Hunter Douglas' new sun control fabric to cut energy costs
JEDDAH, August 18, 2015
Hunter Douglas, a Dutch window coverings and architectural products manufacturer, has launched a new line of sun control fabric that can help buildings in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) reduce energy costs by up to 25 per cent, according to a report.
The Screen Nature Ultimetal sun control fabric reflects 70 per cent of solar energy that strikes buildings, said the Saudi Gazette report.
In projects with a lot of glass, such as skyscrapers, the fabric can cut the amount of energy by blocking out glare, while minute holes will allow for light and openness, it said.
Demonstrating the strong potential for building sustainability, the GCC hosts 1,236 Leed (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design)-rated projects, with 837 (68 per cent) in the UAE, according to a report by Ventures Middle East.
Qatar has 190 projects, Saudi Arabia with 158 projects, and Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain have a total of 51 projects, it said.
“With GCC countries among the world leaders in focusing on sustainable buildings, skyscrapers in particular require advanced solutions to cope with harsh daylight, while ensuring people have a comfortable climate and visibility," Robin van der Velden, manager of Window Covering Division, Hunter Douglas Middle East, was quoted as saying.
"Screen Nature Ultimetal pushes the boundaries of sustainable sun control, combining visual appeal, thermal performance, and environmental properties, while substantially reducing energy consumption," he said.
Screen Nature Ultimetal is recyclable as it is made with fibreglass with a reflective aluminium layer, is fire-safe, and free of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), odours and toxic vapours, the report added.
