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The elevation and ground floor plan of a house are shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2019
Question 6
The elevation and ground floor plan of a house are shown. The house has two bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. The external walls are of timber frame construction wit... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The elevation and ground floor plan of a house are shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2019
Step 1
With reference to the design shown, discuss using notes and freehand sketches, three features of the design that contribute to the house having a low environmental impact.
Answer
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Large South Facing Glazed Windows
The house incorporates large south facing glazed windows, which allow maximum natural light into the home. This feature not only reduces the reliance on artificial lighting but also naturally heats the internal space, decreasing heating costs and the dependency on non-renewable energy sources. -
Timber Frame Construction
The use of timber for the frame is environmentally friendly as it has a lower carbon footprint compared to traditional materials. Timber also exhibits embodied energy benefits, as it can be sustainably sourced, thus contributing to lower environmental impact in construction. -
Photovoltaic Panels
Installed on the roof, photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, converting it into electricity. This innovation reduces dependency on fossil fuels, contributes to sustainable energy production, and lowers the overall carbon footprint of the home.
Step 2
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss in detail each of the following renewable energy technologies and identify how each contributes to making a home eco-friendly: evacuated tubes
Answer
- Evacuated Tubes
Evacuated tubes work by using a heat exchanger at the top of the tube where cold fluid travels through and is heated by solar energy. The effectiveness of these tubes lies in their design, which allows them to function even in colder temperatures. Solar heat is then transferred to a storage tank, making it possible to supply hot water for domestic use with minimal energy loss.
Step 3
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss in detail each of the following renewable energy technologies and identify how each contributes to making a home eco-friendly: wind turbines
Answer
- Wind Turbines
Wind turbines convert kinetic energy from the wind into mechanical energy, which is then transformed into electricity. As wind flows over the blades, it causes them to rotate, generating electricity without harmful emissions, unlike fossil fuel sources. This method of energy generation minimizes utility costs and supports the transition towards renewable energy sources.
Step 4
Using notes and freehand sketches, discuss in detail each of the following renewable energy technologies and identify how each contributes to making a home eco-friendly: photovoltaic panels
Answer
- Photovoltaic Panels
Photovoltaic panels harness solar energy, converting sunlight into electricity. By employing solar power, homes can reduce their reliance on grid electricity and lower energy costs. Moreover, as these systems produce no harmful emissions during operation, they play a key role in mitigating greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
Step 5
Discuss in detail two advantages of using local craft skills when building the house system.
Answer
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Preservation of Traditional Skills
Utilizing local craft skills helps preserve traditional methods and practices, providing valuable knowledge to future generations. This continuity maintains cultural heritage while ensuring that specialized skills remain within the community. -
Economic Benefits
Employing local artisans supports the local economy and fosters community development. Local skills reduce transportation costs and can increase pride in craftsmanship, leading to higher quality constructions that stand the test of time.