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Looking for a 100% recyclable insulation material? Look no further than JACKODUR® range of extruded polystyrene insulation. 

As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need for sustainable building practices, JACKODUR® can help raise the sustainable rating of a building as a fully recyclable high performance insulation material.

Manufactured from extruded polystyrene foam (XPS), the JACKODUR® range is designed for all construction applications, ranging from floor slabs to walls, where insulation is a key requirement. 

Here are just a few of the benefits of insulation with JACKODUR®:

Fully Recyclable

JACKODUR® is made from XPS (extruded polystyrene), which is a 100% recyclable material. Waste and reject of XPS can be recycled and put back into the manufacturing process. JACKODUR® insulation is made from up to 50% recyclable or non-fossil raw materials. It does not contain any harmful chemicals, making it a safe choice for any building development.

Thermal Performance

JACKODUR® offers superb thermal insulation properties from λD=0.027W/(mK). JACKODUR® is available in various thicknesses and edge finishes with a smooth or textured surface. 

Durability

JACKODUR® is designed to be long-lasting, ensuring maximum efficiency for decades. Unlike some traditional insulation materials, it does not lose its insulating properties over time. It is load bearing with compressive strengths ranging from 300 to 700kPa, dimensionally stable, resistant to frost/thaw changes and rot-proof. 

Waterproof

Unlike some traditional insulation materials, which can become damaged or lose their insulating properties when exposed to water or moisture, JACKODUR® remains unaffected by water. The XPS close cell structure does not allow water penetration, making it an ideal insulation material for areas that may be prone to moisture, such as basements, bathrooms or other areas that are at risk of water intrusion. Additionally, it helps prevent the growth of mould or mildew, which can be hazardous to human health.

In conclusion, JACKODUR® is an exceptional insulation material that offers a wide range of benefits. Its energy efficiency, durability, recyclability, waterproof characteristic, and cost-effectiveness make it an excellent choice for building professionals who are seeking to reduce the environmental impact while ensuring quality insulation. By choosing JACKODUR®, you can enjoy the benefits of a high-performing insulation material that is also environmentally responsible.

Ultimately, when choosing the right bracing system for your project it is important to remember and consider the reasons why it is essential that a bracing system is used. With any ICF installation the bracing system will ensure straight and plumb walls while preventing failure of the formwork, provided they are fitted and used correctly.

There are multiple options available when it comes to choosing the right bracing system for your ICF (Insulated Concrete Formwork) project. Sometimes it depends on your preferred supplier of ICF, or it could be down to the contractor’s preference. Whatever your reason for choosing the ‘Bracing System’ the requirement for it remains the same. 

The different styles of system available, without going into detail on all the different types, can be put into two main categories, metal and timber. Both types have their own pros and cons, at JACKON by BEWI we would always recommend using a metal system. 

Some of the reasons why are as follow:

• They tend to be stronger and will last longer than timber when it comes to repeated use.
• They are more reliable and will provide a greater level of consistency compared to timber which could warp and twist when left exposed to the elements. 
• They are easier to adjust and align once concrete has been poured and due to its increased strength can therefore be safer to adjust. 

These benefits along with others help ensure the straightest possible walls are created in an efficient and timely manner without increased pressure on the workforce. Some of the metal systems will also provide a safe working platform to allow access to the top of the walls to help with pouring the concrete at a safe height without the need for further scaffolding. 

So, how do they work and what do they provide?

The bracing systems will provide you with an easily adjustable system that will plumb your walls as soon as the concrete is poured while maintaining a tolerable level. They also provide support for the poured concrete, as it cures, against lateral loads, wind and other conditions until the concrete has achieved enough strength to stand on its own. 

How to Install the Bracing System. 

The general rules when installing any bracing system will usually follow the same steps and processes. 

The bracing is usually installed after the 3^rd course of ICF has been stacked and will be positioned 1200mm to 1800mm apart with support being provided with 600mm of any corner. The spacings should be checked and be in line with manufacturers specifications. Additional support should also be considered when it comes to every door and window opening. Although all bracing systems are installed on the inside of the structure, in some cases additional support may be required externally when it comes to openings, corners, and T-sections of walls. 

The bracing systems should be mechanically fixed to each course of ICF and then also the floor. Depending on the bracing system the location of the fixings should be done in a way that adjustment can easily be made if required. If adjustments need to be made, make sure they are done as you go to prevent forgetting later. It is vital that the diagonal section of the bracing is suitably fixed and secured during this process with care being taken to the location so that access is clear and easy for adjusting once the concrete has been poured. 

