Energy Perfomance
The move towards zero carbon homes in recent years has seen a steady improvement in the fabric energy performance of masonry construction, which can easily meet or exceed Part L needs. This applies to a broad range of masonry products/systems and will remain the case when the new European requirement for Nearly Zero Energy Buildings (NZEB) comes into force in 2019/20.
The enhanced fabric energy performance of masonry construction has been achieved through a range of measures including higher standards of insulation, airtightness and thermal bridging. However, one property that remains unaltered is masonry’s inherent thermal mass, which can boost the performance of low energy heating systems and also provide some useful resilience to the growing problem of overheating in new homes.
The energy performance of new masonry buildings can meet and exceed minimum requirements. Achieving required or desired energy performance arises from good design and construction in the following areas: U-values of elements, thermal bridging at junctions and air tightness. In addition thermal mass can play a role in winter energy performance and in summer avoidance of overheating and the desire for airconditioning.
More Information on Energy Performance