Overhang shading projections, also known as louvered aluminum sunshades, are horizontal or vertical fins. The purpose of overhangs is to prevent building interiors from overheating by shading windows in different seasons. In the summer, overhangs should ideally completely shade windows that face south, while in the winter, they should allow full sunlight to reach windows.

Fixed overhangs are useful for shading south-faced windows during the summers when the sun is high. Shading reduces a building’s overall cooling requirement and emissions and saves energy as a result. In the winters, the lower sun angles can bring in more heat, and that can mean lower heating bills for the user. In certain areas along the West Coast, particularly in California, shading requirements are now incorporated into building codes.

The two most important factors in shading design are seasonal sun angles and location. The sun’s path across the sky is so consistent that designers can control the light very precisely, with varying effects throughout the year. On east and west elevations horizontal or vertical line sunshades are most effective. On the south side of a building, specifiers should consider shading devices that project outward at least 3 to 4 feet.

The following pictures show several examples of shading systems that are available.

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