Once all bracing has been installed and before you pour the concrete, a string line should be placed at the top of the wall to allow for plumbing and checking straightness. We would recommend adjusting the bracing prior to pouring concrete so that the system is approx. 5mm out of plumb with wall sections falling inward. This is because the walls will move slightly when concrete is poured, and it tends to be easier to push a wall to plumb rather than pull. 

The above process is just a brief guide, and all bracing systems should be installed as per the bracing system and ICF manufacturers guidelines. 

As the concrete pour itself is probably the most important part of the build process, and if you are a newbie to the ICF world, it is worth having an experienced professional complete a pre-pour check to make sure all guidelines have been followed, and remember, there’s no such thing as too much support!!

For a more in-depth guide into installing ICF bracing check out the link to our preferred system PLUMWALL for the step-by-step instructions and video tutorial.

The most energy-efficient homes may be built and designed using these 12 combined processes that use readily available building supplies and equipment as well as simple building techniques. Affordable zero-energy buildings are the pinnacle of energy efficiency. We can help create low-energy buildings that require less demand from the grid that are future homes standard ready for 2025.

The following techniques can help you create a new home that will be less expensive to own and build.

Start With Smart Design

Building a net-zero home involves a number of energy efficiency procedures, all of which should be understood by designers, architects, builders, and potential homeowners. Additionally, the residence should be planned such that contractors and builders may carry out these actions as cheaply as feasible. Builders should ask architects to pay special attention to a number of design criteria. These crucial elements won’t be overlooked thanks to a thorough collaboration between the builder and designer.

Solar Tempering By Using The Sun

During the winter, and using south-facing windows for solar heating reduces the need for heating. Summer cooling expenditures can be reduced by shading the same windows. Solar tempering attempts to maximise this passive utilisation of solar energy without adding more thermal mass at a higher cost than necessary to achieve optimal passive solar heating. When designing you should take solar tempering into consideration.

Use Energy Modelling To Optimise

To ensure that the aim of net-zero energy can be accomplished while keeping costs low, the energy use of the home should be evaluated during the design process using energy modelling software. To combine building performance and construction cost, design decisions can be made or amended based on the results.

Completely Seal The Building’s Perimeter.

The single most economical step builders can take to increase the energy efficiency of an airtight home is ensuring a thermally efficient envelope. BEWI’s ICF range alongside high-quality doors and windows can achieve airtightness of passive standard and lower.

Increase Building Envelope Insulation

The next most economical method for building an airtight home, after making the house airtight, maybe to super-insulate the house, and BEWI Building Systems include the ICF system THERMOMUR® and the insulated concrete raft system JACKODUR® ATLAS of which both systems are designed for the rapid construction of highly thermally efficient buildings, with market leading airtightness and excellent acoustic insulation. As previously said, energy modelling can assist you in achieving the ideal insulation levels for the ceiling, walls, and floors. Pick frame techniques that reduce thermal bridging and make it simpler to insulate the building envelope.

Use Windows and Doors that are Highly Insulated

Windows and doors are the third most cost-effective way to make a house more energy efficient because they act as large energy holes in an airtight, well-insulated building shell. By choosing the right window and door components, properly placing them, and maximising their size and orientation you can reduce heat loss and gain through windows and doors.

Establish a Reliable Fresh Air Supply

Since net-zero energy homes are so airtight, maintaining a constant supply of clean, filtered air and managing moisture levels are essential to their performance. One benefit of this ventilation requirement is that air-tight homes are cosier and healthier than conventional dwellings. High energy-efficiency ventilation systems, sometimes referred to as energy recovery ventilation (ERV) or heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems, remove stale air while recovering its heat and reintroducing that heat to the house with the new air.

Decide on a System for Heating and Cooling that Uses Less Energy

Airtight homes work hand in hand with more modern methods of heating and ventilation, due to the lower levels of heat loss achieved via great air tightness. A heating system is not looked at as the main heating system anymore but as a supplementary back up you can also make the most of this with advancing technologies like heat pumps and infrared.

Carefully Heat Water

After heating and cooling, the cost of heating the water in a home is sometimes the highest. In order to reduce the amount of hot water used, it is crucial for architects and builders to choose and locate effective water heating technology, utilising technologies that work in conjunction with solar. Battery storage is a great way of reducing DHW (Domestic Hot Water) costs.

