MB Thermal-Performance PartL Oct16

Thermal Performance:
Part L1A 2013
Fabric and services options for energy and carbon compliance

2 THERMAL PERFORMANCE: PART L1A 2013
Contents About this publication

Now in its third edition, this Concrete Centre publication provides
Introduction. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 guidance on Part L1A 2013 for new concrete and masonry homes
built in England. A range of fabric and services options are explored
Key conclusions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 for different house types, with the aim of helping housebuilders
and designers to assess the implications of the 2013 revision.
Benefits of Post-tensioned Floors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 The information provided is offered as guidance only and is
accompanied by supporting commentary and conclusions. Details
New Part L1A (2013) compliance of the latest changes to Part L and SAP are included, plus general
information relating to masonry/concrete design.
requirements for CO2 and energy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4
Part L1A (2013) compliance examples. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 For the purposes of brevity, in this document:
¢¢ Part L refers to Approved Document L1A (2013)1: Conservation
SAP 2012 – The main updates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 of fuel and power (new dwellings)
¢¢ SAP refers to the 2012 edition of the Standard Assessment
General Part L related information: Procedure for housing2
¢¢ TER refers to the target emission rate, measured in kgCO2/m2/y
Cavity widths. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12
¢¢ DER refers to the calculated dwelling emissions rate, measured
Thermal mass . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 in kgCO2 /m²/y
¢¢ TFEE refers to target fabric energy efficiency, measured in
Overheating in new homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
kWh/m²/y
Air permeability . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 ¢¢ DFEE refers to the calculated dwelling fabric energy efficiency,
measured in kWh/m²/y.
Underfloor heating in upper floors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
For clarity, degrees Celsius (°C) are used for all references to
Whole-life benefits ofconcrete temperature.
and masonry homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

The Concrete Centre, as author and publisher of this guide, would
like to thank the Futures Group, Home Builders Federation (HBF),
Thermal properties of walls and floors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
Modern Masonry Alliance (MMA) and the National House-Building
Council (NHBC), all of which have provided input that has helped
New products and resources . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
shape this document.
References. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27
The Concrete Centre would also like to thank the following
organisations, which kindly provided photographs and/or technical
information:
Hanson; Aggregate Industries; Lafarge Tarmac; Cemex UK; Brett

Concrete; Insulating Concrete Formwork Association (ICFA); Zero
Carbon Hub; Pittsburgh Corning (UK) Ltd; Marmox (UK) Ltd; Robust
Details Ltd; Zenex Technologies Ltd; A K Industries Ltd; National
Energy Services Ltd; Xtratherm Ltd; Manthorpe Ltd; Cavalok Building
Products; Keystone Lintels; Jablite; Anderton Concrete Products Ltd;
Thermal Economics Ltd; Ancon Building Products.
THERMAL PERFORMANCE: PART L1A 2013 3
Introduction
The Climate Change Act 2008 has established a series of five yearly legally No single approach
binding UK carbon budgets to ultimately reduce 2050 emissions by at least
Basing a design specification on that used for the notional dwelling in SAP
80% from 1990 levels. The next step to achieving this is the third carbon
will ensure compliance and provides a good starting point, but may not
budget, which commences in 2018 and requires a 35% cut in emissions
be the most cost-effective or practical approach. In practice, the optimal
by 2020.
balance between fabric performance and the use of onsite lowcarbon
heat/power systems varies to some extent between dwelling type. More
Progressive changes to Part L over the years have been an important
specifically, it will depend on how much of the external envelope is
component in helping achieve these targets and despite dropping the
exposed – dwellings with a large exposed area, such as detached homes,
potential 2016 zero carbon target for new housing and changes at an
will benefit most from improvements to the fabric.
EU level, Part L will no doubt continue to play a key role in curbing UK
emissions. Compared to the previous version of Part L1A for new housing,
Low-carbon heat/power systems
the current, 2013 edition requires around a 6% reduction in emissions
across the mix of dwelling types. Significantly, a minimum standard for Part L compliance can be achieved without the need for renewables or
fabric energy efficiency is also set; ensuring that new homes cannot rely too mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR), as demonstrated by
heavily on low-carbon heat and power systems to achieve compliance. This the specification for the notional dwelling used to set the CO2 and energy
underpins the government’s ‘fabric first’ approach to reducing emissions. targets. However, the use of photovoltaics (PV), for example, may enable
To establish the likely implications of these changes, SAP software has been the fabric specification to be relaxed up to the limits set by the new target
used to explore fabric and services options for six standard dwelling types, fabric energy efficiency (TFEE) requirement. Similarly, lowcarbon heat/
and the results are included in this guide. power systems such as flue gas heat recovery and MVHR will permit a
less demanding fabric specification to be used, although not to the same
The general conclusions resulting from the study are summarised below. extent as PV.
The overarching outcome was confirmation that the standard of fabric
performance required by Part L1A can be easily achieved, and if required Cavity walls
exceeded, by the broad range of concrete and masonry solutions. With
U-values for external walls are likely to be in the range of 0.18-0.25 W/m2K.
fabric energy efficiency now being delivered to a high standard, it is likely
As a consequence, cavities will typically be around 100-150 mm; a much
that any future update to Part L1A will see a greater reliance on low-carbon
smaller increase in width than many anticipated when the drive towards
technologies to deliver any additional reduction emissions, with little
zero carbon homes began a few years ago.
change to fabric performance requirements.
Overheating in new dwellings
Key conclusions As homes become more highly insulated and airtight, the risk of
overheating has increased. The thermal mass provided by concrete and
masonry dwellings can help to lower the risk, providing there is adequate
Using SAP to assess the implications of Part L1A (2013) on six standard provision for ventilation. The SAP overheating check recognises this benefit,
dwelling types, a number of broad conclusions were reached. These and and gives a reduction in internal temperature of up to 3.5°C in heavyweight
some more general observations relating to the thermal performance of homes.
concrete and masonry homes are summarised here.
The Part L challenge

Meeting the fabric energy efficiency requirements of Part L places the same
demands on all forms of housing construction and materials, i.e. Part L/
SAP compliance does not favour one approach over another. In respect of
concrete and masonry construction, existing materials and systems can
meet both the new and anticipated future demands of Part L.
Thermal bridging details

The level of fabric performance now required by Part L makes thermal
bridging an increasingly important aspect of the overall design; the
difference between older construction details and newer, more efficient
details is quite significant in terms of dwelling performance. This is true
for all forms of construction and, to assist housebuilders and designers,
the concrete and masonry sector has developed a broad range of high-
performance details that are freely available (see page 11). They provide
a low-cost means of optimising performance and allow greater flexibility
with other aspects of the design. Use of these details will cut heat loss from
thermal bridging by around 60% compared to the SAP default, which is a
punitive alternative.
Part L1A (2013) compliance

requirements for energy and CO2
Compared to the previous edition, there are three key Figure 1: Specification for notional dwelling used to set the TER and TFEE
changes to Part L that affect compliance: (See table 4 in Approved Document L1A 2013 for comprehensive details)
1. A 6% reduction in CO2 emissions across the build Element or system Value

mix, compared with 2010 requirements
Opening areas Same as actual dwelling up to
2. The introduction of a target fabric energy efficiency (windows and doors) maximum proportion of 25% of total
floor area
(TFEE) requirement, measured in kWh/m2/y
External walls 0.18 W/m2K
3. A new ‘elemental recipe’ approach to setting the
target emissions rate (TER) and TFEE. Party walls 0.0 W/m2K
Floor 0.13 W/m2K

In meeting the new CO2 and energy targets, house builders and designers
still have a reasonable level of design flexibility, with no change to the Roof 0.13 W/m2K
existing Part L backstops for U-values and air permeability (see Figure
Windows, roof windows, glazed 1.4 W/m2K (whole window value),
5). The TER and TFEE can be readily achieved through adequate fabric
rooflights and glazed doors g-value = 0.63
performance and an efficient heating system, i.e. without the need for
additional low-carbon heat/power systems. However, where these are Opaque doors 1.0 W/m2K
specified, a slightly more modest fabric specification can be adopted.
Semi-glazed doors 1.2 W/m2K
Whatever approach is used, the TFEE requirement must still be met or
exceeded, ensuring that only a limited trade-off is possible between fabric Airtightness 5.0 m3/(h.m2)
and services. In contrast, the previous version of Part L1A (2010 edition)
Thermal mass parameter (TMP) Medium (250 kJ/m2K)
permitted a much lower level of fabric performance, offset by a greater
reliance on low-carbon heat/power systems. Linear thermal transmittance Standardised psi values – see SAP
Appendix R, unless the actual
dwelling uses the default y-value of
New elemental recipe method for 0.15 W/m2K, in which case the y-value
for the notional dwelling is
setting the TER and TFEE 0.05 W/m2K
Ventilation type Natural (with extract fans)

SAP, the compliance tool for Part L1A, determines the TER by calculating
the emissions from a notional dwelling of the same size and shape as Air conditioning None
the actual dwelling, but using the reference values set out in Figure 1 for
Heating system Gas boiler with radiators. Room
airtightness, thermal bridging, U-values etc. The TFEE is set in the same way, sealed. Fan flue, SEDBUK 2009 89.5%
but is then relaxed by 15% to allow some additional flexibility to the fabric efficient
design. Compliance can be assured from the outset by adopting the same
reference values used for the notional dwelling, although this may not Controls Time and temperature zone control
with weather compensation.
necessarily be the most cost-effective or practical approach. Alternatively, Modulating boiler with interlock
the fabric specification can be tailored to meet specific project needs
providing the TFEE is still met. This is a practical option as the new Hot water storage system Stored hot water from boiler for
elemental recipe approach affords reasonable design flexibility and is not houses (instantaneous combination
boilers for apartments). Thermostat
overly prescriptive, allowing a broad range of design options to be used. controlled. Separate time control for
For housebuilders and designers developing a Part L (2013) specification space and water heating.
from scratch, the published reference values (elemental recipe) provide a
good starting point that is easily adapted to suit specific needs. The overall Primary pipework Fully insulated
compliance procedure is summarised in Figure 2. Hot water cylinder loss factor (if Declared loss factor equal or better
specified) than 0.85 x (0.2 + 0.051 V 2/3) kWh/day
Secondary space heating None
Low-energy lighting 100% low-energy lighting

