Designing for the Southland Climate: Tips for New Home Construction

This area generally has a temperate climate, with lower temperatures than the rest of the country. Southland receives less sunshine and also experiences frost and snow each year.

So, think about the weather and elements your house will experience throughout the year. 

• Chilly Winters. Your home must be built to stay cosy and retain heat, even when it’s frosty outside.
• Humid, Rainy Days. New Zealand frequently experiences rainfall, so your house and property need good drainage through property design and spouting systems. Moisture control must also be considered, because water penetration can cause structure damage, rotting, mould growth and more. 
• Strong Winds. Your house must be able to stand tall and strong, even during windy days. 

Designing for your climate involves thinking about physiological and psychological comfort. These factors will affect your mental and physical comfort in your house:

• Temperature. 

• Humidity.

• Air Movement.

• Exposure To Heat Sources.

• Exposure To Cool Surfaces. 

What can we discuss to maximise comfort in Southland?

Optimising Warmth, Temperature Control And Energy Efficiency. The goal is to help your home stay comfortable without relying too heavily on an inbuilt systems. 

• Utilising Passive Solar Design. This is the practice of designing your home to be warmed by the sun. These design elements are meant to store, reflect and distribute solar heat. Your architect will think about how much sun exposure your new home will receive and how to maximise the solar heat throughout the day.. 
• Installing High-Quality Insulation. We will use sufficient insulation in your ceilings, walls and under your floors to retain heat.
• Using Double To Triple Glazed Windows. Did you know that much of your home’s heat is lost through your windows and doors? Double and triple glazed windows reduce heat loss and improve comfort.
• Building With Thermal Mass In Mind. Some materials, like concrete and brick, can absorb heat during the day and then release it when the temperature drops. Thermal mass helps keep your house comfortable year-round.

Weatherproofing Against Wind And Rain. Wind and rain can damage your home – wind can wear away at roofing materials, cladding and more, and rain can cause water penetration and flooding. 

• Choosing Durable Roofing And Cladding Materials. You must select roofing and external cladding products that can withstand wind and rain. They should be designed to hold strong even when the weather is poor, and they should prevent water penetration. 
• Ensuring Proper Drainage. Well-designed and installed spouting systems and downpipes can direct rain away from your home. The shape of your property must also be considered so that the rain flows away correctly, rather than pooling around your house. 
• Using A Raised Foundation. Having your foundation be higher than the surrounding property can prevent flooding. 
• Covering Entryways, Decks And Outdoor Areas. Your architect can design covers for entryways, decks and other outdoor areas to keep them safe from the rain. Plus, then you’ll still be able to use your outdoor areas when it’s raining. 

Ensuring Ventilation And Moisture Control. Ventilation and moisture control also contribute to your comfort. Ventilation improves your air quality by replacing stale air with fresh air, and moisture control prevents issues like rotting and water stains. 

• Using Passive Ventilation. Passive ventilation involves using windows and vents to encourage ventilation. 
• Installing Mechanical Ventilation Systems. Ventilation systems help improve your ventilation when passive ventilation isn’t enough. 
• Utilising Breathable Wall Wraps. These help prevent moisture buildup inside walls, which can lead to mould growth, mildew growth and other problems. 
• Ensuring Moisture Control. Many rainwater control methods also help prevent moisture-related issues. For instance, proper guttering and well-designed roofs stop water from seeping into your house.