ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to show where the pitfalls are for traditional construction of existing domestic buildings and to indicate any possible pitfalls for new sustainable traditional domestic construction. The main requirements of the Building Regulations are that such buildings should now meet standards for: basic requirements for stability, conservation of fuel and power, and airborne impact and sound. The Building Regulations require that reasonable provision be made for limiting heat gains and losses through thermal elements or other parts of the building fabric by providing insulation, usually on the inside face of the wall. Traditional masonry buildings perform in a wholly sustainable way, in that their walls are constructed of a porous material. The upgrading of buildings, either for conversion of non-domestic to residential use, or even buildings which are very run-down and require extensive rehabilitation, may well fall victim to the arduous requirements associated with fire compartmentation.
