should I angle the blocks for more light

SRV

Hi,

Im building a bungalow using standard 4 inch blocks on the flat. With 10 inches of platinum polystyrene on the exterior.

This makes a wall depth of 19 inches. IM concerned about how much light this depth of wall will exclude.

Would it be a good idea to bevel the exterior insulation to allow a better angle for light entry?

And would it be an idea to bevel the concrete blocks for the same reason?


The back surface of windows will be in line with the outer face of the block....and so not sitting on the block.


thank you........srv:)

sas

I'd suspect based on your detailing that the external reveal depth won't be alot more than 5 inches. Which isn't much more than a regular house.
I don't see the need there basically.

I'm pretty sure SoldSold angeled his blocks internally as you described.

Depends on how big your windows are. Height has more of a bearing on how much light actually gets in rather than width.

kirving

I'm not into building, but that does seem to be a fairly thick wall alright. Thinking about it myself, I'd angle the exterior insulation as I've seen done before. Even if there was enough light, I think it would make the room feel very enclosed.

sas

Something else that dawned on me. I've never see a window sealing bead for any EWI system for anything other than 90 degree angle i.e EPS is perpendicular to the window.

Worth investigating this further before you set your heart on something.

Not sure the planners would be happy with this either as it's far from a traditional detail aesthetically.

Gulliver

If it's any use, here are pictures taken 10 minutes ago on a relatively overcast day. It is a back room, the window is on the East of the house and the sun is now approximately overhead.

The walls are just over 22" thick - 350mm (13.7") cavity construction (i.e. (100/150/100mm) and 230mm (9") stone.

Windows are 900mm x 1400mm.

Good light in the evening too.

Click on the pictures for a bigger version.

BryanF

SRV wrote: »

Hi,

Im building a bungalow using standard 4 inch blocks on the flat. With 10 inches of platinum polystyrene on the exterior.

This makes a wall depth of 19 inches. IM concerned about how much light this depth of wall will exclude.

Would it be a good idea to bevel the exterior insulation to allow a better angle for light entry?

And would it be an idea to bevel the concrete blocks for the same reason?


The back surface of windows will be in line with the outer face of the block....and so not sitting on the block.


thank you........srv:)

I'd just make the best use of the windows and design enough glazing for your needs without splaying the reveals.
however, you could get your architect to do a simple room up in 3d and compare the two options to decide if its worth it.
there are options open too you, work out some details with your architect, ensuring your free from thermal bridges first. Imho id have the windows out in the insulation zone and work out a way to angle the inner walls, if thats what you really want.
generally tall windows leave in more light than wide squat ones.
look through the couple of pages on this site, it'll help you get the basics right anyhow:
http://www.greenspec.co.uk/designing-for-passive-solar.php

SRV

Thanks very much for all you guys advice.......it has really helped me decide. Ive got full height windows, folding doors type, in my main living area.......so i will not bother with beveling at all.

SRV