Overheating Assessment for new-build dwellings in England
An Overheating Risk Assessment is a desk-based analysis of the potential for overheating in a building. Under Approved Document O: Overheating, there are two methods for assessing the risk in new dwellings: the Simplified Method and the Dynamic Thermal Modelling method.
Simplified Method
The Simplified Method, outlined in Approved Document O, provides a straightforward way to assess overheating risk without resorting to a more complex TM59 assessment. It focuses on limiting solar gains and removing excess heat, with requirements varying depending on the building location and whether the property has cross-ventilation.
This method examines the area of glazing relative to the floor area and prescribes a minimum free area (the geometric open area of a ventilation opening) that must be achieved. While effective for many buildings, the Simplified Method is not suitable for all designs, and more complex analysis may be required.
Dynamic Thermal Modelling – CIBSE TM59For buildings where the Simplified Method is insufficient, Approved Document O recommends Dynamic Thermal Modelling using CIBSE TM59: Design methodology for the assessment of overheating risk in homes.
This method requires dynamic simulation software and is more costly for developers, but it provides greater design flexibility and a more detailed assessment of overheating risk.
Simplified Method
The Simplified Method, outlined in Approved Document O, provides a straightforward way to assess overheating risk without resorting to a more complex TM59 assessment. It focuses on limiting solar gains and removing excess heat, with requirements varying depending on the building location and whether the property has cross-ventilation.
This method examines the area of glazing relative to the floor area and prescribes a minimum free area (the geometric open area of a ventilation opening) that must be achieved. While effective for many buildings, the Simplified Method is not suitable for all designs, and more complex analysis may be required.
Dynamic Thermal Modelling – CIBSE TM59For buildings where the Simplified Method is insufficient, Approved Document O recommends Dynamic Thermal Modelling using CIBSE TM59: Design methodology for the assessment of overheating risk in homes.
This method requires dynamic simulation software and is more costly for developers, but it provides greater design flexibility and a more detailed assessment of overheating risk.
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