A Historical Look at Skylights
Angled skylights, (also known as solarium windows), were incorporated into home architecture as early as the 1940s. Often times, however, little thought went into placement. Eventually, soaring summertime temperatures caused sunrooms and atriums to fall out of favor. Fortunately, energy-conscious builders are beginning to understand their value. Motorized window coverings have played a huge part in the resurgence of this beneficial architectural strategy. original Intent: The science behind the use of angled skylights is sound. Properly positioned, solarium windows perform their role beautifully. 1. Use glass to intensify the weak sunlight of winter. 2. Angle them for maximum solar exposure during the solstice season. 3. Disperse ambient heat during the day using air-flow techniques. 4. After warmth is absorbed by flooring & walls made of masonry or stone, it is slowly discharged throughout the evening.
Motorized Skylight Shades – Taming the Wild Beast
The act of blocking unwanted sunlight need not be simply utilitarian. Options abound. In fact, when it comes time to determine which type of window covering is right for you, you’ll have lots of decisions to make. • Operationally, motorized skylight shades can function from top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top, or side-to-side. • They can be installed to cover individual window panels or complete banks of windows. • Aesthetically, motorized skylight protection is available in UV (Solar) Materials, Printed Fabrics, Weaves, Bamboos, or Plain-Colored panels.
Obtaining Complete Coverage
In older homes, sunrooms were envisioned as the perfect environment to grow lavish plants. Eventually, these wonderful porches served as leisurely gathering places. Sadly, we no longer experience the slow emergence of springtime the way our grandparents did. The weather is far more likely to surge to summertime conditions within a single day. Plants housed behind glass do not fare well when temperatures soar. Effective sun management increases the amount of time we can spend in enticing environments such as these. The decision about whether to cover single or multiple windows becomes a matter of personal taste. Many people opt to cover at least two skylights with each shade. Fortunately, remote-control devices and/or push button wall panel controls can be programmed to raise or lower blinds automatically, simplifying operational concerns. Motorized skylight shades are uniquely suited to creating both plant-friendly and people-friendly environments.