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Perth
In order to formulate practical design strategies for Perth, we analysed 60 years of climate data from the Bureau of Meteorology using tools such as bioclimatic charts and Mahoney tables.
A summary of key climatic variables that should be considered for building construction in Perth follows. To view the complete guide for Perth, click on the PDF at the bottom of this page.
Air temperature
Daily temperature range in Perth is significant. Houses should be well insulated in the walls and roof to promote a stable temperature against heat in summer and cold in winter. Thermal mass on the interior can store "warmth" in winter and "coolth" in summer.
Heating and cooling degree-hours
This shows the sum of every hour, multiplied by the number of degrees, the outside temperature is above or below the comfort temperature. The house can use design strategies for night time cooling in summer and heat gain in the winter.
Solar irradiation and sky condition
Summer solar irradiation is high with long clear days requiring good shade to the interior. Hard surfaces around buildings should be limited to reduce reflected radiation in summer months. Clear days in winter offer excellent opportunities for passive heating in north facing living areas.
Humidity
Humidity levels are below the comfort zone during summer, but rise in autumn and spring. Evaporative cooling can be used for much of summer to lower the temperature in the house. Rainwater collected can also be used for evaporative cooling.
Rainfall
High rainfall for three months in winter but low in summer. Tank sizes should be increased to allow for storage of water during the dry months of summer.
Wind
Diagrams show direction and strength of the wind at 6 hourly intervals for a typical day, for each season. Houses can be cooled by the cooler south west winds on summer afternoons (the "Fremantle Doctor").
Related Information:
Read our research papers on Climate Design recently presented by Think Brick CEO, Linda Ginger at Congress and Industry Conferences
Climate Responsive Design Strategies
This paper presents climate studies of four different locations (Sydney, Bankstown, Camden and Penrith) within Sydney Metropolitan Region.
Understanding Climate for Energy Efficient or Sustainable Design – presented to Housing Congress 2008
Understanding climate is a pre-requisite for energy efficient or sustainable architecture. This paper provides vital information to optimize natural energies to create comfortable living conditions.
Full Paper_Housing congress.pdf (971 kb)
Thermal Mass Requirement for Building Envelope in Different Climatic Conditions – presented to IBMAC 2008
This study investigates the thermal mass requirement at three different places: Mackay, Brisbane and Amberley in Queensland, Australia.
Sustainable Design Strategies for Perth
To demonstrate Industry leadership Think Brick Australia, in association with the University of Newcastle, developed the following guide for architects and building designers:
Whether you're an architect or prospective homeowner, register & stay informed about the new and exciting design varieties offered by face brick.
Climate Control
Based on decades of climate data, our interactive wizard helps you plan the most climate friendly building for your location.
