Method of performance assessment of windows in multifamily dwellings in Vitória-ES: Emphasis on comfort provided by ventilation

Abstract

The windows, like other components of the building envelope, had their types changed and new concepts have been established due to the emergence of new technologies and materials. This research work aims to develop a methodology for evaluating the efficiency of the windows, which can be accomplished without the use of simulation, but drawn from the assessment of the user satisfaction related to thermal comfort considering ventilation as the key variable of analysis. The methodology proposes a systematic comparative data considering: 1) types of windows in multi-family homes in Vitória, 2) types of bioclimatic efficient windows suggested by published guidelines. Some buildings were selected considering the environmental characteristics and a questionnaire was given to users, pointing out at aspects related to thermal comfort provided by natural ventilation through the windows of their homes. In addition, technical reviews recorded the functional characteristics of the types of windows according to the standards assigned by the Code of Works and Buildings of Vitória. The representation of data from the questionnaires was done by polychromatic tables that show aspects of user satisfaction. The result demonstrated the feasibility of the evaluation of windows, architectural elements and other difficulties with the users in the qualification process.