Green Building Forum - General Tue, 19 Dec 2023 04:05:23 +0000 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/ Lussumo Vanilla 1.0.3 Insulating roof of cold 1950s bungalow http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17973 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17973 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 09:31:28 +0100 Pete23 I’m just in the process of insulating some large areas of our roof which currently have no / minimal insulation. I’ve attached a pic of my plan. Any tips / advice gratefully received!

Plan is to deepen current 75mm rafters to 150mm and then install 100mm PIR in between, leaving the 50mm air gap behind.
I’ll then overboard with 25mm PIR, a vapour barrier (hopefully just taping the joints between the 25mm boards) and then a finish layer (plasterboard or cladding of some kind).

My plan is to fit 100mm PIR in between the floor joists over the top of the cavity wall so it joins nicely to the 100mm PIR in between the rafters.
We have condensation issues in the room below and in this loft room. I’m hoping that insulating over the top of the cavity wall as far as the rafters will help with this.

I’ve managed to come by a good amount of 100mm PIR - that’s why I’ve chosen that.

Does this look like a good plan?!

How far should I extend the 100mm in between the floor joists into the room? I’m thinking maybe 300mm from the inside of the cavity wall to ensure it’s cosy under there but not waste material?

Will I gain enough to justify overboarding with 50mm rather than 25mm?

Thanks!
Pete]]> More DEFRA delays http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17974 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17974 Wed, 27 Sep 2023 11:59:31 +0100 fostertom
I particularly like this summary incl in the article:

"Richard Benwell, the CEO of the environmental coalition Wildlife and Countryside Link, said: “Net gain [“biodiversity net gain” reqd for new housing developments] joins the chemicals strategy, deposit return scheme, extended producer responsibility, farming regulation and more in the Bermuda triangle of missing Defra environmental commitments. These delays are costly to local authorities, business and nature. That’s not to mention those that have been explicitly delayed – electric cars, home heating and harmonised waste collection.]]> Test http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17972 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17972 Tue, 26 Sep 2023 22:22:39 +0100 Pete23 Rishi Sunak scraps home energy efficiency taskforce http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17969 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17969 Sat, 23 Sep 2023 14:08:37 +0100 bhommels
:cry:]]> Housing Estates http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17961 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17961 Tue, 19 Sep 2023 13:50:13 +0100 Rex
The area I live in leafy Surrey(!) is undergoing quite a substantial new housing building program.

One local 'field' listed on the government web site as flood plain with once in 100 year chance of flooding, will have around 100 new houses built.

The Trust Pilot highly rated builder, Taylor Wimpey is about to open the show home.
Reading the other thread regarding EPC rating, I would guess this house will be B+ or even A. But having watched it being built, i cannot understand how that could ba achieved?

But of more interest to me, is the 'design' waste.' The show house does not have a fire place or stove but for whatever 'design' reasons, it does have a fibreglass chimney. My house does not have a fireplace or stove, and I did not fit a chimney.

Obviously just a sales gimmick. Seems very strange and unnecessary cost, but what do I know?]]> Steel columns penetrating B&B floor: "sensible" approach to reducing thermal bridges? http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17925 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17925 Thu, 17 Aug 2023 13:07:44 +0100 lineweight
Therefore there is a potential cold bridge where the steel column passes through the insulation layer in the floor. In the case of a beam&block suspended floor, this insulation layer is inevitably some height above the foor of the column.

Looks to me like there are two obvious strategies - one is to add a thermal break at the foot of the column and then wrap the column in insulation up to the floor insulation level, and the other is to try and place a thermal break in the column in line with the floor insulation. Have tried to indicate these in the scribbly drawing attached.

This is not the first thread on here, asking essentially this question. Previous threads from 5 or 10 years back indicate that even trying to do this is regarded as unnecessary or overkill by, eg. structural engineers and builders.

My main question, really, is does anyone have recent experience of this view changing at all? When in the title I say "sensible" approach what I mean is one that has a reasonable chance of being accepted in real life on a job without a massive budget, and not being built to passivhaus standards or suchlike.

