Manufactured by American solar control fabric specialists Phifer Incorporated, the Outlook mesh collection consists of five ranges that have been designed for specific purposes. While all are ideal for external blinds and awnings, they differ in key features and benefits. Knowing the difference between the mesh options is essential for choosing the right fabric for your project.
Before diving into the differences, the features this lead-free, year-round mesh collection share include Greenguard Gold certification, Microban antimicrobial treatment, and a full 10-year warranty.
Four of the five ranges are made using Dow Ecolibrium bio-based plasticisers, which means for every 10 square metres of Outlook mesh used, one litre of petroleum is saved. Mode Zero is the only exception to this, due to its unique construction to obtain visual blockout.
Outlook Zero | 0% openness, 100% shade cover
Outlook Zero is a mesh that produces a complete visual blockout. Due to its unique construction, this range is not manufactured using Dow Ecolibrium as the key focus was to create a mesh that provided complete privacy, though still allowed a little airflow while supplying the ultimate protection from the sun. This fabric has printing capabilities and is available in 6 colourways, with COLORBOND® options available.
Outlook Privacy | 1% openness, 99% shade cover
Outlook Privacy mesh blocks and reflects up to 99% of solar energy, while still allowing uninterrupted views. It is ideal for applications where privacy is required and like Outlook Mode, is fire retardant and printable. Available in 12 colourways and 320cm roll widths.
Outlook Mode | 5% openness, 95% shade cover
Outlook Mode is the original range that launched this mesh collection into the Australian market over 20 years ago. It will block and reflect up to 95% solar energy and has a 5% openness that allows cool breezes to flow through. This mesh is fire retardant, which indicates the range has undergone rigorous fire testing and has been certified safe to be used in commercial and residential properties. Available in 28 colourways with 7 inspired by COLORBOND®, a variety of roll widths and the ability to be printed on using solvent and UV inks.
Sun control Mode Monument Avoca Beach blinds; Image courtesy of Avoca Beach Blinds
Outlook Textures | 5% openness, 95% shade cover
The Outlook Textures range is the most like Outlook Mode, its only technical difference being the incorporation of bi-coloured yarn into the base of the textile adding a two-tone look, which creates a more aesthetically pleasing product. Available in 8 colourways, and 320cm roll widths.
Outlook Designs | 12% openness, 88% shade cover
Outlook Designs explores a range of colour combinations that have been selected to produce a striped look. Although they are not fire retardant, these 12 mesh fabrics are a popular choice for anyone wanting to bring energy to a structure with a timeless design aesthetic.
Top image: Sun control - Paul Collins created - Outlook Zebra