Figure 2: Basic Part L1A compliance procedure for energy and CO2 targets.
Enter dwelling design into SAP
SAP tool
For a notional dwelling of the same shape and size,
SAP 2012 calculates the: Reference values used for notional dwelling
Target emission rate (TER) e.g. U-values, psi values, airtightness etc (see Figure 1)
Target fabric energy efficiency (TFEE),
which is relaxed by 15%
Adjust dwelling design

If required, the dwelling design can be altered
providing the:
DER ≤ TER
DFEE ≤ TFEE
Backstops for U-values etc are not exceeded.
Masonry construction can provide the highest level of fabric performance whilst also offering the ability to maintain a traditional appearance and
architectural features.
Part L1A (2013) compliance examples

Both carbon and energy compliance will be achieved
by adopting the specification for the notional dwelling,
General conclusions
but in terms of fabric performance, this approach goes Option One: Minor rebalancing of fabric specification. By making a
15% further than strictly necessary. modest improvement to the reference U-values for the windows and roof, it
is possible to relax the U-values for the walls 0.18 to at least 0.2 W/m2K, and
The 15% margin can allow the fabric specification to be relaxed slightly, similarly from 0.13 to 0.16 W/m2K or higher for the floor. A trade-off such as
providing carbon compliance is maintained, through the use of low-carbon this is likely to provide a more practical approach in many cases. A similar
heat/power systems. An alternative approach, which avoids / minimises the and perhaps more cost-effective result may also be achieved through an
use of these systems, is simply to rebalance individual aspects of the fabric improvement to the thermal bridging performance and/or airtightness,
specification – for example, improve the performance of the windows and although scope for the latter is limited if MVHR is to be avoided. The smaller
roof, and relax the U-values for the floor and walls. However, this will not exposed area of the mid-terrace home makes its carbon emissions less
allow advantage to be taken of the 15% margin. sensitive to changes in the fabric specification. This allows a greater increase
in wall and floor U-values compared with the end-terrace and detached
Both of these approaches are considered here, along with a third option homes, which are more sensitive to fabric performance and benefit most
that takes the fabric performance beyond current requirements. Although from maintaining a high standard.
this option may not be cost-effective and is unnecessary for current
Part L1A compliance, it shows what can be achieved with concrete and Option Two: Triple glazing. This follows the same approach as option one,
masonry construction. but switches from double to triple glazing, which allows other aspects of
the fabric performance to be relaxed further while still avoiding the need
The best approach will vary according to dwelling type and specific project for additional low-carbon heat/power systems to satisfy the TER. As with
requirements. However, to give an idea of what is possible, Figure 3 shows option one, this approach benefits the mid-terrace home most in terms of
several compliant options for six standard dwelling types: a two-storey end increased flexibility in the fabric specification. Another option (not included
terrace; a two-storey mid terrace; a three-storey end terrace; a three-storey in the study) is to specify low-iron glass4 for the outer pane. This is extra
mid terrace; a two-storey detached; and a mid-storey flat. For each dwelling clear, which means more sunlight and solar heat can enter the dwelling,
type, the TER and TFEE are set by the notional dwelling shown at the top giving a modest improvement to the DER and DFEE.
of the graph. The two dotted lines extending downwards from these
represent the limits that must not be exceeded by the DER and DFEE for Option Three: Flue Gas Heat Recovery (FGHR). The addition of a low-
the design options considered. carbon heat/power system such as FGHR allows some or all of the 15%
fabric performance margin to be used, while ensuring that the TER is not
Common assumptions exceeded. Of all of the dwelling types considered, the greatest benefit
is in the flat and mid-terrace home, where the emissions from hot water
used in this study compared with space heating are proportionally greatest. Conversely,
the detached house sees the least benefit, highlighting the point that
¢¢ The specification for the notional dwelling (see Figure 1) has been for dwellings with a comparatively large exposed area, it makes sense to
applied to all the examples, except where specific elements have optimise the fabric performance before considering other measures.
been changed as indicated.
Option Four: PV. Although PV has traditionally been a relatively expensive
¢¢ Windows are orientated east/west with average/unknown
technology, costs have fallen significantly in recent years and system
overshadowing.
efficiency has improved. As with option three, the addition of PV allows the
¢¢ The thermal mass parameter (TMP) is fixed at 250 kJ/m2K 15% fabric performance margin to be used, while ensuring that the TER
(mediumweight). is not exceeded. Even a modest amount of PV can allow full advantage to
¢¢ Natural ventilation is used in all examples, along with an air be taken of the 15% margin. Whilst larger arrays are not necessary for the
permeability of 5 m3/(h.m2). While alternative levels of air permeability purposes of Part L1A, they offer greater operational savings for the home
and use of mechanical ventilation with heat recovery owner which is likely to be an attractive feature.
¢¢ (MVHR) are equally valid, they would have unduly increased the number
of design permutations. Option Five: Enhanced fabric specification. While this option exceeds
current requirements for Part L compliance and is likely to increase the
¢¢ For clarity, low-carbon heat/power systems have been limited to
build cost, it does show what can be delivered with concrete and masonry
photovoltaics (PV) and flue gas heat recovery (FGHR), although
construction. This includes U-values and thermal bridging performance
alternative options may be equally valid.
that go beyond the reference values used for setting the TER and TFEE.
¢¢ PV panels face west at a pitch of 45° with modest overshadowing. Design aspirations and future revisions to Part L may need a standard of
fabric performance closer to that used here.
TFEE (kWh/m2/y)
25 30 35 40 45 50 55
TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

(SAP 2012 Appendix R dwelling spec.)
TER TFEE
Minor rebalancing of fabric specification
As notional dwelling, except: walls changed from 0.18 to 0.20,
End terrace, floor 0.13 to 0.16, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and windows 1.4 to 1.2
two storey (61 m2) Triple glazing

floor 0.13 to 0.17, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and windows 1.4 to 0.8
Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

floor 0.13 to 0.17, roof 0.13 to 0.11, y-value 0.055 to 0.06 and FGHR added
Photovoltaics (PV)
floor 0.13 to 0.19, y-value 0.055 to 0.07 and 0.5 kW of PV
Enhanced fabric specification
floor 0.13 to 0.1, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and windows 1.4 to 0.8 (triple glazed)
and y-value 0.055 to 0.045
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)
TFEE (kWh/m2/y)
25 30 35 40 45 50 55

TER TFEE
Mid terrace,
Triple glazing
two storey (61 m2) As notional dwelling, except: walls changed from 0.18 to 0.24,
floor 0.13 to 0.2 and windows 1.4 to 0.8

floor 0.13 to 0.2 and FGHR added
Photovoltaics (PV)
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TFEE (kWh/m2/y)
25 30 35 40 45 50 55

TER TFEE
End terrace, floor 0.13 to 0.16, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and windows 1.4 to 1.2
three storey (125 m2)
Triple glazing

floor 0.13 to 0.17, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and FGHR added
Photovoltaics (PV)
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)
TFEE (kWh/m2/y)
25 30 35 40 45 50 55

TER TFEE
Mid terrace,
three storey (125 m2) Triple glazing

floor 0.13 to 0.18, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and FGHR added
Photovoltaics (PV)
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TFEE (kWh/m2/y)
25 30 35 40 45 50 55

TER TFEE
Detached, floor 0.13 to 0.17, roof 0.13 to 0.11 and windows 1.4 to 1.2
two storey (127 m2)
Triple glazing
floor 0.13 to 0.18 and windows 1.4 to 0.8 and y-value 0.045 to 0.05

As notional dwelling, except:
floor 0.13 to 0.16, roof 0.13 to 0.11, y-value 0.045 to 0.05 and FGHR added
Photovoltaics (PV)
floor 0.13 to 0.1, roof 0.13 to 0.11, windows 1.4 to 0.8 (triple glazed) and
y-value 0.045 to 0.04
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)
TFEE (kWh/m2/y)
25 30 35 40 45 50 55

Flat, TER TFEE
mid storey (50 m2) Minor rebalancing of fabric specification
windows 1.4 to 1.2 and y-value 0.065 to 0.07
Triple glazing
windows 1.4 to 0.8 and y-value 0.065 to 0.08

As notional dwelling, except: walls changed from 0.18 to 0.25
y-value 0.065 to 0.08 and FGHR added

windows 1.4 to 0.8 (triple glazed) and y-value 0.065 to 0.55
12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

