Comparing the thermal performance of timber frame vs masonry low-energy dwellings in the UK today and in the future

UK building regulations have become tighter in order to improve the energy efficiency of the housing sector. These requirements can be met by traditional masonry construction techniques or through the use of Modern Methods of Construction, such as timber frame, which may also deliver faster housing. However, these requirements put in place to reduce heating demand may lead to increase of cooling demand and to houses prone to overheating, especially the ones with low levels of thermal mass. In this study, the authors investigated the overheating potential of two dwellings built to the same standards but using different construction methods, masonry and timber frame. They were designed to meet level 4 of the Code for Sustainable Homes with insulation and airtightness levels better than the minimum required. The study involved analysis of empirical data collected on site and use of dynamic simulations under current and future climate, to determine the effect of the construction method on the thermal performance of dwellings. Special attention was given to exploring the potential of thermal mass to mitigate overheating. The results suggest that masonry construction has potential to reduce the peak temperatures and overheating occurrence and increase the climate resilience of dwellings.