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Windows are an important design consideration. They light the interior spaces—permitting both natural heating in the winter and ventilation in the summer. This is called passive solar heating and cooling. Windows on the south side are large in order to permit solar gain in the winter. The roof overhang shades the interior from the summer sun. The window area on the north side is kept to an absolute minimum to prevent heat loss during cold weather. West facing windows are also kept to a minimum to prevent overheating in the summer. The windows used here are double paned, low-E argon-filled units. Be aware that in high altitudes like Albuquerque, the argon gas will escape within a few days of delivery due to the lower air pressure. |
Building With Awareness |