STANFORD UNIVERSITY

UNIVERSITY ARCHITECT / CAMPUS PLANNING AND DESIGN

SHADECLOTH STANDARDS
Updated August 2016

The purpose of this document is to provide direction and specifications for the roller shade standards to
be utilized throughout the Stanford University campus. The intent is to streamline and simplify the
selection process and criteria, while maintaining campus-wide consistency and reducing the lifecycle
costs for buildings by minimizing the need for constant shade replacement. In addition to providing
guidance on selecting the appropriate shadecloth, this document includes a comprehensive list of all
standardized options. Selections should not deviate from these, and all selections must be approved by
the University Architect/Campus Design and Planning Office (UA/CPD) prior to installation. Contact
UA/CPD for examples of appropriate campus installations.

The enclosed document includes the following sections:

• Selecting The Appropriate Shadecloth
• Stanford University Campus Shadecloth Selection Standards
• Shadecloth Sample Program
Selecting The Appropriate Shadecloth

There are many aspects to consider when selecting the appropriate sunscreen shadecloth for a
building. Following is an overview of these elements.
Note: For some projects, and in some localities, a minimum shading coefficient or solar factor may be
required by mechanical engineers.

Sustainability: EcoVeil® is the first environmentally certified product of its kind. These non-PVC
shadecloths are woven of an extruded proprietary fiber whose TPO (thermoplastic olefin) jacket
covers a polyolefin core yarn. EcoVeil® shadecloths are reclaimable and fully recyclable (endlessly),
flame retardant, washable, UV-resistant, antifungal, and possess a low measurable emission of
VOCs (volatile-organic compounds). The EcoVeil® shadecloth family carries a GREENGUARD®
certification. EcoVeil® is designed to meet the Cradle-to-CradleSM criteria. This innovative approach
to sustainability models manufacturing processes on the biological metabolism found in natural
ecosystems. Each ingredient is evaluated for its known or suspected human and environmental
health hazards throughout its life cycle, by analyzing peer-reviewed research studies of the pure
chemical’s attributes against material evaluation criteria. The result is a truly ecoeffective sunscreen
material. As an integral element of MechoSystems’ manual Mecho®/5 shade system, the product
as a system (shadecloth + hardware) became the first complete window treatment to be recognized
as Cradle-to-Cradle CertifiedCM Silver. For more information, visit http://mbdc.com/ and
http://www.c2ccertified.org/.

Shading Coefficient: The shading coefficient (SC) represents the relative percentage of solar heat
through a combination of glass and a specific shadecloth. Light colors have lower shading
coefficients while dark colors are higher. A lower shading coefficient equals lower heat gain. [i.e. SC
.60 = 60% relative solar heat gain; SC .45 = 45% relative solar heat gain.]

Solar Optical Properties. The solar optical properties of shadecloth fabrics are used to calculate
the shading coefficient with any glass and shade combination. The solar optical properties are:
TS = Total Solar Transmittance (%)
As = Total Solar Absorption (%)
RS = Total Solar Reflectance (%)
TV = Visible Light Transmittance Daylight
OF = Openness Factor Density

Visible Light. Visible light transmittance (Tv) data is published as a guide to determine interior
brightness and glare for specific glass and fabric combinations.
Glare and brightness can be debilitating on CRTs and other types of work stations. Visible
light transmittance must be a primary consideration when selecting sunscreen shadecloth.

Openness Factor. The density, or openness factor, is a key element to be considered once a
shadecloth has met shading coefficient requirements.
The openness factor (OF) of a fabric is the density of its weave. To assure personal comfort
near the window wall it is necessary to control the direct solar radiant energy (sunshine) that
penetrates the glass / shade combination. This is accomplished with proper selection of
fabric density in conjunction with visible light transmittance of the glass.
 People tend to be more comfortable with tightly woven fabrics in darker colors and higher
shading coefficients, than with more open, less dense shadecloths in lighter colors.