Adopt Energy-Effective Lighting

Air-tight homes must optimise lighting for residents while minimising energy consumption for lighting. These tasks are a good fit for LED lighting. They last a lot longer than Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFLs), use less energy, and don’t contain mercury. Additionally, they can provide a range of lighting requirements, from intense white light to gentle, warm light. A home’s energy use can be significantly decreased by choosing the best LED lights for the job, placing lights in strategic locations, and making the most of natural light.

Choose Energy-Efficient Electronics and Appliances

Air-tight homes use high-efficiency HVAC and hot water equipment and have extremely energy-efficient building shells, the largest category of energy consumption in airtight homes is now appliances and electronics. As a result, the final stage in reducing home energy use is choosing high-efficiency devices and appliances.

Use Renewable Energy from the Sun

Grid-tied solar photovoltaic (PV) panels in conjunction with battery storage and a building design that has been carefully calculated to keep electrical loadings low are the most efficient and economical ways to power an airtight home. They may supply all the energy requirements of a house, including hot water, appliances, lighting, heating, and cooling systems.

For more information on how to make your home energy-efficient with BEWI’s Insulative Building Systems get in contact with one of our experts today.

What Are Accreditations?

Accreditations are awards or seals of approval that demonstrate a specific company adherence to protocols and systems. They also indicate that the company is competent and reliable. We have received numerous accreditations, as we adhere to the highest industry standards and are committed to providing our clients with the best possible service.

What Is A Trade Association?

A trade association, also known as an industry association, is a membership organisation that promotes and protects the interests of a certain trade. They offer their members specialised services, such as customised insurance, legal counsel, group training, and more.

We are a proud member of many trade associations around the world, including the Construction Products Association, PlasticsEurope, the association of plastic manufacturers, and many more. These trade associations allow us to stay up-to-date on the latest industry news, regulations, and more. We are able to offer our members the best possible service by being a part of these important organisations.

There are many benefits to being a member of a trade association, such as access to specialised services, group discounts, and more. Members have access to exclusive deals on products and services, as well as customised insurance plans that are designed specifically for members.

Why Are Accreditations Important?

They are greatly regarded by businesses. They are symbols of honour displayed with pride on metaphorical shirt sleeves. You may get a general idea of a company’s culture and human resources policies through organisations like Investors in People or TopEmployers Institute. After that, accreditations unique to a given trade must be obtained.

A flood of abbreviations, acronyms, and emblems claiming that you are in the hands of a reliable business or person might make it seem like a bit of a minefield. Let’s examine a few of the most well-known and what they might reveal about a company.

Which Accreditations Should My Project Look Out For?

ISO, or International Organisation for Standardisation, is a global federation that consists of 110 national standard bodies that regulate quality. It aims to encourage growth within manufacturing, trade, and communication businesses.

The accreditation ISO 9001 demonstrates our ability to consistently provide products and services that meet customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements and aims to enhance customer satisfaction through the effective application of the system, including processes for improvement of the system and the assurance of conformity to customer and applicable statutory and regulatory requirements. All the requirements of ISO 9001 are generic and are intended to be applicable to any organisation, regardless of its type or size, or the products and services it provides.

It is the gold standard for quality management. A company must therefore show that it has the capacity to monitor processes, how it executes and manages quality, and what steps it takes to promote continuous improvement. An organisation’s quality management system will undergo an on-site audit and, if found to fulfil the necessary criteria, will be certified with ISO 9001.

An organisation’s dedication to continuous improvement in energy management is demonstrated by ISO 50001 certification, which enables them to set the bar high within its respective industries and guarantee compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory standards.

ISO 14001 is a member of the ISO 14000 family of international standards, which offers recommendations for organisations aiming to manage their environmental effect. The framework is intended to assess and enhance how businesses utilise and dispose of natural resources as well as cut back on greenhouse gas emissions.

The standard is generic, which means it can be used by businesses of any size and in any sector. The standard is appropriate for anyone from a large business, trying to reduce waste, to a tiny office expecting to consume less gas and energy. A firm’s dedication to the environment and a more responsible, effective use of the planet’s resources are demonstrated by an ISO 14001 accreditation.

An organisation must prove its dedication to reducing negative environmental effects in order to receive this award. Providing proof of ongoing environmental management improvement. Complying with all applicable environmental laws.

