Mon – Fri, 7:00 – 4:30
(817) 725-8164
sales@sharchs.com
Sharchs Logo
Get a Quote
Sharchs Logo

How to Specify Aluminum Sunshades for Commercial Projects

A Successful Sunshade System Starts Long Before Installation

When people think about aluminum sunshades, they often focus on the finished product—the clean architectural lines, the visual impact on a building facade, or the shade created around windows and outdoor spaces. However, the success of a sunshade system is determined long before fabrication begins.

For architects, designers, and construction teams, properly specifying aluminum sunshades is one of the most important steps in the project lifecycle. The decisions made during design and planning influence everything from appearance and performance to constructability and long-term durability.
Understanding how to specify aluminum sunshades for commercial projects can help project teams avoid costly changes later while ensuring the finished system aligns with the goals of the building.

At Sharchs, we work closely with architects, contractors, and developers to create custom aluminum sunshade systems that integrate seamlessly into commercial projects from concept through completion.

Start with the Building’s Design Intent

Every commercial building has a unique architectural vision. Some projects use sunshades as subtle enhancements that complement the facade, while others make them a defining design feature.

Before selecting profiles, dimensions, or attachment methods, it is important to establish the purpose of the sunshade system within the overall design. Architects should consider how the shading elements will interact with the building envelope, glazing systems, entrances, and surrounding site features.

A sunshade that works beautifully on a contemporary office building may look entirely different from one designed for a healthcare facility, university campus, or civic structure. Clarifying design objectives early helps guide all subsequent specification decisions.

Consider the Building’s Orientation

One of the most overlooked aspects of sunshade specification is how different portions of a building interact with sunlight.

The amount and angle of solar exposure vary depending on the orientation of each facade. East-facing elevations experience different conditions than western exposures, while southern-facing facades may receive sunlight throughout much of the day.

Because of these differences, architects often customize sunshade configurations based on specific elevations rather than applying the same design across the entire building. Varying projection depths, blade spacing, and orientations can help create solutions that align with the unique characteristics of the project.
This tailored approach supports both visual consistency and functional performance.

Define the Desired Architectural Appearance

Aluminum sunshades are available in a wide range of styles and configurations.

Some projects call for bold horizontal elements that create strong shadow lines across the facade. Others utilize vertical fins or custom profiles that add texture and visual movement.

When preparing project specifications, architects should clearly communicate the desired appearance and design language. This includes considerations such as profile shapes, dimensions, spacing, finish selections, and overall aesthetic goals.

The more clearly the design intent is defined, the easier it becomes for fabrication teams to produce a system that reflects the architectural vision.

Coordinate with the Building Envelope

Sunshades rarely exist in isolation. They are typically integrated into curtain wall systems, storefront assemblies, masonry facades, metal panels, or other exterior building components.

Because of this, successful specification requires coordination with the broader building envelope. Attachment locations, structural support requirements, and interface details should all be evaluated early in the design process.
This collaboration helps avoid conflicts during construction and ensures the sunshade system works seamlessly with adjacent materials and systems.

Early coordination often saves significant time and resources once the project reaches the installation phase.

Account for Long-Term Durability

Commercial buildings are expected to perform for decades, making material selection a critical part of the specification process.

Aluminum remains a preferred material for architectural sunshades because it offers an exceptional combination of durability, strength, and corrosion resistance. Unlike materials that may require extensive maintenance or refinishing, aluminum performs reliably in a wide range of environmental conditions.

Architects should also consider finish requirements, environmental exposure, and project-specific performance expectations when preparing specifications. A properly specified system helps protect the investment made in the building while supporting long-term ownership goals.

Think Beyond the Individual Component

The most successful commercial projects view sunshades as part of a larger architectural strategy rather than standalone accessories.

A thoughtfully specified sunshade system can help unify a facade, reinforce branding objectives, highlight key architectural features, and create a stronger overall building identity. It can contribute to the experience of occupants and visitors while supporting the project’s design narrative.

When considered as part of the broader architectural composition, sunshades become far more than functional elements—they become contributors to the success of the entire building.

Work with Experienced Fabrication Partners

Even the best design concepts depend on quality fabrication and execution. Choosing a manufacturer with experience in custom commercial sunshade systems can make a significant difference throughout the project lifecycle.
Experienced fabricators can provide insight into constructability, fabrication efficiencies, attachment solutions, and custom design opportunities. Their expertise often helps project teams refine concepts and identify potential challenges before production begins.

Collaboration between architects, contractors, engineers, and fabricators creates a smoother process and leads to stronger project outcomes.

Sharchs logo

Turning Specifications into Lasting Architectural Value

Specifying aluminum sunshades for commercial projects involves much more than selecting dimensions and materials. It requires a thoughtful approach that considers architectural intent, building orientation, facade integration, durability, and long-term project goals.

When properly specified, aluminum sunshades become valuable architectural assets that enhance building appearance, improve user experience, and contribute to the overall success of a development.

At Sharchs, we help architects, contractors, and developers transform design concepts into custom aluminum sunshade systems built for commercial performance. From early planning discussions to final fabrication, our team is committed to delivering solutions that align with project objectives and architectural vision.

Contact Sharchs today to learn more about specifying custom aluminum sunshades for your next commercial project.

Contact Us

FAQ

Architectural aluminum sunshades are typically specified under MasterFormat Division 10 71 13 (Exterior Sun Control Devices) or Division 08 44 00 (Glazed Curtain Wall Assemblies) when integrated directly into the framing.

Extruded aluminum components are generally specified using 6063-T6 alloy for structural strength and corrosion resistance. Common architectural finishes include AAMA 2605 high-performance PVDF (Kynar 500) fluoropolymer coatings or Class I anodized finishes for maximum weather resistance.

Horizontal sunshades are most effective on south-facing facades to block high-angle summer sun while admitting winter daylight. Vertical fins or sunshades are better suited for east- and west-facing facades to intercept low-angle morning and afternoon sunlight.

Properly designed aluminum sunshades reduce the solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) at the building envelope, lowering peak cooling loads, reducing HVAC energy consumption, and providing glare control for occupant comfort.