In September 2022, building ministers from state and territory levels agreed to overhaul the National Construction Code (NCC). This revamp ensures that every newly constructed house in Australia, starting from October 2023, must meet a minimum 7-star energy efficiency rating.
The push for increased energy efficiency translates to homes using less electricity or gas for their heating and cooling needs. Simply put, more stars on the rating mean smaller energy bills. According to the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS), a home with a 7-star rating is projected to consume 25% less energy compared to a 6-star rated home. While there might be a slight uptick in the cost of building materials, the investment in energy efficiency is anticipated to yield substantial dividends over time. So how do you build for a 7-star energy rating?
A prime example is by installing insulation in your roof, walls and floor. Using Kooltherm insulation can be an effective strategy for improving energy efficiency and, subsequently, raising the energy star ratings of your home. Kingspan is known for its high-performance rigid insulation ‘Kooltherm’ which provides excellent thermal conductivity and efficiency.
Ceiling Insulation
Ceiling insulation primarily aims to prevent heat from entering or escaping through the roof. It helps maintain consistent temperatures within the living space, reducing the need for heating and cooling. This results in less energy consumption and lowered utility bills. We would recommend Kooltherm K10 for this application. It has a fibre-free, phenolic core and both an upper tissue-based facing and a lower facing of highly reflective aluminium foil, along with a slim profile.
Under-Slab Insulation
Underslab insulation is a key element in creating an energy-efficient and comfortable living space. Installed beneath the concrete slab of a building, this insulation minimises heat loss and gain between the ground and the interior, ensuring more stable indoor temperatures. By preventing the transfer of cold from the ground in winter and reducing heat absorption in summer. Kooltherm K3 Underfloor boards would be ideal for this.
Wall Insulation
Installed within the walls of a building, typically between studs or in the cavity, wall insulation helps regulate indoor temperatures by preventing heat transfer between the interior and exterior of the home. Kooltherm K12 board would be perfect for this application being very lightweight and easy to install. Featuring a composite foil facing with low emissivity on both surfaces, K12 Framing Board enhances the thermal resistance of adjacent cavities, making them suitable for construction in both timber and steel frame walls.
Thinner Profiles, Maximum Efficiency:
Kooltherm insulation often offers higher thermal resistance (R-value) per unit thickness compared to traditional insulation materials. This means you can achieve the same level of insulation with a thinner layer of Kooltherm, allowing for more design flexibility while maintaining or improving energy performance.
If you're looking to improve the Energy Star rating in your home or commercial project, PMC can supply and deliver a huge range of Kingspan insulation. We also carry a large range of general insulation products such as Knauf Earthwool, Pink Batts, Autex Polyester, CSR Bradford Insulation, and a host of other products for HVAC.
