You don’t need the luck of the Irish to have a well-designed passive solar home; but you do need an architect!
Passive solar allows the home to be warm in the winter months and cool in the summer months. It takes advantage of the homes site, climate, and materials to minimize energy usage.
Some passive solar techniques are:
• Window Location, Glazing and Window Shading: The windows should face true south without being shaded by trees during the cooler months. During the spring, fall and summer months the windows should be shaded to avoid overheating.
• Building Materials: It collects heat from the sun as it shines through south-facing windows and retains it in materials that store heat such as concrete, brick, stone, and tile.
• Roof Overhangs: The length of a roof overhang will allow shade in the summer months and sunlight (heat) in the winter months. An architect will strategically place the overhangs without compromising the style and look of your home.
• Insulation and Air Sealing: Insulation plays an important factor in the effectiveness of a passive solar home. Budgeting for an energy efficient heating and cooling system will help aid the passive solar design and cool your home without the over usage of energy.
A passive solar design requires careful design and planning. If you are considering a passive solar design for your new home, or are ready to remodel an existing home, we are familiar with passive solar techniques and would love to help you go green!
Thinking about a new home project? Let's chat!
www.LisaCarlisleArchitect.com
(401) 560-0850