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 Aircrete Bureau to register for a copy of the APA's Fact Sheet on Part E.
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