Question 1

Why does my location matter so much for this?

Accepted Answer

The sun's height in the sky at solar noon varies a lot across Australia — around 33° in Sydney at winter solstice versus 24° in Hobart or 54° in Darwin. An eave or pergola depth that works perfectly in one city can under- or over-shade in another, so a generic rule of thumb is never quite right for your actual address.

Question 2

Why is north the best orientation for a deck or living space in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Because Australia is in the Southern Hemisphere, the sun tracks through the northern sky, low in winter and high in summer. A north-facing wall or window is the only orientation where a simple horizontal eave or pergola can do both jobs at once: block the high summer sun while still letting the low winter sun in. East and west-facing walls get low-angle morning or afternoon sun that a horizontal eave can't block effectively — those need vertical screens, blinds, or plantings instead.

Question 3

Is this a substitute for a building designer or council approval?

Accepted Answer

No. This tool gives you accurate sun-angle data and general passive solar design principles to plan with, but final eave depths, structural requirements, and council/BASIX compliance should be confirmed with a qualified designer, building certifier or your local council before you build.

Pergola & Deck Sun Orientation Planner

Your Address

Sun Height at Solar Noon

Eave / Pergola Depth Calculator

Frequently Asked Questions