Outdoor Shades

Exterior shades are designed to reduce heat, glare, and UV exposure before it enters the building, improving comfort and energy efficiency in outdoor and indoor-adjacent spaces. Installed on the exterior of windows, patios, or large openings, they help control sun exposure while enhancing usability of the space. Available in both manual crank and motorized systems, exterior shades can be customized to match performance needs, wind conditions, and budget requirements.

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Outdoor Shades Types

Exterior shades are available in three primary mounting systems, each offering different levels of performance, durability, and cost efficiency.

Zip-screen Exterior Shades

Zip screen shades represent the highest-performance exterior shading system. The fabric locks securely into side tracks, creating a fully tensioned enclosure that offers excellent wind resistance, light control, and heat reduction. This system provides the most complete barrier against sun, wind, and insects, making it ideal for high-exposure areas, outdoor living spaces, and premium installations where maximum performance is required.

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Or want to learn even more? Check out our blog where we dive in in detail

Covered patio with outdoor anchored exterior shades.

Anchored Exterior Shades

Floor-anchored shades are the most cost-effective option, using a simplified mounting system that secures the shade at the base. This design reduces hardware requirements and installation complexity, making it a budget-friendly solution. The system operates strictly in an up-or-down configuration and does not support partial positioning, making it best suited for applications where simplicity and cost are the primary priorities.

Covered patio with wire guided exterior screens for expanding living space outdoors.

Wired Guided Exterior Shades

Wire-guided shades are the most common and balanced option, offering a strong combination of performance, aesthetics, and cost efficiency. Cables on each side guide the shade vertically while allowing some flexibility in wind conditions. This system is widely used for residential windows, patios, and covered outdoor spaces where reliable sun control is needed without the higher cost of fully enclosed systems.

Exterior zip screen roller shades for rain and sun protection.

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