As climate change targets and sustainability goals become increasingly crucial, building thermal efficiency has risen to the top of specifiers’ agendas. One often overlooked area that can significantly impact a building’s overall thermal performance is the roof, which accounts for 25% to 30% of all heat lost through the building envelope.
Regulatory Changes Driving Efficiency
Recent changes to Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards, which came into force on April 1st, have further emphasised the importance of thermal efficiency. These changes render non-domestic buildings unlettable unless they have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or above. Additionally, Part L2 of Building Regulations requires specifiers to consider how the building envelope impacts energy consumption and identify opportunities for reducing it.
Balancing Safety and Thermal Performance
When it comes to roof access solutions, a delicate balance must be struck between safety and thermal performance. While safety remains the top priority, it’s crucial to consider how these products can contribute to a building’s overall thermal efficiency. Roof access hatches, in particular, significantly improve a building’s U-Value, which measures heat transfer through a structure.
Anatomy of an Efficient Roof Access Hatch
A typical roof access hatch comprises two main components: the upstand and the cover. The thermal performance of these elements can significantly reduce heat loss. “Thermally broken” access hatches are particularly effective, as they minimise heat transfer between interior and exterior metal surfaces.
Innovative Products from Surespan Covers
Surespan Covers offers two notable products that exemplify the marriage of safety and thermal efficiency in roof access solutions:
1. SRHP75 Standard Roof Hatch
This thermally broken roof hatch features a 75mm fully insulated kerb and lid, corner welded and reinforced. The upstand is 300mm high with an external curb liner and is thermally broken with 75mm insulation. Key features include:
- 75mm polyisocyanurate (PIR) insulation providing a U-value of 0.26 W/m²K
- Double unbroken bubble & blade seal to the lid for enhanced weatherproofing
- Gas spring-assisted opening for ease of use
- Various locking options for security
2. SRHG-AOV Glazed Smoke Vent
This versatile product is a three-in-one solution, functioning as a smoke vent, roof access hatch, and rooflight. Its features include:
- 35.5mm sealed double-glazed unit with an argon-filled cavity for improved insulation
- 300mm high upstand with external curb liner and 50mm polyisocyanurate insulation (U-value of 0.43 W/m²K)
- CE Marked to EN12101-2 for smoke ventilation compliance
- Available in sizes up to 3000 x 1400mm
Benefits and Considerations
Both products offer significant benefits regarding thermal efficiency, safety, and cost-effectiveness. By incorporating these thermally efficient solutions, specifiers can reduce a building’s energy consumption without compromising essential safety features.
When factoring thermal efficiency into roof safety purchases, specifiers should consider the following:
- 1. U-value of the product
- 2. Quality and thickness of insulation
- 3. Presence of thermal breaks to prevent heat transfer
- 4. Weatherproofing features such as seals and gaskets
- 5. Multi-functionality to reduce the number of roof penetrations
By carefully selecting roof access solutions that prioritise safety and thermal efficiency, specifiers can significantly impact a building’s overall energy performance. This approach helps meet regulatory requirements and sustainability goals and contributes to long-term cost savings through reduced energy consumption.
The value proposition of considering thermal efficiency when selecting roof access solutions is straightforward. These products offer an opportunity to address multiple building requirements simultaneously – safety, accessibility, and energy efficiency – without compromising on any aspect. As we continue to face the challenges of climate change and stricter building regulations, integrating thermally efficient roof access solutions is an innovative and forward-thinking approach for any building project.
