Keen to hit this demanding eco standard in your new build? Thomas Hagen reveals why it’s crucial to get the glazing specification right

Internorm’s Passivhaus-certified HF 310 window can achieve U-values as low as 0.62 W/m2K

Akey focus for many selfbuilders is to create a comfortable, low-energy and low-bills home that’s wellinsulated against the ever-rising cost of utilities. Getting this right relies on a range of design and construction factors – but the key piece of the puzzle is to take a fabric first approach that seeks to minimise energy usage, rather than simply bolting on renewable technologies. And that’s where the Passivhaus standard comes in.

What is Passivhaus?

It’s basically a building design code that ensures consistent, comfortable internal temperatures across the year – without the need for conventional heating or air conditioning systems. The idea is to optimise internal climates by providing a highly-insulated, airtight structural shell, which means sufficient heat can be collected via solar gain, appliances and from the house’s inhabitants, while also ensuring adequate ventilation.