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Urban Housing in Scotland
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- Why 'Airtightness'?
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Building science

Poor heat and moisture management are the enemies of durable, comfortable, and efficient housing.

A successful refurbishment starts with a solid understanding of good building science.

Heat - conduction, convection and radiationThere are three ways that heat is transferred through gases, liquids and solids. Understanding the basics helps make key design decisions.Read more

Thermal transmittance and U-valuesThe U-value is a useful rating number by which the construction industry can describe how good or bad the building envelope is at letting heat pass through it. Read more

Thermal bridgingThermal bridges act as a heat route through to the outdoors - leading to a reduced temperature of the interior surface near the thermal bridge. Read more

Thermal by-passThermal bypass occurs where heat is able to flow around or through insulation materials, rather than being properly blocked or controlled.Read more

Thermal massMaterials with high thermal mass can help stabilise indoor temperatures by absorbing excess heat during warm periods and releasing it back into the space when temperatures cool down.Read more

Water vapour and condensationWhen warm, moist indoor air comes into contact with cold surfaces, such as poorly insulated walls or windows, condensation can occur. This can lead to issues like mould growth, water damage, and reduced indoor air quality.Read more

Liquid and solid waterAn important part of building design is given over to keeping rain safely away from the vulnerable parts of the construction.Read more

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