SAP 2012 – the main updates

Putting to one side the new Part L fabric energy
efficiency requirements and method for setting targets,
Thermal bridging
there are no really significant changes to the SAP (non-repeating)
calculation methodology that underpins Part L. Instead,
the 2012 edition builds on the previous version by There are no significant changes to the treatment of thermal bridging
introducing relatively minor improvements. The main in SAP 2012, and the proposal in the Part L consultation to introduce an
accreditation scheme for construction details has been dropped. SAP 2012
ones are outlined here.
does however include 19 additional junctions, bringing the total to 42
(see Table K1, SAP 2012). Losses from all non-repeating junctions must be
calculated individually using approved design details or details produced
CO2 emission factors by someone with suitable expertise, as specified in SAP Appendix K. A
simpler but very punitive option is to apply the default SAP value for
These now take into account methane and nitrous oxide, which, like thermal bridging, which remains at the high level of 0.15 W/m2/K. Use
CO2, are greenhouse gases. Transportation emissions are also included, of this instead of specifying high performance masonry and concrete
largely to take account of the increasing importation of liquefied construction details can result in around a 60% increase in heat loss from
natural gas. The same emission factor will now be used for imported thermal bridging, giving a clear indication as to why the SAP default should
and exported electricity. The net effect is shown in Figure 4. With the be avoided where possible.
exception of electricity, there are significant rises. However, it should
be noted that these revised factors are used by SAP 2012 to calculate For the notional dwelling used to set the TER and TFEE, the psi values
both the TER and DER, so do not represent an additional performance are taken from SAP Appendix R (See Figure 1). Some of these values are
challenge (in the way that the party wall issue did when moving from quite challenging and can only be achieved with a change to typical site
Part L1A 2006 to 2010). practice. For example, the lintel psi value is based on that of a split lintel,
and will require the use of either this type of lintel or an alternative system
Figure 4: Revised CO2 emission factors with a similar level of performance. Housebuilders and designers need to
be aware of this if considering the use of Appendix R values in a dwelling
Fuel SAP 2009 SAP 2012 Change specification.
kgCO2/kWh kgCO2/kWh
Mains gas 0.198 0.212 +7.1%
Heating oil 0.274 0.292 +6.6% How construction details

Wood pellets 0.028 0.039 +39.3% are used in SAP
Grid-supplied / 0.517 0.522 +1.0%
exported electricity Since Part L 2010, there has been a requirement to enter dwelling-
specific thermal bridging details into SAP, unless the punitive default
value is used. For each thermal bridge, its length (m) and psi value
Limits on design flexibility (W/m.K) taken from the construction details, are entered in the SAP
tool, which multiplies the two together and then adds all results
(backstops) together to give a total (W/m2K). The total is then divided by the
overall exposed area (m2) of the dwelling, i.e. the area of the external
Backstops for U-values and air permeability are unchanged in Part walls, roof, ground floors, doors and windows. This gives the overall
L1A 2013 and are set out in Figure 5. The stated value represents the heat loss from thermal bridging (W/K). The lower the value the
area-weighted average for that construction element. For windows, the better, making the use of construction details with low psi values
U-value represents the combined performance of the glazing and frame. particularly important, which is a good reason to apply the details
In order to satisfy the TER and TFEE, the dwelling specification will need produced by the concrete and masonry sector.
to be considerably better than the backstop values for many aspects of
the design.
Figure 5: Part L1A 2013 performance backstops
Element Maximum value
Roof 0.2 W/m2K
Wall 0.3 W/m2K
Floor 0.25 W/m2K
Party wall 0.2 W/m2K
Windows and roof-lights 2.0 W/m2K
Air permeability 10m3/(h.m2) at 50Pa

Sources of construction details for Heat pumps

concrete and masonry construction The default values for heat pump efficiency used in SAP 2012 have been
lowered to take account of research by the Energy Saving Trust, which
A range of high-performance construction details have been produced has undertaken extensive field trials in residential properties across the
by the concrete and masonry sector, covering all the usual methods UK5. The drop in efficiency is summarised in Figure 6.
of construction and materials used. The use of these generic details
is recommended. These and other sources of construction details are Figure 6: Revised heat pump efficiencies
summarised below.
Heat pump type Change in efficiency
Aircrete blocks
Air to water or air 250% to 230%
The Aircrete Products Association (APA) has developed a comprehensive
set of details in partnership with Constructive Details. These include a useful Water to water 300% to 230%
construction checklist to help ensure the details are built correctly. These Ground to water or air 320% to 230%
can be downloaded at www.constructivedetails.co.uk.
Aggregate blocks
The Concrete Block Association (CBA) has also produced a comprehensive Boiler efficiency and controls
set of details covering the full range of aggregate block densities. These can For as-built submissions, boiler efficiency can no longer be a manufacturer’s
be downloaded at www.cba-blocks.org.uk. declared value, but must instead be either a SAP default efficiency or a
boiler selected from the SAP Products Characterisation database. This
Insulating concrete formwork (ICF)
database must also be used when specifying weather compensators or
One of the benefits of ICF is an inherently low level of thermal bridging; enhanced load compensators. Finally, the term ‘time and temperature
a consequence of the external layer of polystyrene which limits heat loss zone control’ now includes thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) that can
across junctions. The Insulating Concrete Formwork Association (ICFA) communicate with a central controller⁶.
has produced a set of generic details, and it can be contacted for more
information at www.icfinfo.org.uk.
Regional weather data
Local Area Building Control (LABC) Average UK weather data continues to be used for determining Part L
The LABC site contains an extensive set of registered details covering both compliance and SAP ratings. However, for calculating the running costs
aircrete and aggregate block construction. The information provided for included in energy performance certificates (EPC), account is taken of
each detail includes related design points for designers and users to be regional variations in climate, which now includes regional wind speed.
aware of. The LABC details can be downloaded at www.labc.co.uk. This alters the air change rate of a dwelling, affecting heat loss and CO2
emissions. The net effect is that regions with higher than average wind
Department for Communities and Local Government speeds, such as south-west England, will use slightly more energy, or will
(DCLG) accredited construction details need to be more airtight to compensate. For south-east England, there
are lower than average wind speeds, so the opposite is true. To illustrate
These longstanding details have now been essentially superseded by the this point, Figure 7 shows the implications of regional wind speeds used
newer, higher performance details highlighted here and should be avoided in SAP 2012 on the air change rate of a typical end terrace house with an
if possible. However, they can still be viewed on the Government’s Planning air permeability of 5 m3/(h.m2). By way of comparison, the performance of
Portal: www.planningportal.gov.uk. the same house assessed using SAP 2009 is shown (i.e. using average wind
speed data).
Energy Saving Trust enhanced construction details
These offer a high standard of thermal performance, but anecdotal Figure 7: Impact of regional wind speeds in SAP 2012 on the air change
evidence suggests that alternative construction details are often thought rate in an end-terrace house with a measured air permeability
to be more buildable. From a masonry perspective, the use of insulated of 5 m3/(h.m2).
plasterboard in many of the details to help achieve low psi values will
isolate the thermal mass provided by the inner leaf of blocks. These can be 0.75
E ective air change rate
downloaded at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk. 0.7

0.65
Proprietary construction details from suppliers
0.6
Some suppliers and manufacturers of construction materials are able 0.55
to provide design details for use with their products. Examples include
0.5
Besblock, a supplier of concrete blocks, and Xtratherm, which manufactures
0.45
insulation. Another source is the Travis Perkins New Build Guide, which
contains a range of construction details. 0.4
SAP 2009 SE SW Midlands NE
average wind
speed SAP 2012 regional wind speed
General Part L
Another weather-related change to SAP is the way in which the output
from PV and solar thermal systems is calculated. Firstly, regional solar data
is now used, and secondly, the precise orientation and angle of tilt can be
related information
specified for panels. The impact that these changes have on performance
across the UK is greater for solar PV than for solar thermal: PV output
increases in the south, but diminishes as you move north (see Figure 8),
while solar thermal output increases in all regions7.
Figure 8: Approximate change in CO₂ savings for solar PV in SAP 20127

Cavity widths
-12%
-7% Under Part L1A 2013, U-values for external walls are typically in the range
of 0.18-0.25 W/m2K. As a consequence, cavities are normally in the range of
100-150 mm, or slightly more in parts of the UK, where a 75 mm clear cavity
-5%
is required. While some housebuilders and designers may opt for cavities in
-10% -7% excess of this to obtain very low U-values, it seems likely that mainstream
-5%
housing will continue to use a relatively modest cavity size, constructed in
the conventional way. This has, in part, been made possible by the modest
-6%
increase in performance required by Part L1A 2013, compared to previous
-2%
-1% -2% revisions. New high-performance insulation products can also help to
-3%
keep cavity widths to a minimum – for example, full fill PIR and phenolic
-1%
-1% insulation systems that can achieve a U-value of around 0.18 W/m2K in a
traditional 100 mm cavity.
-3%
-3% -1.3%
There is, however, a trade-off between cavity width and insulation cost/
+1%
+5% +7% performance which, depending on the development, may favour the use
+4% of a lower performance product such as mineral wool insulation. However,
+8% +8% this is still capable of achieving a U-value of around 0.18 W/m2K in a 150
+10%
+12% +13% mm cavity. In practice though, a more relaxed U-value may often be
preferable, and is a realistic option with the new elemental recipe approach
to Part L compliance.
Thermal mass
Pressure testing and Part F
A key revision to SAP made in 2009 was the addition of thermal mass within
(Ventilation) the calculation methodology to take into account the effect that this has
on space heating and cooling. The unit of measurement used for thermal
There have been no changes to current Part L pressure testing mass is the k-value, measured in kJ/m2K, which provides a gauge of heat
requirements, or the 10 m3/(h.m2) limit for measured air permeability. capacity per square metre of wall or floor. It is measured from the inside
Although testing is not mandatory for all of the units in a housing to the outside surface, stopping at whichever of the following conditions
development, a margin of 2 m3/(h.m2) must be added to the air occurs first:
permeability of those that are untested. The performance of untested units
¢¢ The midpoint of the construction element is reached
is based on the average test results obtained for units of the same type. The
addition of 2 m3/(h.m2) to these results has a significant impact, particularly ¢¢ An insulating layer is reached (with a thermal conductivity less than
given the tougher CO2 and energy targets imposed by Part L 2013. To avoid 0.08 W/mK)
this, a policy of pressure testing all of the units in a development may often ¢¢ A depth of 100 mm is reached.
be the best approach. Specific requirements for pressure testing are set out
in Part L, including special rules for developments of two units or fewer. In addition to the thermal mass in external walls and ground floors, SAP
also takes into account internal partitions, separating walls and upper
There have been no changes to the 2010 edition of Part F (Ventilation). floors. Figure 12 provides k-values for a range of construction elements,
An important point included in Part F is the requirement for an enhanced along with U-values and other thermal mass related information. A
level of ventilation in dwellings with a design air permeability of less number of generic k-values can also be found in SAP Table 1e. For bespoke
than 5 m3/(h.m2). However, the margin of 2 m3/(h.m2) for untested construction elements, k-values can be calculated using the Concrete
buildings is taken into account, which mean that, in practice, the need for Centre Dynamic Thermal Properties Calculator (see page 25).
enhanced ventilation measures will actually apply to buildings with an air
permeability of 3.0 m3/(h.m2) or less.
This will help to avoid a situation whereby dwellings without enhanced

