Zip Screen Guide: Wind-Resistant Exterior Blinds 2026
How zip screens work, wind resistance ratings and energy savings.
What Is a ZIP Screen?
A ZIP screen is a motorised exterior fabric screen guided by aluminium ZIP rails on both sides. The zip-lock mechanism prevents wind uplift — rated for winds up to 130 km/h. Unlike traditional blinds, ZIP screens seal the opening completely, blocking up to 97% of solar heat gain while maintaining outward visibility.
Energy Performance
External shading reduces cooling energy consumption by 30–50% compared to internal blinds. The g-value (solar heat gain coefficient) drops from 0.6 to under 0.1 with a ZIP screen deployed. This makes ZIP screens one of the most effective passive cooling strategies for buildings, recognised in LEED and BREEAM assessments.
Installation Types
Three main configurations: vertical window mounting (Luxa 100), top-down horizontal for pergola roofs (Luxa 100T), and facade-integrated systems (Luxa 100M/S). Each uses the same ZIP rail principle but adapts to different mounting orientations. Maximum single-panel area: 30 m² (Luxa 100T).
Fabric and Motor Options
Screen fabrics range from sunscreen mesh (1–10% openness factor) to blackout (0% openness). Somfy or Simu motors with wireless control, rain/wind sensors for automatic retraction. Integration with building management systems (BMS) via KNX or Modbus protocols.
