Sun shading    
   
 

External shading devices and especially horizontal ones should not be in direct contact with the external envelope. Openings should be kept or constructed to allow air circulation and to prevent heat from getting trapped in the upper part of the shading devices.

Glazing materials having a low transmission coefficient, for aesthetic purposes, are not recommended for houses designed as full time residences, especially for use in southerly openings. With this type of glass solar gains are reduced not only in the summer but throughout the year.

 
  External ground-surface materials with high reflectivity should be avoided. The radiation reflected from the ground onto the external building envelope will increase the cooling load at the risk of occupant thermal comfort.