Building Regulations and Planning Permissions

Details of Approved Document O

Approved Document O

A recent document has come to fruition which holds enormous significance for future architecture, and for IQ, is Approved Document O. Approved Document O outlines a set of Building Regulations which was bought in last year to reduce the possibilities of overheating in homes. This is something of which is extremely applicable and important for IQ whereby the use of glazing plays a paramount role in mitigating the possibility of overheating in Residential Developments. This is because glazing solutions directly affect aspects such as ventilation and solar control factors which are crucial in heat regulation for homes to avoid overheating. The document outlines different ways in which architects can comply with Part O.

Approved Document O Part 1

The two main ways in which architects can achieve compliance with Document O is split into two, the first of which is the simplified method of taking a framework of an existing house from the surrounding area and similar location then architects must comply with this existing framework. This method may be beneficial in terms of increasing ease for architects to abide by the rules and regulations outlined in Approved Document O, as it provides them with a framework and a relative checklist to follow, bringing about benefits such as decreasing time it takes for new houses to be built as a result of less time spent trying to meet design regulations. However, there are some noticeable drawbacks from the adoption of this method for compliance. The most significant of which is the lack of flexibility in design that following a stringent existing framework allows, creating less individualism in new houses. As well as this it contributes towards the creation of clone towns something which many potential buyers and existing tenants can view negatively.

Approved Document O Part 2

The second method is to create a design that minimises overheating risks that involves calculations to ensure standards are met, known as the dynamic thermal modelling. To demonstrate compliance architects must follow the TM59 methodologies as described in approved Document O to avoid overheating. It enlists suitable strategies architects can follow to ensure this. Strategies included in reducing overheating via shutters, external blinds, overhangs or awnings. It also elaborates on differences in potential glazing design, such as size, orientation, G value, depth of window reveal. In contrast to the previous method this method provides much greater design flexibility, allowing for much more variance in design elements in new houses or apartments something that not only benefits both the monetary and intangible value of the dwelling, but also the architect by allowing them to work on unique projects showcasing their design skills. Overall Document O provides general guidance of the performance expected of materials and building work to comply with each of the requirements of the building regulations. As well as practical examples and solutions on how to achieve compliance for some of the more common building situations. Approved Document O holds large significance in future architectural glazing and building design due to the importance of ventilation and daylight in buildings.

If you require glazing solutions that comply with Approved Document O, please contact us.