Exterior Solar Shades in Austin, TX
Exterior shades mount on the outside of the window and stop heat and glare before they reach the glass. They're one of the most effective ways to cool a room in the Texas sun.
From inside, the woven fabric keeps your view. Many are motorized so you can lower them before the afternoon heat.
How exterior shades work
Exterior solar shades are roller shades built for outdoor use. They mount on the outside of the window or opening, and many run in zip track side channels that hold the fabric taut and steady in the wind.
The solar mesh comes in several openness levels and colors. Operation can be motorized (including solar-powered versions with a built-in battery), a removable crank, or a clutch, and extra-wide systems cover large window walls.
Why we recommend them in Central Texas
Interior shades stop glare, but some of the heat has already come through the glass. Exterior shades block it outside, which makes them one of the most effective ways to cool a west-facing room or a sunroom in Texas.
They're especially useful in Lakeway, Bee Cave, and Dripping Springs homes with big glass facing the afternoon sun and the view.
Benefits
What you get with custom exterior shades from ATX Blinds & Draperies.
Maximum heat reduction
Stops solar heat outside the glass.
Keeps your view
Solar mesh keeps the outdoors visible.
Wind guides
Cables or tracks keep the shade steady.
Motorized option
Lower all exterior shades with one button.
Best for
- West-facing walls
- Large glass and sunrooms
- Windows with heavy heat gain
- Homes with a view
Options
- Solar mesh in multiple openness levels
- Zip track side channels for wind
- Motorized, crank, or clutch operation
- Standard and extra-wide sizes
- Smart hub for phone app and voice control, at home or away
Good to know
- Exterior shades need retracting in storms and very high winds.
- They're more involved to install than interior shades and cost more, but often outperform them on hot walls.
What affects the price
- Size of each window (wider and taller costs more)
- Fabric or material you choose
- Lift system: chain, cordless, or motorized
- Mounting hardware, cassettes, or tracks
- Number of windows (larger orders often price better per window)
- Specialty shapes and hard-to-reach installs
Every quote is free, in writing, and broken down by window. See our cost guide.
Our process
Consultations are available seven days a week.
Free consultation
We come to you with samples and look at every window, how it faces, and how the room is used.
Measure & quote
We measure every window precisely and send a written quote within 24 hours.
Professional install
We install, test, and clean up. Products are covered by manufacturer warranties.
Care & maintenance
A few minutes now and then keeps them looking new.
Rinsing
Hose off the fabric a few times a year to clear dust, pollen, and cedar debris. Let it dry fully before rolling it up.
Wind
Retract shades and awnings in high winds and storms. Guide cables and tracks handle normal breezes, not storm gusts.
Inspection
Check brackets and guide cables once or twice a year. Call us if anything looks loose.
Exterior shades: common questions
Have another question? Call (512) 751-8408.
Are exterior shades better than interior shades for heat?
Generally yes. Stopping the sun outside the glass keeps much more heat out of the room than an interior shade.
Are exterior shades worth it in Texas?
On west- and south-facing glass with full afternoon sun, they're one of the most effective heat-reduction upgrades you can make.
Can I see through exterior shades?
Yes. During the day, the solar mesh keeps your view.
Do exterior shades need maintenance?
Just an occasional rinse and a check of the cables and brackets.
Can I control motorized shades from my phone?
Yes. Add a smart hub and you can raise, lower, group, and schedule everything from an app on your phone, at home or away, and connect to popular voice assistants.
Helpful guides
More detail before you decide.
The Best Window Treatments for West-Facing Windows in Texas
West-facing windows heat up Texas homes every afternoon.
Related products
Exterior shades near you
Get a free quote on exterior shades
Tell us a little about your project. We'll call to set a time that works, any day of the week, and bring our mobile showroom to you.
(512) 751-8408Text us: (512) 751-8408info@austintexasblinds.comConsultations available Monday through Sunday.
What happens next
- We call you from (512) 751-8408, usually the same day. Save our number so you know it's us.
- No answer? We'll text you from the same number to find a good time.
- We bring the showroom to you: samples at your windows, and we measure everything.
- Written quote within 24 hours. No obligation, no pressure.