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The elevation and the ground floor plan of a house are shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2014
Question 6
The elevation and the ground floor plan of a house are shown. The house has three bedrooms and a bathroom upstairs. The external walls are of timber frame constructi... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The elevation and the ground floor plan of a house are shown - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2014
Step 1
With reference to the design shown, discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches, three features of the design that contribute to the house having low environmental impact.
Answer
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Timber Frame Construction: The house utilizes timber frame construction, which significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional materials. Timber is a renewable resource, and when sourced sustainably, it can minimize ecological footprints.
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Solar Orientation: The design is oriented to maximize solar gain, which reduces the need for artificial heating. Large windows on the southern facade allow sunlight to flood living spaces during winter months, promoting natural warmth.
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Energy-Efficient Features: The house incorporates energy-efficient features such as high-performance insulation and low-energy appliances. These elements minimize the overall energy demand and ensure reduced carbon emissions.
Step 2
Describe, using notes and freehand sketches, two other design features that could be introduced to further reduce the environmental impact of the house. Justify your choice of design features.
Answer
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Photovoltaic Solar Panels: Integrating solar panels on the roof would harness solar energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels for electricity. This feature not only lowers energy costs but also contributes to a lower carbon footprint.
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Rainwater Harvesting System: Implementing a rainwater harvesting system can further minimize the environmental impact by using collected rainwater for irrigation and flushing toilets. This reduces water consumption and lowers the demand on municipal water systems.
Step 3
Discuss the importance of designing low environmental impact housing.
Answer
Designing low environmental impact housing is crucial for several reasons:
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Sustainability: It ensures that resources are used responsibly and that human activities do not compromise future generations' ability to meet their needs.
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Reduction in Carbon Footprint: Such designs significantly lower greenhouse gas emissions, which are linked to climate change.
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Economic Benefits: Low environmental impact housing often leads to lower utility costs due to increased energy efficiency, making living more affordable.
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Healthier Living Spaces: These designs frequently focus on natural materials and better indoor air quality, which leads to healthier environments for occupants.