If so - even if it's a bit of a compromise - what kind of details have you managed to use in this scenario?

Basically I don't want to waste lots of time overthinking something that is just going to get value-engineered out, when we get to site.]]> How much would secondary glazing save a shop? http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17952 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17952 Fri, 15 Sep 2023 13:16:34 +0100 GarethC
We're trying to develop a more easily-installed form of secondary glazing specifically for outsize single glazed windows common in high street shops, cafes etc..

This kind of property should lose a greater proportion of heat through their windows, and therefore upgrading the windows should reduce heating costs and emissions by a relatively large amount.

I've engaged an energy assessor to produce an EPC for a helpful cafe that has agreed to be a guinea pig. He will produce a pre and post secondary glazing EPC rating.

He's not able to help me estimate the financial savings the cafe would realistically expect to enjoy. This particular cafe uses oil filled electric radiators exclusively, and has massive windows, so we're hoping that the figures are quite substantial.

Can anyone advise how I can go about coming up with a realistic estimate of financial savings? Can't find a calculator online....

Greatly appreciate any help. Thank you!]]> solar PV DNO export limit. http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17918 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17918 Sun, 06 Aug 2023 12:03:35 +0100 gustyturbine EPC Queries http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17934 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17934 Sat, 26 Aug 2023 16:46:08 +0100 Victorianeco
They attended without us being there, I told them before they produce the report that the following has been done:

*All light fittings are LED
*90mm External wall insulation to rear elevation complete
*50mm kingspan Internal wall insulation to front elevation to retain facade
*150mm kingspan insulation to ground floor kitchen, hallway
*500mm EPS beads to lounge and dining room
*125mm kingspan insulation to attic (50mm in-between rafters, 75mm below)
*Air source heat pump running wet underfloor heating and oversized radiators. Flow temperature is set to 35c throughout property at design temperature of -3c
*Danfoss TRV's to all rooms with radiators
*Danfoss wireless stats to rooms with radiators
*A rated glass to all windows


He came back with he can only evidence what he can 'photograph'

Where do I stand to ensure the EPC is accurate?]]> Not enough power available http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17951 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17951 Wed, 13 Sep 2023 16:55:23 +0100 borpin
Basically, if you ban the fitting of boilers, and force the installation of HPs and require EV Charging, the local infrastructure requires more power and the Grid cannot support it.

They cite a development near us that the initial planning was for 8MVA but it now needs 35MVA. They can only get a 15MVA connection from the grid.]]> House refurbishment / extension http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17950 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17950 Wed, 13 Sep 2023 07:44:43 +0100 englishjohn
Built around 1970, brick, block and apppox 50mm filled cavity.

Initially my money is going on squaring the property off with dome some extensions.

Externally insulation applied to the property.

The BI has said i can build a cavity as we have currently and then external insulate to meet reg as i wish to do the whole house, or single skin block 190mm block and insulate — any thoughts on the preferred?

I was also looking at Marmox thermoblocks as a whole retrofit -crazy? Would these need to be added to the internal and external skin, it doesn't look like the do a block wide enough to bridge the cavity? This bring me onto the next question.

The other big/massive job I’m considering is smashing the solid concrete floor and installing insulation, which would tie into the Marmox.

If anyone has any initial guidance it would be appreciated.]]> Oil companies granted licences to store carbon under the North Sea http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17953 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17953 Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:46:59 +0100 fostertom Except that a prime reason that big (oil) money is interested in this, is as a way to 'squeeze' or pressurise more oil and gas out of nearly-depleted oil fields.
Almost as barmy as re-manufacturing CCS-captured carbon into new fuel!
Is the availability of captured carbon going to make carbon-fibre into an alternative for steel, other metals and engineering-grade plastics? What happens to carbon-fibre at end-of-life? Doesn't compost, I guess. Does it burn, or oxidise in any other way? As micro-particles, is it dangerous, or in fact nutritious, to wildlife?]]> PIV / MVHR etc http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17946 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17946 Mon, 11 Sep 2023 15:47:04 +0100 Artiglio
This has been put out by our esteemed leaders

