62 EXTERNAL ENVELOPE
Rooflights are a simple and cost-effective choice to introduce a more even and useable distribution of natural light
Rooflights are a simple and cost-effective choice to introduce a more even and useable distribution of natural light, particularly in large structures where light is required deep into the building or in enclosed areas that cannot be lit through an external wall. Increased areas of light- diffusing rooflights, often with lower light transmission or improved thermal performance, can optimise the energy performance of the building, and there are many permutations of performance to choose from. Reduced areas of rooflights with high light transmission levels and poor diffusion that create glare and hotspots, while still leaving areas of shadow and gloom that must be overcome with localised artificial lighting, only demonstrate poor consideration to the daylight design. Another element to consider is a BREEAM assessment. Many local authorities now insist on this before they will give planning permission, therefor it is vital to optimise the rooflight design, distribution and product type. Using rooflights with low or reduced embodied carbon is a further example of good product selection that can have a significant effect on the BREEAM assessment.
Ultimately, the key considerations for specifiers are as follows: • Clients need buildings to meet stringent regulatory requirements that will continue to tighten – or even exceed them.
• Achieving a BREEAM rating of ‘Excellent’ as opposed to ‘Very Good’ can make a significant difference to the developer who is looking to let a large industrial or warehouse building to a prospective client.
• Having a building that is lit by natural daylight will improve the efficiency, productivity, mental alertness and the general health of the occupants that work in the building.
• In combination with good air-tightness and low fabric U-values, a reduction in the use of artificial lighting is the best way the building occupier can lower the energy cost of running the building. When considering the design of a building it is now vital that rooflights, rather than being an afterthought, are treated as an essential design element right from the start.
John Godley is technical manager at Hambleside Danelaw Building Products
WWW.ARCHITECTSDATAFILE.CO.UK
ADF NOVEMBER 2018
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