A free online database of certified thermal details and products has gone live.
Aimed at manufacturers, suppliers, specifiers and designers, it includes a range of government accredited construction details, as well as details, products and elements that have been certified under BRE Global’s certified thermal details and products scheme which was launched earlier this year.
The aim with the database and the certification scheme is to reduce the level of thermal bridging that can arise in buildings and homes causing heat loss.
The database allows users to search a range of accurate and independently assessed thermal junction details, products and elements, ensuring accuracy, consistency, credibility and quality throughout the design and specification process.
BRE Scheme Technical Manager Graeme Hannah said ‘The launch of the database is a positive step forward for the industry. It enables suppliers to demonstrate that their products and services meet the appropriate performance standards, helping clients avoid costly mistakes and reduce risk and giving their customers confidence in the performance values reported. Our aim is to grow the database and continue to provide the industry with a terrific resource of accurate thermal performance values.’
The scheme provides independent, third party assessment and certification by BRE Global of the thermal performance of junction details (SAP table K1 and other bespoke details), products (windows, doors and roof lights) and major building elements (wall, roof and floor systems). Once certified, all details and products then get listed in the database.
The database will also be included within the next update of SAP software, the methodology used to calculate Energy Performance Certificates for new and existing homes and to demonstrate compliance to Part L: energy efficiency of the governments building regulations. The details can be used for a more accurate assessment of the performance of the building and help to close the performance gap.
Certified thermal details and products will also be recognised within BRE’s new consumer standard for homes – the Home Quality Mark.
