Solar shading of buildings BR 364
BRE (Building Research Establishment) is an independent, research-based consultancy, testing and training organisation, operating in the built environment and associated industries.
Solar shading of buildings: Second edition (BR 364) was written by Paul Littlefair and published by BRE on 5 January 2018.
The careful choice of solar shading for buildings allows good use of winter solar gain and daylighting whilst avoiding summer overheating. This can help reduce cooling costs, prevent glare (particularly where computer screens are used), and provide privacy for building occupants.
BR 364 describes the most commonly-used solar shading devices and discusses new developments. It sets out the advantages and disadvantages of each kind of shading device and provides a decision table to help select the best solution.
The 56 page report will be of particular interest to architects, building services engineers, building owners, facilities managers, shading manufacturers, retailers and installers in the UK and other countries with similar climates and latitudes.
Its contents are:
- Executive summary.
- Introduction.
- External shading.
- Glazing.
- Mid-pane devices.
- Internal shading.
- Conclusions.
- Appendices.
- References.
[edit] Find out more.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Blinds.
- BRE articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz articles on Designing Buildings Wiki.
- BRE Buzz.
- BREEAM Visual comfort Glare control.
- Brise soleil.
- Building Research Establishment.
- Control of solar shading IP 4 17.
- Exterior shutters.
- Retrofitting solar shading.
- Solar shading
- Wind Resistance for External Blinds.
Featured articles and news
The Architectural Technology Awards
The AT Awards 2025 are open for entries!
ECA Blueprint for Electrification
The 'mosaic of interconnected challenges' and how to deliver the UK’s Transition to Clean Power.
Grenfell Tower Principal Contractor Award notice
Tower repair and maintenance contractor announced as demolition contractor.
Passivhaus social homes benefit from heat pump service
Sixteen new homes designed and built to achieve Passivhaus constructed in Dumfries & Galloway.
CABE Publishes Results of 2025 Building Control Survey
Concern over lack of understanding of how roles have changed since the introduction of the BSA 2022.
British Architectural Sculpture 1851-1951
A rich heritage of decorative and figurative sculpture. Book review.
A programme to tackle the lack of diversity.
Independent Building Control review panel
Five members of the newly established, Grenfell Tower Inquiry recommended, panel appointed.
Welsh Recharging Electrical Skills Charter progresses
ECA progressing on the ‘asks’ of the Recharging Electrical Skills Charter at the Senedd in Wales.
A brief history from 1890s to 2020s.
CIOB and CORBON combine forces
To elevate professional standards in Nigeria’s construction industry.
Amendment to the GB Energy Bill welcomed by ECA
Move prevents nationally-owned energy company from investing in solar panels produced by modern slavery.
Gregor Harvie argues that AI is state-sanctioned theft of IP.
Heat pumps, vehicle chargers and heating appliances must be sold with smart functionality.
Experimental AI housing target help for councils
Experimental AI could help councils meet housing targets by digitising records.
New-style degrees set for reformed ARB accreditation
Following the ARB Tomorrow's Architects competency outcomes for Architects.
BSRIA Occupant Wellbeing survey BOW
Occupant satisfaction and wellbeing tool inc. physical environment, indoor facilities, functionality and accessibility.