Due to the UK’s notoriously rainy climate, it may come as no surprise that 1 in 6 adults have low levels of vitamin D. The situation has only worsened since rates of remote working increased, which keeps people indoors for most of the day. But data shows that vitamin D deficiency is more prevalent in the UK than in countries with similar weather. Now, IDSystems investigates whether Britain’s small windows might play a part in our low vitamin D intake, noting that some of Google’s most frequently-asked questions include, “Why do modern houses have small windows?”
Why we need vitamin D?
Vitamin D, crucial for maintaining healthy bones and muscles, is primarily produced through skin exposure to sunlight. Vitamin D deficiency has been described as pandemic, with associated direct and indirect costs for Europe estimated to be running at hundreds of billion Euros. Associated risks include conditions like rickets and osteomalacia. Research shows that Britons may be particularly susceptible, as they are significantly more likely to be vitamin D deficient than even their close neighbours in Ireland, with nearly twice the risk during summer.
Natural light also has multiple other health benefits beyond vitamin D production. Exposure to natural light in the morning helps regulate the circadian rhythm by reducing melatonin levels, which promotes wakefulness and alertness. Additionally, getting some sunshine later in the day aids melatonin production for a healthy sleep cycle.
Daylight has also proven to boost serotonin production, enhance the mood and reduce seasonal depression symptoms while improving concentration and cognitive performance. Spending time in natural light may also reduce the potential risk of fluorescent light, which can elicit a stress response for some people. Despite these numerous benefits, the current UK building regulations lack a minimum daylight requirement.
“Improving the amount of daylight in UK homes is essential not only for physical health but also for mental well-being,” says Edward Stobart, Technical Sales Manager at IDSystems. “By integrating larger windows and innovative glazing solutions like bifold doors, we can ensure that homes are brighter and healthier, enhancing the quality of life for residents across the country.”
Architectural styles and the value of natural light
In many European countries, homes tend to have large windows, designed with a focus on daylight. For instance, the Netherlands’ building regulations mandate a minimum daylight surface area, which necessitates that a specific proportion of the floor space receive natural light. This emphasis on natural light can be seen in the Dutch word “doorzonwoning”, which literally translates as “sun through home” – a house that lets the sunshine through from one end all the way to the other. These houses typically have a large living room on the ground floor, with a big window on either side of the house.
In contrast, Britain has no such regulations to protect the right to natural light. In fact, UK building regulations actually note a maximum window size, which is meant to prevent overheating during summer. New homes in London are restricted to window areas no larger than 13% of the floor area, while elsewhere in England this limit is 21%. While these kinds of regulations that are designed to better insulate the UK’s homes are certainly important, there are much more effective ways of doing so than simply installing small windows. For example, double and triple glazing offer high-quality insulation, while still providing the health benefits of natural light.
While there are undoubtedly many factors at play, Britain’s small windows may be part of the reason that vitamin D deficiency is more prevalent in the UK than in the Netherlands.
IDSystems’ recommendations for healthier homes
With increased rates of remote working, we are increasingly spending more and more time indoors, further limiting our exposure to natural sunlight. This phenomenon was captured beautifully in the campaign “The Indoor Generation“, which aptly illustrates the negative effects a lack of natural sunlight can have on our wellbeing. Stobart explains how you can maximise the health benefits of natural light inside your home.
“Home improvement projects look for opportunities to increase the appeal of a living space, and one of the first things that should be considered is natural light,” says Stobart. “Taking a daylight-first approach to a project makes a massive difference to the quality of the final result. Walking into a space that is designed to prioritise natural light quite literally feels like a breath of fresh air, it never fails to lift my mood.” Stobart explains that architects and builders can use simulation tools to optimise window placement for maximum sunlight exposure throughout the day.
“Using double and triple glazing is essential to prevent heat loss in winter and overheating in summer.” Stobart continues. “These glazing options offer excellent insulation properties, ensuring homes remain comfortable year-round without compromising on the benefits of natural light.” This approach also contributes to energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling costs.
An emphasis on architecture that increases the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces can significantly improve the quality of life for residents. Stobart recommends: “Incorporating windows that can open widely allows for better ventilation and a seamless blend between the interior and exterior environments. Additionally, glazing solutions such as bifold doors provide expansive views and the flexibility to open up entire walls to the outside, flooding homes with natural light and creating a more harmonious living space.”
If you’re planning a home renovation project of your own, taking a daylight-first approach could help you optimise the health benefits of natural light and ventilation.
