PHI launch new certification for EnerPHit insulation systems
The Passive House Institute (PHI) has introduced a new certification scheme for insulation systems to assist with the design of retrofits aiming for EnerPHit* certification. Manufacturers of insulation systems can now have their products certified as EnerPHit Insulation Systems for use in EnerPHit projects.
For this certification, manufacturers will develop EnerPHit relevant insulation solutions for the entire building envelope in collaboration with the PHI; this is initially only planned for use in cooler temperate climates (e.g. Central Europe). This includes recommended sample solutions for a number of joinery details typical of older buildings along with information about the relevant thermal bridge co-efficients (Psi value). "For these details, thermal bridges needn’t be calculated for certification and the designer can be certain that implementation meets the EnerPHit certification requirements for buildings", explains Zeno Bastian, scientific advisor at the PHI.
The first such component certificate was awarded to Passivhaus Trust founder members- Saint-Gobain ISOVER’s EnerPHit insulation system for existing solid constructions; an exterior insulation and finish system. Different insulation approaches are being considered for the roof, the uppermost ceiling and the basement ceiling, depending on the existing construction. Further certifications are currently being processed.
Information about certified EnerPHit insulation systems and the certification criteria will soon be available in English for download on the Passive House Institute website under the heading Certification (www.passivehouse.com).
*About EnerPHit: Quality assurance in retrofits
Thermal bridge free design is one of the basic principles of Passive House planning, yet, in the case of existing buildings, it is not always possible. Some unavoidable thermal bridges usually remain after an energy-efficient modernisation, especially at basement walls. Accordingly, the heating demand of an existing building that has been completely retrofitted using Passive House components is slightly higher than that of a Passive House new build.
The Passive House Institute (PHI) has developed the EnerPHit Standard for such buildings. Since last year, it has been possible to certify existing buildings modernised with Passive House components in accordance with the EnerPHit Standard. Among other things, mitigation of any remaining thermal bridges as far as is possible, both in terms of feasibility and cost, is a prerequisite.