Insulation Continuity

Part L Compliance April 2006

Infrared imaging can be applied to a building specifically to satisfy the demands of these building regulations, i.e. demonstrate that " …there are no reasonably avoidable thermal bridges in the insulation layers …"

Creating appropriate temperature gradients across the building fabric - it is possible to assess the continuity of insulation across entire surface areas. Anomalies can then be investigated further if appropriate.

Contractors

On new build projects there is a requirement for contractors to demonstrate that they have the correct procedures in place to ensure continuity of insulation on site. How this is managed is another matter, and for anyone attempting to prove compliance retrospectively thermal imaging is one of the few non destructive options available.

Insulation settlement in wall
Insulation settlement in wall

Missing insulation over ceiling and settlement in wall
Missing insulation over ceiling and settlement in wall

Thermal bridging is described elsewhere, however insulation continuity described in Part L April 2006 of the building regulations regards insulation continuity as providing the designed insulation without thermal bridges. The examples pictured show missing insulation.

Infrared survey best practice

To achieve best results from an infrared survey it is important to consider the environmental conditions and to use the most appropriate technique for the task. Thermal anomalies will only present themselves where temperature differences exist and environmental phenomena are accounted for. Insulation continuity and thermal bridging surveys require temperature difference across the building fabric to be greater than 10°C to be maintained.