# Zip Screen Systems
Source: https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/zip-screen-systems/

# Zip Screen Systems

The zipper locks the fabric into the side channels — the technical core of an outdoor shading system that never leaves its channel in wind.

## Zip Screen Variants

Two system forms — each described on its own page.

[Vertical Zip Screen Façade, pergola and terrace edges — vertical travel on the zippered side rail. Explore](https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/vertical-zip-screen/) [Horizontal Zip Screen Glass ceilings and above pergolas — horizontal plane with two rails + counter tension. Explore](https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/horizontal-zip-screen/)

## Components

Four components work together — fabric, channel, casing and motor.

### Technical Fabric

PVC-coated polyester or fiberglass screen fabric (Soltis, Sergé type) — a 3–5% openness factor filters light while preserving the view.

### Side Guides

The zipper profile on the fabric edge locks inside the side channels — the fabric cannot leave the channel or sag in wind.

### Top Casing

The aluminium casing that gathers the fabric — with the waterproof cover option it stays fully protected outdoors.

### Motor and Control

Motorised operation is standard. Remote, fixed button and wind/sun-sensor motor are the options.

## Exterior Façade Applications

A zip screen is not a glass wall — it is a shading and wind-management system.

### Balcony and Terrace Use

Wind protection + sun breaker + insect barrier. Not a substitute for a glass wall on the interior — it is a shading system.

### Cafés and Restaurants

Protects outdoor seating areas from wind — extends the season together with outdoor heaters.

### Façade Shading

Applied on the exterior façade, the sun is cut before it enters through the insulated glass — more effective solar control than an interior blind.

## Openness Factor

- 3% openness — intense sun, strong shading, less view
- 5% openness — balanced shade + preserved view
- The darker the fabric colour, the clearer the outward view

## Technical Notes

- Zippered side guides — the fabric cannot leave the channel in wind
- Openings of 4,300 × 5,000 mm (~21.5 m²) are spoken of in the industry; the project measurement is settled at the survey
- Wind and sun sensors gather or open the system automatically
- Wind-class-certified product options under EN 13561 are available

## Questions About the Zip Screen System

Can a zip screen replace a glass balcony?

No. It is not glass or PVC joinery — it is an outdoor blind system providing shading, wind management and insect control. For applications wanting full closure, it should be considered together with glass systems.

What is its wind resistance?

The zipper-locked structure provides high wind resistance; there are models certified under EN 13561 by product class. The exact value is shared per the product chart.

Does it work as an insect screen?

Yes. In the closed position it largely blocks insect entry — though its primary function is shading; it is not ventilation-focused like a classic insect screen.

Is manual operation possible?

A manual crank handle is possible on small sizes, but the zip system is essentially designed motorised. On large sizes a motor is required.

The site conditions of channel, box and façade connections are examined on the [Zip Screen Installation Types](https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/zip-screen-installation-types/) page; the planes the system works on are listed in the [application areas](https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/zip-screen-application-areas/).

## Opening Measurements and a Quote

Once the façade and wind conditions are relayed, casing, channel and fabric recommendations are given.

[Request a Quote](https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/contact/) [WhatsApp](https://www.fenetresystems.com/en/whatsapp/)