Fabric Composition

Many of the fabric options available today are composed of either fiberglass, polyester, acrylic, natural fibers, or a combination. Fabric manufacturers regard their fabric weave compositions as proprietary elements of their products. Strengths and weaknesses of fabric compositions willvary depending upon the application and the fabric manufacturer specified.

To specify an appropriate fabric on a project, the goals of the system must first be determined. If the objective of the system is to cut glare but maintain views, a weave fabric must be specified. Weaves come in several styles and material compositions; the two most popular are fiberglass and polyester.

Fiberglass and polyester weaves filter sunlight while preserving visibility to the outside. Fiberglass is a thin, delicate weave, while polyester is coarser in appearance. Both fiberglass and polyester come in blended weaves, are often coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and offer a variety of openness factors.

Acrylic

Acrylic fabrics are popular selections for exterior shades or as blackout materials for interior shades. Today's acrylics are typically solution-dyed, which means that they have been dyed throughout the fabric, not just on the surface area. This solution-dying technique allows for the gradual fading of the color to occur evenly over the years.

Interior blackout shades are also available in blends of acrylic and fiberglass.

Natural Fibers

Natural fibers, such as cotton blends, weed grasses, and corn-based fabrics, are also available shade materials. Often selected for their unique aesthetic appeal, natural fibers provide an interesting design element to any décor. Not synthetic or artificially reinforced, natural fibers do not contain toxic materials that may be released into the air. Unfortunately, these untreated organic ingredients are less able to withstand the daily battering of UV, light, and heat radiation, showing wear and tear much more quickly. In some cases, natural fibers can be treated in order to improve their light-management characteristics, but the best results for natural light control are often found in synthetic materials.

PVC-Coated

Shade fabrics are exposed to harsh UV radiation daily. Many fabrics are coated with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to improve durability and protect the fabric from UV damage. The PVC also enhances the fabric's flexibility, helping the material move smoothly into open and closed positions, while retaining its shape and pliability.

PVC-Free and Halogen-Free Fabric

Fabrics are available that are specifically PVC-free and halogen-free. Without PVC coating, the shade will not have a plastic odor, but may not be as durable. The absence of halogen compounds dramatically reduces the fabric's emission of toxic smoke when exposed to flames. Removing these organic compounds from the building interior reduces the toxins or volatile organic compounds (VOC) released into the office air. PVC-free and halogen-free fabrics support sustainable design by promoting healthy indoor office environments, and can contribute toward earning LEED credits.

Conclusion

Designing controlled daylight in a space creates opportunities for healthier, more productive, more satisfied employees, as well as enhanced building performance potential. The benefits of controlled daylight are substantial, but so are the long-term implications.

Natural light is a tremendous source of light and heat. Harness and manage it effectively.