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Loren Booda
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For a given spatial volume and amount of material, what practical structural design conserves temperature best?
Mostly mold, radon, flooding, bad views, and soil expansion/shifting.Loren Booda said:Why have underground domiciles proved impractical
DaleSpam said:Mostly mold, radon, flooding, bad views, and soil expansion/shifting.
Architects and engineers, the age old strife I see.russ_watters said:so the architect decided to build another false wall inside (against the engineer's advice), ...
Danger said:I would suspect that a sphere would be best, since it gives the highest volume:surface area ratio. One of the reasons that I'm cold all of the time is that I'm so skinny that the outside of my body is bigger than the inside.
flatmaster said:Hot and cool here are used in their temperature contexts of course.
The most energy-efficient shape for a building is a rectangle or square. This shape has a smaller surface area compared to other shapes, which reduces heat loss and energy consumption.
The shape of a building affects its energy efficiency by determining its surface area-to-volume ratio. A building with a smaller surface area has less space for heat to escape, making it more energy-efficient.
It is better to have a wide building rather than a tall one for energy efficiency. This is because a wide building has a larger surface area, which allows for more natural light and air flow, reducing the need for artificial lighting and HVAC systems.
The type of building materials used can greatly impact energy efficiency. Materials with high thermal resistance, such as insulation, can help reduce heat loss and energy consumption. Additionally, materials that allow for natural light and ventilation, such as windows and vents, can also improve energy efficiency.
Yes, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, in warmer climates, a cylindrical shape can be more energy-efficient as it allows for better air circulation and natural cooling. Additionally, in urban areas, tall and narrow buildings may be more energy-efficient due to limited space and the need to maximize natural light and ventilation.