Our minimum recommended fabric density in conjunction with visible light transmittance glass is as
follows:

Color. Color is another key factor in selecting a sunscreen shadecloth. Color will directly affect
heat gain (shading coefficient), brightness and glare.
Light colors are more reflective with lower heat gain and shading coefficients, but with a
higher percentage of daylight and solar transmittance.
Light colors, however, are brighter when sunlit which causes high surface brightness (bare
light bulb syndrome) and may transmit excessive, debilitating light onto computer
screens and work stations.
Light colors are difficult to see through due to surface brightness and higher reflectance
and transmittance characteristics. They also tend to reflect more of the interior light back
into the space. (See Solar Optical Properties Charts.)
Darker colors provide a better view through the shadecloth to the outside. Dark colors
absorb light and heat, and are less energy efficient than lighter colors. They transmit less
light and have a lower surface brightness which lowers reflectivity and provides excellent
glare-free environments for CRTs and work stations.
Medium value colors minimize excessive contrast in a room which reduces eye strain.

Mock-ups. To fully appreciate the impact of direct sun on computers and work surfaces, we
recommend full-size mock-ups. With high daylight transmitting glazing, we recommend medium
to dense fabrics in medium to dark colors.
 Stanford University Campus Shadecloth Selection Standards

Synopsis

 NOTE: Exterior face should always be dark; darker side of the shadecloth to face the exterior,
when applicable.

Section 1: 1% OF (Openness factor) Shadecloth

A 1% OF shadecloth may be required in instances where a semblance of privacy during the
nighttime hours is preferred. It may also be required on exposures which will experience direct
solar penetration, in instances where the furniture plan has the occupant facing the glass. The
dense weave will help to reduce the potential bright spot on the window while the sun is shining in
increasing the comfort level of the occupant(s).

Appropriate exposures: North, South, East, West

Please select from the following approved fabrics:

o EcoVeil 0950 Series

 0954 Black/Brown………………………………………………………... 1.1

 0970 Shadow Grey………………………………………………………. 1.1

o ThermoVeil 0900 Series:

 0903 Grey………………………………………………………………… 1.1

 0904 Black/Brown…………..…………………………………………… 1.1

o SoHo 1100 Series

 1111 Prince………………………………………………………………… 1.2

 1112 Thompson…………………………………………………………… 1.2

 1113 Mercer……………………………………………………………….. 1.2

 1115 Greene………………………………………………………………. 1.2

 1122 Howard………………………………………………………………. 1.2

 1133 Wooster……………………………………………………………… 1.2

Section 2: 2% OF (openness factor) Shadecloth

A 2% OF shadecloth may be required on exposures which will experience direct solar
penetration, in instances where the furniture plan has the occupant facing the glass. The dense
weave will help to reduce the potential bright spot on the window while the sun is shining in,
increasing the comfort level of the occupant(s). Compared to the 1% OF shadecloth, a 2% OF
shadecloth will afford a better view through the fabric to the exterior.
  Appropriate exposures: North, South, East, West
 Please select from the following approved fabrics:

o EuroTwill 6200 Series

 6210 Nickel……………….………………………………………………... 2.1

 6211 Graphite………………..………….…………………………………. 2.1

 6216 Slate…………………………………………………………………... 2.1

 220 White/Black………………………………………………..…………... 2.1

Section 3: 3% OF (Openness factor) Shadecloth

A 3% OF shadecloth may be chosen on exposures which will experience direct solar penetration,
in instances where the furniture plan has the occupant facing away from the glass. It may also
be selected for exposures which will receive significant shading from adjacent buildings or other
exterior barriers such as trees. A 3% OF shadecloth may also be utilized when the glazing
selected has a moderate to relatively low visible light transmittance.

Appropriate exposures: North, South, East, West

Please select from the following approved fabrics:

