Photo AI
Discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches as appropriate, two functional requirements of a contemporary glazing system for a modern dwelling house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 3 - 2009
Question 3
Discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches as appropriate, two functional requirements of a contemporary glazing system for a modern dwelling house. The s... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches as appropriate, two functional requirements of a contemporary glazing system for a modern dwelling house - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 3 - 2009
Step 1
Discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches as appropriate, two functional requirements of a contemporary glazing system for a modern dwelling house.
Answer
-
Providing Ventilation: A contemporary glazing system must facilitate proper ventilation in habitable rooms. This can be achieved by having opening windows that cover at least 5% of the floor area to promote fresh air circulation.
-
Thermal Protection: The glazing system should be designed to offer resistance against various weather elements such as rain, wind, and solar gain. The ideal window should have a minimum area of 0.33m², with sufficient width (450mm) to provide adequate thermal insulation, ensuring that the interior remains comfortable in varying weather conditions.
Step 2
Discuss the design of the window with reference to: environmental considerations.
Answer
-
Use of Sustainable Materials: The window design should utilize renewable and sustainable materials such as sustainably sourced wood, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with its production.
-
Aluminum Cladding: Incorporating aluminum cladding not only minimizes maintenance but also enhances durability. The aluminum helps protect the interior wooden frame, reducing the likelihood of decay and extending the overall lifespan of the window.
Step 3
Discuss the design of the window with reference to: thermal properties.
Answer
-
Thermal Break: Including a thermal break in the window design is essential. This reduces heat loss due to cold bridging, ensuring that the interior maintains a stable temperature and lowers energy costs.
-
Triple Glazing: Utilizing triple glazing is crucial as it offers superior insulation compared to single or double glazing, significantly reducing heat loss due to its design that traps air between the glass layers, thus enhancing thermal performance.
Step 4
Recommend a preferred window frame and glazing system for a new house and give two reasons in support of your recommendations.
Answer
I recommend using low-E glazing coupled with a high-quality wooden frame for the new house.
-
Energy Efficiency: Low-E glazing features a special coating that allows short wave radiation from the sun to enter the building while reflecting back most of the long wave radiation, reducing heating costs and enhancing energy efficiency.
-
Environmental Impact: The wooden frame, sourced from sustainable practices, combines aesthetic appeal with good insulation properties. This not only aligns with eco-friendly building standards but also provides excellent thermal performance, reducing energy costs over time.