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What is Free Air?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Free Air refers to the natural movement of air through an unobstructed route within a building or structure. It is a key concept in ventilation design, ensuring that air can flow freely to maintain indoor air quality, regulate temperature, and remove pollutants. This principle is particularly relevant in the UK house building, residential retrofit, and...
What is Formaldehyde?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Formaldehyde is a volatile organic compound (VOC) with the chemical formula CH₂O. It is a colourless, strong-smelling gas commonly used in building materials, adhesives, and household products. In the context of UK house building, residential retrofit, and home renovation, formaldehyde is a critical consideration due to its potential health risks and its presence in materials...
What is Forced Ventilation?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Forced ventilation refers to the mechanical movement of air using powered systems (e.g., fans, ductwork, or heat recovery units) to ensure adequate air exchange in a building. Unlike natural ventilation, which relies on passive airflow through windows or vents, forced ventilation provides controlled and consistent air circulation, improving indoor air quality (IAQ), moisture control, and...
What is Floor Insulation?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Floor insulation refers to the material or system installed beneath or within a floor structure to reduce heat loss, improve thermal efficiency, and enhance the overall energy performance of a building. It is a critical component in achieving compliance with UK Building Regulations, particularly Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Power), and is essential for...
What is Flat Roof Insulation?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Flat roof insulation refers to the process of installing thermal insulation materials within or on top of a flat roof structure to reduce heat loss, improve energy efficiency, and comply with UK Building Regulations. It is a critical component in achieving thermal performance standards for residential and commercial buildings. Flat roofs, commonly found in extensions,...
What is a Fixed Louvre?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025A fixed louvre is a non-adjustable ventilation component designed to allow the controlled passage of air while preventing the ingress of rain, debris, and pests. It is commonly used in building ventilation systems, particularly in alternate flow heat recovery ventilation (HRV) systems, where it facilitates the intake and exhaust of air without mechanical intervention. Fixed...
What is Filtration?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Filtration refers to the mechanical or electrostatic capture of airborne particulates (e.g., dust, pollen, mould spores, and pollutants) via a porous medium (filter). In UK building practices, filtration is critical for maintaining healthy indoor environments, particularly in energy-efficient homes where airtightness can trap pollutants. Explanation & Practical Applications: Mechanical Filtration: Uses fibrous media (e.g., HEPA, MERV-rated...
What is a Filter?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025A filter is a device or component designed to remove particulate matter, contaminants, or impurities from air (or other fluids) within a ventilation system. In the context of UK residential building, retrofits, and extensions, filters are commonly integrated into whole-house ventilation systems (such as Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery, MVHR) and kitchen extractor fans to...
What is a Fan Speed Controller?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025A Fan Speed Controller is a device used to adjust the rotational speed of a fan, thereby regulating the airflow rate in a ventilation system. It allows for precise control over ventilation performance, ensuring optimal air exchange while minimising energy consumption. In the UK house building, residential retrofit, and home renovation sectors, fan speed controllers...
What is Fabric Maintenance?
Last Updated: 28 August 2025Fabric maintenance refers to the ongoing process of preserving and repairing the structural elements of a building, including its walls, floors, roofs, and other components that form the building envelope. This practice ensures the longevity, safety, and energy efficiency of the structure by addressing wear and tear, preventing deterioration, and mitigating risks such as damp,...