Understanding overheating: where to start: an introduction for house builders and designers

Traditionally, overheating has not been a problem in housing due to low levels of insulation and gaps in building fabric that allow air to flow in and out.

In having to meet more demanding thermal and airtightness standards, new homes may be more predisposed to overheating.

This illustrated guide is an introduction to the causes of overheating and a range of design measures that can reduce it. Seven case studies demonstrate how overheating can occur, including the effect of location, inappropriate design or the way in which the home is used.

More detailed evidence for overheating and how we currently define it is included in NF 46 (Overheating in new homes – A review of the evidence).