The Ultimate Benchmark in Energy Efficiency
Passivhaus, which translates to "passive house" in English, refers to buildings designed with strict energy efficiency standards to maintain a stable indoor temperature with minimal fluctuations.
These buildings are meticulously constructed, highly insulated, and well-ventilated, allowing them to retain heat from sunlight and occupants' daily activities. As a result, they require very little supplementary heating or cooling.
What defines a Passivhaus?
Passivhaus buildings will vary but they will all have some features in common, including:
Insulation
Far greater insulation than typical UK properties.
Frames & Glazing
Triple glazing, with insulated frames.
Airtight
Impressive airtightness levels (around 20x more than a standard build
Heat Recovery
Mechanical ventilation, with heat recovery system attached.
How All Timber Frames can help
Frames to Passive House standards and accreditation
All Timber Frames manufactures two types of frame in order to achieve the required levels of insulation to meet Passive House exacting standards; a frame that uses timber engineered I-beams for the stud work with glu-lam beams acting as the top, bottom and side rails.
The I-beam frame can be manufactured using studs that are 240mm, 300mm or 350mm in depth, although our CLS timber frames will also comply. The panels can be made as either insulated or open panel systems.
To better explain the structures insulation and material options for the timber frame, please get in touch with us.
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Frequently asked questions
Where did Passivhaus come from?
The Passivhaus Institute in Germany developed energy-efficient building principles to address gaps in expected energy savings. Builders can apply for Passivhaus certification by meeting strict design standards using the institute’s planning system. While not everyone can build a new home, these principles can also enhance energy efficiency in older homes. This guide explores how Passivhaus buildings work and offers tips for improving home energy efficiency.
How are Passivhaus properties built?
Unlike some carbon-neutral buildings that offset energy use with clean energy generation, Passivhaus buildings focus on minimizing energy consumption from the start by being highly sealed against the elements.
Do you need to heat a Passivhaus?
A Passivhaus building minimises the need for traditional heating, relying instead on a small, energy-efficient heating element within the ventilation system, which activates only in freezing conditions. Water heating is typically handled by emission-free solutions like solar heating or an air source heat pump.