When the sun is at a low angle, it can make it uncomfortable whether you’re trying to work or relax. Here we look at the best shading options for protection from low sun angles in residential settings.

Drop-down screens from awnings

These screens are available for both terrace awnings and free-standing awnings (pictured below) and can be deployed when the sun is at a low angle via motorisation. This makes these products extremely versatile, offering shading when the sun is at high and low angles.

Pleated or honeycomb blinds (below) can be moved to cover the section of your glazing which needs shading meaning light can enter from above or below the blind while the direct sunlight cannot, making this option perfect for protection from low sun angles. Read more about pleated blinds.

Café-style shutters cover the lower section of your glazing, allowing natural light to flow in freely through the top section while blocking low sun angles. The louvres can be tilted to ensure privacy and control light, and the panels can be retracted completely if you want to let the light flood in or need to clean the glazing. Read more on café style shutters.

Side screens (below) are ideal for protection from low sun and prying eyes, they can be used as a stand alone unit or made so they are compatible with free standing awnings.

A wide range of patterns, fabrics and colours are available and they can often be retracted vertically into cassette boxes fitted to walls to allow access. They can also be retracted horizontally into cassette boxes fitted to free standing awnings. This can be done manually or via motorisation.

Read more about side screens.

Click here to find out how to contact your local BBSA member for more advice on the best shading options for protection from low sun angles.

Visit www.shadeit.org.uk for more information on the benefits of blinds and shutters.