Everything you need to know about the changes effective from May 1st 2024
As of the 1st of May, 2024, Melbourne has just unveiled the brand new 7-star insulation requirements. It’s a significant update in the energy efficiency space and it’s part of the Nationwide House Energy Rating Scheme (NatHERS). These new 7-star insulation requirements mark a shift towards reducing emissions and enhancing energy efficiency in residential buildings and homes.
When it comes to these new requirements, a proper understanding is crucial for homeowners, builders and designers as the state of Victoria works towards creating more sustainable homes
What are some of the changes?
As of May 1st, new homes are required to achieve 7-stars and a whole-of-home rating no less than 60 under the NatHERS option. The higher the star and whole-of home rating, the more energy efficient the home is.
These changes impact you if you are building a new home, the Victorian Building Authority can advise if you need to comply with the current energy efficiency ratings on your existing home.
Why do the new 7-star standards matter?
The decision to raise the insulation standards to 7 stars is backed by the need to urgently combat climate change and reduce our carbon footprint. When we work to improve the energy efficiency in our homes, we can significantly decrease greenhouse gas emissions whilst also reaping a bunch of rewards as homeowners.
These benefits for homeowners include long-term cost savings thanks to reduced energy bills, improved comfort inside your house year round and overall a healthier and more temperature controlled environment in your home for all your occupants.
The key insulation requirements
There are a few key areas that the new 7-star requirements directly impacted, these are some of the key requirements and key takeaways from the new 7-star standards.
The key insulation requirements
One of the main focuses of the new standards is the enhancement of roof and ceiling insulation. The updated R-value recommendations make sure that the insulation offers continuous coverage so that you can effectively minimise heat transfer and improve your homes’ overall thermal performance.
Wall Insulation
This is another key change of the new 7-star standards. Higher standards for wall insulation are crucial in order to ensure your home is as energy efficient as possible. Properly insulated walls help to make a thermal barrier so that you can reduce the heat loss in the winter and reduce heat gain in the summer. Properly insulated walls really do help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature all throughout the year.
Floor Insulation
The guidelines for subfloor insulation have also been revised to help minimise the amount of energy lost through your floor. Making sure there;s adequate insulation in the subfloor area allows you to help maintain consistent indoor temperatures so that you don’t need to blast the heater or the air conditioner when there are outdoor temperature changes.
Other factors that help you achieve a 7-star rating
When it comes to achieving a 7-star home rating, it doesn’t just come down to insulation. There are a number of other factors you should consider when you’re trying to hit the whole-of-home rating. These are some of the other factors that you need to keep in mind!
Windows & Glazing
Windows and glazing play a significant role in achieving the 7-star rating. You’ll want to opt for double glazed and low-emissivity glass to help minimise heat transfer and improve the performance of your insulation.
Proper window placement and shading can also enhance energy efficiency in summer time by minimising heat gain so that your house stays cool during the warmer months.
Airtight & Ventilated
It might seem like an oxymoron but you really want to ensure you get the perfect balance between airtightness and proper ventilation in your home. This helps to maximise energy efficiency whilst still ensuring good indoor air quality. Airtight construction helps to prevent drafts and energy loss whilst proper ventilation makes sure your indoor environment remains healthy.
You may want to invest in a ventilation system that provides controlled airflow whilst meaning airtightness to achieve the perfect balance.
Design & Orientation
When it comes to trying to reach that 7-star rating, the orientation of your building actually does play quite a significant role. Ensuring you choose proper orientation for your home, combined with shade strategies and strategic window placement helps to ensure maximum natural light and solar heat gain so that you can reduce the reliance on using your heater during the winter.
Additional information about the new 7-star ratings
The new 7-star insulation requirements signify a really significant step to a more sustainable future for Victorians. Complying with these standards don’t just help the environment, they also provide a range of advantages for homeowners. By consulting with insulation experts you can ensure that your new build or your renovations meet the new standards. Creating a home that is energy-efficiency, comfortable and environmentally friendly has never been so important!
When it comes to the new 7-star ratings, we know it can be a whole lot to wrap your head around and seeking out additional resources is crucial to improving your overall understanding. Sustainability Victoria has a bunch of great information about the new 7-star energy ratings for individuals building new homes or renovating their current home.
Contact Oz Homes Insulation Today
If you’re looking for insulation experts to help guide you to ensuring you have a 7-star home, our team at Oz Homes Insulation can help. Whether you’re renovating your existing property or you’re undertaking a new build, it’s crucial to make sure you have the 7-star insulation requirements at the forefront of your mind.
To find out more about how our team of insulation installation experts can help or to get a quote from one of our team members, be sure to contact us today.
No matter where you are in your build, it’s never too early (or too late!) to consult with a team of insulation experts.
