Building Fabric

The performancestarts here.

Insulation, airtightness, thermal bridging and the building envelope form the foundation of a better-performing home.

Explore the systems, materials and solutions that create warmer, healthier and more efficient buildings.

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A timber wall build-up with natural insulation meeting a window opening

InsulationMaterials that slow heat moving through walls, floors and roofs.
AirtightnessTapes, membranes and sealing details that control unwanted air movement.
Thermal BridgingStructural details designed to avoid weak points in the envelope.
Building EnvelopeThe complete assembly of layers that separates inside from outside.
Render SystemsExternal wall insulation and render build-ups that protect and finish.

A contemporary low-energy house set among trees

Why the fabric matters

A better fabriccreates a better home.

A well-designed building fabric reduces energy demand, improves comfort, supports healthier indoor environments and creates a more durable, future-ready home.

01
Keep heat where it belongs
Continuous, well-installed insulation reduces heat loss in winter and helps keep rooms comfortable in summer.
02
Control air movement
Airtightness limits uncontrolled draughts, so heat stays inside and ventilation can be designed deliberately.
03
Reduce thermal bridges
Junctions, fixings and structural elements can carry heat straight through the envelope unless they are detailed carefully.
04
Design the layers together
Insulation, airtightness, moisture control and structure perform best when they are specified as one system.

What to think about

Key decisionsfor building fabric.

Different materials, systems and details have a big impact on performance, durability and long-term value. Here are some of the key areas to consider.

Material performance
Different insulation materials behave differently in terms of thickness, rigidity, fire behaviour and environmental profile.
Moisture and vapour
Walls and roofs need to handle moisture safely, which affects membrane choice and the order of the layers.
Installation and detailing
Even the best products underperform if they are installed with gaps, compression or unsealed junctions.
Compatibility with other systems
Windows, structure, services and ventilation all pass through the envelope and need coordinated detailing.
Aesthetics and finishes
Renders, claddings and internal finishes sit on top of the fabric and shape how the home looks and weathers.