An online technical masterclass, running over 2 half days, covering emerging research, best practice and case studies in the field of upgrading traditional and historic buildings.

• How do we protect our traditional buildings but make them fit for the future?
• What are the risks for small- and large-scale retrofit projects?
• How can unintended consequences be addressed when upgrading solid-walled buildings?
• The Whole Building Approach to retrofit!

Addressing energy efficiency is fast becoming one of the most pressing issues for older, traditionally-constructed buildings. However, retaining character and significance can be at odds with achieving improved thermal efficiency, and there is increasing evidence highlighting not only the benefits but also the risks of different technical solutions.

Upgrading traditional building fabric is notoriously complex, particularly where planning restrictions apply, and a holistic understanding of buildings, upgrade measures and occupant behaviour is required to ensure compatibility and appropriateness and manage technical risks.

Topics include but not limited to

• Examination of current issues, solutions and emerging best practice in how to achieve ‘responsible retrofit’ – sustainable, low-energy traditional buildings with retained character, minimal risk to buildings and occupants and real benefits for all.
• Principles including energy & building survey, maintenance, moisture assessment, thermal bridging, building and insulation materials, ventilation & airtightness, design and installation are complemented by practical solutions for domestic buildings, with a focus on solid walls, windows and ventilation as part of a whole-building approach.
• Practical application is demonstrated by case studies and practical sessions, and technical detail encompasses recent research findings & guidance from organisations including the Sustainable Traditional Buildings Alliance (STBA), SPAB, Historic England, Historic Environment Scotland and others, as well as detailed case studies from leading retrofit specialists.
• Both good and bad practice will be covered, in order to highlight the importance of adopting an appropriate, responsible approach to traditional building retrofit. Case studies of large-scale solid wall insulation failures will be presented alongside comprehensive guidance on how to avoid these pitfalls and adopt robust, low-risk, effective approaches.

About the Speaker

Nicholas Heath MA MSc, (Founding Director, NDM Heath Ltd)
Nick is a Certified Passivhaus Consultant and Retrofit Coordinator. Founding Director of NDM Heath Ltd, which he established in 2013 after more than ten years in the existing buildings sector.

Nicholas has a wealth of experience in the challenges of achieving meaningful building upgrades that address environmental, economic and social agendas. In particular, he has a special expertise in the challenges and solutions for traditional and historic building stock.

Please visit NDN Heath Ltd‘s website for his full profile