Block / Wood or Steel frame

[Goldie]

Hi all,

After a three year battle i am just after receiving P.P for a 2,500 sq ft storey and a half dormer. Yea!

I am investigating both direct labour and a contract build (dependant on price!). Structure wise we are pricing block (with insulated slabs internally on the perimeter walls), timber frame and steel frame.

We also want to include a HRV system and a ground source heap pump (again, budget allowing).

I am looking for opinions on -

1)by using block build and insulated slabs on perimeter walls and super insulated floors, walls and roof could we achive the necessary airtight envelope where we would not have excessive running cost of the heat pump?

How do i virtually guarantee airtightness on a block build?

2) What level / thickness and type of insulation should i specify for floors, walls and roof for pricing the job to achive requirement above?

3) Anyone use the block build and internal slab system and how is it working for them? Personal experiences please!

4) Steel frame wise, has anybody come across a company called Dryform based in Galway (no connection), just recommended to me.

5) Has anybody placed solar panels on a garage roof (as opposed to house) and does this cause usage issues i,e long draw for water when running showers etc? What if any is solution (other than putting them on roof of house).

Thanks,

Goldie.

 

[sydthebeat]

GOLDIE,

you should also consider 215 internal block and external insulation. and perhaps ICF as well.

 

[Goldie]

Syd,

Can you expand, what are 215 internal blocks?

Could you give some info on the insulation query, you appear to be one of the resident expertson aam?!

Kind regards.

Goldie.

 

[wexford dude]

Hi Goldie,

I don't understand why u are worried about the airtightness of a block build.I have completed my own house using masonry and have no issues with airtightness.
The types of insulation for walls, floors etc. are changing constantly.A good starting point would be the Kingspan website.
Also u should not need to use 215mm (block on flat) for a private house even if u are putting in a concrete floor.

Best of Luck

 

[sydthebeat]

Hi Goldie,

I don't understand why u are worried about the airtightness of a block build.I have completed my own house using masonry and have no issues with airtightness.
The types of insulation for walls, floors etc. are changing constantly.A good starting point would be the Kingspan website.
Also u should not need to use 215mm (block on flat) for a private house even if u are putting in a concrete floor.

Best of Luck

wexford dude. did you get an air-tightness test carried out on your house, if so what result did you get?

215 block on flat is for an external insulation build such as;
[broken link removed]

goldie, ill get to your other questions later