Slimfix solution for energy efficient roofing

Jabroof Slimfix from Vencel Resil is widely used across Northern Europe as it offers structural support whilst at the same time satisfying Building Regulations' U-value requirements".

The shortage of land supply for new developments and the latest housing and planning rules (PPG3) have lead to more taller and narrower homes being built with a smaller footprint.

Many of these take the form of townhouses and apartments, which require energy efficient roofing solutions that are quick to construct and make it easier to meet U-values.

Around 35 per cent of a home's insulation is lost through the roof.

Jabroof Slimfix from Vencel Resil, one of the UK's leading manufacturers of expanded polystyrene products, can improve the U-value of a pitched roof to between 0.37 and 0.16 W/mK, in line with Approved Document L Building Regulations.

Neil Conway, general sales manager for Vencel Resil, explains: "This system is widely used across Northern Europe as it offers structural support whilst at the same time satisfying Building Regulations' U-value requirements".

"SlimFix is being widely specified in major housing developments for its performance benefits as well as its ability to help housebuilders meet their build schedules.".

Jabroof SlimFix is an excellent example of Modern Methods of Construction as the product is available in a choice of pre-cut lengths, with counter battens and gutter laths already fitted.

The system, which has been approved by the British Board of Agrement (BBA) consists of a sandwich construction incorporating an inner and outer layer of 8mm thick moisture-resistant orientated strand board (OSB) bonded to an insulating core of expanded polystyrene, which provides a 'warm' roof construction.

A common problem with traditional roof constructions is cold bridging which causes the temperature to drop dramatically at every stud, resulting in a very cold loft space which may also result in condensation.

However, with a Slimfix roof construction the temperature remains constant across the entire surface because there are no studs or braces to cause breaks in the insulation.

This enables housebuilders to create thermally efficient living areas under the roof space when previously this would not have been possible due to either the space requirements of other insulative materials, or the problems of creating an adequately insulated warm space.

An added benefit is that the insulation is provided at the level of the rafters, therefore the roof space remains warm, providing thermal protection to water services in the loft.

Jabroof SlimFix is supplied from Class E flame-retardant EPS as defined in BS EN 13163.

Back to top