Some common facade systems used in passive house design include:
1. Triple-glazed windows: These windows have highly insulated frames and three layers of glass that minimize heat loss and provide better thermal comfort.
2. Insulated panels: These panels consist of insulating materials such as expanded polystyrene (EPS) or mineral wool encased in a durable cladding. They provide excellent thermal insulation and airtightness.
3. Ventilated facades: These systems have an air gap between the building envelope and cladding material. This air gap allows for natural ventilation, helping regulate temperature and moisture levels within the building.
4. Solar shading devices: These include fixed or operable shading elements like louvers, fins, or external blinds that reduce direct solar radiation and heat gain during summer months, while still allowing for daylight and views.
5. Heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems: While not a direct facade system, HRV units are crucial for passive house design. These systems include mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, ensuring a continuous supply of fresh air while recovering the heat from the exhaust air before being discharged.
6. High-performance insulation: Insulation materials such as rigid foam boards, mineral wool, or cellulose insulation are used to achieve high thermal resistance, reducing heat transfer through the facade.
7. Airtightness measures: Airtight construction is essential to minimize uncontrolled air leakage through the facade. A well-sealed building envelope prevents drafts, ensures efficient heat recovery, and maintains indoor air quality.
8. Thermal bridge-free design: Passive house design aims to eliminate or minimize thermal bridges, which are paths that allow heat to escape or enter the building more easily. This is achieved through careful detailing and use of insulation at junctions and connections.
9. External thermal insulation composite systems (ETICS): These systems involve insulating the external walls with an insulation layer covered by a reinforced render or cladding. ETICS provides excellent thermal insulation and improves the aesthetics of the building envelope.
10. Daylighting strategies: Passive house designs emphasize maximizing natural daylight while controlling glare and heat gain. Well-designed fenestrations, light shelves, and light diffusing elements can enhance natural lighting while reducing the need for artificial lighting.
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