Services
Air Tightness Testing
Air leakage is measured by using a fan pressurisation system (Blower Door). Quite Simply this is where a fan is placed in a doorway, all openings are shut or sealed. Once the fan has pressurised the dwelling, the pressure difference is measured and compared to the external ambient conditions. A range of readings are then recorded, including barometric air pressure, both internal and external temperature and corresponding airflow through the fan to maintain that pressure (usually 7 readings).
Sound / Acoustic Testing
We can conduct analysis on-site for the measurement of sound insulation of separating walls and floors between rooms.
SAP Assessments & Calculations
What is an SAP Calculation?
SAP is the government approved method of assessing and measuring the energy rating of any new build dwelling. It is typically required for new houses but you may also require a SAP calculation for a conversion or extension. (Please note: it must be carried before construction commences).
The calculation itself produces a rating which typically indicates a score from 1 to 100+, with higher scores representing lower energy costs and associated CO2 emissions. This score is determined by many factors including the dwellings thermal elements, heating systems (space and water) and lighting; it also takes into account the positive impact renewable technologies can deliver to a dwelling.
Why do I need a SAP Calculation?
In order to meet current regulations in the UK, home builders/ developers will need to achieve a ‘PASS’ on their calculation. If the result of the calculation indicates a fail, or they do not have one, Building Control will not sign off the development and the property cannot be let or marketed for sale.
SAP Calculations can also help those involved in the design of new dwellings to shape an improved energy profile, reducing energy use and carbon emissions.
When is a SAP Calculation required?
We recommend that you contact us early in the process to ensure that your design meets the criteria of building regulations without having to carry out costly retrospective alterations.
The calculation process is desk-based and requires a set of drawings (including: plans, elevations and sections) and a building specification which details the building elements and information regarding the heating and ventilation systems.
A calculation is performed both before and after construction. This is often referred to as a ‘Design Stage/ Initial’ SAP Calculation’ and an ‘As-Built’ SAP Calculation.
SAP & SBEM Calculations
Part L1 of the Building Regulations came into effect in April 2002. These amendments insist upon the calculation of a SAP rating for all new dwellings and those converted through material change of use. The requirements also necessitate that the Rating is displayed in the property upon completion. SAP is the current ‘Energy Audit’ process and scores a building for Energy Efficiency between 1 and 100.
The SAP procedure for domestic buildings has been upgraded to SAP 2005, incorporating lighting energy, renewable and energy saving technology and takes into account the effects of thermal bridging.
SBEM stands for Simplified Building Energy Model, and it is the preferred method of the government to assess energy in non-residential buildings. These calculations are incredibly important as they are used to prove that the building conforms to the regulations laid down in Building Regulations Approved Document L2A. It does this by comparing the designed Building Emission Rate (BER), with the Target Emission Rate (TER).
