Solar orientation of buildings and energy saving

better exposure lower consumption

how to orient the building and how to arrange the rooms functionally

Buildings with large windows facing south are able to capture the thermal energy of the sun during the winter, ensuring energy savings. Similarly limiting the size of the openings on the north-facing facades will limit the heat loss.

passive solar heating  

All of this is clearly valid for the planet's northern hemisphere, for the austral hemisphere the concept will have to be reversed. However, let us consider deciding the orientation of a building located in the northern hemisphere.

The ideal would be to build on a slightly sloping terrain to the south, so as to limit the size of the north facade of the building. The same effect could be obtained by accumulating earth against the north facade.

The rooms will have to be arranged in a plan so as to favor the environments for day use in proximity & agrave; of the facades facing south. So for example the kitchen, the living room or offices and utility rooms will be exhibited preferably south while the rooms will be positioned to the north.

Opaque facades, glazed facades, regulating the absorption

solar exposition building

The opaque façades with a generous insulation and few openings allow to limit the heat loss.

On the contrary, the large glazed surfaces allow to capture the sun's rays.

In the summer, to avoid the accumulation of heat, it will be necessary to set up darkening and protection systems so as to limit the brightness.

To refresh the rooms with natural convective motions windows on the two opposite sides should preferably be at different altitudes.

Materials and tools
  • soil
  • thermal insulation
  • glass
  • shading systems
Mr FaiDaTe

Written by

Mr FaiDaTe

I'm a DIY enthusiast and expert, I've been creating, repairing, and fixing everything at home and for my friends all my life. My grandparents taught me the basics at a young age, and since then I've gained a wealth of experience. Experience teaches! It keeps you active and alert, and it makes you appreciate the dedication professional craftsmen put into their work. Let's learn together; every day is an opportunity to improve. Have fun!

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