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/damp-and-mould-understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-for-rented-housing-providers/understanding-and-addressing-the-health-risks-of-damp-and-mould-in-the-home--2#identifying-and-addressing-damp-and-mould-in-your-property

In which a bold statement is made

As this guidance also makes clear, tenants should not be blamed for damp and mould. Damp and mould in the home are not the result of ‘lifestyle choices’, and it is the responsibility of landlords to identify and address the underlying causes of the problem, such as structural issues or inadequate ventilation.

Of course this guidance ignores the effects of high energy costs leading to tenants choosing to heat their homes to lower temps , which has led to a surge in damp/ mould issues.

As a landlord who has improved my properties to EPC C and never in the past had issues when the tenants have used extractor fans in kitchen and bathroom , i’m now left open to endless grief in tenants choose not to use extractors and i can’t (if the guidance is applied to the word) say the problem is solved if they use them and need to find another solution.

To get ahead of the inevitable, i want a solution i can employ asap if needed. All my properties are flats, top floor flats i could fit mvhr easily enough if at a considerable cost ( and attendant increase in rent to tenant) but my mid floor flats are more problematic. PIV seems the only real solution to my mind.

Any thoughts?

Many thanks phil]]> RAAC / thermolite http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17939 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17939 Sat, 02 Sep 2023 15:15:16 +0100 Rex
Been following the RAAC / schools closure topic with interest.

While not unduly concerned for myself as my house is timber framed but the external rendered walls are thermolite block.

What is the difference between this RAAC stuff and thermolite blocks? Obviously my walls are not load bearing but I would hate to think that they will crumble in time, albeit, probably long after I have gone.

Your thought are most welcome

Thanks and toodle pip]]> Air conditioning unit for a shop? http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=14218 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=14218 Wed, 27 Apr 2016 12:50:14 +0100 Victorianeco
Ideally we would like to install an AC unit, the building is of solid wall construction, single glazed windows, air tightness is probably poor. Without spending loads on insulation etc as we are only renting, what are our air conditioning and heating options?

I'd estimate the volume of the shop including the cellar to be 385m3

Thanks]]> Decarbonisation Grant Application http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17945 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17945 Sat, 09 Sep 2023 13:31:53 +0100 Victorianeco
I'm thinking of requesting a fleet of electric vans...

Any idea how best to approach this?]]> Best way to remove just a double row of slates (vertical row)? http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17941 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17941 Tue, 05 Sep 2023 11:40:51 +0100 greenfinger
Following my recent threads, I've started work today and am removing slates at a wall abutment to put in lead soakers and flashing.

Am I missing something obvious or is my only option to use a slate ripper and then use tingles (or hooks) when I put them back on?

I had planned to remove two or three vertical rows of slates, and - stupidly perhaps - thought that by starting at the top I could access all nails to remove them without a ripper, and when putting the slates back on re-nail them to the battens. But now I'm up there it seems in order to that I would have to remove the slates in an ever increasing triangle to access all the nails and battens.

Am I overlooking something? Or is a ripper (to take off) and tingles/hooks (to put back on) the only option to avoid removing a tonne of slates?

Many thanks

PS - from what I've read I'd favour using hooks rather than tingles.]]> Construction Materials Prices - ONS http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17943 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17943 Wed, 06 Sep 2023 09:46:53 +0100 borpin
https://twitter.com/NobleFrancis/status/1699340045449035859?s=20

Stopped rising but 40% higher than pre-pandemic prices (ouch).]]> g-value of historic glass http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17937 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17937 Fri, 01 Sep 2023 13:54:46 +0100 Doubting_Thomas
I'm currently modelling a Victorian industrial building in PHPP to assess retrofit options. It dates to the 1870's and has single glazed iron frame windows.

