Barriers To Comfortable Design
Cost
Some strategies recommended where, such as north-facing windows, cost
no more. Some may be quite inexpensive. For example, because of its lighter
weight, the construction cost of a white-painted metal roof will be less
than that of a dark-coloured tiled roof. However, because a white-painted
metal roof will reflect the sun's heat and because a metal roof cools
faster at night than tiles do, the house will be much cooler in summer.
It is true that the extra insulation needed in a cool climate will slightly
increase construction costs. On the other hand, the financial outlay for
a large and costly heating system will not be necessary in a well-designed
house.
The heavy construction (double brick on a concrete slab) needed in a
hot dry climate does add to the cost of your house. Building in mud brick
or reverse brick veneer (see heat storage capacity) could reduce costs,
while still providing internal heat-storing materials. Some people solve
cost problems by building or buying a small well-designed house, then
extending it later, as finances permit.
A beautiful view, but it's not to the north
If the view is to the east or west, an extremely wide verandah can be
used. It will provide shading for windows facing the view, as well as
a big outdoor living area with an outlook to the view. Toned or reflective
glass will decrease the heat flowing through east or west-facing windows.
These types of glass lessen the risk of over-heating in summer, without
affecting your view.
When the north side of the house will face a busy highway or a refuse
dump, large north-facing windows may not seem like a good idea. Translucent
glass or perspex bricks can be used instead of sheet glass, to provide
natural light while allowing privacy and reducing noise. Double-glazing
with an air gap of at least 75 mm reduces sound transmission with negligible
effect on transmission of heat from the sun, although loss of heat from
the house is greater than with the recommended 15 mm air gap. Thicker
sheet glass also reduces traffic noise, while allowing the sun's heat
into your house.
Poor orientation of building lot
See suggested house plans
for different site orientations.
Security concerns prevent night ventilation
Many people may not wish to leave doors and windows open while they
sleep. For early risers, this is no problem, as the coolest time of day
is around sunrise. Opening the house to the cool air at this time will
make it more comfortable during the heat of summer.
No access to winter sunshine
This is a big drawback when winters are cold. In this case, large north-facing
windows and internal heat-storing materials are of no benefit, since no
free heat from the sun is available. If winters are cool or cold it's
still worthwhile to use bulk insulation and to block drafts. Light construction
(timber, fibro, brick veneer) will allow the house to warm up faster when
the heater is switched on.
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