The openness factor is the percentage of a sunscreen fabric that is open weave. It is the single most important choice on a commercial roller shade.
| Openness | Glare control | View out | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1% | Highest | Limited | West facades, rooms with screens |
| 3% | High | Good | Classrooms, south and west offices |
| 5% | Medium | Clear | General offices, hotel lobbies |
| 10% | Lower | Very clear | North light, view-first spaces |
Color matters too
Dark interior faces absorb light and give a clearer view out with less glare. Light faces reflect more solar heat back out but can glow in direct sun. Many projects use a dark interior face with a light or grey exterior face.
Test it on site
Ask for samples in two openness factors and two colors, and hang them in the actual room at the worst time of day.
