Certified Energy Auditor Practice Exam

When shading a window on a building's west side while preserving views, what shading method should be utilized?

1. Vertical blinds

2. Horizontal overhangs

3. Trellis planting

4. Exterior shades

The correct answer is: Horizontal overhangs

Using horizontal overhangs as a shading method for a building's west-facing windows is effective because it can provide direct shade from the intense afternoon sun while still allowing for clear views from the interior. West-facing windows receive significant solar heat gain later in the day when the sun is lower in the sky. Horizontal overhangs can block this low-angle sunlight effectively, helping to maintain a comfortable interior temperature and reduce the need for cooling. Since they extend outwards from the building, they can provide shade without obstructing the view directly in front of the window. This shading method can also contribute to the overall aesthetics of the building while enhancing energy efficiency. As it allows light to enter from above while blocking direct sunlight for much of the day, it ensures that natural daylight is available without compromising comfort or visibility. The other methods, while they could provide some level of shading, either do not maximize the blocking of west-facing sunlight (like vertical blinds or interior shades) or may limit views more significantly (like trellis planting which may obstruct the view or require space that may not be available).