product focus
feature
13
optimise rainscreen performance with 3D U-values and resilient insulation
JN200
The last few years have seen Building Regulation guidance tighten signifi cantly and the pressure is on architects to close the gap between designed and as-built performance. When it comes to rainscreen façades, there are products and tools available to help architects design with that ‘real world’ performance in mind. A common challenge with rainscreen façade installations, is exposure to the elements during construction. It’s best practice to install insulation on a ‘rolling front’, so each section is immediately covered by panels to protect it. But a survey suggests that this only happens in approximately 50% of projects. And in 70% of cases, the sheathing insulation is left exposed for over a week, due to factors like changing site schedules. While this may be unavoidable, exposing insulation to the elements in this way could compromise its performance. Fortunately, architects can
prepare for this challenge by specifying insulation that has been engineered with the realities of construction in mind. Knauf Insulation’s Rocksilk RainScreen Slab EE rainscreen
sheathing insulation has an enhanced water-repellent facing that reduces the risk of water damage when the insulation is left exposed during construction. This gives contractors fl exibility if things don’t go precisely to plan on site and helps architects to preserve the intended performance of the building. Another consideration is U-value calculations. Accurate calculations are critical for any building to live up to its designed thermal performance. However, rainscreen façades are particularly prone to calculation errors because of the metal components that
penetrate the insulation. Standard U-value calculations for rainscreen façades assume a default bracket confi guration or apply a blanket correction factor for the build-up. The lack of detail in this approach can mean that target U-values are not met. It can also lead to over-specifying needlessly thick insulation. Instead, architects should insist on 3D U-value calculations. These incorporate a detailed analysis of the interaction between the bar and bracket confi guration and the insulation, resulting in far greater accuracy. To help streamline the process, Knauf Insulation has launched the UK’s fi rst free online 3D U-value calculator, allowing architects to instantly generate more accurate U-values for steel frame rainscreen façade specifi cations. Designs can be revised as many times as needed until the target U-value is reached. The calculator will also create a detailed report, helping to support compliance and ensure transparency throughout the supply chain. Learn more and try the 3D U-value calculator at
https://knauf.com/en-GB
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