Climate-resilient design
Climate-resilient buildings require a holistic approach, considering all aspects of the construction. The key is to create a stable, controllable internal environment, which enables heating and cooling systems to work effectively and efficiently.
This approach might include considering the orientation of the building, in relation to wind and peak sunlight, or optimising glazing and shading so that solar heat gain is balanced throughout the seasons.
It could also mean managing internal heat gains, for example by insulating elements like hot water pipes, and installing energy efficient appliances, to ensure neither contributes to unwanted heat within the building.
Ventilation and airtightness are also key factors to consider. Carefully managed ventilation within an appropriately airtight building will allow for greater control over the internal temperature.
The right insulation, correctly installed, will then reduce unwanted heat transfer, stabilising the internal environment and protecting occupants from the effects of external heat or cold. Adopting these principles means you can make insulation do more – it can provide that protection not just in winter but throughout the year.
Getting the insulation right
The two factors to prioritise when specifying insulation for thermal comfort are its R-value and real-world performance.
In terms of protection against overheating, there is negligible difference between insulation products with different densities and heat capacities. The R-value however, is important because it indicates the insulation’s ability to resist the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value, the higher the thermal resistance… at least on paper. Unfortunately, some products are more difficult to install correctly than others, under real-world site conditions. For example, if a wall’s inner leaf is not perfectly uniform, rigid board insulation won’t sit flush against it. This can lead to air gaps, which compromise thermal performance.