Can anyone recommend a resource where I might find g-values of historic glass from this era?

There's a few numbers online for estimated u-values, but surprisingly little on the other performance figures. Given there must have been fewer types of glass back then (no coatings etc.) I assumed there might be a reasonably standard figure to assume.

All suggestions welcome!]]> Underfloor hatch advice http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17936 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17936 Wed, 30 Aug 2023 09:21:17 +0100 randomRobin New forum member here.
We will be getting underfloor insulation added to our suspended wooden floor in a few weeks. I have a couple of questions about the access hatches. We currently have decent floorboards with a few hatches already cut from the previous owner of varying quality. They are generally two floor boards wide and 500mm long or so, see pictures.

1) I'm wondering about what to do about insulating these? What is recommended?
The best thing I can think of just now is to ask the installers to put blocks of insulation under the boards that can be removed if required.
I'd want to keep access to the underfloor area for future servicing of cables, pipes etc, and also to be able to show the EPC assessor the insulation.

2) The hatch in the kitchen is not in a great state as the boards have gaps between and wobble. See the photos attached. Is there an easy way to improve this?

Plan is sheep's wool held by netting.
House is ~1900 with decent depth void (800mm to 1m). Solid stone walls.
Thanks]]> EPC system changes http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17921 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17921 Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:33:46 +0100 WillInAberdeen
Instead of the current A-G bands based on £/m² costs of heating, the new EPCs will show:

- heat loss on A-G scale (irrespective of how that heat is supplied or collected)
- cost on A-G scale
- heating system classification IE "zero emissions" or "not zero emissions"

Buried deeper in the EPC will be:

- CO2 emissions A-G scale
- external energy purchased in kWh per m² (including for lighting, hot water etc)



The gas boiler people are angry because gas heated houses currently have good EPCs because gas is cheap, their EPCs will suddenly get several bands worse when they become based on heat loss.

The heat pump and PV and passivhaus people are angry because the "heat loss" metric doesn't reward renewable heat or passive gains, compared to fossil heat.

The EPC validity will be for five years instead of ten. More details about the house will be published online than currently, to enable searches.

Still using rdSAP data from 2012. Maybe moving up to SAP11 when that comes out.

Rental properties still require EPC band D by 2025 and band C by 2028.


https://www.gov.scot/publications/energy-performance-certificate-epc-reform-consultation/documents/]]> Cold bridge-free thresholds for heavy sliding/bifold doors http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=16054 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=16054 Mon, 04 Mar 2019 10:29:08 +0000 lineweight
Generally they want a fully supported solid base at least the depth of the window frame itself, which seems to mean concrete/masonry spanning from inside to out. I previously tried to deal with this in a primarily timber framed design using a timber joist/ply box type arrangement but in the end the installers didn't like it, and demanded tolerances for movement/deflection which the engineer said he couldn't achieve in timber. We ended up using aerated blocks, with perimeter insulation to the floor screed turned up behind it.

Now I'm looking at one where we have a conventional cavity wall, and suspended floor. The base of the sliders will need to bridge the cavity so whatever supports it will also bridge the insulation layer. Is there a best way of doing this?]]> Mould / fungicides http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17930 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17930 Wed, 23 Aug 2023 08:21:28 +0100 alant Can anyone recommend any less toxic (to humans) treatments for timber? I used Borax years ago but can't seem to find it now. Our self build had water damage and the I joists have Black mould on which we want to treat before continuing.
Cheers]]> Single coat Renders http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17929 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17929 Tue, 22 Aug 2023 11:18:41 +0100 owlman Does anyone have experience of any particularly good, or indifferent products to avoid?]]> German Kitchen Suppliers http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17927 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17927 Mon, 21 Aug 2023 09:40:34 +0100 Victorianeco
We use Howdens and Wickes for the bulk of our kitchens but looking for an upmarket supplier...

