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The main objective of clause H1 in the New Zealand building code is to facilitate efficient use of energy.
NZBC H1 ENERGY EFFICIENCY GUIDE: by Pink Batts
This higher level of insulation reduces energy lost when heating, and energy gain when cooling buildings.
There are several methods with which compliance can be met as show below:
- An Acceptable Solution will automatically comply with the building code
- The Verification method will provide a means of verifying a building complies with the Building Code
- An Alternative solution allows designers to offer an alternative means of showing compliance. For example use of an international standard that is proven to be equivalent to the NZBC requirements
The NZBC: Clause H1 divides New Zealand into three different climate Zones:
Climate zone 1 – specified Northland, Auckland, and the Thames-Coromandel districts in the North Island, the Kermadec Group of Islands, and other land territories, islands, and islets north of the 42nd parallel.
Climate zone 2 – land territories, islands, and islets within the internal waters of New Zealand but not in climate zone 3 or climate zone 1.
Climate zone 3 – the South Island, the Taupo and Ruapehu Districts, the Rangitikei District from just north of the 40th parallel, the Chatham Islands, Stewart Island, and other land territories, islands, and islets south of the 42nd parallel.
The NZBC: Clause H1 stipulates the construction R-value for each climate zone to meet the requirement of the NZBC. You can download the clause including all the tables and associated notes from the Department of Building and Housing.
The construction R-values, as stipulated in NZBC: Clause H1, take into account thermal bridging, cladding materials and other factors. It is important to note the R-value of the insulation is not the same as the final construction R-value.
Pink Batts have developed a handy downloadable guide to ensure you can specify the right level of insulation.
