Sun Protection Glossary
Technical terms explained simply.

From front-mounted profile to ZIP-Screen – the most important terms, each explained in a single sentence.

Anyone looking into sun protection will quickly come across technical terms such as the opening factor, g-value or ZIP-Screen. This glossary explains the most important terms relating to sun and weather protection clearly in one or two sentences – ideal for reference. Griesser has been manufacturing Swiss-quality sun protection since 1882.

Key terms
from A to Z.

Briefly explained, easy to understand. You’ll come across the following terms in almost every sun protection project. Each one is explained in a single sentence.

Front profile.
The front trim of an awning. In cassette awnings, it forms a closed, visible edge, allowing the awning to blend into the façade.

Blind.
The moving part of a blind – the fabric or set of slats that is extended and retracted.

Facade awning.
Vertical sun protection made from technical fabric fitted directly to the window pane; also known as screens, vertical awnings or vertical blinds.

g-value.
A measure of the amount of energy transmitted by glass with solar protection. The lower the value, the less solar heat enters the room.

Cassette awning.
An awning whose fabric and mechanism are fully retracted into a housing when closed – providing optimum protection from the elements.

Open area ratio.
The percentage of open area in a screen fabric. A low figure means greater privacy, whilst a high figure means greater transparency and more daylight.

External venetian blinds / slat blinds.
External sun protection comprising adjustable aluminium slats, which direct light and regulate heat and glare.

Roller shutters.
A window covering made from a single, continuous slat – provides complete blackout and protects against break-ins, noise and the cold.

Wind resistance class.
Indicates the maximum wind speed at which an awning may remain extended. A higher class indicates greater wind resistance.

ZIP system.

The ZIP system is used in the Solozip® façade awning. The fabric runs along the side in a rail and is guided by this ZIP system so that it remains taut, wind-resistant and without any gaps letting in light.

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Answers to your questions

Frequently asked questions about technical terms

What does the aperture ratio mean?

The openness factor is the percentage of open area in a screen fabric. A low figure means a high level of privacy and limited visibility through the screen, whilst a high figure means more daylight and a better view.

What is the difference between external blinds and roller shutters?

An external venetian blind consists of adjustable slats and directs light whilst keeping out heat. A roller shutter closes with a continuous curtain and provides complete blackout.

What does the g-value mean?

The g-value indicates how much solar energy passes through glass with solar control into the room. The lower the value, the better the heat protection.

What is a ZIP screen?

A vertical fabric screen, the edge of which runs along a rail at the side. This keeps it taut, wind-resistant and ensures it closes without leaving a gap.

What is a façade awning?

A vertical sunshade made from technical fabric, fitted directly to the window pane. It keeps the heat out whilst allowing daylight in and maintaining the view – also known as a vertical awning.