Hanson has launched a new guide to highlight how its Thermalite®
block range can help builders achieve all levels of the Code for
Sustainable Homes.
The Code for Sustainable Homes (the Code), a Government initiative
introduced in 2007 and updated in October 2010, sets out to improve
the sustainability of new housing.
Homes are assessed using nine key criteria and awarded an overall
score ranging from Level 1 (basic) to Level 6 (exemplary). Level 3
is now required for all new housing, with social housing having to
be built to Code Level 4. By 2016 all new homes will have to achieve
Code Level 6.
Hanson’s new guide shows how its Thermalite® range can assist in
securing valuable credits across the energy, materials and health
and well-being categories of the Code.
Thermalite® also helps secure additional credits because all
products are certified as ‘very good’ under BES 6001 Responsible
Sourcing of Materials achieving the top tier level (tier level 1),
giving the maximum credits available under Mat 2.
Thermalite’s independent life cycle assessment means that it
achieves better than the generic aircrete rating on a number of
Robust Detail separating wall Green Guide specifications. Using
Thermalite on external walls can give the highest Green Guide rating
of A+ and the maximum of three Code Mat 1 credits.
Chris Hornby, head of product services, said: “It is vital that the
Code is interpreted into practical and easy to understand product
guides allowing builders to make the most informed choice when it
comes to selecting construction materials.
“With minimum standards that have to be met at every level of the
Code, our guide not only sets out how the credits can be gained,
providing detailed information on all of the sub-sections of the
Code that apply to Thermalite®, but also provides useful tips and
practical examples.”
Thermalite® blocks from Hanson are made from up to 80% recycled
materials and their light weight means that they can be laid more
quickly, leading to significant productivity gains. There's also no
need for special tools or fixings, and the blocks provide an
excellent background for internal or external finishes.
In addition, by building using traditional materials in a ‘fabric
first’ approach, developers can achieve cost-effective solutions to
reaching Code Level 3 without the need for renewables.
The guide ‘Achieving the Code with Thermalite’ is available to
download from Hanson’s website or you can request a hard copy by
emailing below.
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