Challenges of windy sites

Challenges of windy sites

Slowing down or excluding strong hot summer winds can be a challenge.

In some cases, the prevailing hot summer wind, sun and views are all orientated north.

It is important to know your site's climate and microclimate when you are planning a new home or renovation, so that wind direction can be considered. See Understanding your site and Orientationfor more.

On windy sites, consider:

• putting doorways and some windows into sheltered recesses so they can be opened even when it's windy to let warm air out
• using windows and doors on the south and east side of your home to provide for air movement without gusts if the prevailing wind is from the north
• using sliding windows - they won't slam shut in the wind
• using small openings - one at ground level and one in the roof or on an upper level - to provide for ventilation on windy days
• using wind breaks and mounded plantings around your home to slow the wind down and change the wind path.