Accreditations Overall

The assurance that clients will receive services up to a standard of excellence that an accrediting authority can certify should be provided by these programmes, in principle. thereby putting a business on an equal footing with or putting it above its rivals. There is a suitable accreditation or membership plan available, regardless of whether a client chooses procurement, quality, health & safety, or a combination of these.

Which Trade Associations Should My Company Look Out For?

Plastics Europe is a prominent trade organisation in Europe, that has offices in Brussels, Frankfurt, London, Madrid, Milan, and Paris. With more than 100 member companies that produce more than 90% of all polymers across the 27 member states of the European Union, plus Norway, Switzerland, Turkey, and the United Kingdom, they collaborate with national and European plastics organisations. Plastics Europe actively backs the World Plastics Council (WPC) and the Worldwide Plastics Alliance on a global scale (GPA).

Plastics Europe believes that plastics are key materials in innovation and for helping us reduce greenhouse gas emissions and tackle climate change, and they are working towards a positive future that brings to life the responsible actions, partnerships, and innovations the European plastics industry is making.

The Construction Products Association (CPA) is the leading organisation that represents and champions construction product manufacturers and suppliers. Members of this association reap the benefits of CPA coordinating with members and the larger construction industry to reach a consensus on significant issues, tracking and advising on government policies and regulations, working with decision-makers to develop effective, evidence-based policies and solutions and representing our members at industry-wide gatherings and events.

Members of this association believe in creating a high-performing UK manufacturing sector and world-class construction industry. CPA is product-neutral and supports all materials equally and represents the construction products sector as a whole. They create believable, workable solutions that are supported by data and research. Members share the belief in thoughtful, successful regulations that are transparent, goal-driven, and offer long-term predictability, instead of using restrictive, “tick-box” procurement criteria, innovation should be promoted, promote formal, accessible standards that are open to everybody and benefit all.

CPA is dedicated to making sure that sustainability contributes to the desirable built environment in the UK and supports a robust manufacturing and distribution industry.

Operation Clean Sweep (OCS) is an international programme created to prevent resin pellet, flake, and powder loss and to help keep this material out of the marine environment. It is a stewardship programme run by the Plastics Industry Association(PLASTICS).

Each sector of the plastics business, including resin makers, transporters, bulk terminal operators, recyclers, and plastics processors, has a responsibility to play by putting excellent housekeeping and pellet, flake, and powder containment policies into effect.

In order to help the industry to implement appropriate housekeeping and pellet containment practices in an effort to achieve zero pellets, flake, and powder discharge, PLASTICS developed and introduced the Operation Clean Sweep®programme. They pledged to collaborate with international groups to address the problem of marine waste.

The National Custom and Self-Build Association (NaCSBA) is the only organisation in the UK that works solely to advocate for legislation that would make custom-build and self-build more widely available. As a non-profit organisation, financial independence guarantees that they have a distinct voice when campaigning.

In addition to promoting members through their Members Directory and the Code of Practice that all NaCSBA commercial members agree to, they aim to expand the sector and all of its advantages.

Trade Associations Overall

Trade Associations’ Code of Practice gives customers peace of mind when looking for businesses to assist them in their self-build endeavours by providing assurance that their top option is a tried-and-true operator operating in the industry.

We hope this blog has enlightened you on trade associations and accreditations regarding their importance, what they do and how they award reliable businesses such as BEWI.

Everyone is becoming more conscious of the importance of energy transition in light of climate change, and many have turned to the development of energy efficiency within their homes as the first step to becoming environmentally responsible in order to help climate change. However, whilst most so-called energy-efficient homes developed and built today may have the greatest intentions, they frequently make the same errors.

1. Placing a Priority on Technology

Focusing primarily on the building envelope is the most straightforward, dependable and efficient strategy for increasing energy efficiency. BEWI’s Building Systems include the ICF system THERMOMUR® and the insulated concrete raft system JACKODUR® ATLAS, both of which are designed for the rapid construction of highly thermally efficient buildings. They are both market-leading products which help achieve excellent airtightness and acoustic insulation. You should make sure that the homes you build are airtight; with an emphasis on Thermal Bridging. Thermal bridging is an area of a building which has a significantly higher heat transfer than the surrounding area or materials, making the building much less energy-efficient. You must ensure that the insulation is thick and continues throughout the house. These elements should be a priority before upgrading heating systems or water heaters, the equipment required to provide energy is reduced, i.e instead of a 16kw heat pump, you may only need a 9kw heat pump.

