Polypipe Ventilation is delighted to announce that the approval criteria outlined by the LABC for the use of their Domus Thermal duct insulation solution has been extended.
Domus Thermal is recognised by the LABC as an innovative (patent pending) system that radically improves the thermal insulation of ventilation ducting in domestic properties, preventing heat loss and contributing to a healthy living indoor environment by eliminating the formation of condensation.
The LABC supported Domus Thermal upon its launch, when this uniquely engineered product was added to the LABC Registered Systems list for use on round or rectangular rigid ducting passing through cold spaces, to prevent the build-up of condensation within duct. The extended criteria recognises that the product is also ideal for use to insulate rigid ducting passing between the MVHR (Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery) appliance and the terminals situated on the external walls within heated/insulated areas of the property, areas equally likely to encounter a build up of vapour and condensation. This application enables Domus Thermal to also prevent condensation build-up on the outside of the ducting, further validating the high quality and capabilities of this insulation solution.
Prior to Domus Thermal’s application being extended, only compliant insulation with a vapour barrier was considered suitable for installation between the MVHR unit and external terminals. Domus Thermal, however, was recognised for its ability to prevent heat-loss as well as allowing ventilation installers to fully comply with Part F of the 2010 Building Regulations, as outlined in the Government’s 2010 Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide. The Guide sets a minimum duct insulation standard of =0.04W/(m.K), with a 25mm thickness. Domestic duct insulation products on the market are generally unable to meet this requirement, but the improved thermal conductivity of the Domus Thermal range exceeds these standards. It is important to note that when Domus Thermal is installed between the MVHR unit and terminals, the LABC advises that joints between the fittings and straight lengths should be taped to prevent cold bridging.
Neil Tilsley, Managing Director of Polypipe Ventilation, commented, “We are extremely pleased that the LABC has reinforced its recognition of Domus Thermal as a highly effective insulation solution by approving it for use in this additional application. At Polypipe we are committed to developing products which play a vital role in helping our customers to achieve the higher levels of the Code for Sustainable Homes and the LABC’s extension of the approval criteria for Domus Thermal helps this continue.”
Manufactured from silver EPS (expanded polystyrene), incorporating carbon particles to further improve performance, Domus Thermal has high insulative properties yet remains a cost-effective and simple solution. The range is comprehensive and includes straight lengths and fittings for both Domus round and rectangular rigid duct systems. Each section consists of two identical moulded halves that fit snugly around the ducting and simply lock into place using a moulded interlocking feature. This gripping interlock feature means that the pieces stay together without the need for taping or gluing joints, significantly reducing installation time. The straight length sections are also moulded with a cutting guide every 10mm for added simplicity. Such a design not only makes for quick and simple installation but also looks highly professional, giving added reassurance to the customer.
To make installation even easier, Polypipe Ventilation also offers PVC-coated perforated steel banding, ideal for surface mounting or suspending ducting insulated with Domus Thermal.
For further information on Domus Thermal or any of Polypipe Ventilation’s energy saving ventilation solutions, please go to www.polypipe.com/ventilation or call 08443 715523.
