Window Overhangs
Properly sized and installed roof overhangs can most effectively shade south-facing windows from the summer heat. If oriented properly, overhangs will allow the sunlight in through the windows during the winter, providing more warmth to a house.
Construction and orientation of an overhang can be tricky since it involves many passive solar design factors:
- Latitude
- Climate
- Solar radiation transmittance
- Illuminance levels
- Window size and type.
It's easy to incorporate overhangs into a home design before or while it's under construction. Adding an overhang to an existing home, however, can be quite difficult and sometimes impossible. Window awnings, louvered patio covers, or lattice-type panels can be considered as alternatives for existing homes.
For more information, see roof overhangs.