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SANS10400XA codes regulate the installation of insulation in buildings .
performance ( along with energy saving , cost saving and combating climate change ) but also deliver superior acoustic and fire safety properties , enhance quality of life and ultimately raise the overall performance of the building in which it is installed ,” Gillott says .
According to Jeffery , a plaster board with fibrous insulation is most commonly used . “ The thickness of the insulating material is dependent on the ‘ deemed to satisfy standard ’ as a guideline in the code . The other alternatives are cellulous fibre that is pumped into the ceiling void , that lies lose on top of the ceiling or an insulated rigid ceiling .” The rigid insulated ceiling has several advantages over conventional systems thanks to the Long Term Thermal Resistance ( LTTR ) of the Lambdaboard .
With insulated dwellings , the inhabitants can take control of the energy costs as the heat generated in the homes does not escape through the ceiling voids . “ A further facet of SANS 10400XA is the sustainability aspect , insulation products must meet the appropriate green credentials , certification or compliance with the relevant controlling bodies also ensures that the overall carbon footprint is reduced ,” adds Jeffery .
INSULATED MASONRY CAVITY WALLS Insulated masonry cavity walls offer excellent thermal performance when the cavity is used as an insulation zone . “ The cavity wall benefits from several features that account for its popularity with designers , developers and home owners ,” says Gillott .
Benefits of an insulated masonry cavity wall
• Design flexibility to meet the energy performance requirements of clients with widely available materials .
• In a heated or cooled environment insulation reduces energy consumption and pays for itself .
• Suitability for traditional methods of construction .
• Existing empty cavities ( minimum 40mm ) can be upgraded with retrofit solutions .
“ The greatest proportion of heat loss from a typical house is through the roof and walls . Installing masonry cavity walls slows down the rate of heat / chilled loss ( in a controlled environment ) therefore provides immediate savings on fuel bills ,” adds Gillott .
ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES ( EPCS )
According to Gillott , South Africa is expected see the introduction of Energy Performance Certificates ( EPCs ). “ EPCs tell you how energy efficient a building is and provide you with a rating from very efficient to inefficient . They give an indication on how costly a building will be to heat , cool and light and what its carbon dioxide emissions are likely to be ,” he elaborates .
EPCs provide more information about :
• Loft insulation
• Wall construction and insulation
• Age of construction
• Glazing
• Fuel type
• Boiler make and mode See more on page 24 .
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