Details
An important aspect of building performance is the detailing of construction elements (foundations, walls, floors, roofs) and the junctions between them. Help is available for all aspects of detailing including U-values for walls and floors, thermal bridging at junctions, fire compartmentation and acoustic separation. In many cases, a single detail may be required to satisfy a combination of these needs.
Wall U-Values - U-value is measure of insulation/conductivity of wall
U value calculators for a range of different wall configurations, finishes and block types are available for concrete aggregate blocks through the Concrete Block Association and for aircrete blocks guidance can be found from manufacturers websites or contact direct with their technical teams. For a broader overview of wall values refer to Thermal Performance: Part L1A (2013) from The Concrete Centre and the Concrete Centre Dynamic Thermal Properties Calculator can be used to determine U values of elements.
For information to firstly decide what wall U value is required see Thermal Performance.
“Thermal Bridging Details” comprise the geometric detailing and the expected energy loss through the junction which is presented as a psi value. An f value is also presented which relates to likelihood of internal condensation: a value above 0.75 is “safe” with regards mould growth.
Thermal bridging details are available here.
Masonry is non-combustible and as a result fire detailing of wall elements and junctions is far simpler than for other materials. Click here to find out more.
Building regulation Part E stipulate minimum acoustic performance for airborne and impact noise between adjacent dwellings. Click here to find out more.