2. Focus on Insulation

Before Air Sealing or Without Providing outstanding airtightness is perhaps the absolute most effective way to achieve energy efficiency. JACKODUR® is a premium range of extruded polystyrene insulation, it includes the best-in-class thermal properties and is best for the job. When heating or cooling, an airtight structure uses less energy, maintains constant, level temperatures throughout and keeps moisture-laden air from getting into the building assembly. A good design is a foundation for exceptional airtightness and field implementation of that design must be done correctly. An airtight building benefits from an appropriate ventilation plan. The temperature should be managed and fresh air must come from a purposefully controlled source (refined fresh air instead of leaks in the building structure); this can be achieved using (HVAC) either heat recovery or demand-controlled ventilation.

3. Neglecting the Blower Door Test

Property developers should do a blower door test. There is no alternative method to assess whether a structure is airtight besides this easy, affordable test. A blower door, which is a type of large fan, is used to pressurise and depressurise a building inorder to locate leaks and gauge their size. Unfortunately, very few structures perform a blower door test while they are being built and therefore the air leakage rate is much higher than it could be.

4. Ignoring the Orientation of the Sun

You should design homes so that it takes advantage of the sun’s energy. The sun can help us heat our homes for free, as long as we plan for it properly. This means making sure the properties you build have the right kind of shade and that you size your window area correctly for different orientations. You must be careful to design with Part 0 of building regs in mind, which takes into consideration overheating within dwellings. For highly glazed units this can be achieved with external shading or by reducing the amount of glazed areas.

5. Not Doing a Shading Study

The majority of locations are covered by buildings and trees at specific times of the year and day. In order to accurately forecast how shading would affect the building, this information must be appropriately identified. To provide this information, simple instruments and software are available.

6. Choosing the Incorrect Type of Glass

One of a building’s most crucial elements is its windows. They have a significant impact on how a location feels and offer views, lighting, ventilation and other advantages. The choice of windows and glass can be difficult and daunting and choosing the incorrect glass might have serious repercussions. The correct windows and glass may enhance a building’s beauty and performance while also providing outstanding comfort.

7. Ignoring the Source and Impact of Materials

It’s crucial to actually understand the origins and effects of the materials we choose in the effort to construct an energy-efficient structure. Numerous supposedly high-efficiency materials really have a considerably greater detrimental impact on the environment than positive effects. This is why it is important to use a sustainable supplier for building materials, giving you the sustainable, low-energy future of construction, today. BEWI designed its product range to help you move towards zero energy construction, whether you are building a house from scratch or just fitting out a new room. BEWI are committed to innovative, energy-efficient products and environmentally friendly operations this including manufacturing, distribution, product use, waste management and recycling.

8. Setting Ineffective Goals

When faced with a challenge during the process, it can be simple to compromise if adequate goals aren’t defined upfront. Although rating systems and certificates aren’t always ideal, they can aid in properly directing a project in the face of difficulty.

9. Not Completing an Energy Model

Without an accurate energy model, everything is just conjecture. Including an energy model in the design, phase is the greatest approach to comprehending how design choices will affect the final product. An effective energy model can be utilised as another tool throughout the design process.

10. Ignoring the Architecture

It could be argued that great architecture that is thermally uncomfortable and inefficient does not make good architecture. The sole focus also cannot be on energy efficiency. Beautiful, thermally comfortable and energy-efficient spaces are the goal; anything less is no longer acceptable.

To avoid these typical mistakes with your energy-efficient home get in contact with us today!

BEWI is Europe’s leading sustainable building materials source. BEWI’s factories are managed to the highest European standards for quality, energy, and environmental compliance. In addition, BEWI insulation products are designed to reduce the energy requirements of any building throughout its lifetime and therefore contribute significantly to a reduction in global warming. BEWI is the perfect choice for sustainable construction projects.

Sustainable Construction Material Manufacturing

In this blog post, we will explore BEWI’s sustainable construction materials that can be used to reduce the carbon footprint of buildings. Construction companies have a huge environmental impact, so it is important to find ways to offset this and become more sustainable by looking into the manufacturing process and how sustainable their operations are, as well as the material itself.

Our Environmental Pledge

We are an ISO 14001 accredited company. This indicates that our manufacturing facilities are now identifying and minimising waste by emphasising more suitable renewable energy sources and energy-saving techniques that produce a more sustainable and effective organisation, using less and saving more.

This certification validates the continuous improvement culture BEWI has adopted. Because it requires ongoing evaluations to keep environmental considerations at the forefront of everything you do, implementing the ISO 14001 framework into our organisation is not a one-time endeavour.

