Zip screens in Altea

Why choose this solution?

Screens stop solar heat before it reaches the glass while preserving some outward visibility during the day. With a well-designed system, the fabric, cassette, guides, and motor work as one unit.

The best choice is the solution that is used naturally. We therefore discuss who will operate the system, when protection is needed, and how much visibility, ventilation, privacy, or blackout effect should remain.

Technical checks before ordering

We check the wall construction, recess, opening dimensions, wind load, cable route, and the unobstructed movement of windows or sliding doors. A zip screen keeps the fabric in the side guides and is therefore more stable than a free-hanging fabric.

A made-to-measure product can only function properly when the measuring method matches the system. We record the width, height, projection, installation side, and operation, and check doors, windowsills, roller-shutter boxes, downpipes, and other obstacles.

Specific considerations for Altea

In apartments and villas with large expanses of glass in Altea, we encounter a wide range of façades and window frames. A property may be sheltered, but it may also be fully exposed to the sun or wind. That is why we do not base a proposal on a photograph alone. A local survey prevents an attractive solution from being applied incorrectly from a technical perspective.

From La Nucía, we schedule projects in Altea as part of our established service area. For multiple products, measuring, power supply, installation, and operation can be combined in one plan.

Colour, fabric, mesh, and finish

Fabric colour and openness factor together determine visibility, light, and heat reduction. Dark fabric generally provides better outward visibility, while lighter colours create a softer appearance on the façade.

We prefer to view samples next to the window frame, façade brick, and interior. Strong Spanish sunlight changes colours considerably. Neutral shades may appear warmer or cooler, and dark materials become hotter; we take this into account without turning personal taste into a technical fairy tale.

Manual, electric, or solar

Manual operation is simple, but electric operation can be much more convenient for large or frequently used systems. Solar is particularly interesting when installing cabling is difficult. The dimensions, weight, frequency of use, and available position for a solar panel determine whether it is a sensible choice.

For motorisation, we discuss a wall switch, remote control, any sensors, and operation per product or group. A wind sensor helps, but it does not make sun protection indestructible; responsible use remains essential in strong winds.

What determines the price?

The price depends on the dimensions, system, profile colour, fabric or mesh, motor, accessibility, and mounting surface. Installation on a straight, easily accessible façade is different from working at height, above a patio cover, or on a surface requiring additional anchoring.

After measuring, you will receive a proposal in which the product and installation are considered together. This means you are not comparing a basic online price with a complete, installed made-to-measure product.

Maintenance in the coastal climate

Sand and salt require regular but gentle maintenance. Carefully rinse profiles and guides, remove dirt before it starts to cause abrasion, and do not use aggressive cleaning products. Moving parts should not be treated randomly with grease or spray; follow the system’s maintenance advice.

Do not leave a product wet and rolled up or folded for long periods, and check after strong winds that everything moves freely. Addressing noise, uneven movement, or stiffness early often prevents more serious damage.

Common mistakes with made-to-measure shading and insect screens

A common mistake is ordering based on a rough wall opening. Window frames are not always straight, tile edges may protrude, and a roller-shutter box or door handle may sit exactly within the movement area. Wind resistance is also sometimes treated as an absolute figure, even though dimensions, installation, façade position, and proper use together determine what is responsible.

A second mistake is choosing the cheapest system first and only then considering power, installation, and operation. This can result in visible cables, an awkward crank, or a cassette that obstructs the door. With made-to-measure work, the complete usage situation should be established before production.

Combining solutions for a cooler and more comfortable home

External shading works most effectively when heat is stopped before it enters through the glass. This can be combined with internal shading for atmosphere and privacy. Insect screens then make it possible to ventilate during cooler hours without an invasion of mosquitoes. The products therefore serve different purposes and can reinforce one another.

Different systems do not have to be used on every façade. A zip screen may be the logical choice for a large glazed opening, a roller shutter for a bedroom, and a pleated insect screen door for a frequently used patio door. By coordinating the colours and operation, the overall appearance remains calm while each opening receives the technically appropriate solution.

Checklist for a good quotation

• Are the exact dimensions, system type, and installation position specified?
• Are the profile colour, fabric or mesh type, and operation confirmed?
• Are the motor, transmitter, sensors, and electrical connection included?
• Is it clear who will dismantle and dispose of existing products?
• Are lifting equipment, accessibility, fixing materials, and adjustment included?
• Will you receive guidance on use, wind, and maintenance after installation?

These points make quotations comparable and prevent essential components from appearing as surprises during installation.

From advice to installation

1. Discuss the opening, sun exposure, and intended use.
2. Have the dimensions and mounting surface checked.
3. Choose the configuration, colour, and operation using actual samples.
4. Receive a complete price for the made-to-measure product and installation.
5. Have the system installed, adjusted, and explained.

Advice from Port of Altea

Would you like to know which configuration is right for you? Contact us or visit our showroom in La Nucía. You can also view the main page about external shading on the Costa Blanca.