WHY NATURAL VENTILATION IS IMPORTANT IN A BUILDING.

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Natural ventilation can be described as the continuous flow of air through doors, windows, and vents and purposely provided openings induced either by stack effects or wind pressure. Natural ventilation are caused by 3 natural factors

i.                     Temperature difference between inside      and outside of a building

ii.                   Wind forces around the building

      iii.                  Combination of both

To achieve a great level of thermal comfort, natural ventilation is of importance and very necessary. Natural ventilation is also necessary for the following reasons…

1.       To provide adequate oxygen to support life

2.       To remove body and room odor through dilution

3.       To add or remove heat from a space

4.       To reduce toxic gases, vapor and dust thereby reducing the tendency of sick building syndrome

5.       To reduce the bacteria count in building space

6.       To lower moisture content in the air thus reducing the risk of condensation and mould growth

Other type of ventilation is artificial ventilation which involves the use of mechanical devices in achieving air flow; mechanical ventilation also entails admission and discharge of air through mechanical heating and ventilation system. No matter how effective mechanical ventilation is, it is incomplete without the natural ventilation since used up indoor air is needed to be replaced by fresh air outside and because a building with effective natural ventilation makes the occupants to live healthier and stress free.

With all the benefits of natural ventilation it is important that when planning or designing any building space there must be enough consideration for natural ventilation as it is the primary and most effective source of ventilation.

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Categories: ARCHITECTURE, Green Architecture, Sustainability