This year, we were proud to work with our certified installers AumAxum on Quarry House, a disused Oxfordshire quarry located between open fields and deciduous forests.

Designed by A-Zero Architects, the aim of this project was to provide a solution that delivers net-zero energy ratings, providing ultimate levels of home comfort using very little energy for heating and cooling.

Thermal performance was the biggest difficulty, as every product, regardless of size, had to attain a U-value of 0.8 W/m²K or greater. Aumaxum started the project with Schüco SI or HI systems that included triple-glazed units that performed at 0.5 W/m²K. However, some components fell short of the overall U-value requirement, mostly because of the disparity in proportions between the glass and frame (glazed units are generally better thermal performers than metal frames).

The scheme used a Passivhaus design method, although this was only one part of it. Excellent thermal performance was another. Both airtightness and low space heating demand are essential; the latter is made possible by the building envelope’s extensive use of high levels of insulation. The Schüco systems recommended’s sleek forms maximise daylighting and amazing scenic views.

In order to achieve a U-value of 0.2 W/m²K, Aumaxum suggested quadruple glazing with Krypton gas cavities from C.U.in. They had to gather test results and coordinate closely with our technical team, the architect, and the Passivhaus consultant to make sure it was suitable for use on the project and achieve it’s Passivhaus classification.

With our unique suspended film technology, it allowed great solar gain to heat the space naturally whist providing better acoustic insulation and security properties, reducing energy usage substantially to achieve the desired 0.2Wm²K.