Thanks]]> Heat Pump Gate http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17852 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17852 Thu, 01 Jun 2023 09:37:30 +0100 Rex
I do not have a heat pump and from what I have read, do not intend to replace my gas boiler. When we built, they were more expensive than a gas boiler, and as we all know, building budgets can overrun very easily. So gas it was.

Perhaps heat pumps are good if installed at the building stage, and even though my house ticks all the 3g, well insulated, air tight boxes, I do not have available funds to replace the existing boiler, let alone the disruption.

Anyway, there was this interesting article in yesterday's business section of the Telegraph regarding government policy in Germany and the reaction against heat pumps.

Who would want to become a politician?

Toodle pip]]> Biomass heating http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17922 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17922 Sun, 13 Aug 2023 15:27:14 +0100 WillInAberdeen
Government just published the "UK Biomass Strategy"

Seems pretty opposed to biomass heating for houses:

- HVO should be directed towards aviation (rather than heating or road fuel)

- Woody fuel/pellets should be directed towards biomass power stations with CCS, to reduce unsustainable imports

Possible exceptions for a few rural properties, but heatpumps preferred.]]> how much is enough insulation http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17904 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17904 Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:37:14 +0100 CJT
Sips Kingspan TEK 142mm with 50 mm extra kingspan on the inside 0.13Wm2K, 150mm under the slab and triple glazed window at .1 W/m2K.

I could still add more inside but dont really want to lose more space. How much is enough ? 1st time build for me so i have nothing to go from. Has anyone done anything similar ? I haven't got my SAPS back yet.]]> 75% of what you pay for electricity, isn't for electricity.. http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17917 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17917 Sun, 06 Aug 2023 07:19:30 +0100 cjard
I was a bit disappointed by the numbers though:


We estimate if you own enough to meet 100% of your home's electricity consumption, you'll save up to 25% off your bills when you join Ripple.

A typical bill is made up of your electricity usage plus 'non-energy' costs. These include grid charges, taxes and supplier costs. As your power is still supplied via the grid, you will still need to pay these. This is why your electricity won't be free, but your bills should be a lot more stable.


So even though I've bought enough generation to cover my needs, getting it to me costs so much that it will only cover 25% of my needs. If I'm on a 30p tariff I get a discount of 7.5p per kWh on my bill and Ripple spend 22.5p getting it to me.

What I don't quite get is, if I have an install so big that I can sell to the grid I might get 20p/kWh on a tariff where if I consume then it's 30.. so somehow Octopus can take my generated electric and get it to someone else via the grid for about half what Ripple can get my electricity to me for..

-

Got me wondering if smaller scale grid would be viable and legal; I've got a big roof - what's stopping me installing more solar than I need and selling it to the neighbours by throwing a wire over the wall? Could local mini grids be operated more viably and cheaper for all than what Ripple propose? And is it worth it when Octopus will give you 20p for an MCS accredited install? Is it worth having a non accredited install, installed for less and selling the electricity to the neighbours for less than 20p?]]> mixing IWI and EWI http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17906 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17906 Fri, 21 Jul 2023 13:04:46 +0100 maxsm
We are currently submitting plans for an eco retrofit of our bungalow, which will involve a new habitable roof, EWI and MVHR. The work will be shell only to a high standard (> AECB) but we do not need certification. There is a single-storey 'annexe' (garage/bedroom) attached to the corner of the main property which would be very fiddly (expensive!) to include in the envelope. As budget is already an issue we would like to do the insulation work on this room ourselves.

The annexe bedroom has a cold roof with 120mm of PIR in between joists and I am planning 100mm of Kingspan under a floating wooden floor. A lot of heat loss is to the garage, with the connecting wall being just 70mmm in places. The other walls are 300mm cavity with the exterior finish a mixture of render (unsure whether breathable) and fake stone concrete fascia blocks.

