Apr 19 2009
The H+H Rå Build method of high-insulation aircrete reduced both costs and construction time for JTC Developments' three stylish ‘Eco’ family houses recently completed in Manchester.
The main advantages of the Rå Build construction method are speed and build quality, with none of the problems associated with having to co-ordinate different teams of tradesmen onsite. First fix trades can start working inside while the external skin is still going up – so saving valuable time and money. There are also the added bonuses of less waste on site and easy compliance with parts E and L of the building regulations for acoustic and thermal insulation.
The 100mm-thick aircrete was bonded using the thin-joint Celfix system instead of traditional mortar, to achieve consistently high air tightness and U value of 0.24W/m2K.
The aircrete is manufactured from 80% recycled ash that would otherwise be heading for landfill and influence the energy, materials and health and well-being elements of the code for sustainable homes. The completed development is built to equal level 4 of the code.
JTC Developments managing director, John Thompson, decided to use the Rå Build method based on its credentials. He commented,
“We wanted to use masonry due to building values associated with it, such as strength and longevity, things not normally identified with timber frame methods. We saved time and money with the Rå Build method. The Thin Joint System no doubt contributed to the development’s excellent ‘Eco’ credentials and residents can look forward to a significant yearly saving on energy bills compared to a standard house. ”
The high specifications include kitchens with environmentally friendly 'AAA' rated appliances, double-glazing, modern condensing gas central heating systems and dousing showers to minimise water usage.