ventilation measures fall foul of Part F if they are more airtight than
intended when pressure tested, i.e. less than 5 m3/(h.m2). So, providing the
result is no lower than 3 m3/(h.m2), dwellings without enhanced ventilation
measures are Part F compliant.
Measuring a dwelling’s overall thermal mass

SAP calculates a dwelling’s overall thermal mass by multiplying the surface Figure 9 shows what is considered in SAP to be low, medium and high
area for each construction element by its k-value and adding the results. levels of thermal mass. Figure 10 shows the approximate TMP for a typical
The total is then divided by the floor area of the dwelling to give the end-terrace house built using a range of materials and finishes. It should be
thermal mass parameter (TMP). This is measured in kJ/m2K, where m2 refers noted that the TMP varies to some extent with the size of dwelling.
to the dwelling’s floor area.
A broad indication of a dwelling’s thermal mass is also given in Table 2 of
Figure 9: TMPs in SAP the SAP conventions. This covers a variety of fabric options and shows the
indicative thermal mass as either low, medium or high. (See www.bre.co.uk/
Thermal mass of dwelling TMP (kJ/m2K) filelibrary/SAP/2012/SAP-Conventions.pdf )
Low 100
Medium 250
High 450
Figure 10: TMP for a typical end-terrace house
House Approximate Thermal Mass Parameter (kJ/m2K)

Timber ground floor
Concrete ground floor
Stud partitions
Block partitions
Timber upper floor
Concrete upper floor

construction
50 100 150 200 250 300 350 400 450 500 550 600 650
Timber frame 60-80

Timber frame 90-120
Masonry (600 kg/m3blocks) 160-220
Overheating in new homes

The increased risk of overheating in better-insulated and more airtight homes has led to several recent studies, most notably from the DCLG10, the
NHBC Foundation and the Zero Carbon Hub11,12 , 33. These studies highlight the reduced ability of new dwellings to reject heat as a consequence of
their enhanced fabric performance. There is also a growing separation between the temperature experienced inside and outside the home. Single-
aspect flats and apartments are identified as being at particular risk, especially in city locations, which can be challenging in terms of delivering
effective ventilation, and can also suffer from the urban heat island effect.
Alongside reduced fabric heat loss, there is a range of other factors that often come together to cause overheating, all of which are set out in an
NHBC Foundation Guide12. Guidance points at the provision of adequate ventilation as being the single most effective design measure that can
be applied. This can, of course, be difficult and costly to achieve in environments where noise, pollution and security issues must be overcome. The
development of new design techniques and products to address these issues may be one of the next steps in tackling overheating, particularly if
a more widely accepted definition of overheating in dwellings and national limits are introduced as proposed by the Zero Carbon Hub34. The main
driver for such changes is the health and wellbeing aspect of overheating; projections show a three-fold increase in heat-related mortality by the
2050s, albeit from a fairly low baseline. At the same time, cold-related deaths are projected to reduce by around 30%.
SAP overheating check Air permeability – concrete and

From a design perspective, the SAP overheating check continues to be the masonry dwellings
official assessment tool, and remains largely unchanged following the latest
The average air permeability of new concrete and masonry dwellings
revisions. However, DCLG has indicated that overheating and space cooling
has steadily decreased in recent years as knowledge gained through
are “anticipated for consideration” in the next SAP review13. The overheating
pressure testing has informed the design and construction process. An air
check can be used to assess a standard dwelling design without needing
permeability rate of around 5 m3/(h.m2) is now fairly standard, with lower
site-specific details (in the same way as SAP DER calculations), but requires
values achieved as required. In fact, results from pressure testing over the
a worst-case scenario to be assumed for the location, orientation and
last few years show that, of housing achieving an air permeability of 3 m3/
overshadowing.
(h.m2) or better, the highest proportion were of masonry construction with
a wet plaster finish . Wet plastering or parging the blockwork inner leaf can
Assumptions about ventilation are more challenging as the air change
create a highly effective air barrier, which will not degrade appreciably over
rate may be partly determined by constraints arising from the local
the building’s life.
environment, which, as far as they are known, should be considered
alongside the more straightforward factors of window and dwelling design.
Insulating concrete formwork (ICF) construction is capable of providing a
To some extent, this goes beyond the scope of the SAP overheating check,
very low level of air leakage due to the sealing effect of the concrete and
but consideration of the likely environment should help to ensure that
the low permeability of the insulating formwork. This combination provides
reasonable skill and care has been exercised in minimising overheating.
an effective air barrier, capable of achieving an air leakage rate of around
It is worth noting that the use of ventilation as a means to help regulate
2 m3/(h.m2) or lower17. As with masonry construction, the simplicity and
thermal comfort is not controlled by Part F or L of the Building Regulations.
robust nature of ICF helps to ensure that the integrity of the air barrier is
maintained over the life of the building. Two useful sources of guidance on
For housing developments in London, ventilation requirements to tackle
minimising air permeability are:
overheating are set out in the London Housing Design Guide14, which
favours duel-aspect dwellings. Where this is not possible, the onus is on the
designer to demonstrate how adequate ventilation will be achieved. 1. How to achieve good levels of airtightness in masonry homes,
available from www.concretecentre.com.
2. A practical guide to building airtight dwellings, available to download
Thermal mass and overheating at www.nhbcfoundation.org.
As houses become more highly insulated, fabric heat loss potential is

reduced and heat flow balances become very fine: the smallest excess
of heat gain over loss can lead to overheating15. Thermal mass can be
useful in smoothing out these gains and losses, and in so doing help to
stabilise the internal temperature. This is particularly beneficial during the
hottest part of the day (i.e. the afternoon), when occupants are likely to
include mothers with young children, and older/retired people who are
particularly susceptible to heat-related illness. However, for thermal mass
to be effective, it is important that there is adequate ventilation, particularly
at night, when the cooler air is able to remove heat that has built up in the
fabric during the day. The combined benefit of thermal mass and night
ventilation is accounted for in the SAP overheating check, which gives a
reduction in the peak internal temperature of up to 3.5°C when compared
with a lightweight dwelling (see Figure 11).
Radiator pipe guides with integral seals, provide an airtight means of
Figure 11: SAP overheating check – effect on internal temperature from routing pipes through plasterboard.
thermal mass (night ventilation possible).
+2.0oC
+1.5oC
+1.0oC
+0.5oC
0oC TMP
100 200 300 400 500 KJ/m2/K
-0.5oC
-1.0oC
-1.5oC
-2.0oC
Light-weight Medium-weight Heavy-weight
Plastic joist seals provide a means of minimising air leakage, along with
joist hangers and properly sealed built-in joists. Both images courtesy
of Manthorpe Building Products.
Underfloor heating in upper floors Whole-life benefits of concrete and

