A zip screen gives shade and cuts wind by about 70% with fabric; guillotine glass closes with glass and, closed, cuts the cold to a large extent. Choose a zip screen for shade and airiness, guillotine glass for a closed, sheltered space; they can be combined.
Short answer
A zip screen is a fabric screen: it gives shade, cuts wind by about 70% and lets air through. Guillotine glass closes with glass panels: closed it cuts the cold to a large extent, and open the lower pane acts as a balustrade. Which suits you depends on the aim, and the two are also used together on one balcony or pergola.
Comparison
| Zip screen | Guillotine glass | |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Fabric (Screen or Serge Ferrari), aluminium rails | Tempered or double-glazed panels, aluminium frame |
| Purpose | Shade, wind reduction, partial privacy | A closed, sheltered space; closing without spoiling the view |
| Cold | Cuts wind; does not insulate | Cuts the cold to a large extent; moving parts let in very little air |
| Wind | Cuts about 70%; rated to 120 km/h | Stays closed with glass panels |
| Operation | Motorised, remote | Motorised; cannot be opened by hand in a power cut |
| Maintenance | No special care; fabric washed when needed | Servicing every 6 months recommended |
| Insects | Edges locked in rails reduce insects | A fly screen can be fitted |
| Balustrade | No | Lower pane acts as a balustrade when open |
Which to choose?
- Zip screen: terraces, pergola sides, restaurant outdoor areas; when shade and wind reduction are the main aim.
- Guillotine glass: when you want a balcony or terrace more sheltered all year.
- Both: a zip screen outside guillotine glass cuts the sun; the two are also mixed on pergola sides.
In apartments check the management plan and the municipality's view (is guillotine glass allowed?). For a wider comparison see terrace enclosure systems. As an authorised Albert Genau manufacturing dealer, we make and install both; you can request a free survey.