Our Manufacturing Process

Our extruded polystyrene (XPS) is made using a continuous extrusion method with electricity as the primary power source. Polystyrene granules are melted in an extruder, and a blowing agent is then injected into the extruder at high pressure. When the pressure drops at the exit die, the polystyrene foams, forming a board with a uniform and closed cell structure.

After trimming the boards’ edges, the product is cut to size. For specific board types, the smooth foam skin produced by the extrusion process is mechanically removed in order to improve the adhesive strength when used in conjunction with, for example, concrete, mortar, or construction adhesives. Some boards receive special surface patterns or grooves.

The majority of the off-grade or production-scrap material used in the production of XPS foam is recycled. And many of the manufacturing facilities have ISO 9001 certification. ISO 9001 is a certification given to a business when they demonstrate that their organisation is customer-focused and committed to delivering high quality services.

Our Packaging

The polyethylene-based packaging film is recyclable and is actually recycled in those countries with a return system. It is important to provide recyclable packaging for products, especially those used in construction, which require protection to not be damaged during transportation, preserve and enhance the products, display important information, and act as a marketing tool.

Today, BEWI is among the top producers of extruded polystyrene (XPS) products, providing construction and industrial users with the highest levels of insulation effectiveness and cost savings. As one of our clients, you may put your trust in our in-depth production knowledge and depend on our wide selection of products for environmentally responsible thermal insulation solutions, both for construction applications and for many other uses.

BEWI are committed to sustainable construction and have created insulative building materials: THERMOMUR®, JACKODUR® insulation, and JACKODUR® ATLAS. THERMOMUR® & JACKODUR® ATLAS are BEWI’s ICF building systems that, in recent years, have revolutionised sustainable house construction. 

The JACKODUR® ATLAS extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation and formwork system is for floor slabs, while THERMOMUR® is a robust pre-formed wall block with a hollow core manufactured from expanded polystyrene (EPS). The hollow centre is filled with a concrete pour during construction to make the highest quality insulated concrete raft system.

In this blog post, we will be answering the most frequently asked questions regarding insulation. 

1. What essential criteria must materials meet to be thermally insulated?

Since heat is transmitted through insulation materials by conduction, “low thermal conductivity” is the primary requirement for thermal insulation materials (at 373 K, mineral wool has a thermal conductivity of 0.047 W/m.K, glass fibre has a thermal conductivity of 0.038 W/m.K, calcium silicate has a thermal conductivity of 0.057 W/m.K, and magnesia has a thermal conductivity of 0.062 W/m.K).

JACKODUR® is BEWI’s range of extruded polystyrene insulation. It includes the best-in-class thermal properties of the Plus range, compressive strengths from 300 to 700kPa, and a wide range of boards in thicknesses up to 320mm for the ultimate insulation system.

THERMOMUR® provides a two-sided thermally insulated, airtight construction that offers optimum energy efficiency. The ICF system can satisfy the latest changes to Part L of the building regulations right up to Passive House standards. Its unique design allows us to meet ever-demanding thermal insulation and airtightness standards with the minimum of additional components and construction processes. Other benefits of THERMOMUR® include blocks that are very light and clean to work with, meaning that the walls are built quickly and solidly on-site hence the reduction in the cost of construction.

2. What insulation is best for floors?

Normal requirements for floor installation call for 150mm of mineral wool or 70mm of high-performance foam insulation, but exact requirements will depend on the size, shape and type of floor. 

JACKOBOARD® Plano insulation is perfect for floor insulation as it provides up to 80mm of thickness with excellent thermal insulation of λD = 0.035 W/(m·K). It  can be covered directly with tiles, plaster or render. Other benefits include its strength as it has cement reinforcements on either side of the board, as well as being waterproof, lightweight and not needing primer.

JACKOBOARD® Plano also comes in a width of 1,200mm, which means fewer joints saving considerable amounts of insulation time. 

Load bearing thermal insulation under foundation slabs is beneficial with regard to energy saving and specifically in the prevention of thermal bridges. Made of XPS, JACKODUR® ATLAS is specifically designed for dual use as formwork and thermal insulation in floor slab applications. JACKODUR® ATLAS slab insulation provides indoor climate comfort without thermal bridges while effectively reducing installation energy costs. 