Our plan is to fit IWI in the bedroom and en-suite, however I am nervous about how this will interact with the EWI on the main house. We will replace the three windows with triple-glazing (allowing installation of IWI on the reveals) and there will be a mechanical vent in the en-suite room. I don't see the obvious cold bridges with the main house as a huge problem (we are not after certification) but condensation problems would be a different matter. The interface between the cold roof and EWI clad wall above will hopefully be sorted during the main works.

1) Is it advisable to use moisture open IWI to mitigate against possible cold bridge/condensation problems? If so what product and thickness would you recommend?

2) Will we need an insulated airtight door between the annexe bedroom and main house? (we would like to avoid this if possible)

3) Could/should we incorporate this room into the MVHR system in the main house?

I have uploaded a rough image of the plans here: https://imgur.com/a/Tqr4eGe

thanks in advance for any help]]> Cost of running MHVR http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17894 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17894 Mon, 10 Jul 2023 11:05:23 +0100 mikrt
I was comparing my electric bill with neighbours over the weekend, and mine is substantially more than theirs.

I was reminded that I have an MVHR running 24/7 along with boost periods.

The plate says it runs @ 2A.

Is my working correct please? 2A x 240V = 480W (0.48W).

0.48 x 33.37p/kWh x 24hrs x 365 = £1,403 y / £116 m, & 5% VAT too :cry:

Thanks in advance]]> Tlit Turn window repair http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17911 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17911 Mon, 31 Jul 2023 11:54:10 +0100 Rex
The tenants in my maisonette have broken the Roto tilt/turn window gearbox. And in trying to 'repair' it, they have made a complete mess of the gearbox.

Internet research and I have found a number of alternative gearboxes plus an apparent direct replacement

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Roto-C-100-Centro-Repair-Silver/dp/B07VXB1HSS/ref=d_pd_day0_sccl_1_1/259-3746661-0970849?pd_rd_w=ClNIA&content-id=amzn1.sym.5d35c111-20a8-4b68-a348-a2ed4044ce2d&pf_rd_p=5d35c111-20a8-4b68-a348-a2ed4044ce2d&pf_rd_r=PYWF8KXBNS6SS0KG65PK&pd_rd_wg=UQHc9&pd_rd_r=2ae8503e-d87f-4013-a3e8-cc820801cb46&pd_rd_i=B07VXB1HSS&psc=1

All the other gearboxes screw together so I do understand how the two halves are connected. But the broken one and the above replacement, has two lugs that protrude on the other side with no apparent method of actually fixing the two halves together.

Given the attached photos, is it wise to assume that the centre indent on the lugs is the location to 'pop' with a centre to wedge the halves together?

Thanks and toodle pip.]]> IWI to solid floor junction details http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17359 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17359 Mon, 17 Jan 2022 20:17:18 +0000 geuben
Any help would be much appreciated.]]> Condensation under floor http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17890 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17890 Fri, 07 Jul 2023 18:24:04 +0100 Christopher EVs-- Bi-Directional charging http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17889 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17889 Thu, 06 Jul 2023 16:27:57 +0100 owlman
https://www.dcbel.energy/uk/technology/]]> Eco stove- Skirting board safety issues http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17905 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17905 Mon, 17 Jul 2023 14:43:31 +0100 Jaytee73
Just wondering if anyone could please give me some advice regarding an eco stove and skirting boards.

I've had an eco stove fitted and I was told that when the new skirting boards were fitted, they couldn't go past the edge/start of the hearth due to safety issues.

I was then told by someone else that although the stove handle is outside the fireplace chamber, as long as non of the actual stove is outside the chamber, then I can have the skirting boards going onto the hearth (and ending on the chimney breast at the edge of the chamber) I had wanted to do this on both the left and right hand side as it would look more finished off.

I just wondered what people's thoughts were.

The second thing - and this applies wherever the skirting boards finish; at the start of the hearth, or into the hearth up to the edge of the chamber wall - I've already had skirting boards fitted just to the start of the hearth, but I know that when the carpet is put back, there will be quite a large gap showing under the hearth lip.

I wondered if I should just fill it/maybe caulk it? Or whether the skirting boards should be redone and go under the hearth to fill the gap?