There are benefits associated with the use of concrete and masonry in masonry homes
ground floor construction, as demonstrated by their widespread use in
Concrete and masonry housing provides a wide range of whole-life
new-build homes. Uptake is less prevalent for upper floors, particularly
benefits, some of which are highlighted below. More information
in low-rise housing, although many of the same advantages can be
on whole-life performance issues is available in a variety of
realised, including rigidity, sound insulation, fire resistance and thermal
Concrete Centre publications, which can be downloaded at
mass. A further advantage that has recently emerged is the improved
www.concretecentre.com/publications.
efficiency of gas boilers supplying underfloor heating in heavyweight
floors, as compared with lightweight timber options where the pipework ¢¢ Locally sourced. The average transportation distance for precast
is often suspended between the joists. The saving comes from the ability products, such as blocks, is around 107 km35. The average distance for
to use comparatively low flow and return temperatures where pipes all form of concrete, including ready-mixed, is around 43 km21.
are embedded in screed or concrete. The good thermal contact (i.e. low ¢¢ Responsibly sourced. Recent figures show that around 90% of UK
thermal resistance) between the pipework and screed/ concrete permits concrete production has achieved compliance with BES 6001, which
flow temperatures of as little as 30°C, whereas the timber option requires is the standard for responsible sourcing of construction products
water at least 10°C warmer to overcome the greater thermal resistance of published by the Building Research Establishment (BRE)22.
the timber construction. The benefit of a reduced flow temperature is that
¢¢ Use of recycled materials. Concrete blocks can contain high levels
the boiler supplying the hot water can spend more time in condensing
of recycled materials – often around 80% or more. These include
mode, maximising system efficiency. As a consequence, the heavyweight
aggregates made from furnace bottom ash, industrial slag and recycled
option is likely to use around 5% less gas in a modern well-insulated and
concrete products. The cementitious materials used in concrete include
airtight home18.
recycled and secondary materials such as ground granulated blast
furnace slag (GGBS) and fly ash. In addition, approximately 31% of the
energy used to make cement comes from waste-derived fuels. Overall,
the UK concrete industry uses around 107 times more waste than it
produces21.
¢¢ Embodied CO₂. The embodied CO₂ in the average concrete/ masonry
house as compared to a timber-frame house is only around 4-5%
higher, and can be offset in around 11 years as a result of the fabric
energy efficiency properties of heavyweight construction. Over its
lifetime, the concrete and masonry house can then go on to have the
lower whole-life CO₂ footprint of the two forms of construction23.
¢¢ Climate change adaptation. Housing built today will need to be
resistant to the effects of dangerous climate change over the 21st
century. In particular, the increased risk of overheating will require
greater use be made of shading, ventilation and thermal mass – an
inherent property of heavyweight materials. Flood resilience is another
inherent property of concrete and masonry solutions, which is
increasingly important as the prevalence of floods increases.
¢¢ Durability. The robustness of concrete and masonry housing helps to
For underfloor systems supplied by a heat pump, the savings are likely ensure a long life span of 150 years or more. The building fabric can also
to be greater, as heat pump efficiency (known as the coefficient of be easily extended or adapted over its life to meet the changing needs
performance or COP) varies significantly with the flow temperature. An of occupants.
increase of 10°C will reduce the COP by around 20%19. ¢¢ Airtightness. An important aspect of fabric energy efficiency in
concrete and masonry housing is its ability to provide a robust primary
air barrier, which helps to ensure the long-term airtightness of the
Carpets and underlay structure.
Carpet reduces the output from underfloor heating. However, recent
research has shown that due to the open weave of most carpets, they ¢¢ CO2 absorption. It is a little known fact that concrete absorbs CO₂ over
do not restrict the flow of heat to any great degree, although the use of its lifetime. The process is called carbonation, and in whole-life terms
underlay and foam-backed carpets does. If underlay/foam-backed carpet – i.e. during the in-use phase and following crushing and reuse – it
is used over an underfloor heating system, the tog rating should ideally be reduces concrete’s carbon footprint.
around 1.5 tog or less20. ¢¢ Reuse. Precast concrete elements such as floor units are often
remountable, enabling their reuse when the building comes to the end
of its life.
¢¢ Recycling at end of life. Concrete and masonry homes can be fully
recycled to create new construction materials. Little evidence exists that
any hard demolition and construction waste is sent to landfill24.
Thermal properties of walls and floors

Figure 12 provides U-values and thermal mass related information for a range of wall and floor constructions25.
For an overview of all the thermal properties used to calculate the values provided in Figure 12, see page 24.
Figure 12: Thermal properties for a range of walls, floors and partitions.
Partial fill, brick and

Partial fill, brick and aircrete block Partial fill, aircrete block (both leafs)
lightweight aggregate block
External Walls
Phenolic insulation Phenolic insulation Phenolic insulation
U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K)
0.28 303 mm wall / 50 mm insulation 0.28 308 mm wall / 55 mm insulation 0.28 298 mm wall / 40 mm insulation
Insulation
k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K)
Wet plaster finish 65 Wet plaster finish 141 Wet plaster finish 65
Plasterboard finish 52 Plasterboard finish 114 Plasterboard finish 52
Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties
(wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed)
Thermal mass
Admittance (W/m2K) 2.5 Admittance (W/m2K) 4.1 Admittance (W/m2K) 2.5
10 hours 10.3 hours 10.2 hours

Decrement values when Decrement values when Decrement values when
U-value is 0.28 U-value is 0.28 U-value is 0.28
Factor = 0.34 Factor = 0.25 Factor = 0.34
11.3 hours 11.6 hours 11.6 hours

U-value is 0.15 U-value is 0.15 U-value is 0.15
Factor = 0.3 Factor = 0.23 Factor = 0.29
Values contained in Figure 12 are intended for guidance purposes only.

Figure 12 continued
Partial fill, brick and Full fill, brick and lightweight

Partial fill, brick and aircrete block Full fill, brick and aircrete block
thin joint aircrete block aggregate block
External Walls
EPS insulation with graphite

Phenolic insulation with plastic PIR insulation with plastic
Phenolic insulation and foil faced polythene bubble
drainage panel27 drainage panel28
sheet32
U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K)
298 mm wall / 303 mm wall / 278 mm wall / 278 mm wall /

0.28 0.3 0.26 0.22
45 mm insulation 50 mm insulation 75 mm insulation 75 mm insulation

0.25 0.25 0.22 0.19
Insulation

0.20 0.20 0.19 0.17
338 mm wall/ / 368 mm wall / 115 328 mm wall / 328 mm wall /

0.18 0.18 0.16 0.14
85 mm insulation mm insulation 125 mm insulation 125 mm insulation

0.15 0.15 0.13 0.12
k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K)
Wet plaster finish 52 Wet plaster finish 65 Wet plaster finish 141 Wet plaster finish 65
Plasterboard finish 42 Plasterboard finish 52 Plasterboard finish 114 Plasterboard finish 52
Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties
(wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed)
Thermal mass
Admittance (W/ Admittance (W/ Admittance Admittance (W/

2.1 2.52 4.1 2.5
m2K) m2K) (W/m2K) m2K)
9.5 hours 9.9 hours 11 hours 10.3 hours

Decrement values Decrement values Decrement values Decrement values
when U-value is when U-value is when U-value is when U-value is
0.28 Factor 0.28 Factor 0.28 Factor 0.28 Factor
= 0.38 = 0.34 = 0.24 = 0.33
11.7 13.5
11.0 hours hours hours 12.3 hours
when U-value is when U-value is when U-value is when U-value is
0.15 Factor 0.15 Factor 0.12 Factor 0.12 Factor
= 0.32 = 0.29 = 0.19 = 0.28

Figure 12 continued
Full fill, brick Full fill, brick and Full fill, lightweight Full fill, brick and ultra
and aircrete block dense aggregate block aggregate block (both leafs) lightweight aggregate block
External Walls
Mineral wool insulation Polystyrene bead insulation Mineral wool insulation Mineral wool insulation
293 mm wall / 328 mm wall / 308 wall / 298 mm wall /

0.28 0.28 0.28 0.28

0.25 0.25 0.25 0.25
Insulation

0.20 0.20 0.20 0.20

0.18 0.18 0.18 0.18

0.15 0.15 0.15 0.15
Wet plaster finish 65 Wet plaster finish 190 Wet plaster finish 141 Wet plaster finish 87
Thermal mass
Admittance Admittance Admittance Admittance

2.5 5.0 4.1 3.2
(W/m2K) (W/m2K) (W/m2K) (W/m2K)
9.7 hours 9.7 hours 10.9 hours 9.7 hours

when U-value when U-value when U-value when U-value
is 0.28 Factor is 0.28 Factor is 0.28 Factor is 0.28 Factor
= 0.35 = 0.23 = 0.23 = 0.33
11.0 hours 10.6 Hours 12.1 hours 10.9 hours

when U-value when U-value when U-value when U-value
is 0.15 Factor is 0.15 Factor is 0.15 Factor is 0.15 Factor
= 0.31 = 0.22 = 0.2 = 0.3

Figure 12 continued
Full fill, brick and ultra lightweight aggregate Solid masonry (215 mm dense Thin joint solid masonry
block aggregate block) (215 mm aircrete block)
External Walls
Mineral wool insulation Extruded polystyrene insulation Extruded polystyrene insulation
U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K)
298 mm wall / 318 mm wall / 268 mm wall /

0.28 0.28 0.28
90 mm insulation 95 mm insulation 45 mm insulation

0.25 0.25 0.25
Insulation

0.20 0.20 0.20
363 mm wall / 373 mm wall/ / 323 mm wall /

0.18 0.18 0.18

0.15 0.15 0.15
k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K)
Wet plaster finish 87 Wet plaster finish 190 Wet plaster finish 52
Plasterboard finish 70 Plasterboard finish 154 Plasterboard finish 42
Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties
(wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed)
Thermal mass
Admittance
3.2 Admittance (W/m2K) 4.7 Admittance (W/m2K) 2.0
(W/m2K)

U-value is 0.28 Factor U-value is 0.28 Factor U-value is 0.28 Factor
= 0.32 = 0.14 = 0.2

U-value is 0.15 Factor U-value is 0.15 Factor U-value is 0.15 Factor
= 0.29 = 0.12 = 0.14

Figure 12 continued
Insulating concrete
Solid masonry (215 mm Insulating concrete
formwork with brick slips, Cellular woodcrete block
lightweight aggregate block) formwork with brick slips
(gypsum inner leaf )
External Walls
Woodfibre insulation Expanded polystyrene insulation Extruded polystyrene insulation Mineral wool insulation
338 mm wall / 281 mm wall / 283 mm wall / 315 mm wall

0.28 0.28 0.28 0.27
115 mm insulation 105 mm insulation 95 mm insulation (300 mm block)
358 mm wall / 296 mm wall / 293 mm wall / 380 mm wall

0.25 0.25 0.25 0.19
135 mm insulation 120 mm insulation 105 mm insulation (365 mm block)
Insulation
Additional or
0.20 0.20 0.20 0.15 alternative
insulation required
423 mm wall/ / 351 mm wall / 338 mm wall /

