Cupolas serve to increase air circulation and interior lighting. They increase air circulation through a very basic process – warm air rises, so adding a pathway at the roof for that air to escape then creates upward airflow through the structure, pulling in cooler ground floor air. This process is also known as the Stack … Continue reading “Summer Weatherization Tips: Part Ten”
Although largely only ornamental in new construction today, for the 200 years between the 1750’s and 1950’s interior and exterior shutters were used commonly to not only protect windows from damage during inclement weather but also for security and to help shield interior areas from direct sunlight while still allowing for air circulation, keeping room … Continue reading “Summer Weatherization Tips: Part Nine”
Awnings, eaves and other shading structures have been used to cool buildings for thousands of years across cultures all around the world. Documents of ancient Egypt and Syria make note of woven mats that shaded market stalls and homes. The Colosseum utilized a retractable awning called a velarium. Structures in Japan commonly extended eaves out … Continue reading “Summer Weatherization Tips: Part Eight”
One of the most pleasant methods for cooling off in the summer without the use of AC is to simply make use of your front, side or back porch. Our post next week will cover the cooling benefits to the whole house from the shading of surfaces by awnings, eaves and porches, but today we … Continue reading “Summer Weatherization Tips: Part Seven”