A joiner has said they should go underneath the hearth lip but at the same time, he thinks it will look 'daft' if the skirting does finish at the edge and not go onto the hearth and up to the chamber. He feels like the skirting boards underneath the hearth lip will only look acceptable if the skirting then goes across the hearth.

I'll post some photos below and I would be very grateful for any advice.

Many thanks]]> Flexible tail http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17903 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17903 Sun, 16 Jul 2023 10:12:56 +0100 Rex
When I built the house, did not consider everything at the planning stage, one minor error was not plumbing an outside tap until later in the build.

By that time, I had the interior plumbing in place, and due to the mains pressure being around 6 bar, installed a pressure reducer for the house. But, I took the outside tap from the mains pressure side of the incoming water.

Over the years, the rubbish Hoselock fittings outside have kinda failed and a few days ago, we wasted quite a lot of water as a result of failing to turn off the outside tap. I have fixed that now but would like to install a pressure reducer into the outside pipe. Unfortunately, there is no 'flexibility' in the interior 15mm pipework to allow that, so I am considering fitting a short length of flexible tail.

Apart from the fact that a tail usually reduces the bore to 10mm, is there any reason why this is a bad idea? Or is there another plumbing solution that I don't' know about?

Thanks and toodle pip]]> Hydrogen boilers - on the back burner? http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17900 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17900 Thu, 13 Jul 2023 22:25:11 +0100 WillInAberdeen
Grant Shapps is quoted as talking about high costs, long timescales and safey problems. Thinks hydrogen will mostly be for industrial energy storage and transport.All a little bit vague

One of the experimental 'hydrogen village' schemes has cancelled but the other two are carrying on.

No comments on whether this means heat pumps for everyone, or something else (keep burning nat gas?)

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/politics/2023/07/13/grant-shapps-net-zero-hydrogen-natural-gas-heat-homes/
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2023/jul/13/uk-poised-to-drop-plans-for-hydrogen-to-replace-natural-gas-in-homes]]> window u values http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17896 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17896 Wed, 12 Jul 2023 12:12:54 +0100 CJT
Building a Sips house with 142mm kingspan TEK, adding 50mm kingspan to the interior gives me 1.3 (W/m2k). I have been getting quotes for windows with 0.8 which seem expensive. Am i going overboard at 0.8 ? considering the TEK is 1.3 ? I am happy to spend the money if its well spent.

Thank you.]]> What do you do with your old tyres http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17893 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17893 Sun, 09 Jul 2023 21:04:59 +0100 Peter_in_Hungary Windows in bedrooms. http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17879 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17879 Tue, 27 Jun 2023 12:01:09 +0100 gustyturbine Thanks all for any guidance.]]> Update on best brand for strong battery garden tools? http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17886 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17886 Mon, 03 Jul 2023 09:59:17 +0100 fostertom
After a petrol-head lifetime car-wise, and a fascination even for getting the best out of 2-stroke strimer/chainsaws, I now have an aversion to all that fossil machismo, incl my beloved Fiats, all gone, tho we still have the little IQ, the monster ML320 caravan-tractor and the Lawnflyte mower. But I now can't bear the thought of the Stihl strimmer! A strong battery strimmer, please.]]> New build 1.5 bungalow - best method of construction http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17875 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17875 Fri, 23 Jun 2023 00:18:23 +0100 Victorianeco
A friend suggested why not just knock it down and rebuild new.

I've never been in a position to consider building new but having read up on it briefly regarding VAT reclaim etc and obviously the appeal of building our forever home is a dream.

A few questions:

Given the existing property and it's location I think a 1.5 bungalow would be okay for planning and would tick our boxes.

1. Would you build in timber or masonry nowadays?
2. If timber would you use a company such as scotframe? Or any other recommendations?
3. Any modern designs for Walter Segal builds?