o EcoVeil 1550 Series

 1554 Black/Brown………………..……………………………………….. 3.1

 1570 Shadow Grey……………………………………………….……….. 3.1

 1563 Grey………………………………………………………………….. 3.1

o ThermoVeil 1500 Series

 1504 Black/Brown…………………………………………………………. 3.2

 1513 Grey………………………………………………………………….. 3.2

 1520 Shadow Grey…………………………………………………….… . 3.2

o EuroTwill 6000 Series

 6011 Graphite………………………………………………………….….. 3.3

 6012 Charcoal……………………………………………………………… 3.3

 6013 Bronze………………………………………………………………… 3.3

 6016 Slate……………………………………………………….………….. 3.3

o EuroTwill 6450 Series

 6461 Graphite…………………………………………………………….... 3.4

 6462 Light Charcoal……………….………………………………..…….. 3.4

 6469 Black………………………………………………………..………… 3.4

  6471 Black/White…………………………………………………………. 3.4

o SoHo 1600 Series

 1611 Prince………………………………………………………………... 3.5

 1612 Thompson…………………………………………………………... 3.5

 1613 Mercer………………………………………………………………. . 3.5

 1615 Greene………………………………………………………………. 3.5

 1622 Howard………………………………………………………………. 3.5

 1633 Wooster……………………………………………………………… 3.5

Section 4: Acoustical 0-1% OF (openness factor) Shadecloth

An acoustical shadecloth should be chosen for rooms which will require the shadecloth to offer
a significant noise reduction coefficient. These also offer privacy and significant room-
darkening. When a double system combining a solar cloth with an acoustical is utilized, the
solar fabric should be situated closest to the glass, to provide a uniform appearance from the
exterior.
Please select from the following approved fabrics:
o AcoustiVeil 890 Series
 0894 Black ………………………………………………………………... 4.1

Section 5: 0% OF (openness factor) Opaque Shadecloth

An opaque shadecloth may be required for privacy concerns or for complete room darkening as
may be needed for audio visual presentations.

Please select from the following approved fabrics:

o Chelsea 0250 Series

 0251 Chalk………………………………………………………………... 5.1

 0252 Sand…….………………………………………………………….. 5.1

 0253 Graphite……………………………………………………………. 5.1

 0254 Shale…….…………………………………………………………. 5.1

EcoVeil® Screen
0950 Series (1% open)

This series is woven in a 1 x 1 basket–weave pattern

and is an eco–effective solar Sunscreen. As a Cradle to
Cradle CertifiedCM product, it can be reclaimed,
recycled, and remain in a perpetual loop of continuous
use. The 0950 Series has a 1% density for privacy.

Content: 100% thermoplastic olefin (TPO)

0970 Shadow Grey
Openness factor: approx. 1%

Stocked: 100 in. (254cm) wide

NFPA 701-2004: pass

0954 Black/Brown

ThermoVeil® Vertical Privacy Weave

0900 Series (0–1% open)

This series is composed of a tightly woven translucent

material in a linear weave. The 0900 Series allows light
to enter the interior from the outside during the daytime,
while maintaining privacy at night.

Content: 75% PVC (coating), 25% polyester (yarn)

Openness factor: 0–1% 0903 Grey
Stocked: 72 in. (183cm) and 96 in. (244) wide
NFPA 701-2004: pass grey

0904 Black/Brown

1.1
SoHo

1100 Series (1% open)

Thin, fine yarns create an elegant spin on this traditional

2 x 2 basket weave. The designer-selected color palette
provides 12 distinct options, which are available in three
different densities.
The colors in this series match those of the 1100 Series
(3% open) and 1900 Series (5% open). 1111 Prince

Content: 76% PVC and 24% polyester

Openness factor: 1%
Stocked: 98 in. (249cm) wide
NFPA 701-2010: pass

1112 Thompson

1122 Howard 1113 Mercer

1133 Wooster 1115 Greene

1.2
EuroTwill® Reversible Weave
6200 Series (2% open)

This series has a distinctive, tightly woven twill design. It

is composed of sheer, fine polyester yarns with a PVC
coating. The series’ reversible twill weave provides a
subtle, yet complementary element to a space.

To order the shadecloth’s reverse side so that it 6210 Nickle

faces the room, please add an “R” to its code,
for example “6210R.”

Content: 85% PVC (coating), 15% polyester (yarn)

Openness factor: approx. 2%
Stocked: 63 in. (160cm) and 96 in. (244cm) wide
NFPA 701-2004: pass

6211 Graphite

6216 Slate

6220 White/Black

2.1
EcoVeil® Screen
1550 Series (3% open)

This series has a basket–weave design and is a truly

eco–effective solar Sunscreen. As a Cradle to Cradle
CertifiedCM product, it can be reclaimed, recycled, and
remain in a perpetual loop of continuous use.

Content: 100% thermoplastic olefin (TPO)

Openness factor: approx. 5%
Stocked: 100 in. (254cm) wide
1554 Black/Brown
NFPA 701-2004: pass

1570 Shadow Grey

1563 Grey

3.1
ThermoVeil® Dense Basket Weave
1500 Series (3% open)

This series is composed of a technically advanced material

woven in a 2 x 2 basket– weave pattern. Its weave provides a
uniform scrim effect at the window wall with an appropriate
density for sun control. The 1500 Series’ colors match those of
the 1300 Series (5% open).

