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The drawing shows the design of a timber frame house with an external wooden cladding and a flat roof - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2010
Question 6
The drawing shows the design of a timber frame house with an external wooden cladding and a flat roof. The house is designed to have low environmental impact. (a) D... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:The drawing shows the design of a timber frame house with an external wooden cladding and a flat roof - Leaving Cert Construction Studies - Question 6 - 2010
Step 1
Discuss in detail, using notes and freehand sketches, three design features that contribute to reducing the environmental impact of the house shown.
Answer
1. External Wooden Cladding
The use of locally sourced wooden cladding minimizes carbon emissions associated with material transport. This cladding is also renewable, provided it is harvested sustainably from local forests, which reduces the energy required to produce and install the materials, thus lowering the overall environmental impact.
2. Passive Solar Heat Gain
The house features a large glazed area facing south, which allows for passive solar heating. This design considers the sun's position, ensuring that during winter, sunlight enters the home to warm it up while reducing heat loss in summer. North-facing small windows in less frequently used areas help retain warmth while minimizing heat loss.
3. Compact Form
The compact design of the house reduces the surface-to-volume ratio, minimizing heat loss and energy requirements. By limiting the building's footprint, it also lessens the need for excavation and disruption of the natural environment, promoting sustainability.
Step 2
Discuss in detail the importance of each of the following when choosing materials for an environmentally sustainable house:
Answer
Renewable
Choosing materials that are renewable ensures a continuous supply for future generations and reduces dependence on finite resources. Sustainable materials like wood can be replenished naturally.
Durable
Durability in materials is crucial to enhance the lifespan of the house and reduce the frequency of replacements, inherently decreasing waste. For example, utilizing materials like stone, which are naturally durable, minimizes maintenance and repairs over time.
Locally Sourced
Using locally sourced materials supports local economies and significantly reduces transportation emissions. This approach ensures materials are suitable for the local climate, and helps in maintaining the unique character of the community.