How do you conduct a solar shading analysis for a new construction project?

1 Why do it?

Solar shading analysis is an effective way to optimize your design decisions and gain multiple benefits. It can reduce the cooling load and energy consumption of the building by minimizing solar heat gain and glare, as well as enhance the natural lighting and visual quality of interior spaces by maximizing daylight penetration and avoiding over-shading. Additionally, it can improve the thermal comfort and health of occupants by controlling the indoor temperature and humidity levels, preventing overheating or under-heating. Finally, it can create a distinctive and attractive architectural expression by integrating shading devices and elements that respond to the solar context and the building's function and identity.

3 How do you do it?

Conducting a solar shading analysis requires different methods and techniques, depending on the level of detail, accuracy, and complexity that you need. For quick and simple estimates of the solar angles, positions, and paths for any given location and date, you can use online tools and calculators like SunCalc or SunEarthTools. Sketching and modeling tools like SketchUp or Rhino can create 3D models of the building and the shading devices and elements, and visualize their shadows and reflections at different times of the day and year. Analysis and simulation tools such as Ecotect or DIVA can calculate the solar radiation, heat gain, daylight, and glare levels for the building and the shading devices, as well as compare different design options.

4 What do you look for?

The output of the solar shading analysis can vary depending on the tools and methods used, but generally, you should look for aspects such as the solar exposure and shading patterns of the building and its elements, including when they receive direct, diffuse, or reflected sunlight and when they cast or receive shadows. Additionally, you should consider the solar performance and impact of the building and its elements, such as the amount, distribution, and quality of the solar radiation, heat gain, daylight, and glare that they transmit, absorb, reflect, or block. Lastly, evaluate the solar design and optimization of the building and its elements to determine their effectiveness, efficiency, suitability of design options and criteria, potential improvements, trade-offs, and alternatives.

5 What do you do next?

After conducting the solar shading analysis, it is important to review and interpret the results, using the output data and graphics to evaluate and compare the solar shading effects. It is also necessary to communicate and present the findings to stakeholders and clients, illustrating and explaining the solar shading rationale and benefits of the selected design option and criteria. Finally, you should implement and monitor the solutions, using the output data and graphics to guide and inform the construction and operation of the building and the shading devices and elements, as well as measure their actual performance.