BREEAM ENE 26

Breeam ENE 26 Air permeability

BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method) is to the sustainability of new and existing properties measurable. To encourage that buildings are designed and constructed in such a way as to achieve the minimum CO₂ – emissions possible.

BREEAM credit ENE 26

For additional information Breeam ENE 26 (EN) – Assurance of thermal quality of building shell

Background and advantages

The credit guarantee quality thermal envelope of the building aims to design and build with the lowest CO2 emissions. Studies have shown that for a correct execution of the building envelope insulation tight fitting should be applied. At each opening in the insulation locally reduces the insulation properties by 100%, it radiates through in the immediate vicinity. At an opening of 7 mm between the insulating boards can be stated that, over a much larger surface area local to the insulation halves. Moreover, when a non-perfect or vapor barrier is insufficient air to facilitate the cold outer shell with internal condensation as a result. The hot air, which comes into contact with the cold surfaces can cause condensation surface. This can lead to (pathogenic) fungi. If there is an air leak occurs from the inside to the outside can, by convection internal condensation arise. Hot air, which comes into contact with cold air, can cause condensation in the winter surface against the outer shell. This can lead to rot, leakage and icicles forming so that the structure can be affected. If there is over a considerable length (> 0,5 m) between two parts of a piece of paper can be moved, this may already lead to unacceptable amounts of air. An air cavity behind the isolation of 5 mm (so-called false air gap), in combination with the air gap prior to insulation, the insulation value by half.

How to apply

It is wise to the program requirements and/or specifications to include that in the delivery phase a thermographic examination and an air permeability test will take place from the building. This contractor will also be aware of the fact that the corresponding investigations will take place. Note that the thermographic examination is performed in accordance with NEN EN 13187 and the air permeability measurements according to NEN EN 13829 / NEN 2686.