3. Can insulation be recycled?

Typical construction sites produce insulation waste. What you can do with this is:

• Direct reuse of off-cuts
• Returning materials through take-back schemes offered by manufacturers
• Compressed stone wool ceiling tile manufacture
• Reclamation and reprocessing after removing impurities such as screws and nails

BEWI’s insulation products are made of extruded (XPS) or expanded (EPS) polystyrene (JACKOFOAM® & JACKOPOR® ). These are processed oil products that are made of 98% air and they are 100% recyclable. 

4. Can insulation boards get wet?

Yes, insulation boards can get wet. EPS & XPS absorb minimal water, but they cannot rot. BEWI’s polystyrene material maintains its properties well over time and does so without releasing any substances into soil or water. 

Furthermore, JACKOBOARD® has its own range of completely waterproof products that are perfectly designed for use as insulation under bathroom tile and shower/wet room floors such as J-Drains and JACKOBOARD® plano. 

5. What kind of insulation do you use for a flat roof?

In order to make a room feel warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer, flat roof insulation is used. Although foam works particularly well and is frequently used in contemporary construction, other good insulation materials include wood fibre, cellular glass, and polystyrene (EPS or XPS). 

BEWI offers XPS thermal insulation called JACKODUR®. This is a top quality thermal insulation material made of extruded polystyrene foam, which is highly compression proof, dimensionally stable, as well as moisture/rot resistant. JACKODUR® is available in a wide variety of thicknesses and edge profiles with the option of a smooth or textured surface. 

We hope this blog has helped clarify any queries you may have about insulation. For more information, contact our team of specialists.

The construction industry is one of the most important industries in the world. It is responsible for building the homes, offices, and other structures we use daily. However, the construction industry has a potentially negative environmental impact due to the number of resources it consumes and the pollution it creates. This article will discuss five ways the construction industry can become greener and more sustainable.

The construction industry is vital to the economy and our way of life, but it has a significant environmental impact. There are many ways that construction companies and contractors can make their operations more sustainable and reduce their environmental footprint. Here are five of the most important:

Reduce energy consumption and invest in renewable energy sources.

One of the ways the construction industry can reduce its energy consumption is by using the more sustainable mechanical infrastructure. Using a fabric-first approach will reduce the requirement for larger infrastructure and help keep energy requirements to a minimum. Another way to reduce the construction industry’s energy consumption is to use renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, or green hydrogen. Another way to use less fuel is by switching from petrol and diesel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles.

Reduce water consumption.

Construction companies can reduce water consumption by using more efficient irrigation systems, drought-resistant plants, and rain harvesting. Construction companies can reuse greywater for irrigation to reduce water consumption even further. The introduction of water meters can help companies keep on track as well as implement low-consumption sanitary fittings.

Reduce waste.

Construction companies can reduce the amount of waste they produce by recycling construction materials and using less packaging. Plastic construction materials like PVC pipes can be replaced with more sustainable options such as bamboo. Where there is a need for high amounts of packaging, these can be replaced with sustainable packing options such as biodegradable plastics, recyclable wood and card. Various sustainable construction materials are available that have less of an impact on the environment than traditional construction materials. Sustainable construction materials include bamboo, recycled glass, and recycled plastic.

At construction sites, an emphasis should be placed on recycling from materials worked with to the contractors’ food containers for lunch, with metal bottles supplied for hydration throughout the day instead of plastic bottles.

Educate employees and clients about sustainability.

To do this, construction companies can provide training on sustainability topics and incorporate sustainable practices into their business operations. They can also advocate and lobby for sustainable policies at the local and national levels. They can also support sustainable organisations.

Use sustainable low-energy materials.

Construction companies can use green construction methods, such as green roofs and sustainable forestry, to reduce their environmental impact. They can also invest in low and zero-energy materials such as BEWI’s ICF system, THERMOMUR® and the insulated concrete raft system JACKODUR® ATLAS which allows for fast construction with premium air tightness and acoustic insulation as well as making the building exceptionally thermally efficient. BEWI also produces award-winning JACKODUR® insulation with compressive strengths from 300 to 700kPa, so you can be confident your construction project will be Future Homes Ready! By planning for energy-efficient homes of the future now, we can help the environment for years to come.

By implementing some or all of these sustainability measures, the construction industry can reduce its environmental impact and become more sustainable. Contact us today for more information about sustainable building practices, future-ready homes, and our low-energy building products.

If you’re in the market for a construction board that has superior insulation properties, extruded polystyrene (XPS) foam is the material you want. XPS construction boards offer several advantages over other types of construction boards. In this article, we will discuss some of the benefits extruded polystyrene foam offers over its competitors.

Energy Efficiency

The main advantage of extruded polystyrene foam is its superior insulation properties. Polystyrene boards have a higher R-value than other types of construction boards, meaning they can better resist heat transfer. R-Value means extruded polystyrene foam will make your home or office more energy-efficient, and extruded polystyrene foam construction is an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint.

This makes them ideal for use in energy-efficient homes and buildings. For example, JACKOBOARD® XPS construction board provides excellent insulation property whilst being a perfect waterproof tile backing substrate.

Damage Resistant

Extruded polystyrene foam is also resistant to water damage and rot. This makes it an ideal material for use in wet or humid conditions. XPS foam is also very strong and durable, meaning it will last longer than other types of construction boards. XPS boards are very light, making them easy to work with and transport.

Environmentally Friendly

Extruded polystyrene foam is an environmentally friendly material that can be recycled or reused. Polystyrene boards have a long product life, making them a sustainable choice for construction projects. Along with their energy-efficient properties, they can help to have an overall better impact on the environment compared to other types of construction boards.

If you’re looking for a construction board with superior insulation properties, extruded polystyrene foam is the way to go. With its many benefits, extruded polystyrene foam is the perfect choice for your next construction project.

Contact us today to learn more about XPS and JACKOBOARD® construction board. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you have about this versatile and durable material.

In the ever-growing quest to reduce our environmental impact, low-energy construction materials and techniques are becoming increasingly popular. Many different products and methods can be used to make your construction project more low-energy, and this blog post will introduce you to some of them! We’ll explore different products that are low energy as well as various building techniques that produce less energy. We’ll also discuss some key topics related to low-energy construction. So if you’re interested in making your next construction project more eco-friendly, read on!

Why should we use low-energy construction materials and building techniques?

There are many reasons to use low-energy construction materials and techniques. For one, it can help reduce your project’s carbon footprint. Low-energy construction materials often have a lower embodied energy than traditional materials, meaning they require less energy to produce. This can also lead to reduced emissions throughout the life cycle of your project – from manufacture to end-of-life.

Additionally, low-energy construction materials and techniques can often be more cost-effective in the long run. Using low-energy materials can help you save on heating and cooling costs and reduce maintenance costs. 

So there are many reasons to consider low-energy construction for your next project. But what low-energy options are available?

There is a wide range of low-energy construction materials and techniques that you can choose from.

Low energy materials include:

Insulated concrete forms (ICFs) are construction materials made from concrete sandwiched between two layers of insulation. ICFs are a low-energy option because they have a high thermal mass, which means they absorb and store heat well. This makes them ideal for low-energy buildings, as they can help regulate indoor temperatures and reduce heating and cooling costs. JACKODUR® ATLAS is an award-winning insulated concrete raft system guaranteed to make your project more efficient and sustainable.

Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is a type of engineered wood product made by bonding layers of lumber with adhesives. CLT is a low-energy material because it has a low embodied energy – meaning it requires less energy to produce than traditional construction materials like concrete or steel. Additionally, CLT is a carbon-neutral material, as the trees used to make it absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere as they grow.

Recycled steel is another low-energy construction material. Steel is a very durable material, so it can be recycled repeatedly without losing its strength or quality. Recycled steel requires less energy to produce than virgin steel, making it a low-energy option for construction.

There are also several low-energy building techniques that you can use to make your project more eco-friendly.

Low energy building techniques:

In your construction project, incorporating double and triple-glazed windows, low-E glass, argon gas-filled windows, and low U-factor window options will also help reduce heat loss and energy consumption.

Passive solar design is a low-energy construction technique that uses the sun’s natural heat to warm a space. This means orienting your building to maximise the sun’s exposure, using solar thermal mass to absorb and store heat, and incorporating shading devices to prevent overheating.

Green roofs are another low-energy construction technique that can help insulate a building and reduce heating and cooling costs. They work by absorbing heat from the sun during the day and releasing it at night, as well as providing an extra layer of insulation.

Rainwater harvesting is a low-energy technique that involves collecting rainwater and using it for irrigation, flushing toilets, or other non-potable uses.

As you can see, many low-energy construction materials and techniques are available to help you reduce the environmental impact of your project. So why not give some of them a try on your next build? You might be surprised at the difference it makes! Contact us today for high-quality, low-energy building materials.