HOW TO CREATE A SUPERHOME
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Home Orientation
Design orientated for correct solar gain shading optimised to prevent overheating
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Insulation
High performance thermal envelope insulation continuous without thermal bridges
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Windows
Windows high spec and recessed in wall low E double glazing with a non-conductive thermal spacer
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Foundations
Foundations fully edge insulated, with no thermal bridging, and an insulated floor
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Heating
Energy efficient heating, such as hydronic underfloor that is solar powered
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Ventilation
Heat/energy recovery ventilation to eliminate moisture and improve health
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Airtightness
Airtight construction and building materials to minimise heat loss and eliminate moisture and mold in the walls
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Moisture Control
Use water efficient fittings and appliances. Remove moisture at source, such as bathroom/kitchen extraction
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Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting for use in gardens and as greywater
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Energy
Use renewable energy sources with energy efficient fittings and appliances, and automated smart controls to restrict energy use to times when it is needed
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Sustainable Materials
Use ethically sourced, sustainable products such as those that are environmentally certified.
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Sustainable Construction
Sustainable building methods help minimse waste and ensure the home is resilient and future focused
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Landscaping
Minimise your carbon footprint by having food producing plants and native landscaping
WHAT IS A SUPERHOME
A Superhome is a home that is roughly double the energy efficiency of the current NZ building code
The current NZ building code is roughly equivalent to a Homestar 3 rating. Superhomes are between 6 and 10 Homestar rated.
In general, Superhomes have good design - the home must be fit or purpose, functional, and it should be delightful and comfortable to live in as well as beautiful and something to pass on to generations. Superhomes must be resilient - the home must be built with the future in mind, durable enough to stand for more than 100 years, and resilient enough to withstand earthquakes and severe weather. Superhomes must be green - socially, economically, and environmentally sustainable to build and run.
Superhomes must be energy efficient - economical to run, and aim to be energy positive for the life of the building. Superhomes must promote good health of the people who live there.
DOWNLOAD guide to creating a SUPERHOME.PDF
NZ's first 10 star home
Church Square, Christchurch is the location of NZ's first 10 Homestar rated home. Designed by Bob Burnett Architecture.
