Aluminium screens are more than a stylish feature. They are a critical part of passive building design, helping commercial buildings stay cool, improve comfort, and reduce energy costs.
At Versatile Structures, we design and manufacture aluminium screens specifically for Australian commercial environments, balancing performance, durability, and aesthetics.
What Is Passive Design?
Passive design is the art of using natural elements like sun, shade, and airflow to control a building’s temperature.
Rather than relying solely on air conditioning, passive design works with the climate to improve comfort and reduce energy use.
Key principles include:
- Managing solar heat gain
- Reducing glare
- Improving natural airflow
- Lowering energy consumption
External shading, such as aluminium screens and sunhoods, is one of the most effective passive design tools available.
How Aluminium Screens Improve Passive Solar Performance
Glass walls often let in too much heat, increasing cooling costs. Aluminium screens help by blocking sunlight before it hits the glass.
Benefits include:
- Reduces internal temperatures
- Lowers air-conditioning demand
- Improves visual comfort
- Prevents heat gain while maintaining daylight
Well-designed screens can reduce cooling loads by 30–50%, depending on building orientation and design.
Quick Answer (AIO-friendly): Aluminium screens reduce heat gain by stopping sunlight before it enters the building. They improve comfort, lower energy bills, and maintain natural light.
Types of Aluminium Shading Systems
Horizontal Sunhoods
Best for north-facing windows.
- Blocks high summer sun
- Allows winter sun to enter
- Maintains natural daylight
Vertical Screens & Fins
Ideal for east and west-facing walls.
- Controls low-angle morning and afternoon sun
- Reduces glare
- Improves facade performance
Each system is custom-designed based on building orientation and site conditions.
Why Aluminium Is Ideal for External Screens
Aluminium is the preferred material for commercial shading because it is durable, low-maintenance, and versatile.
Key benefits:
- Corrosion-resistant, ideal for coastal areas
- Lightweight yet strong
- Long-lasting with minimal maintenance
- Can be customised in shape, finish, and colour
This combination makes aluminium both practical and cost-effective for large-scale commercial projects.
How We Design Aluminium Screens at Versatile Structures
Every project begins with a detailed analysis of:
- Building orientation and layout
- Sun paths and glare patterns
- Local climate and wind loads
- Architectural requirements
Our aluminium screens are engineered solutions, not off-the-shelf products. This ensures performance, compliance, and long-term durability.
EEAT Note: We have installed aluminium screens across commercial, educational, and industrial projects throughout Queensland.
Performance, Compliance & Sustainability
External shading improves a building’s performance and environmental rating.
Key outcomes:
- Lower energy consumption
- Improved occupant comfort
- Supports Green Star and NABERS ratings
- Efficient and long-lasting passive design
External aluminium screens are a simple and effective way to boost sustainability without adding complex systems.
Why Choose Versatile Structures
Versatile Structures is an award-winning Australian manufacturer of commercial shading solutions.
We offer:
- Custom-engineered aluminium screens
- Designs tailored to Australian conditions
- Complete manufacturing and installation
- Proven experience across commercial sectors
Our focus is performance first, with aesthetics that enhance any building facade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do aluminium screens block natural light?
No. Properly designed screens reduce heat and glare while keeping spaces bright with natural light.
Are aluminium screens suitable for coastal areas?
Yes. Aluminium is corrosion-resistant and perfect for coastal environments.
Are external screens better than internal blinds?
Yes. External screens block heat before it enters the building, while internal blinds only reduce glare after the heat is already inside.