Figure 3.33 Cold climate building design guidelines

Orientation - The optimum orientation of the building is 12° east of south.

Building envelope - very well insulated building envelope components. The building's interior should have thermal mass. Also balanced ventilation with heat recovery is needed.

Windows - T The total glazed area should be limited in order to prevent heat losses. he south exposed windows should have largest surface. The east and west windows should be small. The windows should be shaded to prevent overheating and should have very low U-value and high SHGC (solar heat gain coefficient). Controlled cross ventilation is desirable.

Roof - A sloping roof encourages snow removal by wind action. Flat roofs should have simple form to prevent moisture penetration and ice-filled gutters.

Materials - High heat capacity mass in the interior will balance the extreme temperature variations. The west wall materials with 6 hour time lag balances the internal heat distribution.

Shading devices - Towards south, horizontal shading devices can be used.

Color - sun exposed surfaces can be in medium colors.

Figure 3.33Cold climate building design guidelines

Temperate climate design guidelines

This climate is characterized as temperate without dry season and warm summer. It is classified as Cfb according to the Köppen classification. Some European cities in this zone are: Berlin, Amsterdam, Brussels, Dublin, Paris, Warszaw, Prague etc. Recommendations for buildings` design in this climate are: