Building envelope

The most important principle for energy efficient construction is: A continuous insulating envelope all around the building (yellow) minimises heat losses like a warm coat. In addition to the insulating envelope there should also be an airtight layer (red line) as most insulation materials are not airtight. Preventing thermal bridges (circles) is essential – indeed it is so important that a separate planning method has been developed: thermal bridge free design.

The Passive House envelope

This section contains information on the following topics:

Windows

External walls

Thermal insulation

Don’t save on the insulation

Thermal protection works

Video on insulation and airtightness