Meta Keywords: skylight glare control, daylight modeling, diffuse daylighting systems, glare-free skylights, daylight comfort
Glare kills good design.
A space flooded with uncontrolled daylight can quickly turn from inspiring to irritating. Hot spots, blown-out light, sharp contrasts—these visual disruptions can cause occupant discomfort, eye strain, and even reduce productivity. For architects striving to create beautiful, functional spaces, daylighting must be managed as carefully as any other design element.
The Challenge: Uneven Illumination
Without diffusion or proper glare control, skylights and glazed roof systems can:
- Create visual discomfort for occupants.
- Trigger complaints about heat and brightness.
- Fail to meet WELL and LEED daylight performance metrics.
The Crystal Fix: Diffused Polycarbonate
At Crystal Structures Glazing, we’ve engineered multi-wall and opal polycarbonate systems that:
- Transmit up to 90% daylight without harsh beams.
- Diffuse light evenly for a softer, glare-free glow.
- Reduce direct beam penetration, preventing visual hot spots.
Proven results:
- Classrooms retrofitted with Crystal diffused polycarbonate saw a 65% drop in complaints about glare and eye strain.
- A corporate lobby achieved sDA 300/50% compliance without the need for blinds.
Glazing + Modeling = Total Control
We don’t just design, we predict outcomes before installation:
- Daylight simulations via Radiance, Revit, and ClimateStudio.
- Compliance support for sDA, ASE, and DGP metrics.
- Side-by-side analysis so architects can see how the system will perform under real conditions.
Beyond Diffusion: Layered Solutions for Glare Control
1. Shades with Precision Track Technology
Crystal Structures offers integrated ShadeTrack™ systems—a guided track shade solution that prevents light bleed and uneven shadowing. Whether manual or motorized, they work seamlessly within skylight frames for complete light control without the bulk of traditional drapery systems.
2. Innerlayers for Light Dispersion
By incorporating PVB or SGP interlayers into laminated glass, we can scatter incoming daylight for a balanced wash of light. This minimizes high contrast edges and helps maintain visual comfort throughout the day.
3. Smart Daylighting + Solar Energy
The future of daylighting is here. Companies like Solarvolt™ and Onyx Solar are embedding photovoltaic cells inside architectural glass—creating glazing that not only delivers soft, diffused light but also generates renewable energy. Imagine a canopy that powers the lobby lighting below it.
Why It Matters for Architects & Owners
Controlled daylighting is more than an aesthetic choice:
- Enhances occupant comfort and productivity.
- Reduces the need for artificial lighting.
- Supports green building certifications.
- Future-proofs designs for evolving sustainability standards.
Take the First Step Toward Glare-Free Design
Let’s design your daylighting to inspire—not irritate.
Book a daylighting consult or see a live glare comparison at our demo facility.
Explore Our Glare Solutions: Contactus@csglazing.net
Schedule a CEU: Enhancing LEED Design Through Skylights – jsucher@csglazing.net
Our Architectural Design Assistance Center – Launching Fall 2025
