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Whilst housebuilders continue to digest the implications of both the Part E and Part L
documents on building practices, the Aircrete industry has broadly welcomed the proposed
tightening of the acoustic and thermal regulations. Whilst potential conflict between the
proposed requirements of Part E and Part L still exists, Aircrete as a building material possesses
inherent sound and thermal insulating qualities, and it will therefore continue to appeal as a method
of construction.
The primary objective of Part E is to raise the standard of sound insulation in all dwellings,
as noise nuisance has a detrimental effect on a homeowner or resident's quality of life. Aircrete is
a structural building material with inherent mass and it contains effective sound insulating
properties, which is why the APA, representing all major manufacturers of Aircrete,
generally applauds any move to improve the acoustic insulation in all new houses.
Aircrete blocks also provide a significant proportion of the insulation needed to achieve the
increased performance under the requirements of Part L. Using the more efficient Calculation
Methods of compliance means that housebuilders will be able to use the existing design and
construction details that have proved so effective in the past with minimal, if any changes, and
without the need for thicker walls.
Aircrete masonry remains by far and away the most popular construction method with housebuilders
due to its easy workability, cost efficiency and excellent performance. As a build material with an
innate versatility, Aircrete strikes an ideal balance between the requirements set by the Part E and
Part L proposals and its future use appears very much assured.
Contact the APA to register for a copy of
the APA's Factsheet on Part E.
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