The Passivhaus Handbook A Practical Guide to Constructing and Retrofitting Buildings for Ultra-Low Energy Performance

by Cotterell, Janet; Dadeby, Adam

• ISBN13: 9780857840196
• ISBN10: 0857840193
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2012-10-25
• Publisher: Green Books

Summary

The Passivhaus Handbook is an essential guide for everyone wanting to realise a supremely comfortable, healthy and durable home with exceptionally low energy costs. Whether you are building an extension, retrofitting your house or starting from scratch; are new to low-energy design or already have some experience, this book will help you navigate around the potential pitfalls and misconceptions. It brings together current thinking and best practice. Passivhaus design focuses first on getting the building fabric right, to achieve ultra-low energy consumption in the most cost-effective manner. The approach is relevant to a wide range of building types and climates, not just to special structures. Passivhaus methodology can be combined with elements of other building standards, such as the UK's Code for Sustainable Homes, or with other goals, such as a commitment to use low-impact and natural building materials. This book includes: A clear explanation of the underlying building physics. Detailed information on key elements: avoiding air leakiness, designing out thermal (cold) bridges, moisture management and ventilation strategy. Tips for creating a cooperative, motivated project team. Photographs and diagrams throughout. With steeply rising energy prices, uncertain climatic changes and straitened economic times, the Passivhaus approach, proven over 20 years, offers a timely and practical response.

Author Biography

Janet Cotterell is a chartered architect with more than 20 years of experience, whose work focuses on the implementation of low-energy design principles and on collaborative teamwork. She is also a Certified Passivhaus Designer and is familiar with traditional and natural materials and sensitive settings such as conservation areas. Adam Dadeby is a Certified Passivhaus Consultant. They are directors of Passivhaus Homes Ltd.