Metal buildings are durable and long lasting. When properly done, they also are energy efficient, eco-friendly and low maintenance. The same can be said for Tubular Daylighting Devices (TDDs). That’s why pairing the two for your next metal architectural project is a smart move.
How TDDs Work
TDDs are unique optical daylighting systems that provide energy-efficient lighting while costing nothing to operate. They capture the available daylight at the rooftop level using a specially designed optical dome. From there, the daylight is transferred and/or redirected through highly reflective optical tubing and precisely placed into the interior spaces using an optical diffuser. Some systems even provide advanced filtering to allow in only visible wavelengths of light while preventing material-fading ultraviolet wavelengths and heat-carrying infrared wavelengths from infiltrating the building interior. This makes it possible to turn off electric lights while the sun is up, reducing energy bills significantly.
A TDD for Every Need
Since each commercial building project is unique, TDD models come in different sizes to meet different lighting needs. For example, small- to medium-sized systems are ideal for lighting spaces like offices, corridors and classrooms, while larger systems work well for hotel lobbies, convention centers and airplane terminals.
You can even find specialized models with components that enhance light capture at the roof level or provide focused light to the task plane below. Whatever your needs, there is a TDD that can accommodate them.
Easy Structural Integration
The optical technologies built into TDDs allow them to bring in abundant amounts of light through small apertures for maximum daylight delivery with minimal impact to the building envelope. They are also designed to work with prefabricated or site-built curb solutions for easy installation on practically any type of metal roof, including those with universal standing seam ribs.
Simple Installation
TDDs feature a compact design, which eliminates the need for costly construction and reframing work. Some models even come with pre-assembled, sealed rooftop assemblies that make installation simple and foolproof.
Versatile Engineering
When a building is renovated or reconfigured, TDDs can change with it. The unique optical technologies that are used at the core of TDD products allow rooftop apertures to remain in their original positions while the interior diffusers can be moved to a new location, modified to serve a different purpose, or updated with a new look, providing building owners with ultimate flexibility.
Sustainable Efficiency
Using sustainable natural daylight, TDDs can help achieve net zero and LEED certification. By providing energy-efficient lighting that cuts electricity use, they reduce the need for electric utility-generated carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions, minimize a building’s carbon footprint and protect the environment.
Durable and Maintenance-Free Design
Durable, high-quality materials ensure that TDDs can withstand severe weather like hurricanes, hail and high winds. Additional built-in features like leak-proof flashings and curb caps, self-cleaning domes and sealed optical tubing systems contribute to make TDDs maintenance-free over their lifetime.
Customizable Options
To meet specific design requirements, optional accessories are available that allow for customization. Optical daylight dimmers allow occupants to adjust interior light levels, making them a perfect complement for classrooms and conference rooms. Ventilation options help control humidity in restrooms, hotel laundry rooms and gym locker areas. Nighttime lighting can also be added to the system so occupants have electric lights for after hours. A variety of plastic and glass decorative fixtures is available so designers can select a style that blends with the interior decor.
Affordable Solution
Due to their compact size and ability to maneuver around obstacles, TDDs can be installed quickly with little to no structural changes. They also use less material than other daylighting solutions like traditional skylights and windows. This, combined with the fact that they are also cost-effective and maintenance-free, makes TDDs an affordable daylighting solution.
Along with the financial, environmental, and design benefits TDDs offer, one of the best reasons to install these innovative daylighting systems in a metal building is for the people perks. Individuals who work under natural lighting conditions tend to be happier, healthier and more productive. They also call in sick less often, exhibit higher morale and are more satisfied with their jobs than those who work under electric lighting conditions.
Since companies spend about 70 times more on salaries than energy, happy employees who are more productive can improve a business’s bottom line significantly. And that may be the smartest reason of all to consider TDDs for your next metal building project.
—
Neall Digert, Ph.D., MIES, is vice president of product enterprise at Solatube International Inc., Vista, Calif. Visit www.solatube.com to learn more.