Knauf Insulation welcomes the changes to Section 6

Knauf Insulation welcomes the new edition of Section 6 of their Technical Handbooks, released at the beginning of this month.

Although the methodology of Section 6 remains the same, there is an increased focus on reducing carbon dioxide emissions in both domestic and non-domestic buildings. The improvement will deliver a 21% aggregate reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, and a 43% aggregate reduction in non-domestic buildings.

When it comes to the fabric of a domestic property, it is important that housebuilders note any key changes. In standard 6.1, SAP2012 has now been replaced with SAP2009 to calculate dwelling emission rates. Within clause 6.2.1 there is improved fabric backstop for new buildings and in clause 6.2.9 there is improved fabric backstop for extensions.

Stephen Smith, Knauf Insulation’s market development manager, said: “It is great to see that Scotland has stuck to its goal and is truly dedicated to reducing energy demands within residential and domestic buildings. Indeed when you compare the 2015 standards to 2007, there has been a 45% improvement on reducing carbon emissions for domestic buildings and a 60% increase for non-domestic buildings.

“This is a very welcoming change, especially since England’s Government has removed the zero carbon target and there is uncertainty over future changes to Part L. Reducing carbon dioxide emissions across our buildings is crucial in tackling overall climate change.”