Duo-Gard Announces Daylight Modeling Service

Pro-active approach optimizes daylighting techniques

CANTON, Mich.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Duo-Gard Industries Inc., a leader in translucent daylighting systems and strategies, has announced a new daylight modeling service for architects, designers and engineers who want to take a pro-active approach with this critical component of sustainable design.

“We’ll partner with our clients in analyzing and optimizing the most effective daylighting techniques right at the design stage”

“We’ll partner with our clients in analyzing and optimizing the most effective daylighting techniques right at the design stage,” said Tim Metcalfe, Director of Sustainable Technologies. “This presents them with a 3-D model of the building in a virtual environment that simulates the building’s relationship and all its components with the environment, based on its global position using weather-weighted data from the Department of Energy.”

Such an approach in the design stage will answer critical questions about the quantity of light, the quality and the effects on the building’s occupants by giving architects a report on what they can expect before they proceed. It will point out aspects designers should consider so they can treat the entire building as a light source, Metcalfe said, and make effective changes at the earliest stage when it’s easiest.

Duo-Gard’s modeling program adheres to IESNA standard practice and addresses glare, comfort, functionality and safety issues as well as energy efficiency. “We’ll be able to tell you if your daylight strategy is harvesting enough light for the function of the space or whether you’ve over-designed the space for its intended use,” Metcalfe said, adding that integrating daylight into a building involves much more that just sticking in a skylight.

Studies show effective daylighting contributes to more comfortable, productive workers in all types of environments, better students in schools and increased sales in retail stores. The energy and operational savings from lower HVAC and electricity costs become a significant factor over the life cycle of a building.

“If you can use natural light half the time, how much will you save? We can tell you that,” Metcalfe said, “and help you create an effective lighting strategy inside and outside.”

According to David Miller, Duo-Gard’s president, the daylight modeling service is the first in a continuing package of new sustainable strategies available from Duo-Gard: “This addition reflects our continuing commitment to smart building practices and to the most effective use of materials in achieving the designer’s goals.”

Please contact Tim Metcalfe at [e-mail] or call Duo-Gard at 734-207-9700 for more information or to discuss your project.

About Duo-Gard Industries Inc.:

Duo-Gard Industries Inc. is a leading innovator in high-performance translucent daylighting systems and architectural illumination, as well as custom canopies, shelters and outdoor structures. For over 28 years, Duo-Gard has advanced translucent technology with design, engineering, fabrication and installation of custom architectural products that enhance sustainability. Duo-Gard was established in 1984 and is based in Canton MI. For additional information, please visit www.duo-gard.com.