Insulation
Why is insulation so important?
With the profile of climate change AND energy prices both on the rise, it’s inevitable that end users are keener than ever to identify quick and easy methods to help reduce their carbon footprint and reduce their energy bills.
For more information on the environmental and financial credentials of installing sufficient insulation in a property, visit the Energy Saving Trust website.
Building Regulations
What is Part L?
Part L makes up part of the Building Regulations for England & Wales. It requires builders to use more energy saving products and processes e.g. better insulation during the construction of new builds AND during work on existing buildings. Part L 2010 calls for a 25% reduction in Carbon Emissions compared to the 2006 regulations.
New Builds
Part L1A is the section of Part L1 that applies to all new builds. The government has set a target called ‘Target Carbon Dioxide Emission Rate’ (TER). Basically, this states that the Carbon Emission Rate of a new building (DER) is not greater than the target, TER.
Different buildings have different TER targets, because the TER is based on floor area, building shape and other factors, such as the heating fuel used. This assessment can only be carried out by an official SAP assessor. Assessors can be sourced on: www.bre.co.uk/SAP2005. The second part of L1A aims to reduce the amount of heating required. So this could include reducing the amount of heat that is lost through the fabric of the building which can be achieved through better insulation and minimising air leakage.
What is Part F?
It is advised that Part F (ventilation) is read in conjunction with Part L - as important as it is to have insulation, Part F explains how it is important to leave sufficient ventilation gaps in order to help fresh air to circulate. Part L Building Regulations are regularly revised and modified. To view the latest changes, visit the Planning Portal website and make sure you're up to date!
Existing Buildings
Part L1B is the section of Part L1 that applies to all existing buildings. Considering 50% of buildings in England and Wales are already 50 years old, reducing carbon emissions dramatically can only be achieved by targeting the buildings that are already standing.
So the government has introduced Part L1B – which suggests that energy improvements to existing properties should be carried out at any appropriate opportunities.
These improvements include establishing worst acceptable Uvalues for walls, roofs and floors when replacing elements in an existing building such as installing or topping up insulation.
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