The modular system means that once the foundations are down, and sub-structure complete, the floors, wall panels and roof structure will be completed within one day. These modern building methods incorporate the “SupaWall” closed panel system, in which every void in each panel is injected with a very high performance insulation, making it exceptionally thermally efficient and virtually airtight. Leading timber frame manufacturer, Scotframe Timber Engineering of Inverurie, has become the first Scottish licensee to manufacture “SupaWall” and its highly innovative technology which promises to reduce domestic energy bills in new homes.
The future of house building and heating is changing - in October 2010, the Government will slash the level of permissible CO2 emissions generated by new buildings by 30%. There is a further reduction of 30% planned for 2013 and yet another of the same amount due to come in to force in 2016.
The vast bulk of emissions generated by a property come from its central heating and the provision of hot water. However, current building techniques have progressed to the point where some properties are so thermally sophisticated that traditional central heating systems are not required and heat can be generated and maintained in much more minimalist ways. It is likely that an increasing number of new homes will not install central heating, but instead rely on wood burning stoves, range cookers or individual electrical heaters, as the building envelope itself is so thermally efficient.
Jess Christman, Servite Development Manager, commented: “The modular closed panel system means that not only is there less wastage and quicker results on site, but also that optimum heating and environmental achievements can be attained. This is the way forward for the construction industry and Scotframe, main contractors UBC Group Ltd and ourselves are delighted to be at the forefront of this innovative technology.”
For the technically minded, “SupaWall” is BBA certified, ‘A’ rated under BRE’s Green Guide To Specification, contains no CFC’s or HCFC’s, an ODP of zero, a GWP of one and fills every nook and cranny in the panel. This means that, once the panels are fitted together on-site, the integrity of the “thermal envelope” is assured. The U values achievable with Supawall are as low as 0.11.
