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Browse our frequently asked questions and answers, or contact one of our specialists, who are happy to help.
A zip-screen is a vertical awning with a zip-edged fabric retained inside the side guide rails. As the awning lowers, the zipped edges run within the channels, helping keep the fabric taut. This provides a more secure fabric guidance system than a conventional screen awning with free side edges.
With a zip-screen system, the fabric stays more evenly tensioned and flutters less in the wind, making it better suited to exposed locations. Zip-screen refers to the side-guidance system rather than a particular fabric type. Wind resistance also depends on the model, dimensions and fixings. Our Sensus vertical awnings use zip technology.
The wind resistance of a vertical awning depends on the model, size, fixings and construction. A zip-screen holds the fabric edges inside the guide rails, helping it remain taut in windy conditions. The Sensus range is specified as wind class 8 for standard wall mounting; check the product documentation for the applicable standard and installation conditions.
Different installation methods and particularly exposed locations can affect the loads on the structure, so always follow the product's wind-resistance rating. Retract the awning if wind speeds are expected to exceed its stated limits, and never allow snow to build up on a lowered awning. Retracting it during extreme weather is also a sensible precaution.
A vertical awning can be fitted to the exterior wall or within a window recess. You can carry out the mechanical installation yourself if you are confident with measuring, drilling and fitting. Check the measurements, fitting space and supporting material before ordering. Made-to-measure manufacturing allows the awning to fit the specified opening.
Allow enough space for the cassette above the opening and the guide rails on both sides, while keeping windows and doors usable. Sensus models are manufactured up to 500 cm wide and 480 cm high. Fixings must suit the façade material and a suitable supporting structure. Two people are recommended when installing larger awnings.
Vertical awnings are available in motorised, solar-powered and integrated-lighting versions. They all work in the same way: the fabric runs vertically in front of the glazing, reducing solar heat gain and glare before sunlight reaches the window. The best option depends on the window dimensions, its location and how you want to operate the awning.
A motorised awning is operated using a remote control or another compatible control system and is suited to locations where a mains connection is readily available. A solar-powered awning does not need to connect to the building's electrical system, which simplifies installation. The version with LED lighting built into the cassette suits balconies and conservatories used in the evening.
The price of a vertical awning depends mainly on its dimensions, operating system, fabric and the number ordered. As each awning is made to measure, there is no single price for every size. The configurator shows the current price when you select the dimensions and version.
Larger awnings need more materials and fabric, while motorised or solar-powered operation also affects the price. Fabric, colour, model and the number of windows to be shaded all play a part. Configure several awnings together to see the total project price and compare sizes and specifications.
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Sensus Solcell is our freestanding vertical awning and the easiest way to install a motorised sunshade in an existing building. The cassette features an integrated solar panel that charges a rechargeable battery during the day—the battery then powers the motor when you raise or lower awning. No cables need to be run through the facade, no electrician needs to be called in, and no junction box needs to be located near the window. This makes the Sensus Solcell one of the few motorised sunshades you can install in an afternoon, entirely on your own.
Awning Made to your specifications—up to 500 cm wide and 480 cm high—and delivered ready for installation. The package includes a cassette with a solar panel and battery, fabric, side channels, mounting brackets, and a remote control. You specify the width, height, profile colour, and fabric type in the configurator.
Sensus Solcell is available in the same four profile colours as the other Sensus models—white, grey, black, and anthracite grey—and features the same curated selection of high-quality fabrics. The solar panel is discreetly integrated into the cassette and is not visible from below, so the awning’s profile remains just as clean as on the grid-connected models.
If you want a mains-powered model, see Sensus Motor. If you're looking for built-in lighting in the cassette, see Sensus LED.
Sensus Solcell can be installed on the external façade or recessed into a window reveal. Brackets, side channels and fixings are supplied, and the casing has no visible external screws. Its solar panel powers the awning without a mains cable, avoiding a mains electrical connection for the awning. Installation can often be completed in an afternoon. Depending on cassette size, it weighs approximately 7–12 kg per linear metre, so we recommend at least two people for fitting.
The solar panel is pre-installed in the cassette and only needs to be exposed to daylight to begin charging the battery—no technical installation work is required beyond the mechanical installation.
Screws and wall plugs for installation are included in the package. For certain types of surfaces, different fixing may be required—please contact us if you are unsure. Be sure to install the cassette so that the solar panel has an unobstructed view of the sky for optimal charging, and so that the window can still be opened for ventilation when installed in a niche.
Sensus Solcell is designed with reference to EN 13561, the European standard for external blinds and awnings. The solar-powered operation is one of its distinguishing features.
The aluminium cassette is made of multi-layered, “ powder-coated ” to withstand UV radiation, salty air in coastal locations, and Nordic temperature fluctuations without the paint peeling or the surface rusting. The fabrics are supplied by Sandatex, one of Europe’s leading textile manufacturers.
*The wind rating applies to standard wall mounting.
The solar panel is maintenance-free and is kept clean by the rain. As a good practice, however, rinse the cassette with lukewarm water and mild soap once per season. The battery is designed for several years of operation and can be replaced separately when the time comes. Nothing needs to be disassembled in the winter – however, check the fixing and screws at the change of seasons, especially in exposed areas.
Here we have compiled the technical specifications for the Sensus Solcell Panel—dimensions, cassette sizes, battery and operating data, mounting options, and colour codes. Use this information as a reference when taking measurements and placing orders. All product sheets are available as PDFs.
Specifications:
Before installing a vertical awning, check whether the proposed work requires planning permission or other consent. Rules may differ for listed buildings, conservation areas and flats. If you rent or live in a managed property, ask the landlord or building manager about any required approval. The same considerations apply to the solar-powered version.
