Solar Shading
Direct sunlight on windows will consequently cause buildings to overheat. The basis of solar shading principles is to allow diffuse daylight into buildings while shading from direct sunlight.
The equator runs across East Africa, through Kenya and southern Uganda. Along the equator the sun at midday is directly overhead throughout the year. This means that in East Africa roofs receive far more solar radiation than walls.
Glazing acts as a heat trap by permitting short wave solar radiation to enter but not allowing longer wave thermal radiation to escape.
Orientation
Orientate buildings to reduce east and west elevations which receive the most direct solar radiation.
Overhangs
Use elements of the building such as colonnades and projecting overhangs to shade windows and walls from direct sunlight.
Trees & Planting
Trees and climbing plants can be used to shade exposed windows and walls particularly on the east and west elevations.
Roof Colouring
A shiny or very light roof finish will reflect solar radiation, helping to reduce radiant heat transfer to interior spaces.
Double Roof
Create a second skin beneath the roof to reduce the radiant temperature and help to cool the roof through enhanced ventilation.