BRE FB61 PDF

Introduction

Improving the energy efficiency of the existing building stock is one of the biggest challenges facing the UK. In particular, traditional solid wall houses are more difficult and more costly to improve than more modern, cavity wall constructions. Initiatives such as the Green Deal should serve to finally encourage such refurbishment. However, current industry practice does little or nothing to minimise the effects of thermal bridging or inconsistency in thermal envelope performance when installing insulation in solid wall dwellings. Making the effort to minimise thermal bridges is considered likely to add more time and expense to what is already regarded as a costly improvement measure.

This BRE Trust Report seeks to highlight the importance of appropriate detailing for both externally and internally applied solid wall insulation and demonstrates its effect on heat flow and potential condensation risk at key junctions.