0.18 0.18 0.18

0.15 0.15 0.15
Wet plaster finish 141 Wet plaster finish - Wet plaster finish 210 Wet plaster finish 146
Plasterboard finish 114 Plasterboard finish 9 Plasterboard finish - Plasterboard finish 108
Thermal mass

3.7 0.8 4.6 2.0
(W/m2K) (W/m2K) (W/m2K) (W/m2K)
12.3 7.8 hours 13 hours

8.3 hours
Decrement values hours Decrement values Decrement values
Decrement values
when U-value when U-value when U-value
when U-value is 0.27 Factor
is 0.28 Factor is 0.28 Factor is 0.28 Factor
= 0.18 = 0.07
= 0.11 = 0.04
16.7 16.0
9.3 hours 9.4 hours
Decrement values hours Decrement values Decrement values hours
Decrement values
when U-value when U-value when U-value
when U-value is 0.19
is 0.15 Factor is 0.15 Factor is 0.15 Factor Factor
= 0.06 = 0.03 = 0.16 = 0.05

Figure 12 continued
Precast concrete sandwich Cellular concrete block with Timber frame with brick
Cellular clay block (365 mm)
panel (fair-faced finish) ready-mix concrete core outer leaf
External Walls
PIR insulation Expanded polystyrene insulation 200 mm block26 with extruded Mineral wool insulation.
polystyrene insulation Additional insulation located in
cavity for U-values < 0.27 W/m2K.
265 mm wall / 385 mm wall 303 mm wall / 302 mm wall /

0.28 0.3 0.28 0.27
70 mm insulation (no insulation) 95 mm insulation 140 mm insulation

0.25 0.25 0.25 0.20
80 mm insulation (25 mm insulation) 105 mm insulation 180 mm insulation
Insulation
295 mm wall / 445 mm wall 343 mm wall / 362 mm wall/ /

0.20 0.20 0.20 0.18

0.18 0.18 0.18 0.15
330 mm wall / 495 mm wall 393 mm wall /

0.15 0.15 0.15
135 mm insulation (110 mm insulation) 185 mm insulation
Fair-faced finish 230 Wet plaster finish 66 Wet plaster finish 204 1 x plaster board 9
Plasterboard finish 176 Plasterboard finish 54 Plasterboard finish 165 2 x plaster board 18
(fair-faced finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed) (wet plaster finish assumed) (1 x plaster board assumed)
Thermal Mass

6.2 2.2 4.83 1.0
(W/m2K) (W/m2K) (W/m2K) (W/m2K)
7.6
8.9
8.6 hours 18 hours hours
Decrement values hours Decrement values
Decrement values Decrement values
when U-value is when U-value
when U-value is 0.3 when U-value is 0.28
0.28 is 0.28 Factor
Factor Factor Factor
= 0.55
= 0.26 = 0.07 = 0.14
10.0 11.1 10.7

21 hours hours hours
Decrement values hours Decrement values Decrement values
Decrement values
when U-value is when U-value is when U-value
when U-value is 0.15
0.15 Factor 0.15 Factor Factor is 0.15 Factor
= 0.24 = 0.02 = 0.12 = 0.31

Figure 12 continued
Beam and aircrete/lightweight aggregate block (screed on insulation) In-situ concrete (screed on concrete)
Ground Floors
¢¢ End terrace house with perimeter/area ratio of around 0.75 ¢¢ End terrace house with perimeter/area ratio of around 0.75
¢¢ Expanded polystyrene insulation ¢¢ 150 mm edge insulation
¢¢ Expanded polystyrene insulation
U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K)

Insulation
0.18 295 mm floor / 130 mm insulation 0.18 395 mm floor / 130 mm insulation
k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K)

Thermal Mass
78 (65 mm screed) 159 (65 mm screed)

108 (90 mm screed)
Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties
Admittance (W/m2K) 3.5 Admittance (W/m2K) 3.3
Beam & polystyrene block Beam and polystyrene block

(concrete topping) (covering beam) with concrete topping29
Ground Floors
¢¢ End terrace house with perimeter/area ratio of around 0.75 ¢¢ End-terrace house with perimeter/area ratio of around 0.75
¢¢ Extruded polystyrene blocks ¢¢ Expanded polystyrene insulation
U-values (W/m2K) U-values (W/m2K)
0.18 290 mm floor / 215 mm block depth. 0.18 305 mm floor / 190 mm insulation
Insulation
Actual U-value is slightly better than 0.18 W/m2K) 0.14 355 mm floor / 240 mm insulation
0.14 350 mm floor / 215 mm block depth. Includes additional 40 0.12 405 mm floor / 290 mm insulation
mm layer of insulation.
0.12 390 mm floor / 215 mm block depth. Includes additional 80
mm layer of insulation.
k-values (kJ/m2K) k-values (kJ/m2K)

Thermal Mass
179 (75 mm concrete topping) 80 (65 mm screed)

110 (90 mm screed)
Other thermal mass properties Other thermal mass properties
Admittance (W/m2K) 4.9 Admittance (W/m2K) 2.7

Figure 12 continued
Block partition with wet Block partition with wet Block partition
Timber stud partition with single
plaster finish (100 mm plaster finish (100 mm with wet plaster finish
sheet of plasterboard
dense aggregate block) lightweight aggregate block) (100 mm aircrete block)
Internal Partitions
Wet plaster finish 111 Wet plaster finish 83 Wet plaster finish 41 Wet plaster finish -
Thermal Mass
Admittance (W/m2K) 4.7 Admittance (W/m2K) 4.0 Admittance (W/m2K) 2.4 Admittance (W/m2K) 1.1
Beam and lightweight

Hollowcore (carpeted screed, wet Lattice girder floor (carpeted Timber (carpeted chipboard,
aggregate block (carpeted
plaster soffit) screed, fair-faced soffit) plasterboard soffit)
screed, plasterboard soffit)
Upper Floors
k-value from above 120 k-value from above 120 k-value from above 138 k-value from above 24
Thermal Mass
k-value from below 160 k-value from below 40 k-value from below 230 k-value from below 9
Admittance from Admittance from Admittance from Admittance from

3.1 3.0 3.0 1.7
above (W/m2K) above (W/m2K) above (W/m2K) above (W/m2K)
Admittance from Admittance from Admittance from Admittance from

5.4 2.6 6.0 1.1
below (W/m2K) below (W/m2K) below (W/m2K) below (W/m2K)

Notes to accompany Figure 12

As far as possible, the insulation thickness for external walls has been rounded to the nearest 5 mm in order to meet or exceed the stated U-values of 0.28,
0.25, 0.2, 0.18 and 0.15 W/m2K. Although insulation may not be available in the indicated thicknesses, this approach allows a basis for comparison between
wall types.
Other assumptions:
¢¢ The use of low-conductivity wall ties has been assumed for all cavity walls.
¢¢ The indicated wall thickness excludes internal finishes.
¢¢ Unless otherwise indicated, a 10 mm wet plaster finish is assumed in the U-value and decrement/admittance calculations.
¢¢ The partial fill cavity walls have a 50 mm air gap. However, it should be noted that in some parts of the country and with some insulation materials, a
75 mm gap may be required. Full fill options may not be permissible for sites with severe exposure, and guidance should be sought regarding their
suitability.
Summary of thermal conductivity values used in Figure 12
Thin joint aircrete block: 0.11 W/mK (460 kg/m3) Phenolic insulation (partial fill) 0.021 W/mK
Standard aircrete block: 0.15 W/mK (600 kg/m3) Mineral wool insulation: 0.033 W/mK
Ultra lightweight aggregate block: 0.26 W/mK (850 kg/m3) Expanded polystyrene beads: 0.039 W/mK
Lightweight aggregate block: 0.47 W/mK (1450 kg/m3) Expanded polystyrene: 0.034 W/mK
Dense aggregate block: 1.33 W/mK (2000 kg/m3) Extruded polystyrene: 0.029 W/mK
In-situ concrete: 1.75 W/mK (2300 kg/m3) Woodfibre insulation: 0.04 W/mK
Hemcrete structural block 0.36 W/mk (1120 kg/m3) PIR insulation (sandwich panel): 0.023 W/mK
Woodcrete: 0.083 W/mK (550 kg/m3) PIR insulation (full fill brick/block): 0.021 W/mK
Insulating clay block: 0.12 W/mK (620 kg/m3) Phenolic insulation (full fill) 0.02 W/mK
Brick: 0.77 W/mK (1750 kg/m3) EPS insulation with graphite 0.03 W/mK
Timber stud: 0.12 W/mK (500 kg/m3)
U-values Decrement values

Approximate U-values corresponding to a range of walls and floors Decrement describes the way in which the density, heat capacity and
are detailed in Figure 12. While these are not exhaustive, as numerous thermal conductivity of external walls slows the passage of heat gains from
permutations exist, they do give a good indication of what can be achieved one side to the other (decrement delay), and attenuates the gains as they
using standard forms of construction. Unless otherwise indicated, a wet pass through (decrement factor).
plaster finish has been assumed. For a plasterboard finish, the stated
U-value will either be the same or slightly better. The calculations have Decrement delay
been made using the BRE U-value calculator.
Designing for a long decrement delay (measured in hours) will ensure that
on warm summer days, peak heat gains passing through an external wall
k-values
will not reach the inner surface until late evening/ night, when the risk
As previously detailed, SAP now takes some account of thermal mass, of overheating has moderated. As a general rule, concrete and masonry
which is measured using k-values. This is essentially a measure of thermal construction will provide a long decrement delay of around eight hours
capacity, expressed in kJ/m2K. There are specific rules regarding the depth or more, while lightweight construction – particularly when lightweight
of the floor or wall that are taken into account (see page 12). cladding is used – will provide a short decrement delay.
Admittance values Decrement factor