Any pointers or tips would be appreciated particularly as we'd require a mortgage....]]> Battery powered everything http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17591 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17591 Sun, 02 Oct 2022 11:31:28 +0100 Rex
Given the thread http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17569&page=1#Item_0

and the issues regarding standard batteries, I am 'concerned' at the way we appear to being 'guided' into battery everything. Lawn mowers, hedge trimmer, strimmers, chain saws, leaf vacs, nail guns, routers, sanders, multi-tools, planers, vacuum cleaners, loud speakers and of course, cars.

All these need recharging at some point and in all likelihood, will not do the job on a single charge. I trimmed my hedge recently, took around 4 hours using a mains electric (only had to stop of refreshment!) and petrol hedge (one tank of petrol) trimmer. How long with it have taken with battery and what is the added convenience?

I live in Surrey and go to the south coast for windsurfing. Where I go, there are no EV charging facilities and with a 200 mile round trip, going by an EV is not a sensible option. On the other hand, a full tank of diesel and I could go there and back many times.

It seems to me to be madness; but what do I know? Time will tell.]]> A humble thermocouple http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17884 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17884 Fri, 30 Jun 2023 11:05:55 +0100 Rex
I have an Ikea / Westinghouse hob; over the years, the thermocouples have been causing trouble to the extent that recently, some of the burners will not stay on. I have cleaned the head and the tc contact areas. This initially helps but within days, the problem starts again.

I have investigated replacing the tc, but the only one I bought, which was marked as correct for my hob, would not fit as it seems every hob manufacturer has a different fitting.

Grateful for any suggests as it is ridiculous to have to replace the entire hob.

Thanks and toodle pip]]> DIY Double Glazing to Crittal windows http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=2493 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=2493 Sat, 06 Sep 2008 19:15:46 +0100 newleaf My house has Crittal windows throughout and it seems a shame to take them out if there is some way in which they could be made to work.
Also, if replacing the glass is not possible has anyone experience of secondary double glazing.
Thanks K ']]> Smart meter monitoring http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17882 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17882 Wed, 28 Jun 2023 16:29:07 +0100 owlman I also understand that it's possible to access this information using the keypad on the meter. I have no idea what that figure is e.g. instant, hourly, daily etc. but not downloadable for scrutiny.

Has anyone used this facility?
Has anyone tried independently ( of any SEG scheme ), datalogging PV export. I'm trying to get a better picture of my PV export, not just the 50% deemed that is my FIT contract.]]> Shrinkage of board insulation http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17877 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17877 Fri, 23 Jun 2023 21:28:45 +0100 cjard
The attached pic shows the gap that opened up between board ends; it used to be 5mm and was foamed up (no idea where most the foam went).

The boards have not only shrunk but curled too. For scale the battens are 25mm ish so in some places it looks like a shrink of 2 inches, though interestingly seemingly only on one dimension)

These boards were tissue faced seconds and may have been stored outside - hopefully dry first grade foil faced boards wouldn't suffer to the same degree..]]> external shading to prevent solar gain overheating http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17874 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17874 Thu, 22 Jun 2023 14:24:45 +0100 maxsm I'm also interested in whether there are any external blind options for rooflights as the project involves a loft conversion. I'm hoping someone on this forum can advise on their experiences with these options, and names of possible manufacturers. Cost is also a factor so maybe that rules out the motorised blinds?
Thanks in advance for any advice, M]]> Suspended Floor Insulation Advice http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17860 http://www.greenbuildingforum.co.uk/newforum/comments.php?DiscussionID=17860 Thu, 08 Jun 2023 15:09:19 +0100 billyb_1234
I'm also finding it difficult to find an installer with suitable knowledge in the Reading (Berkshire) area. Many insulation companies offer PIR insulation, or spray on insulation, with no mention of airtightness membranes and hygroscopic materials. I have considered doing it myself, which would help a lot financially but at the end of the day I want it to be done once and done right, and I haven't done any of this kind of stuff before. I was wondering if anyone can recommend any nationwide installers that would do a good job on this?]]>