SunHours is a solar analysis plugin for SketchUp that calculates and colour-maps the duration of direct sunlight on surfaces. SunHours serves as a specialized analytical tool designed to integrate directly into the SketchUp environment. It provides architects and designers with the capability to perform precise solar exposure studies by calculating the total number of hours that specific surfaces receive direct sunlight over a user-defined period. The tool outputs this data through intuitive colour-mapped visualisations, allowing for quick identification of areas with high or low solar gain. By automating these complex environmental calculations, the extension facilitates data-driven design decisions regarding building orientation, facade performance, and the placement of outdoor amenities.

The download is a 3.6 MB file containing .ZIP files.

To utilize this plugin, install the provided Ruby extension within the SketchUp software environment. Once loaded, define the geographic location and the specific time frame for the analysis within the plugin interface. Apply the calculation to selected geometry or the entire model to generate the solar exposure heat map. The results appear as a temporary colour overlay on the model, which can be toggled or cleared to revert to the original geometry for further design iterations.

This extension is essential for early-stage conceptual design and building performance analysis. It is frequently employed when orienting buildings on a site to maximize natural daylighting in living rooms or offices, as well as for evaluating the shading requirements for terraces, balconies, and gardens. Professionals use it to verify compliance with environmental standards or to demonstrate the impact of neighbouring structures on solar access. It is a valuable asset for architects, urban planners, and sustainable design consultants working on residential or commercial projects.