Buildability of highly insulated and airtight structures

Abstract

SYNOPSIS Four case studies are used to illustrate points of practicality and principle associated with low heat loss building envelopes. The pursuance of high standards of insulation and low air infiltration can involve the designer in research without which the risk of innovation may be unjustifiable. Nevertheless, the evidence is clear that low heat loss envelopes can be designed and built within stringent economic criteria and that the benefits from these passive forms of energy saving are considerable. On-site practical problems are present but are now regarded as surmountable, while prefabrication certainly has a role to play in high performance. The case studies challenge some common assumptions and suggest that the consequential effects of low envelope heat loss on the design and operation of the heating system cannot be ignored.