Describing a material or construction as having high, medium or low The decrement factor describes the ratio between the daily temperature
thermal mass gives a useful indication of its ability to store heat – i.e. its variation on the outside surface of the wall and the inside surface. For
k-value – but to get a better idea of how effective it will be in practice there example, an external wall with a decrement factor of 0.5, which has a 20°C
are other factors that should be considered. Specifically, these are: daily variation in temperature on the outside surface, would experience a
¢¢ The rate at which heat moves through the material (thermal 10°C variation on the inside surface. So to ensure a stable internal surface
conductivity), which will determine how much heat can enter or leave temperature, low decrement factors are best. Concrete and masonry walls
during the daily heating and cooling cycle. have a low decrement factor of around 0.35 or less. For lightweight walls,
the decrement factor will typically be in the order of 0.5 to 0.8, with the
¢¢ The resistance to heat flow at the surface of the material, which can
lower end of this range often found in walls with a masonry outer leaf.
be significant. These and other factors are accounted for in admittance
For more information on admittance and decrement see Thermal Mass
values (W/m2K). High values of around 4-6 W/m2K indicate the greatest
Explained, which can be downloaded at:
in-use thermal mass effect, while values of around 1 W/m2K indicate
www.concretecentre.com/publications.
the lowest.
New products and resources

This section highlights a range of new and innovative Cavity Wall Tie Product Selector app, Ancon
products and resources relevant to concrete and The Cavity Wall Tie Product Selector simplifies the process of selecting
masonry construction. The list is not exhaustive the right wall tie. By following simple multiple-choice questions on
and, in due course, further items may be added. The cavity width, inner leaf construction, building type and height, the user is
information provided is offered in good faith and its guided to their required solution. Along with the ideal tie(s), information
inclusion does not imply endorsement. is provided for the final specification, including U-value calculation data,
any geographical restrictions including a wind speed map, recommended
Free design tools and apps insulation clip details and installation density. The app is available on
Android and IoS devices and desktop users can access a web-based version
on the Ancon website. www.ancon.co.uk/downloads/apps
Concrete2you tool, Aggregate Industries
Concrete2you.com is a full ecommerce system allowing you to order small Dynamic thermal properties calculator,
loads of concrete online. Specific products are made available with options The Concrete Centre
for volume of product, nearest supplier, preferred delivery times and a
This tool, developed by Arup, calculates the thermal properties of walls,
quote and payment engine. Orders can be made out of core business hours
floors and other construction elements. It provides basic U-values and
and for delivery in 48 hours. The tool also includes a comprehensive set of
thermal mass related information including admittance, decrement and
FAQs and a live chat facility, where the user can get advice and technical
k-values. The methodology follows BS EN ISO 13786, and is aligned with
help from an Aggregate Industries representative.
SAP, allowing the k-values to be easily calculated and used in SAP software.
www.concrete2you.com
www.concretecentre.com/publications
Forterra Specification Zone
Forterra is the new name for Hanson Building Products. The Forterra
Specification Zone provides access to a number of online tools including New and innovative products
a U-value calculator, flue system estimator, Wonderwall design details
for brick slip cladding, and a brick blending visualiser. The visualiser tool ReadyTherm and Tetris insulated flooring, Cemex
enables a bespoke facade to be created with a combination of brick colours Both of these flooring solutions incorporate high-performance insulation
using Forterra’s blended range. Up to five brick types (any percentage of located between concrete T beams. The insulation also forms an unbroken
each) can be selected from the 20 available, and the bond pattern and layer covering either the top of the beams (Tetris) or the underside
mortar colour can also be changed. (ReadyTherm). A structural screed or concrete topping completes the floor
http://forterra.co.uk/login build-up.
3D Viewer for Standards 2016, NHBC The ReadyTherm system uses expanded polystyrene (EPS) insulation
NHBC Standards 2016 features newly reorganised content and a new panels incorporating a graphite component to provide enhanced thermal
design to make it easier to find and understand the content. Part of the performance. The shape of the panels has been developed to minimise
overhaul of NHBC Standards has been the introduction of annotated 3D thermal bridging at the T beams. The Tetris system uses large, lightweight,
models. These interactive models offer a graphical way to help Standards ultra-high compressive strength insulation blocks which sit on and
users understand the NHBC rules and guidance on certain topics. between the concrete beams to produce a highly insulated floor that can
www.nhbc.co.uk/Builders/ProductsandServices/TechZone/ achieve U-values as low as 0.10 W/m2K. Cemex provides a design service
MobileApplications/ for both flooring systems, with all the necessary structural calculations and
drawings for submission to Building Control.
U-value calculator, Concrete Block Association
Jetfloor, Forterra
A simple online tool that enables you to calculate the U-value for a masonry
wall based on a number of parameters. It uses BS EN ISO 6946 procedures Forterra Jetfloor uses expanded polystyrene (EPS) blocks as the infill in a
and the latest version of the U-value conventions in conjunction with beam and block flooring system. Recently, a new and improved version of
generic material values. www.cba-blocks.org.uk this system has been developed. This utilises EPS blocks, with a different
profile that is ‘T’ shaped in cross section, enabling them to sit between
Foundation Depth Calculator app, NHBC the beams. This is then finished with an overlay of 125 kPa insulation,
providing additional flexibility when targeting lower U values. Jetfloor also
The Foundation Depth Calculator is a field-based tool designed to help you
incorporates Thermalite perimeter Psi block which further enhances the
calculate the correct foundation depth when building near trees. It allows
floor’s thermal bridging performance, offering very low psi values. Jetfloor
for changes in ground level, the input of an unlimited number of trees
is compliant with revised standards for expanded polystyrene insulation31,
and has an auto climate zone depth reduction function via GPS. The app is
and following testing is fully BBA certified and CE marked. Typical U values
available to all registered builders and subscribers of NHBC Standards.
of 0.15 are readily achievable for domestic applications and can be lower
www.nhbc.co.uk/Builders/ProductsandServices/TechZone/
dependant on the chosen final overlay material.
MobileApplications/
technology (developed by Energyflo, an offshoot of the University of

Aberdeen) to turn a simple wall into a sophisticated heat exchanger.
Staifix RT2 275 mm and HRT4 275 mm wall ties, Ancon Heat, which would otherwise be lost through the wall of the building, is
harvested and used to warm cold air being drawn into the building. It is
The Staifix RT2 275 mm is a type 2 stainless steel wire tie for cavities 126-
designed for use with all forms of masonry cavity wall construction and
150 mm wide. It has been designed for wider insulated wall cavities in
promises to deliver a U-value of 0.17 W/m²K in a 100 mm cavity. Taylor
multi-storey housing and commercial buildings. Its slender profile offers
Wimpey is trialling the product in nine new homes in Saffron Walden, Essex.
improved thermal performance benefits over type 1 flat ties and type
3 double-triangle style ties of the same length. For lighter duties, the
Compacfoam, Cavalok
Staifix HRT4 type 4 tie is suitable for internal cavity walls of any height
and external walls of domestic houses up to 10 m high. These are now Compacfoam is a lightweight, structural foam insulation that has a range of
available for cavities up to 150 mm and have a cross-sectional area of only applications, including as sill insulation or as a cavity closer. It can take the
6.2 mm2. This will often result in thermal bridging that is less than 3% of the weight of triple-glazed windows over the centre of cavities up to 300 mm.
wall’s U-value, in which case it is not necessary to include it in the U-value It avoids the need for long window straps, and has good screw retention for
calculation. Both ties are CE marked to EN 845-1. The latest version of this direct window fixing capabilities. Compacfoam has very high compressive
tie is called the Teplo-BF, which features moulded ends to improve the strength of 15 kN/m², which exceeds that of conventional lightweight
safety of site operatives and enhance the mortar bond. construction and heat insulation materials. At the same time, it provides a
low thermal conductivity of just 0.04 W/mK. The material can be supplied
TeploTie wall tie, Ancon profiled to bespoke requirements.
TeploTie is a low thermal conductivity wall tie with BBA approval that has
100mm full fill, high performance cavity wall insulation
won awards for innovation. It is made from pultruded basalt fibres set in
an epoxy resin, which gives a thermal conductivity of just 0.7 W/mK,. As a A number of 100mm full fill insulation products for cavity construction are
consequence, it is excluded from U-value calculations. Type 1, 2 and 4 ties now available in the UK. These use either PIR or phenolic insulation, both
are available in a range of lengths and can be used for cavities of up to 400 of which offer similar levels of performance and are capable of providing
mm. U-values of around 0.18 W/m2K. The trade names for these products are:
Eurowall+ made by Recticel; CF5000 made by Celotex; Kooltherm K6 made
Hi-Therm cavity wall lintel and thin joint lintel, Keystone by Kingspan; and Cavitytherm made by Xtratherm.
Hi-Therm lintels use a combination of low conductivity glass-reinforced
Stepoc construction system
plastic (GRP) to support the outer leaf, and galvanised steel to support the
heavier load of the inner leaf. The GRP acts as a thermal break, resulting in The Stepoc system is typically used to construct retaining walls using
minimal heat loss and an overall psi value of just 0.05 W/mK – around 5 a combination of Stepoc cellular blocks and in-situ concrete, which is
to 10 times lower than a traditional steel lintel. They are suitable for cavity poured down through interconnected cavities in the blocks. This creates
widths of 90-165 mm and do not require a damp-proof course (DPC), walls that have immense compressive and lateral strength. The blocks are
except in areas that experience very severe exposure. manufactured from dense aggregate, in sizes from 200-325 mm, all with a
weight of less than 20 kg. The blocks can also be used for housebuilding,
Keystone thin joint lintels, which are now available for cavities up to where speed of construction is a key benefit. And because the blocks are
150 mm, comprise independent steel lintels and profiled insulation, dry laid, walls can be built in inclement weather. The system also offers
which supports a flexible DPC membrane and also avoids the need for a high level of thermal mass when the walls are externally insulated (see
an additional cavity closer. Low psi values of 0.026-0.046 W/m.K can be Figure 12 – Cellular concrete block with ready-mix concrete core).
achieved in a 125 mm cavity, depending on the type of insulation used.
BigBlok super-insulating cavity closers, Cavalok

