Compared to other types of structures, passive homes may save up to 90% on energy expenditures since they are intended to require less heating and cooling. They feature strong insulation and airtight construction and are free of thermal bridges. They also employ energy sources inside the structure, such as body heat and solar radiation. 

Let’s take a look at the passive house supplies you’ll need for a passive home –

Airtight Barriers

Building envelope airtightness barriers are made of membranes and tapes that form an impermeable seal. Imagine sophisticated rollers that stop even the smallest drafts. Seek for companies whose membranes effectively block air while allowing moisture to escape.

Insulation

Passive, super-thick insulation is needed for the walls, roofs, and floors of houses. Wood fibre insulation and high-performance mineral wool are popular options. They provide more heat resistance than conventional fibreglass.

Windows and Doors

Windows and doors are vulnerable to energy loss. To reduce heat transfer, select premium-grade, Passive House-certified windows and doors. These usually include insulated frames and triple glazing.

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery

Due to their extreme airtightness, passive houses require a ventilation system to provide fresh air. These devices capture heat and transfer it to the entering fresh air while removing stale air. This conserves electricity while maintaining consistent, good ventilation in the house.

Principles of a Passive Home 

A passive home is built on several principles, including –

  • Superior quality of insulation: High insulation levels are necessary for passive dwellings to keep the inside temperature constant.
  • Controlling the heat and strong windows: Passive home windows feature triple-pane windows with low-e coatings that reflect heat into the room.
  • Airtight Structures: For passive homes to reduce heat loss and avoid drafts, airtightness is crucial.
  • Ventilation for heat recovery: A heat recovery ventilator is installed, which continually removes stale, humid air from the house and replaces it with fresh air. 

Passive dwellings harness internal energy sources, such as the sun and body heat. By using natural heating and cooling sources like the sun and winds, they helps minimise unnecessary heat absorption and loss.