The net angle at which the sun hits the glass surface is called the incidence angle. The first step is to determine the solar position, which is defined by two angles: altitude (height in degrees above the horizon line perpendicular to the wall) and azimuth (direction the wall faces). Shading device alignment and configuration typically are driven by sunlight analysis to maximize the natural lighting of a building, while optimizing solar gain and reducing glare. To avoid some of the technical and practical issues that can arise from improper design or application of shading devices, TIR-A16 should be used in conjunction with AAMA 514, Standard Test Method for Static Loading and Impact on Exterior Shading Devices, to aid in preparation of architectural drawings and specifications, shop drawings and structural calculations, and maintenance programs. To aid the designer in addressing shading device design and application concerns, the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has released a new Technical Information Report that focuses on the design and attachment of shading devices: AAMA TIR-A16-19, Design of Exterior Shading Devices. Horizontal shading devices are typically useful on south elevations, while vertical shading devices are well suited for east and west elevations. In some cases, horizontal shading devices can also redirect natural daylight upward, increasing its penetration into occupied spaces and allowing reduced levels of artificial lighting.
#Building envelope analysis windows#
When properly dimensioned, based on the latitude of the project site and orientation of the façades, such devices on south-, east- and west-facing walls shade windows or curtain wall expanses from the high summer sun to reduce cooling loads on HVAC systems, but admit the low-angle winter sunlight to supplement heating. One of the many options available to them is to add shading devices to the exterior to reduce solar heat gain (SHG) through the building envelope, while creating elements of visual interest.Įxterior shading devices are among the structural considerations available to reduce the amount of direct solar rays impinging on the outside face of vision glass and entering conditioned space. No matter what size or application, our full-service window film installation personnel are committed to completing your project on schedule and to the highest degree of quality.In this age of green imperatives, architects designing commercial and institutional structures are usually on the lookout for ways to add incrementally to a building’s overall energy efficiency. Even the highest quality films will not perform if they are not professionally – and correctly – installed.
#Building envelope analysis full#
To realize the full benefits of a window film, whether it’s to save energy or provide an extra-layer of protection, it must be installed correctly. By using a comprehensive integrated evaluation approach we can provide high-level assessments for schools, hospitals, offices, pharmaceuticals, government, industrial and privately owned facilities. Our assessment includes Blower Door Evaluation and Infrared Technology Evaluation. To help identify building energy losses and moisture problems, we use infrared building envelope analysis. Our team has the resources, experience, training and measurement tools to perform any type of assessment so you have the knowledge at hand to identify and eliminate weak points.
Building envelope energy losses are accelerated by moisture infiltration, wet, damaged, missing or inadequate insulation, poor construction practices, neglected maintenance and air leakage.