Remember, the NZ Building Code requirements are minimum standards and we strongly recommend that a new house build should aim to achieve well above Code.
To we look at windows.
The insulation value of windows, even the best on the market, is only a fraction of the insulation value in the walls. Therefore it is imperative to carefully consider the quality of the window from and glazing.
Double glazing standard these days, but comes in varying degrees of quality. Look to have Low-E (low emissivity) glass, with argon filled cavity. Aluminium frames are the standard in NZ. They are available with a thermal break to increase performance.
Have a look at the window display in the Smarter Building Centre, 45B Te Roto Drive for more information.
Timber, PVC and Fibreglass frames are also available with better insulation values but are generally considerably more expensive. Sizing and locating windows also needs careful consideration.
In general, try for the maximum amount of glass on the north facing side of the house. This allows passive solar heating during the day. Less glass should be incorporated on east and west facing walls, and glass on the south facing walls should be kept to an absolute minimum. Lastly, ensure you have really good thermal drapes that are floor to ceiling to retain warmth inside at night time.
The cladding's nearly finished. Next it's the exterior finishing and the start of the interior GIB lining.
The Resene/ADNZ regional design awards boards are now on display at the Smarter Building Centre, 45B Te Roto Drive, Paraparaumu from 9am-5pm 12th - 23rd July. Come in and have a look at some outstanding architectural projects in the residential, interiors and commercial fields.