Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book examines the gap between design and as-built performance and discusses common areas that designers and builders need to engage with. It explores a strategic view on ways industry and government can improve the performance of new-build housing. The book describes performance standards, and the principles of a thermally efficient building envelope. It summarises good practice, detailing principles applicable to all construction methods. The book highlights different construction types common for new homes and key areas of the thermal envelope that often are problematic. It looks at each construction fabric in turn, starting with the most common in the United kingdom and finishing with the least common yet more innovative methods. The book addresses thermal bridging, thermal bypass, airtightness, buildability and site issues.