http://www.sunpipe.co.uk
Loads of interesting stuff. But website went down before i could look at it more.
Monodraught have significantly improved the potential of Windcatcher systems by the addition of a solar driven internal fan that brings in additional fresh air up to 260l/s. Conversely, the fan operation can be set to extract stale air. All this without any energy cost. A unique feature of the system is the newly patented PowerTrack™ control system. This system works on the basis that the brighter the sun, the greater the speed of the boost fan. The unique switching results in 2½ times more power from the solar panel than can otherwise be achieved by a direct connection.
Also, a low power fan which is useful in tall buildings, basically sends the hot air downwards again.
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Many people are now choosing to install ‘light pipes’ into areas of the home that are lacking in natural light. These are super reflective aluminium tubes with a mirror finish on the inside with a laminated surface. Sunlight and natural light are drawn down the tube into the area below, then dispersed by a fixture in the ceiling. They can be any length and so can twist and turn, piping light to the exact spot required.
Light pipes do not require as much structural disruption during installation as rooflights, as they are smaller, fitting in between rafters and roof joists.
Some models allow you to fit a small, low voltage halogen lamp just inside the lower section of the tube so that they can light up rooms at night as well as during the day.
Just as with rooflights, if light pipes are to be fitted in the bedroom, a blackout blind or shut-off system will avoid you being woken at dawn by a stream of bright light.
Some models incorporate ventilation, which can be either manual, or automatically control the amount of ventilation required.
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In conservation areas or on listed buildings, standard rooflights will often be unacceptable to conservation officers.
Conservation Rooflights are more expensive than standard rooflights, as they are made from steel and not mass-produced. They are designed to replicate Victorian rooflights, so have a glazing bar and lie flush with the roof.
It is now possible to buy conservation light pipes, due to a collaboration between The Metal Window Company and Monodraught, who have developed a product known as The Conservation SunPipe. Externally the SunPipe looks like a Conservation Rooflight, but extends downwards like a light pipe, creating the same effect in the room below.
Roof Lanterns:
These are basically conservatory roofs – with or without low glass walls – which are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They create a sense of height, flooding the space below with light.
Most conservatory companies offer a bespoke service for creating roof lanterns.
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The simplest and cheapest rooflights are operated manually. If you plan to install the windows into a high roof, a pole will be required to reach them.
Add around £200-300 per window for rooflights with a basic electric opening system, usually controlled from a wall panel.
If you do not mind spending slightly more and are a fan of automated systems, a remote control panel will suit you. The most advanced of these include rain, heat and fire alarm sensors.
Extra Fittings:
Many companies offer sunscreens, additional opening devices and decoration. However, these can be bought separately and you might find you are able to save money by shopping around.
It may also be worth considering insect screens and awnings, to keep your new room cool and bug-free during summer.
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