Dynamic Thermal Modelling Assessments

Using whole building simulation programs, Dynamic Simulation Modelling (DSM) is used to undertake Thermal Modelling, calculate energy consumption, heat gains and losses, produce daylight calculations and assess the environmental performance of a building.

Simulation programs are used to produce a 3D model of the building using actual weather and solar data for the building’s specific location which is orientation accurate. A multitude of details are input into the software including, but not limited to, building fabric, mechanical and electrical services, zonal activities, occupancy periods and HVAC schedules. Yearlong simulations are then undertaken on a room-by-room basis to calculate the building performance which can then be used for the analysis of the building.

Approved Document O

We undertake dynamic thermal modelling in accordance with CIBSE TM59 to comply with Approved Document O for:

Residential dwellings
Care homes and other residential buildings for the care of elderly and disabled people
School boarding accommodation
Student accommodation

Our dynamic thermal modelling approach is unique from the UK’s first dedicated overheating company, in that we provide a single overheating strategy developed using a dynamic thermal modelling, a noise exposure assessment and an air quality assessment.

Our process

Understanding the environmental and security constraints which are used to identify the options for removing excess heat (e.g. whether / where an open window can be used, or how much the window can be opened)
Undertaking dynamic thermal modelling of the building
Identifying measures to reduce heat gains, including glazing specification, external shading, glazing areas and ceiling fans
Identifying a solution to remove the excess heat, including an open window where possible, or acoustic louvres, mechanical ventilation, and as a last resort, mechanical cooling
Agree the solution
Produce a single coordinated strategy, clearly showing the solution

Overheating in buildings has been highlighted as a key risk for the health and productivity of people and businesses in the UK

It is estimated that there are about 2,000 heat-related deaths each year in England and Wales.

This has led to new regulations to ensure occupants in new residential buildings do not suffer excessive temperatures.

Approved Document O England

Approved Document O (2021 edition – England) was released in December 2021 and came into force for all Building Regulations building notices, full plans applications and initial notices for residential buildings submitted in England from 15 June 2022.

Approved Document O Wales

Approved Document O (2022 edition – Wales) was released in May 2022 and came into force for all Building Regulations building notices, full plans applications and initial notices for residential buildings submitted in Wales from 23 November 2022.

Scottish Building Standard 3.28

Standard 3.28 of the Scottish Building Standards Domestic Technical Handbook (December 2022 edition) was released in June 2022 and came into force for all residential Building Warrant applications submitted in Scotland from 01 February 2023.