What is sustainable building? Lessening the environmental impact through energy and resource efficiency; minimising the use of non-renewable resources; reducing the use of toxic materials. Links to further information. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Sustainable building overview |
Key themes of the building design phase; principles and examples of sustainable design and build; detail on recognised standards. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Design |
Gathering expertise for sustainable building and refurbishments; finding an architect; network of professionals offering training and seminars. Links to further information. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Architects |
Choosing materials for sustainable buidling; theme of low embodied energy; introduction to material types; walls, roofs, windows, boarding, finishes, flooring and surfaces. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Material choices for wall construction; material performance according to sustainable indicators; bricks, blocks, wood blocks, straw bales, cob, rammed earth. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Roof performance and types; energy values, durability and sustainability; natural slate, clay tiles, concrete tiles, timber shingles, thatch, copper / aluminium coated steel, green roofs, flat roofs Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Considerations for window components; inuslation and lighting; sections on window frames (hardwood and softwood), aluminium and steel, PVC, glazing, glass coatings. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Information on the different types of boarding and their respective qualities; composite, fibre, soft / medium / hard, straw, particle, ply. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Detail on the finishes required for many sustainable building materials; lime render, synthetic paints and varnishes, natural paints. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Types of flooring; smooth flooring and carpeting; respective qualities; linoleum, cork, wood, rubber, tiling, pvc, natural flooring, synthetic flooring, surfaces Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Materials |
Managing construction sites with increased environmental responsibility. Links to further information. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Construction waste |
Product guides and retailers for sourcing sustainable materials. Info centre > Resource information > Sustainable building > Sustainable product guide |