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The drawing shows a single storey house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2016
Question 6
The drawing shows a single storey house. The external walls are of insulated timber frame construction and are finished externally with rendered cement board and ced... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The drawing shows a single storey house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2016
Step 1
Discuss in detail, using notes and frechand sketches, three features of the design that contribute to the house having low environmental impact.
Answer
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Use of Timber Frame Construction
The house employs insulated timber frame construction which significantly lowers the carbon footprint. Timber is a renewable material, and its use in the structure not only reduces the environmental impact during construction but also helps in isolating heat, leading to energy efficiency in heating and cooling. -
Orientation and Glazing
The design incorporates strategic orientation and large areas of glazing, particularly on the south-facing side which optimizes sunlight exposure. This enhances natural heating and reduces the energy requirements for heating. Double glazing is essential as it minimizes heat loss and provides thermal comfort. -
Sustainable Landscaping
The surrounding landscaping has been designed to complement the energy-efficient design of the house, incorporating native plants that require minimal irrigation. This helps in reducing water consumption and enhances the biodiversity around the house.
Step 2
To meet the Nearly Zero Energy Building (NZEB) requirements, the production of on-site renewable energy is recommended. Using notes and frechand sketches show one means of generating on-site renewable energy for the dwelling house.
Answer
One effective means of generating on-site renewable energy is through the installation of photovoltaic (PV) panels on the roof.
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Solar Panel System
- The PV panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power household appliances.
- A grid-tied system reduces dependency on non-renewable energy sources by allowing the surplus energy generated to be fed back into the grid.
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Energy Storage
- Incorporating battery storage systems allows for energy generated during peak sunlight to be stored and used during non-sunny periods.
- This capability enhances the energy resilience of the dwelling, supporting the NZEB standards.
Step 3
Discuss in detail two advantages of generating renewable energy on-site.
Answer
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Sustainability and Reduced Carbon Footprint
Generating renewable energy on-site promotes sustainability by harnessing natural resources such as sunlight and wind, which reduces reliance on fossil fuels. This significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions and contributes to combating climate change. -
Energy Independence and Security
On-site renewable energy generation enables households to become less dependent on the grid and external energy suppliers. During peak energy costs, households can utilize their stored energy, thus ensuring energy security and potentially reducing long-term energy expenses.