In commercial construction and architecture, daylighting brings many advantages, from saving energy to enhancing occupant well-being. Yet, despite its popularity, daylighting is often misunderstood, leading to confusion among architects, builders, and property owners. In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common daylighting myths, separating fact from fiction to provide clarity and guidance for anyone considering daylighting solutions for their commercial projects.
Myth #1: Daylighting is only beneficial for aesthetics.
Daylighting has a transformative effect on physical spaces, making them brighter, more comfortable, and inviting. By bringing in natural light, daylighting enhances the ambiance of a room, creating a more vibrant and visually appealing environment. This not only improves the overall mood and well-being of occupants but also makes spaces feel more open and welcoming.
Scientific research has demonstrated that exposure to natural light has a profound effect on mood, productivity, and overall health. Natural light stimulates the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with feelings of happiness and relaxation, leading to improved mood and well-being among building occupants. Natural light also promotes better focus and concentration, which enhances productivity and cognitive function. Studies have also found that daylighting increases sales by an average of up to 40%!
In addition to its effects on health and productivity, daylighting also contributes to environmental sustainability. By reducing the reliance on artificial lighting, daylighting systems help conserve energy and decrease greenhouse gas emissions. With rising concerns about climate change and energy conservation, daylighting represents a sustainable design strategy that aligns with global efforts to mitigate environmental impact.
Myth #2: Daylighting is expensive and difficult to implement.
While there are indeed upfront costs associated with implementing daylighting solutions, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial investment. The return on investment comes in various forms, including energy savings, improved occupant well-being, increased sales, increased productivity, and enhanced building aesthetics.
Innovative products and construction techniques have made daylighting more accessible and easier to implement than ever before. For example, the development of highly efficient skylights, tubular daylighting devices, and automated shading systems has revolutionized the industry, offering cost-effective options for integrating natural light into buildings of all types. Overall, while there may be initial costs involved, the long-term advantages of daylighting solutions make them a wise investment for both building owners and occupants.
Myth #3: Daylighting causes glare and overheating.
Properly designed daylighting systems prioritize occupant comfort by managing glare and heat gain. Several techniques are employed to achieve this goal. Sunshades, also known as exterior shading devices, are installed on the exterior of buildings to block direct sunlight from entering windows during peak sun exposure periods. These shading systems effectively reduce solar heat gain and glare, allowing for greater control over indoor lighting conditions and maintaining thermal comfort.
Automated shading systems offer dynamic control over daylighting conditions by adjusting shading elements in response to changing sunlight levels throughout the day. These systems utilize sensors to detect sunlight intensity and automatically adjust shades or blinds to optimize natural light levels while minimizing glare and heat gain.
In addition to these architectural elements, high-performance glazing materials play a crucial role in maintaining thermal comfort. These materials are designed to minimize heat gain from direct sunlight while allowing for maximum visible light transmission, striking a balance between daylighting benefits and energy efficiency. By incorporating these advanced techniques and technologies into the design of daylighting systems, architects and builders can create indoor environments that are not only well-lit and visually comfortable but also thermally comfortable and energy-efficient.
Myth #4: Daylighting is only suitable for new construction projects.
Integrating daylighting into existing buildings is possible with the help of experienced contractors. These specialists possess the knowledge and skills required to assess existing structures and implement tailored daylighting systems that optimize natural light penetration while minimizing disruption to building occupants.
Thorough assessment is crucial. Daylighting contractors conduct detailed evaluations of the building’s layout, orientation, and structural constraints to determine the most effective daylighting solutions. This involves analyzing existing lighting conditions, identifying areas with limited natural light exposure, and assessing potential daylighting opportunities.
Next, the contractor develops a customized daylighting plan tailored to the specific needs and constraints of the building. This may involve the strategic placement of skylights or TDDs to maximize natural light ingress while minimizing glare and heat gain. Additionally, daylighting contractors consider factors such as building usage, occupant preferences, and energy efficiency goals when designing the retrofit solution.
During the installation phase, experienced contractors employ efficient and minimally invasive techniques to integrate daylighting systems into existing structures. This may include strategically cutting roof or wall openings for skylights or light tubes, installing reflective surfaces to enhance light distribution, and implementing shading devices to control glare and heat gain. Throughout the retrofit process, daylighting contractors prioritize occupant comfort and safety, minimizing disruption to building occupants while ensuring seamless integration of daylighting systems.
We at Daylight Specialists have successfully completed several retrofitted daylighting solutions such as delivering daylight to the inner buildings of this former Target store turned Early Childhood Education Center; and bringing vibrant daylight to the inside hobby of the historic Emery Hotel!
Myth #5: Any daylighting contractor can provide the same level of service.
Not all daylighting contractors are created equal. It’s essential to choose a reputable, full-service daylighting company with a proven track record of success. A reputable daylighting contractor will offer comprehensive services, including design consultation, product selection, installation, and ongoing maintenance. By choosing a reputable contractor, clients can have confidence in the seamless integration and optimal performance of their daylighting systems, ultimately enhancing the quality and sustainability of their built environment.
Full-Service Daylighting Solutions
Commercial daylighting offers many benefits for buildings and occupants, debunking the myths that may deter some from embracing this transformative design strategy. By partnering with a trusted daylighting company and separating fact from fiction, architects, builders, and property owners can harness the power of natural light to create healthier, more sustainable, and visually stunning commercial spaces.
At Daylight Specialists, we leverage cutting-edge technologies to achieve optimal daylighting outcomes. We partner with top manufacturers to offer a comprehensive range of daylighting systems, each carefully selected for its quality, performance, and reliability. Our team of skilled professionals is trained to expertly install and integrate these products into buildings, ensuring seamless operation and long-term durability.
Whether it’s maximizing natural light in commercial offices, retail spaces, schools, warehouses, and more, Daylight Specialists provides tailored daylighting solutions that enhance aesthetics, improve energy efficiency, and promote occupant well-being. Contact our team to learn more.