What is a Better Way to “Open” a Window?

Customer: what is a better way to open a window?

Designer: window height matters. Prioritize taller windows. Having a taller windows so there will be more air flow pass through the inflection point into the space.

Customer: What does that mean?

Designer: Let’s say you have a room of 500 square feet. Both windows are 20 square feet; the vertical window on the left will provide better air flow than the windows on the right.

Customer: Does the size of the window matter?

Designer: According to International Building Code, the operable area of the openings to the outdoors shall be not less than four percent of the floor area being ventilated.

It also says “Natural ventilation of an occupied space shall through windows, doors, louvers or other openings to the outdoors.”

Customer: What if my home office is a “Den” and does not have any opening to the outdoors?

Designer: Then this is what you need to do. Make sure there is an opening connect to both den area and the main room. This opening has to be at least 8% of the den area or 2f square feet, whichever is larger.

Customer: Is it necessary to have natural light?

Designer: Of course! Plus, take advantage of the natural light for your working surface can save energy and money. According to LEED’s “Indoor Environmental Quality” credit, it ensure our living space has adequate nature light to reinforce circadian rhythm and reduce lighting electricity use during the day.

Customer: How do I know if my space get enough light?

Designer: Use “light meter” to precisely measure the light fixture’s quantitative amount. Generally speaking, at least 10 foot-candle over the surface at the height of 30 inches is recommended.