SAP Calculations are important when it comes to assessing the energy efficiency of a new dwelling, a conversion, or a building extension. In practice, we use SAP assessments to estimate the energy performance of a dwelling in terms of its fabric efficiency, heating, cooling, and ventilation requirements. As a homeowner, architect or building contractor, you may require SAP Calculations when you apply for Building Control approval.

In short, a SAP assessment provides an indication of how energy efficient a building is, as well as its carbon impact. Also, SAP Calculations produce the EPC, which gives potential buyers or tenants an estimate of their annual energy costs. 

How do we produce SAP Calculations?

We use SAP, as a methodology, to determine the energy performance of a building. Also, we use SAP to identify areas where improvements can be made. SAP stands for Standard Assessment Procedure. It is essentially the latest regulations related to energy efficiency and the protection of the environment.  The system produces compliance reports that one should follow in order to ensure that their building meets the government targets. At design stage improving the energy efficiency of a new build is possible by taking various steps such as re-specifying the fabric of walls, ceiling, and floors; re-specifying windows and doors, lower u-values and implementing renewable energy solutions.

Why We Should Improve the Energy Efficiency?

Improving the energy efficiency of a new build home is becoming increasingly important. This is both in terms of meeting the government’s latest regulations and to save money in energy bills the long term. Recently, there are various steps that home owners, or architects, can take to improve the energy performance of a home. As we said, this can be done at design stage. For instance, using energy efficient fabric, reducing open spaces, and reducing glazed areas. Also, improving efficiency of windows and doors and increasing insulation levels. Finally, new regulations require better airtightness of the building, and the consideration of heat pumps and photovoltaic panels.

What is TFEE?

In simple words, the Target Fabric Energy Efficiency (TFEE) of a home is an important measure that we use to assess the energy efficiency of the chosen building fabric. We calculate it by taking into account the proposed wall, ceiling and floor structures. Also, we factor in the proposed insulation, windows and doors as well as the specified air tightness and ventilation. By understanding TFEE of a new home at design stage, architects and homeowners can make informed decisions about what building solutions to use while they are still at design stage. We also understand how to modify the design in order meet the latest energy efficiency requirements.

Ideally, we must consider TFEE for computer simulation and optimisation at design stage. Once a house is finished it becomes very complicated, if not impossible, to change TFEE values. The TFEE target for new homes has been set by the government and it is important that all new build homes meet this standard in order to ensure compliance. The standards vary between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, with 2022 Building Regulations already in force in England, while Northern Ireland remains to 2009 building standards.

You can search for our service using one of these search phrases: SAP Calcs, SAP Ratings, or even SAP reports.