The transition from SAP 2012 to SAP 10 marked a significant evolution in building regulations, posing new challenges for house builders. As experts in compliance and sustainability, it's crucial to navigate these changes effectively for successful project execution. In this blog post, we will explore 3 key challenges of SAP 10 compared to its predecessor, and provide practical strategies for house builders and designers to consider.
Key Challenges of SAP 10
1. Thermal Bridging Calculations
One of the major changes in SAP 10 is the requirement for more precise thermal bridging calculations.
Challenge: The removal of Accredited Construction Details (ACDs) due to their inaccuracy means that default y-values have increased. This necessitates detailed Psi value modelling to avoid penalties.
Impact for House Builders: While ensuring better thermal insulation and air tightness, this change requires extensive design efforts and consulting to prevent reliance on default, less favorable values.
Preparation: Either use Psi Values available form manufacturers or free resources like Recognised Construction Details however these are limited to very standard forms of construction and often only include standard junctions. Alternatively, you can invest in detailed junction modelling early in the design process to enhance building performance and comply with Part L building regulations. These can then be added your library of standard details and used across multiple developments.
Want to know more about our Psi Value Modelling Services take a look at our here.
2. Overheating Risk Assessment
The 2021 Building Regulations update introduced Part O which requires an overheating risk assessment for all new build properties. Unlike SAP10 Part O looks to limit solar gains to mitigate summer overheating, however solar gains are useful for SAP10 calculations as these offer "free" heating that helps lower heating demand. Building designs require a balanced approach to ensure just the right amount of solar gains are achieved. Too many and your SAP will pass but your building will likely fail Part O, suggesting it will overheat. Too little and your heating demands will be high, leading to increased DER and DPER ratings, but the building would likely pass Part O. We understand this is complex for house builders so we have a process which carefully balances both Overheating & SAP, however this can only be achieved with early appointment.
Challenge: Builders must conduct comprehensive evaluations of solar gains and ventilation strategies alongside the SAP calculations to ensure compliance in both.
Impact for House Builders: Increased design complexity is necessary to effectively mitigate overheating risks, particularly in flats, properties with significant glazing and those will limited natural ventilation via openable windows.
Preparation: Engage with assessors early in the design process to identify and resolve potential overheating issues. Ideally, prior to planning as sometimes slight changes in windows orientation and positioning can most easily ensure compliance. Engagement later in the design process can be costly and time consuming.
Want to know more about our Overheating Services take a look at our Dynamic Thermal Modelling (TM59) or Simplified Method
3. Heating Systems and Energy Efficiency
The regulations under SAP 10 reflect a shift towards energy-efficient electrical heating systems using heat pump technology.
Challenge: With reduced carbon factors for electricity, there is an increased encouragement to utilise high efficient electric heating systems, which often come at a higher cost compared to traditional gas systems. Whilst gas is still an option, SAP10 now requires significant inclusion of solar panels when gas is the main heating source.
Impact for House Builders: Builders need to analyze the cost/benefit ratio of incorporating electric heating, which may necessitate low surface temperature designs like underfloor heating.
Preparation: Explore innovative strategies to integrate sustainable heating solutions while managing cost implications. Design and include sufficient space internally and externally for Heat Pump technologies. Too often in smaller properties or flats insufficient space is provided.
Preparation Strategies for House Builders
It is essential that house builders and designers incorporate strategies and time to evaluate and ensure designs are compliant with the new SAP10 and 2021 Building Regulations. We still see many house builders detailing outdated methods and techniques, resulting non-compliance which require significant design adaptations and time to rectify.
Stay Informed: Regularly update your knowledge on SAP 10 developments and guidance from relevant bodies.
Consultancy Engagement: Collaborate with experts like us to navigate the complexities of thermal bridging and overheating assessments.
Design Adaptation: Optimise building designs with early engagement from your energy assessor to support energy-efficient heating systems and mitigate overheating risks.
Cost Analysis: Evaluate the financial impacts of SAP10 changes and plan necessary upgrades. A good consultant will have experience with various types, methods of construction and ideally be a multidisciplinary service provider, which can streamline the compliance process helping you save time and money.
Final Thoughts
Adapting to the challenges of SAP10 is essential for house builders and designers aiming for compliance and efficiency in their projects. By understanding these challenges and implementing proactive strategies, house builders can ensure successful project execution in light of the new 2021 regulations.
Thanks you for taking the time to read this blog. We hope you found it helpful.
Should you need support with Part L or Part O compliance? Call Us on 01489 565920 or book a call with one of project managers Book A Call.
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