Fen Calc Fencalc XA2021 Training
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Building Envelope Training

Orientation and Site Planning

Learn how orientation, facade sectors and site decisions influence the SANS 10400-XA compliance path.

3Text lessons
45 minutesReading time
EnvelopeCategory
SANSReference points
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Diagram for Orientation Basics
Orientation and Site Planning Orientation Basics

Lesson Roadmap

Work through the lessons in order, or continue from the next unfinished lesson.

Start
1 Orientation Basics Define orientation from the outside face of the envelope. 12 minStart 2 Solar Access Risk Identify facades with higher solar-gain risk. 15 minStart 3 Orientation Documentation Record orientation assumptions for review. 18 minStart

What You Need Before Starting

A current drawing set or sample project to practise with. The project location, building type and storey information. Window, door, roof, wall, floor or services schedules where relevant. Supplier evidence for any performance values you plan to rely on. A notebook for assumptions, missing information and review questions.

What You Will Learn

Outcome 1Classify building envelope elements by orientation.
Outcome 2Understand why orientation affects solar gain and envelope decisions.
Outcome 3Document assumptions for angled or complex facades.

SANS Reference Points

Use these as evidence prompts while studying. The training explains concepts, but the official standard remains the authority for project submissions.

Evidence point 1SANS 10400-XA:2021 clause 5.1: Orientation
Evidence point 2SANS 10400-XA:2021 Figure 2: orientation sectors
Evidence point 3SANS 10400-XA:2021 clause 5.3: orientation groups used for fenestration checks
This training is an original learning aid based on SANS 10400-XA:2021 concepts. It does not reproduce or replace the official standard. View resources