Ultra low E glass chosen for ‘next generation house’ project
31st March 2015

Ultra low emissivity PILKINGTON K glass S played a major role in achieving ‘one of the lowest U-Values for a UK domestic property’ in a showcase project, by specialist contractor TEC4M in Richmond, North Yorkshire.

The glass was used in conjunction with an insulating concrete form (ICF) system along with other advanced building envelope products in the pair of semi-detached houses to give the walls an overall U-value of just 0.19W/m2k.

ICF construction systems have become increasingly popular over the past five years, primarily because they enable a speedy build process, provide design flexibility and are inherently warm – insulation is effectively built-in, negating the need for cavity wall insulation.

To complement the thermal efficiency of the walls, contractors at TEC4M, an H Jarvis company, specified Pilkington K Glass™ S with a pane of ultra-clear Pilkington Optifloat™ to create bespoke double-glazed insulating glass units that blend optimum thermal efficiency with high levels of natural light.

The houses, which are the latest in a series of nationwide eco-home developments by TEC4M, retain warmth for an average of 20 hours after heating and can maintain ambient temperatures of 19°C.

H Jarvis managing director Dave Glendinning said: “With ambitious energy targets and an ultra-low U-Value to reach, we required the very best construction materials to help us achieve our end goal. Pilkington K Glass™ S has a proven track record of performance in projects with challenging thermal requirements and has helped us blend efficiency with aesthetic appeal.”

Blair McDonald, key account manager at Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, added: “This project showcases the reasons why ICF is becomingly increasingly popular with housing developers, architects and homeowners alike. When combined with the latest in glazing innovations, like those from Pilkington United Kingdom Limited, the result is next-generation houses that are efficient to build, efficient to run and comfortable to inhabit.”

www.pilkington.co.uk