U-Value Building Regulations Update 2022

Posted on 19th October 2022 in Press Releases

U-Value Building Regulations Update 2022

Building Regulations applications received after 15th June – will need to meet the new standards. If you submit you plans prior to this date, the changes will not apply to you.

Why Have the U-Value Requirements Changed?

Heating buildings and powering buildings currently accounts for 40% of the nation’s total energy usage – the aim is to half this by 2030.

Now, whilst this means you are likely to need an increased amount of insulation in your home, it does also mean your home will be more energy efficient. This is because the lower the U Value, the more insulation you require and so you will require less energy usage to heat your home.

What are the changes?

Giving an example first, prior to detailing – if you have an existing building and you are extending: The u value for walls have shifted from 0.28W/m² K to 0.18W/m² K The u value for Roofs have shifted from 0.18W/m² K to 0.15W/m² K.

The Specific Changes in U-Values

Notional dwelling specification of new dwelling

Element Type

Roof – Former U Value 0.13. Roof – Current U Value 0.11.

Wall – Former U Value 0.18. Wall – Current U Value 0.18.

Floor – Former U Value 0.18. Floor- Current U Value 0.13.

New elements in existing dwellings

Element Type

Roof – Former U Value 0.18. Roof – Current U Value 0.15.

Wall – Former U Value 0.28. Wall – Current U Value 0.18.

Floor – Former U Value 0.25. Floor- Current U Value 0.18.

Limiting U-values for existing elements in existing dwellings

Element Type

Roof – Former U Value 0.18. Roof – Current U Value 0.16.

Wall – Former U Value 0.30. Wall – Current U Value 0.30.

Floor – Former U Value 0.25. Floor- Current U Value 0.25.

Source – Approved Document L: Conservation of fuel and power – Volume 1: Dwellings

I have seen the Changes – What now?

Although the above is all based on a verified source. We do advise just checking with your building inspector / architect prior to proceeding.

We have solutions for all kinds of projects. So, whether you are insulating your Roof – Pitched / Flat or Walls – Sold Walls / Timber Frames or Insulating your Floor – Suspended Timber Floors or Concrete – we have solutions.

We have updated our FREE and really easy to use: U-Value Calculator to include the product make up that you would need to use to achieve the new regulations and meet the updated u-value requirements. If you can’t find the solution you are after – you can just Get In Touch.

We have the option for you to Request a Call Back or to Submit an Enquiry. One of our friendly team members will be more than happy to help.