V
Vapour barrier
A layer which is impermeable to moisture and air and applied to an element of
construction to resist the passage of water vapour to cold parts of the structure
where it would cause condensation.
Ventilation
The process of supplying fresh air to a space.
Visual comfort
Visual comfort is the result of the interaction between physical parameters
and psycho-physiological sensations. Physical parameters that may be quantified
are, for example, illumination, brightness, contrast, glare, etc. Psycho-physiological
sensations are related to the quantity, distribution and quality of light. They
are also influenced by visual contact with the outside environment. Therefore
natural lighting gains need to be optimized, while respecting thermal requirements
and summer comfort. In general, architects attempt to minimize the number of
windows and doors on the north side, arrange bedrooms so that the windows face
east, provide windows in opposite walls in the living room, and to design apartments
across the full width of a building. The ratio between natural lighting and
artificial lighting must be balanced. A systematic search must be made to increase
natural light input in "service" rooms (kitchen, bathroom, etc.).
Secondary lighting can be created by glazed transoms, or vertical or overhead
lighting.
Volumetric heat capacity
(Wh/(m³ K) or J/(m³ K))
The amount of heat stored in a unit volume of a material for each degree rise
in its temperature.