Door Industry Journal - Spring 2016

Opening the door to energy efficient living With increasing concerns over the environment and fuel prices steadily rising, a homeowner from Leicestershire made the decision to build himself an energy efficient property. In January 2015, Nick Cvetkovic from Market Bosworth began the self-build journey that he hoped would change his life for the better. Although Nick had experience in renovating properties, this would be his first new build project and so he had a challenge on his hands. This would be made even more complex by his desire to build a low carbon, energy efficient home. Mr Cvetkovic was keen to move away from the stereotypical British brick house and take a more contemporary approach with his home’s design. He opted for non-traditional materials, such as western red cedar timber and slate cladding for the external walls and a steel roof. To make the most of the fantastic views over open countryside, Nick also chose to position the living room on the first floor and incorporate very slim profile glazing to create unbroken views. However, aesthetics were not Nick’s only priority. In order to meet the desired insulation standards and U values, building materials and components all had to be carefully considered during planning to maximise the property’s efficiency. Contrary to popular belief, three times the amount of heat is actually lost to infiltration and air leakage than through walls and ceilings.1 Ensuring that the building is completely airtight is one of the principle requirements of a low carbon home. Aware of the problems that frequently arise due to lack of ventilation, such as damp, Nick conducted a considerable amount of research into this area and attended various seminars and expos. After much consideration, Nick decided to incorporate a mechanical ventilation system into his new home that filters, changes and then recirculates the air, while extracting any dampness. However, to successfully seal his home, Nick had to verify that every component selected for the build would keep air leakage to the absolute minimum. The property’s various doors, for instance, called for a highly insulated, airtight composition. Nick required a set of doors that would be energy efficient and secure without having to compromise on style. Having had a Hörmann garage door in his previous property, Nick approached the leading door manufacturer again with his request. Living in close proximity to Hörmann UK’s Leicestershire headquarters proved very beneficial for Nick, who visited the showroom to see the doors in action and find out more. Hörmann’s insulated sectional door seemed the ideal choice for the new garage opening. This door is particularly well suited for integral garages where heat loss needs to be minimised. Also online at: www.dijonline.co.uk 84 THE door industry journal spring 2016 entrance doors