Vertical slab edge insulation can give a significant lift to the thermal performance of a house. Here are the key points to be aware of and how the topic is addressed in H1/AS1.
In both H1/AS1 and H1/VM1 6th edition, Appendix E gives acceptable methods for determining the construction R-values of slab-on-ground floors. There are performance tables in H1/AS1 showing R-values for selected slab floor scenarios.
Energy hardship affects hundreds of thousands of households in Aotearoa New Zealand. Underheated homes, avoidable ill health and financial stress associated with energy bills are a harsh reality of winter for many. A BRANZ research project is providing insights that support change.
Our rule of thumb series provides designers with information on aspects of design that have potential to reduce the carbon footprint of new builds. What should designers consider when applying rule of thumb 2 Expose the concrete floor slab?
BRANZ modelling identified six areas for designers to focus on to reduce the carbon footprint of a new build. In the first of this series, we look at the practical considerations for designers using rule of thumb 1 Increase construction R-values.
MBIE has revised the date that some Building Code clause H1 insulation requirements for housing will take effect. Make sure you have the current H1 documents – 5th edition amendment 1, effective 4 August 2022.
Tricky access can be a problem when retrofitting insulation into an older home. However, as the push continues to insulate homes, we look at some of the options and things to consider.
There’s a little breathing space, but soon, many rental properties will need to be retrofitted with underfloor insulation. Retrofitting foil insulation has been banned, so what are the options?
Major projects retrofitting insulation in older uninsulated or poorly insulated homes are currently underway. To do this right, there are installation pitfalls that need to be avoided.
Making additions or alterations to an older home can provide an opportunity to improve its thermal performance. However, installing insulation to maximise the benefits is not always as straightforward as it might seem.
Resident Builder Peter Wolfkamp recently shared his insights on smart strategies for upgrading older New Zealand homes. Our conversation explored how to balance heritage features with modern living expectations, improve energy efficiency in existing dwellings and understand which renovation choices will stand the test of time.
Property inspections carried out when a house goes on the market regularly turn up a whole range of problems. Some could have been found and fixed earlier if regular home maintenance had been carried out.
When 14 homes were assessed in Tamaki, Auckland, it was clear the poor condition of many had been costly in financial and health terms. It’s a lesson in why putting off maintenance is a bad idea.
If mortar debris that falls to the bottom of blockwork cavities is not removed before filling, the bond between the grout, blocks, reinforcing bars and cavity base is reduced.
Maintain your home and it will look after you by maximising the lifespan of its individual components, Hose down your house regularly, for example, to reduce the need for major repairs to the cladding.
