When selecting an outdoor mesh fabric, openness factor plays a crucial role in determining light filtration, visibility, privacy, and sun protection. The Outlook range offers multiple openness options, allowing you to tailor your selection based on functionality, aesthetics, and environment.
Let’s dive into the range.
Openness factor refers to the percentage of the fabric that allows light and air to pass through. A fabric with a higher openness factor provides more visibility and airflow, while a lower openness factor offers more shade, privacy, and heat reduction.
Outlook’s Openness Options
- Outlook Designs – 12% Openness
- Outlook Mode – 5% Openness
- Outlook Privacy – 1% Openness
- Outlook Zero – 0% Openness
Each option is designed to balance UV protection, privacy, airflow, and outward visibility—but the right choice depends on your specific needs.
A Closer Look at Each Outlook Openness Option
1. Outlook Designs (12% Openness) – Best for Style & Light Filtration
For those who want a decorative touch with practical weather protection, Outlook Designs is a great choice. With a 12% openness factor, it provides a more airy feel while still reducing glare and offering shade. Featuring a selection of classic stripe patterns, this range adds character and elegance to any outdoor space.
Best for:
✅ Traditional & Classic Exteriors – Ideal for maintaining a decorative, timeless look.
✅ Patios, Pergolas & Alfresco Areas – Offers partial shading while letting in more natural light.
✅ Homes & Businesses Seeking a Heritage Feel – The striped design enhances outdoor aesthetics.
Tip: If you love timeless patterns and want a balance between shade and openness, Outlook Designs is a stylish choice.
2. Outlook Mode (5% Openness) – Best for Views & Airflow
If you want outdoor shade while maintaining visibility, Mode is a great option. With a 5% openness factor, it allows some light through while reducing glare and providing UV protection. Our biggest staple in the collection with the biggest colour range.
Best for:
✅ Patios & Outdoor Entertaining Areas – Keeps things cool while maintaining a visual connection with the outdoors.
✅ Cafés & Restaurants – Ideal for alfresco dining spaces that need shade without blocking the view.
✅ Coastal & Windy Locations – Allows airflow, reducing heat build-up.
Tip: If your main priority is enjoying the view while cutting down on glare, Outlook Mode is the way to go.
3. Outlook Privacy (1% Openness) – Best for UV Protection & Light Control
For those looking for stronger sun protection and more privacy, Privacy offers a 1% openness factor, allowing minimal light transmission while significantly reducing heat and glare.
Best for:
✅ Residential Windows & External Blinds – Protects interiors from harsh sunlight and fading while maintaining some natural light.
✅ Home Offices & Living Spaces – Reduces screen glare and heat without fully blocking the outdoors.
✅ West-Facing Windows – Helps prevent overheating in areas with direct afternoon sun.
Tip: If you want UV protection and reduced glare without completely blocking out natural light, Outlook 99 is the perfect balance.
4. Outlook Zero (0% Openness) – Best for Maximum Privacy & Heat Protection
When total sun protection, privacy, and heat reduction are the priority, Outlook Zero is the ultimate choice. With a 0% openness factor, it completely blocks light, visibility, and airflow, ensuring maximum shading and insulation.
Best for:
✅ Complete Privacy Needs – Perfect for balconies, fences, and external blinds where privacy is essential.
✅ Energy Efficiency & Heat Reduction – Blocks 100% of UV rays, reducing indoor cooling costs.
✅ Commercial Spaces & Retail Stores – Provides branding opportunities with printed signage while acting as a sun barrier.
Tip: If you want total shade and insulation, Outlook Zero is the strongest performer, offering full UV block and complete privacy.
How to Choose the Right Outlook Openness for You
When deciding on an openness factor, consider these key factors:
Visibility Needs – Do you want to maintain your view, or do you need complete privacy?
Sun Exposure – If your space gets a lot of direct sunlight, lower openness will provide better protection.
Application & Location – Think about where the fabric will be used—patios need airflow, while windows may need heat control.
Aesthetic Preferences – Do you want a soft, filtered light effect or full shading?
The Outlook Advantage: A Fabric for Every Need
No matter which openness factor you choose, Outlook fabrics are built for long-term performance, offering:
✔ 99% UV Protection – Helps safeguard people, furniture, and flooring.
✔ 15-Year Warranty – Ensures durability and longevity.
✔ Colorbond® Matching Colours – Seamlessly blends with your home’s exterior.
✔ Dow Ecolibrium™ Technology – A sustainable, phthalate-free alternative to traditional PVC.
By understanding how openness impacts shade, heat, and privacy, you can make the best choice for your outdoor space.
Whether you want to maximise your views, control glare, embrace classic stripe designs, or create total privacy, there’s an Outlook openness option that suits your needs. From the decorative 12% openness of Outlook Designs to the total blockout power of Outlook Zero, every fabric in the Outlook range is designed for both style and function.
Need help choosing the right openness? Contact us today to explore the perfect Outlook solution for your space!