Dormer shading: all options compared

A screen is a vertical fabric in side guides. Tight to the frame, unobtrusive when retracted. Anthracite or black fabric gives best heat block (90%) but reduces view; transparent grey/white gives 80% block with clear view.

Standard with tubular motor (Somfy or Hunter Douglas), controlled via Io-Homecontrol or Zigbee. Wind class 2 (to 38 km/h) standard; class 3 (to 49 km/h) +€100–€200. Above that the screen auto-retracts (wind sensor mandatory above 6 m height).

Adding to an existing dormer is usually permit-free if not visible from public space, or welstand explicitly allows it (typically RAL 7016 or dark colour required).

An awning extends outward at an angle, shading in front of the window. Effective on south-west where the sun is low. Max projection ~150 cm; beyond that it becomes wind-vulnerable.

Advantage: more open look than a screen; view stays unobstructed. Disadvantage: fabric wears faster (10–15 years vs 15–25 for screen), wind-sensitive, more maintenance (frame painting).

Almost always requires welstand approval in older neighbourhoods; clear colour and fabric in advance.

Adjustable aluminium louvres (Warema, Renson, Hella) offer most flexibility: regulate light without fully closing. 80–90% effective when closed. Aesthetically modern.

€700–€1,300 per window excl. motor. Almost always motorised (manual is awkward at height). Lifespan 25–35 years, minimal maintenance (cleaning).

Shutters appear on some 1930s-style dormers. Strong aesthetics, but only effective when closed (= no view/light). Often decorative.

An interior roller or pleated blind blocks 10–25% of solar heat. The rest is already absorbed by the glass and re-radiated into the room. Excellent for light control and privacy; inadequate for heat.

Solar film on glass (3M Prestige, Llumar) blocks 40–60% without fabric/screen. Lifespan 10–15 years. Use a specialist; DIY film bubbles and peels within 2 years.