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Ecological announces new retrofit training programme
Ecological Building Systems has updated its Irish training programme for the autumn and winter season. Along with its award winning airtightness installer training, the company will launch a new course titled Low Energy Retrofits. To coincide with this Ecological will be also hold a Retrofit Insulation Masterclass on the 25 and 27 October.
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The masterclass will be held in conjunction with the company’s German partners Pro Clima and Calsitherm. The event offers a unique opportunity for architects, builders and planners to speak to senior technical engineers from both companies, and discuss how to combine the optimum level of thermal performance in retrofits with a healthy living environment. The masterclass will focus on the latest developments in delivering high performance, healthy low energy retrofits.
Every country within the EU must have a national renovation strategy in place before April 30 2017 under revisions to the EU Energy Efficiency Directive in September this year. In Ireland residential buildings account for 27 % of the country’s total energy use, and 12% of its carbon emissions.
Niall Crosson, senior engineer with Ecological, stated: “Retrofitting thermal insulation in buildings presents a unique opportunity to significantly reduce heat losses, improve comfort and reduce fuel bills. Retrofitting thermal insulation and airtightness in buildings can lead to numerous challenges. Unforeseen consequences such as condensation, mould growth, building damage and a reduction in indoor air quality can occur by using inappropriate materials and poor execution of detailing at the planning and building phase.
“The aim of our Retrofit Masterclass and new Low Energy Retrofit training course is to raise awareness among building professionals and homeowners that while energy efficiency is important, this should not be to the detriment of building durability and indoor air quality.”
The masterclass will be opened with a keynote address by minister for housing and urban renewal Damien English. Dr Gregor A Scheffler will also present the latest guidance in relation to thermally upgrading solid walls and minimising the risk of condensation and mould growth.
Bookings for both the Retrofit Masterclass and the Low Energy Retrofit Course can be confirmed on www.ecologicalbuildingshop.ie.
