and heat you want to block, as well as how much visibility you’d like to maintain. At Texas Rolling Shutters & Screens, we offer a range of solar screen openness, also known as density, levels that are each designed to provide a different balance between visibility and sun protection. In this post from the Texas Rolling Shutters & Screens blog, we'll explain the differences between these openness levels to help you choose the right option for your specific needs.

What Is Openness in Solar Screens?

The openness, or density of a solar screen refers to how much light and air can pass through the fabric. It’s measured as a percentage, with lower percentages indicating tighter weaves that block more sunlight and heat, while higher percentages allow for better visibility. Here’s a breakdown of our openness options and where each might be best suited.

10% Openness: Maximize Your View

Best For: North-facing openings, rooms with scenic views

If maintaining a clear, unobstructed view is your top priority, then our 10% openness solar screens are the perfect option. These screens provide the greatest visibility, making them an excellent choice for windows or patio openings that offer scenic views. With 10% openness, the fabric blocks 90% of radiant heat and UV rays, meaning it still keeps you cool while allowing you to enjoy the sights around you.

This level of openness is particularly well-suited for north-facing openings, where the sun isn’t as harsh but you still want some level of heat protection. The large open weave allows more natural light to come through, creating a bright and airy indoor space without the glare.

5% Openness: The Perfect Balance

Best For: East, south, and west-facing windows

Our 5% openness solar screens are the most popular and versatile option. With 95% radiant heat and UV protection, this openness level provides a solid middle ground between maintaining a view and blocking out heat. It’s a great choice for homes where both heat control and visibility are important, making it ideal for east, south, and west-facing windows.

The 5% openness screens allow you to see outside without letting in too much heat, making them perfect for living rooms, dining areas, or any space where you want a clear view but still need protection from the sun.

3% Openness: High Heat Protection

Best For East, south, and west-facing openings where privacy is important

If you’re less concerned about maintaining a view and more focused on blocking heat, then 3% openness is an excellent option. These solar screens block 97% of radiant heat and UV rays, making them ideal for areas of your home that get a lot of direct sunlight—especially east, south, and west-facing windows.

This level of openness is perfect for windows that face your neighbor's house or areas where there isn’t much to see outside. You’ll enjoy maximum sun protection while still allowing some natural light into the room.

1% Openness: Ultimate Heat and UV Blockage

Best For: Clerestory windows, areas where visibility isn’t a concern

For the highest level of protection from heat and UV rays, our 1% openness solar screens are the way to go. These screens block 99% of radiant heat and UV rays, making them ideal for windows where visibility is not a priority.

1% openness screens are perfect for clerestory windows, sky shades, or any other area where you need maximum protection but don't require a view. They are also a great option for rooms where temperature control is crucial, such as home offices or bedrooms.

Combining Openness Levels for the Best Results

Many homeowners opt to combine different density levels depending on the orientation of their windows and their specific needs. For example, you might install 10% openness screens on a large north-facing patio opening to maximize your view, while using 3% openness screens on smaller east or west-facing patio sides for better heat protection where visibility isn’t as important. This allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds—excellent visibility where it matters and superior heat protection where it’s needed.

Find the Perfect Openness Level for Your Home

At Texas Rolling Shutters & Screens, we understand that every home has unique needs when it comes to managing heat and light. Our wide range of Austin solar screen openness options ensures that you can find the perfect solution to suit your home’s layout, the direction of your windows, and your personal preferences.

Not sure which density level is right for your home? Contact us today to schedule a free consultation, and we’ll help you find the best solar screens to enhance your comfort and improve energy efficiency in your living space.