BigBlok cavity closers have been developed to meet the demand for
closures in buildings with cavities from 125 mm to 300 mm wide. The
simple slot-together system enables window and door openings of any size
to be closed off. To prevent thermal bridging, the closer comprises a solid
block of insulation made from polystyrene encased in a PVC-U shell. It is
strong enough to take the weight of a triple-glazed window sitting over a
300 mm cavity.
Jablite Dynamic Cavity wall insulation, Jablite

This product uses the principal of dynamic insulation and is BBA certified.
It is also included in SAP Appendix Q. Dynamic insulation is a form of
insulation where cool outside air flowing through the thermal insulation
in the envelope of a building will pick up heat from the insulation fibres.
Buildings can be designed to exploit this to reduce the U-value and to
provide pre-warmed, draft-free air to interior spaces. This is known as
dynamic insulation since the U-value is no longer constant for a given
wall or roof construction but varies with the speed of the air flowing
through the insulation31. Jablite Dynamic Cavity insulation uses Energyflo
References
1. Approved Document L1A: Conservation of fuel and power (new 20. Warmafloor technical guidance on carpets and underlays (www.
dwellings), 2013 edition, DCLG. warmafloor.co.uk/knowledge-centre.html).
2. The Government’s Standard Assessment Procedure for Energy Rating 21. Concrete Industry Sustainability Performance Report, 8th report
of Dwellings (SAP), 2012 edition, BRE. (2014 performance data), MPA The Concrete Centre, 2015.
3. In the absence of SAP 2012 software, SAP 2009 has been used with 22. www.sustainableconcrete.org.uk/responsible_sourcing-1.aspx.
modified results that account for the latest CO2 emission factors and
23. Embodied and Operational Carbon Dioxide Emissions from Housing:
the 15% uplift in the TFEE. While not an ideal solution, the results are
A Case Study on the Effects of Thermal Mass and Climate Change, J.
adequate for the general design guidance offered. In due course,
Hacker (Arup) et al, Energy and Buildings 40 (2008), pp375-384.
the results may be updated in the online version of the guide when
commercial SAP 2012 software becomes available. 24. Survey of Arisings and Use of Alternatives to Primary Aggregates in
England 2005, Construction and Waste, DCLG, 2007.
4. For example, Pilkington Optiwhite™, which is used in Pilkington
energiKare™ double glazing units. 25. The calculations follow procedures to calculate thermal admittance,
(Y), and related quantities, as specified in EN ISO 13786:2007 and
5. Detailed analysis from the first phase of the Energy Saving Trust’s heat
surface heat capacities, k (or ‘Cm’), as specified in EN ISO 13790:2004,
pump field trial, Evidence to support the revision of the MCS Installer
which are used in the SAP2012 and iSBEM.
Standard MIS 3005 Issue 3.1, Energy Savings Trust, March 2012.
26. Stepoc block, Anderton Concrete Products Ltd.
6. SAP 2012 in a Nutshell, National Energy Services Ltd, February 2012.
27. Based on Kingspan K6 insulation (not currently available in the UK).
7. Viridian Solar, SAP 2012 briefing.
28. Based on Xtratherm Cavitytherm insulation.
8. PV comparison based on south-facing panels at 30˚ pitch with no
shade. 29. Based on Hanson Jetfloor Plus and Cemex Tetris systems.
9. Cavitytherm system made by Xtratherm (PIR insulation) and K6 full 30. BS EN 13163:2012 – Thermal insulation products for buildings.
fill cavity board made by Kingspan (PIR insulation) and currently Factory made expanded polystyrene (EPS) products. Specification.
available in Ireland, but not the UK.
31. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dynamic_insulation.
10. Investigation into Overheating in Homes – two reports: 1) Literature
32. Based on Alreflex Platinum made by Thermal Economics.
review 2) Analysis of Gaps and Recommendations, DCLG (contracted
to AECOM), July 2012. 33. Solutions to Overheating in Homes – Evidence Review, Zero Carbon
Hub, March 2016.
11. Overheating in New Homes: A Review of the Evidence, NHBC
Foundation and Zero Carbon Hub, November 2012. 34. Next Steps in Defining Overheating – Discussion paper, Zero Carbon
Hub, March 2016.
12. Understanding Overheating - Where To Start: An Introduction for
House Builders and Designers, NHBC Foundation and Zero Carbon 35. Sustainability Matters 2015, MPA British Precast, 2015.
Hub, July 2012.
13. Consultation on proposed changes to the Government’s Standard

Assessment Procedure (SAP), Department of Energy and Climate
Change, January 2012.
14. London Housing Design Guide (interim edition), Mayor of London,

published by London Development Agency, August 2010.
15. Orme M, Plamer J, Control of Overheating in Future Housing - Design

Guidance for Low Energy Strategies, Faber Maunsell (DTI Partners in
Innovation Programme), 2003.
16. NHBC Pressure Testing Results, 2007-10.
17. Airtightness Test Reports on ICF Dwellings, provided by Polarwall

(November 2007) and undertaken by Energist and L2P Testing Ltd.
18. Based on information provided by the University of Strathclyde and

calculations undertaken by The Concrete Centre. A more detailed
study is planned for 2014/15.
19. Warmafloor technical guidance on heat pumps (www.warmafloor.

co.uk/knowledge-centre.html).
The Concrete Centre’s vision is to make The Concrete Centre provides design
concrete the material of choice. We provide guidance, seminars, courses, online
material, design and construction guidance. resources and industry research to the
Our aim is to enable all those involved in the design community.
design, use and performance of concrete to
realise the potential of the material. For more information and downloads, visit:
www.concretecentre.com/publications
The Concrete Centre is part of the www.concretecentre.com/events
Mineral Products Association, the www.concretecentre.com/cq
trade association for the aggregates,
asphalt, cement, concrete, dimension stone, Subscribe to our email updates:
lime, mortar and silica sand industries. www.concretecentre.com/register
www.mineralproducts.org
Follow us on Twitter:
@concretecentre
@thisisconcrete
www.concretecentre.com
The Concrete Centre, Gillingham House, 38-44 Gillingham Street, London SW1V 1HU
Ref. TCC/05/27
ISBN 978-1-908257-11-6
First published 2011 – updated October 2016
© MPA The Concrete Centre 2016
All advice or information from MPA The Concrete Centre is intended only for use in the UK by those who will evaluate
the significance and limitations of its contents and take responsibility for its use and application. No liability (including
that for negligence) for any loss resulting from such advice or information is accepted by the Mineral Products
Association or its subcontractors, suppliers or advisors. Readers should note that the publications from MPA The
Concrete Centre are subject to revision from time to time and should therefore ensure that they are in possession of
the latest version.
Printed onto 9Lives silk comprising 55% recycled fibre with 45% ECF virgin fibre.
Certified by the Forest Stewardship Council.

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Thermal Performance:

Part L1A 2013

Fabric and services options for energy and carbon compliance

Contents About this publication

and masonry homes. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15

Hanson; Aggregate Industries; Lafarge Tarmac; Cemex UK; Brett

The Part L challenge

Thermal bridging details

Part L1A (2013) compliance

1. A 6% reduction in CO2 emissions across the build Element or system Value

Floor 0.13 W/m2K

Ventilation type Natural (with extract fans)

Secondary space heating None

Low-energy lighting 100% low-energy lighting

Enter dwelling design into SAP

Adjust dwelling design

Part L1A (2013) compliance examples

TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

two storey (61 m2) Triple glazing

Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

TER & TFEE for Part L1A (2013) notional dwelling

Flue gas heat recovery (FGHR)

Enhanced fabric specification

TER (kg CO2 /m2/y)

SAP 2012 – the main updates

Mains gas 0.198 0.212 +7.1%

Heating oil 0.274 0.292 +6.6% How construction details

Figure 5: Part L1A 2013 performance backstops

Element Maximum value

Roof 0.2 W/m2K

Wall 0.3 W/m2K

Floor 0.25 W/m2K

Party wall 0.2 W/m2K

Windows and roof-lights 2.0 W/m2K

Air permeability 10m3/(h.m2) at 50Pa

Sources of construction details for Heat pumps

downloaded at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk. 0.7

Figure 8: Approximate change in CO₂ savings for solar PV in SAP 20127

This will help to avoid a situation whereby dwellings without enhanced

Measuring a dwelling’s overall thermal mass

Figure 10: TMP for a typical end-terrace house

House Approximate Thermal Mass Parameter (kJ/m2K)

Concrete ground floor

Timber upper floor

Concrete upper floor

Timber frame 60-80

Overheating in new homes

SAP overheating check Air permeability – concrete and

As houses become more highly insulated, fabric heat loss potential is

Underfloor heating in upper floors Whole-life benefits of concrete and

Thermal properties of walls and floors

1. A 6% reduction in CO2 emissions across the build Element or system Value