Building regulations for façade in New Zealand

Clause B2 Durability must always be considered when demonstrating compliance with each of the clauses of the Building Code.

Under the clause, building materials, components and construction methods are required to be sufficiently durable. They must ensure that the building, without reconstruction or major renovation, continues to satisfy the other functional requirements of the Building Code throughout its life. B2 species minimum durability periods building elements must meet with only normal maintenance, being not less than 50 years.

Smart Facade will continue to satisfy the performance of the Building Code throughout its specified intended life.

Knauf Insulation's BRANZ Appraisal (648) states,  "Where the building is maintained so that provisions of the NZBC E2 and E3 Clauses are met, and where the insulation is not crushed or exposed to conditions that will diminish its thermal performance, (e.g. moisture), Knauf Glasswool Insulation can expect to have a serviceable life of at least 50 years".

This clause requires housing to meet a building performance index (BPI) not exceeding 1.55 (this is defined in the Verification Method and Acceptable Solution). It requires enclosed spaces where temperature or humidity are modified to provide adequate thermal resistance and to limit uncontrollable airflow in certain buildings. It also sets out physical conditions likely to affect energy performance, and requirements for hot water systems, artificial lighting and HVAC systems.

Smart Facade insulation products will contribute to meeting these requirements. Smart Facade offers a range of thicknesses, R-values and thermal conductivities that assist in meeting and exceeding the Building Code requirements.

Surfaces in wet areas must be impervious, easily cleaned, and have ventilation to meet conditions for health and safety. This Building Code clause requires buildings to be constructed to avoid fungal growth and excessive moisture. Its provisions relate to habitable spaces, bathrooms, laundries and other spaces where moisture may be generated or accumulate. Its requirements include provisions for: Adequate thermal resistance, Space temperature,  Ventilation, Disposal of overflow water, Surfaces to be impervious and easily cleaned.

Smart Facade insulation products will contribute to meeting these requirements by: not absorbing water, allowing for water dissipation when used in ventilated cavity and contributing to maintaining thermal resistance.

An innovative range of non-combustible insulation engineered specifically for ventilated façade systems that can be applied to new and existing buildings.