External Shading Cools Harpenden Extension
What began as a dream refurbishment for this Harpenden home quickly revealed a hidden flaw: excessive heat build-up and solar glare in the newly extended kitchen and dining space. The large south-west-facing sliding doors offered beautiful garden views and plenty of natural light – but by midday, the space became uncomfortably warm, making it difficult to enjoy meals or relax with family.
The issue was particularly noticeable in the evenings, just when the homeowners wanted to gather around the dining table or step out onto their stylish patio area. Without a solution in place, they found themselves constantly battling heat and glare – or resorting to closing blinds and losing their view.
Looking for a better alternative, they discovered Phantom Screens at the Homebuilding and Renovating Show and were immediately drawn to the idea of an elegant, external shading solution that wouldn’t obstruct their view.
quick project info
Project
Preventing overheating with external solar screen
Concern
External shading and energy efficiency
Products
1 x Executive power screen
Mesh
20:30 black (Solar)
Colour
Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016 matt)
finding The solution
Sustainable heat reduction
With the support of their property developer, Impala Property Ventures, the homeowners contacted our team to discuss options. Their priorities were clear: a product that could reduce solar gain, manage glare, and maintain visual connection with their garden. Just as important was a solution that complemented the home’s clean architectural style.
After an on-site consultation, we recommended our most popular option for external solar shading – the power screen – precision-engineered to provide effective solar control while disappearing neatly out of sight when not in use.
Installation
Motorised solar shading fitted by our experts
The screen was handcrafted in our Peterborough factory to exact measurements – a single external solar screen spanning nearly six metres wide. The frame was colour-matched in Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016 Matt) to blend perfectly with the sliding door frames.
Fitted externally with a face-fix installation, the screen features 20:30 black mesh, which offers excellent solar protection without compromising views. A wall switch and remote control were included for complete convenience, making it easy for the homeowners to adjust the level of shading at the touch of a button.
The result is a sleek, low-profile installation that provides motorised solar shading exactly when needed – with no need for bulky blinds or interior fittings.
The Result
Bespoke solar screens provide complete control
Since the installation, the homeowners have enjoyed a dramatic improvement in comfort. The motorised solar shading system now keeps the interior cool and glare-free, especially during the hottest part of the day. They’re able to keep their sliding doors open for airflow, entertain outdoors, and dine in comfort – all without compromising their view or aesthetic.
This project showcases how external shading doesn’t have to mean compromise. With bespoke design and seamless installation, Phantom Screens provided an effective, stylish, and sustainable heat reduction solution that’s made a real difference to everyday living.
Looking for external shading for your home?
Whether you need external solar screens for sliding doors or window fly screens, our expert team is here to help. Click here to get in touch for a rough quote and to book in a home survey.
