Building Regulations are changing

By Knauf Insulation UK & Ireland
August 16, 2021

Building Regulations are the most important consideration when designing a building. They impact every level of a construction, from fire safety to acoustics and thermal performance. Following on from recent real world events, building regulations are changing and will continue to do so into the future.

Whilst it is important to consider each of the regulations, there are certain ones that will impact your insulation requirements more than others, an example of this is Part B – Fire Safety.

In recent years, we have all seen the effects that using combustible insulation can have on a building and it is important to ensure that you consider non-combustible materials in all elements of your building fabric. An easy way to comply is by using Glass or Rock Mineral Wool Insulation in each application of your build.

Second is Part L – Conservation of fuel and power. This section of the regulations looks at how all your individual materials contribute to the overall efficiency of a building. Mineral Wool insulation, whether Glass or Rock, contributes heavily to improving the efficiency of a building, as its ability to maintain a consistent temperature all year round enables less need for heating and cooling. Buildings that are built using high performing insulation give their owners and developers the peace of mind to know that their property will perform for years to come.

Excessive sound and noise pollution are becoming more and more frequent with every year that passes. It is estimated that noise pollution costs Europe €24 billion in lost productivity each year. Part E of the Building Regulations looks at Resistance to Sound. Whether your project is a residential house, a block of apartments or a hospital; it is essential that each room in the property is properly insulated to allow the occupier peace from within and reduced noise from outside of the building. Mineral Wool insulation is the most effective insulant at reducing sound transmission and reverberations. Its fibre matrix encourages the absorption of sound waves, converting them into heat energy, where other insulation types simply let the sound pass through.

Whilst it is allowed to start work without complying with the most recent version of Building Regulations, it can be risky. If the work done is found not to conform, it will have to be altered or removed. So it is advisable to ensure that all work is fully signed off before starting construction to reduce potential costs and waste.

For more information on all of the Building Regulations visit - https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/approved-documents

We have internal and external technical teams dedicated to ensuring that your projects are done to the highest standard and fit within the Building Regulations. Find out how to contact them here - https://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk/contact-us