Maximising natural light and energy efficiency

Exterior sun shades intercept unwanted solar heat gain before it can impact a building's HVAC system's load. Sun shades also can economize natural light by redirecting it inside the building. Extending the redirection and reach, interior light shelves at transom height are especially effective at redirecting sunlight deep into occupied spaces. Both can be essential components of a complete daylighting system.
 
"A complete daylighting system provides shading from direct sunlight, glare protection and daylight redirection," explained Steve Gille, educational market manager at Wausau Window and Wall Systems. "Lighting accounts for 40% of the energy used in a typical commercial building. Properly executed, daylighting can reduce HVAC peak loads with corresponding reductions in mechanical equipment capacity and carbon footprint."

Further contributing to green goals, Wausau's aluminum sun shades and light shelves may be specified with high recycled content. Coupled with the recognized benefits of daylight and outside views, these features may aid buildings seeking certification under such programs as the US Green Building Council's LEED Green Building Rating System.
 
Demonstrating its commitment to energy-efficiency and environmental leadership, Wausau's own manufacturing center is certified LEED-Silver. The building features exterior sun shades to block solar heat gain at high summer sun angles and re-direct visible light further into open plan office areas.
 
www.wausauwindow.com