Content: 75% PVC (coating)

1504 Black/Brown
25% polyester (yarn)
Openness factor: approx. 3%
Stocked: 63 in. (160cm), 96 in. (244cm), and 126 in.
(320cm) wide
NFPA 701-2004: pass

1513 Grey

1520 Shadow Grey

3.2
EuroTwill® Reversible Weave
6000 Series (3% open)
This series features finely woven shadecloths with a
reversible face. Its extensive color range will complement
any interior.

To order the shadecloth’s reverse side so that it faces the

room, please add an “R” to its code, for example “6011R.”
6011 Graphite
Content: 85% PVC (coating), 15% polyester (yarn)
Openness factor: approx. 5%
Stocked: 63 in. (160cm) and 96 in. (244cm) wide
NFPA 701-2004: pass

6012 Charcoal

6013 Bronze

6016 Slate

3.3
EuroTwill® Reversible Broken Weave
6450 Series (3% open)
This series features a sophisticated interwoven pattern of
yarns in a broken twill–weave design. It is composed of
sheer, fine polyester yarns with a PVC coating.
To order the shadecloth’s reverse side so that it faces the
Room, please add “R” to it’s code, for example “6461R”

Content: 75% PVC (coating), 25% polyester (yarn)

Openness factor: approx. 3%
Stocked: 98 in. (249cm) wide 6461 Graphite
NFPA 701-2004: pass

6462 Light Charcoal

6469 Black

6471 Black/White

3.4
SoHo

1600 Series (3% open)

Thin, fine yarns create an elegant spin on this traditional

2 x 2 basket weave. The designer-selected color palette
provides 12 distinct options, which are available in three
different densities.

The colors in this series match those of the 1100 Series 1611 Prince
(1% open) and 1900 Series (5% open).

Content: 76% PVC and 24% polyester

Openness factor: 3%
Stocked: 98 in. (249cm) wide
NFPA 701-2010: pass

1612 Thompson

1622 Howard 1613 Mercer

1633 Wooster 1615 Greene

3.5
AcoustiVeil™ Dimout

0890 Series (0–1% open)

This series is composed of an eco-friendly material

that functions as a sound–absorbing, light-blocking,
near– blackout textile. With a Noise Reduction
Coefficient (NRC) of 0.575, the shadecloth appreciably
filters noise and reduces sound reverberation.
When sound is absorbed,
echoes are reduced.
0894 Black
Content: 100% polyester
Openness factor: 0-1%
Stocked: 86 in. (218cm) wide
NFPA 701-2004: pass
NRC rating: 0.575

4.1
Chelsea

0250 Series (opaque)

Chelsea's soft, opaque material rolls up and down delicately on

the shadeband. The window-facing side of the material is a
modern, graphite color. The neutral hue provides balanced
uniformity at street level when the shades are in use, to
support and enhance the architect's building objective.

Download the Chelsea Collection one-page Sales Sheet to

learn more about this series. 0251 Chalk

Content: 50% polyester (base), 50% foam (backing)

Openness factor: 0% (opaque)
Stocked: 118 in. (300cm) wide
NFPA 701-2010: pass

0252 Sand

0253 Graphite

0254 Shale

5.1
Shadecloth Sample Program

Standard fabric samples are available in the following sizes:

quarter-memo samples, 4 1/4 x 5 1/2 in. (11 x 14cm)
memo samples, 8 1/2 x 11 in. (22 x 28cm) large
samples, 24 x 24 in. (61 x 61cm)

Samples can be ordered via email. To order samples, please send an email to
[email protected].
include the project name
include the mailing address and phone number
include the four digit number of the selected fabric(s)
copy [email protected]

In order to verify functionality, Stanford University recommends full-size mock-ups for

new projects. To request a full-size mock-up shade to be installed on site, please email
[email protected]

Locating a Local MechoSystems Representative

Local sales representative information is available by visiting the following website:

http://mechosystems.com. A local sales representative can assist with shadecloth
samples, mock-up shades, construction details, and specifications.

If a site visit is required, the following local individuals will assist:

Kelly Lloyd Tel (650) 665-1550 [email protected]

Jeffery Glick Tel (415) 595-1740 [email protected]