Designing better
Significant performance improvements can be achieved affordably in houses by designing above the New Zealand Building Code minimum requirements. So, where is a good place to start to improve the liveability of a house?
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By Greg Burn – 1 June 2020, Build 178
Significant performance improvements can be achieved affordably in houses by designing above the New Zealand Building Code minimum requirements. So, where is a good place to start to improve the liveability of a house?
By Bruce Sedcole – 1 August 2022, Build 191
The BRANZ helpline has received many calls asking how to approach designing new houses that are compliant with the higher thermal requirements of New Zealand Building Code clause H1 Energy efficiency 5th edition. The first step is to look further than just the schedule method.
By Eddie Bruce – 1 December 2008, Build 109
Current building designs often incorporate a mixture of construction types – both non-solid (timber-framed) and solid (such as solid timber, concrete or masonry). How is compliance with Clause H1 demonstrated for these designs?
By Eddie Bruce – 1 February 2009, Build 110
Designers must comply with New Zealand Building Code Clause H1 Energy efficiency for repairs/replacement, alterations and additions. But, as many are asking, where do you start?
By Alide Elkink – 1 December 2009, Build 115
Correct positioning and good installation of solar collector panels are essential for an effective and efficient solar water heating system.
By Andrew Pollard – 1 December 2009, Build 115, Feature article
Despite people’s reluctance to install solar water heaters, a well installed system can now achieve reliable performance levels with savings of around 75% on water heating.
By Trevor Pringle – 1 February 2009, Build 110
When developing the insulation scheme for a domestic building, designers need to carefully consider any weak spots in the thermal envelope. Attached garages are an area of significant heat loss, so how should they be dealt with?
By David Killick – 1 February 2008, Build 104, Feature article
Energy efficiency is top priority for a new Christchurch commercial building.
By Hugh Byrd and Eva Nash – 1 June 2012, Build 130, Feature article
Houses that win architectural awards are often widely admired and highly influential. However, recent research has found that, typically, they aren’t good environmental performers. As leaders in the industry, shouldn’t they be?
By Eddie Bruce – 1 August 2004, Build 83
Cavities may solve weathertightness problems, but they aren’t that straightforward when it comes to working out R-values for insulation. In fact the situation is very complex, but until research provides more accurate answers, a 50% drop in insulation value for any insulation on the outward side of the cavity should be allowed for.