Dear *|TITLE:FNAME|*, 

Welcome to the Novmeber newsletter

Follow us on  twitter 
http://www.twitter.com/alanbudden

New version of Code for
Sustainable Homes – Nov 2010

The latest version of the code for sustainable homes (CSH) has been released, the main change is in the energy section which uses the new version of SAP (see below) and now favours a fabric first approach, which we commend.  It moves credits from Ene 1 (carbon reduction) to Ene 2 (fabric performance), and introduces FEES (Fabric Energy Efficiency Standards) that takes over from HLP (Heat Loss Parameter).   This moves closer to the PassivHaus Approach and should mean a house built to PassivHaus standards will exceed Level 4, which in my opinion always should have but did not due to calculation methods.  Other changes include internal lighting credits being replaced with in home energy displays, further clarification on surface water drainage and relaxation on lifetime homes for steeply sloping sites.
 
For further information see:
Eco design consultations summary
 New technical Guide Nov 2010
Full official summary of changes


Should we use SAP 2009 now?
SAP 2009 contains a number of updates that will impact designers, builders and developers. The most significant changes are the need to insulate and seal party walls and the need to consider attention to non-repeating thermal bridges.  We are adding a page to our website next week outlining the changes; a how it will affect projects for extensions and new builds.


Wrestlingworth Retrofit for the
future nears completion
Our Retrofit for the future project with SDC and Aragon Housing, is nearing completion.  The bungalow has undergone a complete overhaul including external wall insulation and render, with perimeter insulation,  aerogel insulation internally on the floor,  new triple glazed windows, increased airtightness, MVHR and air source heat pump and topped off with a sunpipe,  Photo Voltaics and Solar thermal.  The home also includes a specially developed in home display and control panel.


AECB Milton Keynes Group
from strength to strength
Alan runs the local AECB group of Architects , Builders and consultants  with an interest in the environment  that meets monthly for  discussions on topics from LED lighting, air tightness to comparisons of SAP to PHPP, and visits local examples of environmental buildings, including a trip to the AI PassivHaus as shown on Grand designs.



Certified European Passivhaus
Designer
We have furthered our knowledge of PassivHaus by participating and providing technical support for the first intensive 6 day certified European Passivhaus designer course in the UK run by the BRE.  We are now even more convinced that this is truly a proven design methodology that optimises the performance of the home, maximising passive solar gain, while limiting heat loss and ensuring optimum economy comfort and ventilation all year round.  
 
Get in touch if you would like to know more