When it comes to attaining BREEAM Excellence, airtightness is a pivotal factor that often gets overlooked. To shed light on this crucial aspect, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Claire Mitchell, a seasoned Sustainability Consultant who has navigated numerous construction projects through the rigorous BREEAM certification process. Our discussion not only highlighted the importance of airtightness but also offered invaluable guidance on navigating the path to BREEAM Excellence.
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Understanding Airtightness
“Airtightness is essentially about how well a building can prevent air from escaping or entering through its envelope,” Claire explained. “It sounds simple, but achieving it requires meticulous planning and execution. Proper airtightness can dramatically impact energy efficiency, indoor air quality, and the overall environmental performance of a building.”
Claire’s explanation underscored the multi-faceted benefits of airtightness. By minimising air leakage, buildings not only reduce energy costs associated with heating and cooling but also enhance occupant comfort and extend the building’s lifespan. “It’s a win-win situation for both the environment and the building users,” she added.
The Role of BREEAM in Construction
BREEAM, or the Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method, sets the benchmark for sustainable building design, construction, and operation. “Achieving BREEAM Excellence is like earning a gold medal in sustainability,” Claire noted. “It’s a clear indication that a building meets the highest environmental standards.”
In the realm of BREEAM, airtightness plays a significant role. The assessment method evaluates various factors, including energy consumption, water use, and materials. Airtightness directly influences the energy efficiency and indoor air quality components, making it a critical element for higher BREEAM scores.
Steps to Achieve Airtightness
Claire shared a detailed roadmap for achieving airtightness, breaking it down into four key stages:
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Design Stage: “Incorporating airtight design elements from the very beginning is crucial,” she said. Early-stage planning ensures that airtightness is not an afterthought but an integral part of the building’s design.
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Material Selection: “Choosing high-performance materials that minimise air leakage is the next step,” Claire explained. These materials form the backbone of an airtight building envelope.
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Quality Workmanship: Skilled labour is vital. “Even the best materials can fail if not installed correctly,” she emphasised. Ensuring that workers are well-trained and meticulous in their approach is essential.
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Testing and Verification: Implementing thorough testing procedures is the final piece of the puzzle. “You need to measure and verify the airtightness levels to ensure they meet the set standards,” Claire concluded.
Benefits of Airtightness for BREEAM Excellence
Our conversation then shifted to the tangible benefits that airtightness brings to a building, especially in the context of BREEAM Excellence:
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Energy Efficiency: “An airtight building maintains a stable indoor temperature more easily, which reduces energy consumption and costs,” Claire said. This efficiency is a significant factor in achieving high BREEAM scores.
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Occupant Comfort: Improved thermal comfort with minimal draughts makes for a more pleasant living or working environment. “Occupants may not always realise it, but airtightness plays a big role in their comfort,” Claire added.
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Enhanced Indoor Air Quality: By reducing the infiltration of pollutants from outside, airtightness improves indoor air quality. “This is particularly important in urban areas with high pollution levels,” she pointed out.
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Long-term Savings: Lower operational costs over the building’s lifespan translate to long-term financial benefits. “It’s not just about the initial investment; it’s about the savings you reap over the years,” Claire said.
Navigating the BREEAM Certification Process
Achieving BREEAM Excellence can be a daunting task, but Claire offered some expert advice to simplify the journey. “Understanding the BREEAM criteria is the first step,” she advised. “Each project is unique, so tailored strategies are essential.”
She also highlighted the importance of collaboration. “Engage with experts, from sustainability consultants to skilled tradespeople. Their knowledge and experience can make a significant difference,” Claire recommended.
Conclusion
In wrapping up our conversation, Claire Mitchell left us with a powerful message: “Airtightness is more than just a box to tick for BREEAM certification. It’s a cornerstone of sustainable building that offers extensive benefits.”
Her insights provided a clear roadmap for anyone looking to achieve BREEAM Excellence. From understanding airtightness to navigating the certification process, Claire’s expert advice serves as a valuable guide. For those committed to sustainability and top-tier environmental performance, focusing on airtightness is not just beneficial—it’s essential.
Marcia Snyder
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