Risk analysis software available to download free

BuildDesk U 3.2 software suite allows users to calculate accurate U-values for a wide range of building constructions and check for condensation risks.

The BuildDesk U 3.2 software suite, which allows users to calculate accurate U-values for a wide range of building constructions and check for condensation risks, is now available as a full free download from the BuildDesk website.

BuildDesk U 3.2 calculates U-values in accordance with BS EN ISO 6946, SAP 2005, BRE 443 (March 2006 edition) and BRE Digest 465 to ensure that U-value calculations are current and can be safely incorporated into designs and other upstream calculations such as SAP 2006 and SBEM.

The software also provides specific information regarding key aspects of building physics and offers Condensation Risk Analysis (Surface and interstitial condensation) according to BS EN ISO 13788 and BS 5250:2002.

BuildDesk is offering the software for free as part of the company's contribution to improving practice in the calculation of accurate U-values and energy efficiency, as Chris Hall, Director of BuildDesk, explains; "All U-values should be calculated in accordance with BR 443: Conventions for U-value calculations (March 2006 Edition) which outlines how the thermal performance of products and systems should be measured, calculated and declared.

However, we are aware of examples of situations where calculations have been manipulated and have contravened BR 443, for example by over-claiming the thermal performance of airspaces , surface resistances or by totally ignoring thermal bridging.

Another factor may be the use of obsolete software tools.

Ultimately this is leading to flawed inputs into SAP and SBEM calculations.

It is entirely possible to ask three people to do a U-value calculation on the same construction and get three varying results, which means that building owners receive flawed data.

We have been advised that some agencies are actually reverse engineering calculation results to suit.

"As well as taking advantage of the free software, we encourage people to enrol for our new U-value Training Scheme which instructs users how to make calculations in accordance with BR 443.

By enrolling on the course and by using the free software which follows the protocols of BR 443 (March 2006 Edition), we are providing people with the tools and skills to make accurate calculations, thereby helping designers to avoid expensive mistakes.

We believe that it is important that companies like BuildDesk, which focus specifically on energy efficiency , have a duty to encourage best practice wherever possible".

The BuildDesk U-value Training Scheme is conducted at the company's South Wales offices and will be offered on a regional basis.

New dates will be added to the BuildDesk website on an ongoing basis.

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