NHBC Standards

NHBC
2016
Standards
Effective from 1 January 2016
Welcome to the
NHBC Standards 2016
This edition will be effective for every new home registered with NHBC where
foundations are begun on or after the 1st January 2016.
Whether you are reading this edition on-line via Standards Plus or in hard
copy I hope you will find it more user friendly than ever before.
The Standards have been re-written in a clearer and more concise format,
with duplication removed and the word count and page numbers considerably
reduced without losing any technical content.
We have moved to a single column format to make the Standards more
useable on-line, improved the logical sequencing of content, updated illustrations
and, for the first time, introduced a number of 3D models to illustrate important
details more clearly. These 3D models will be available directly within Standards
Plus on-line and also for those using the hard copy Standards via the
NHBC 3D Viewer app.
To keep pace with changes in the house-building industry, NHBC Standards are
reviewed on an on-going basis and new content is developed and included with
assistance and in consultation with the industry.
This edition of the Standards contains additional technical guidance including the
following new chapters:
Chapter 5.4 Waterproofing of basements and other below-ground structures.
Chapter 8.3 Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (previously contained

within the on-line version only).
There are also a number of more minor technical guidance changes.
I do hope that you will quickly become familiar with Standards 2016 edition and find
it of significant benefit in designing and constructing high quality new homes.
Mike Quinton
NHBC Chief Executive
Designed and produced by NHBC
Contents 2016
Contents
Welcome Part 1

Contents
Contact us
Whats changed
Introduction Part 2
2.1
The Standards and Technical Requirements
General Part 3
3.1
3.2
3.3
Concrete and its reinforcement

Cold weather working
Timber preservation (natural solid timber)
Foundations Part 4
4.1
4.2
4.3
4.4
4.5
Land quality managing ground conditions

Building near trees
Strip and trench fill foundations
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations
Vibratory ground improvement techniques
Substructure, ground floors, drainage and basements Part 5

5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
Substructure and ground bearing floors

Suspended ground floors
Drainage below ground
Waterproofing of basements and other below ground structures new
Superstructure (excluding roofs) Part 6

6.1
External masonry walls
6.2
External timber framed walls
6.3
Internal walls
6.4
Timber and concrete upper floors
6.5 Steelwork
6.6 Staircases
6.7
Doors, windows and glazing
6.8
Fireplaces, chimneys and flues
6.9
Curtain walling and cladding
6.10
Light steel framed walls and floors
Roofs Part 7
7.1
7.2
Flat roofs and balconies

Pitched roofs
Services Part 8
8.1
8.2
8.3
Internal services
Low or zero carbon technologies
Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery
Finishes Part 9
9.1
9.2
9.3
9.4
9.5
A consistent approach to finishes

Wall and ceiling finishes
Floor finishes
Finishes and fitments
Painting and decorating
External works Part 10

10.1 Garages
10.2
Drives, paths and landscaping
Contact us 2016
How we can help you

Useful contact information is shown below, should you need to contact us for:
more copies of the printed book
advice and guidance from our technical helpline
support for Standards Plus.
Contact information
More copies
For more copies of NHBC Standards,

Call: 0844 633 1000 and ask for Shop
Email: shop@nhbc.co.uk, or
Visit: www.nhbc.co.uk/Builders/Shop/TechnicalStandards
Technical helpline
For technical help and advice,

Call: 0844 633 1000 and ask for Technical, or
Email: technical@nhbc.co.uk
Standards Plus
The online version of the NHBC Standards 2016 Standards Plus is freely available
to all visitors to the NHBC website. Complete with supplementary technical content and
further guidance notes, supporting links to external sites and 3D animations, Standards Plus
expands and optimises the NHBC Standards 2016 for use on desktop and mobile devices.
Visit: www.nhbc.co.uk/Standardsplus2016
For any questions or comments regarding Standards Plus,
Email: standardsplus@nhbc.co.uk
Contact us
If there is anything else you would like to talk to us about.

Call: 0844 633 100
Visit our contact us tool: www.nhbc.co.uk/contact us, or
Write to:
Milton Keynes Office
NHBC, NHBC House, Davy Avenue, Knowlhill, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK5 8FP
Edinburgh Office
NHBC Scotland, Suite 4, 5 New Mart Place, Edinburgh EH14 1RW
Belfast Office
NHBC, Northern Ireland and Isle of Man, Holyrood Court, 59 Malone Road, Belfast BT9 6SA
Whats changed? 2016
Whats changed?
Major technical changes
The following chapters are now included in both the hard copy document and Standards Plus:
Chapter 5.4: Waterproofing of basements and other below-ground structures.
Chapter 8.3: Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.
Minor technical changes

The following clauses have undergone minor revisions:
Clause 6.1.18a New guidance for the positioning of wall
Clause 7.2.20d New standards for fixing for coping stones
ties at the top of masonry gable walls.
Clause 6.5.3 New guidance for protective coatings

to steelwork.
Chapter 7.1 New guidance for liquid applied

roofing membranes.
to gable walls.
Clause 8.1.12 New standards for the installation of

ductwork to ventilation systems.
Chapter numbering
In order to bring the new Standards into logical build sequence, some of the chapter numbers in the new edition have changed
as follows:
Chapter title
Previous number
New number
The Standards and Technical Requirements
1.1
2.1
2.1
3.1
1.4
3.2
Timber preservation (natural solid timber)
2.3
3.3
4.4
4.3
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations
4.5
4.4
Vibratory ground improvement techniques
4.6
4.5
3.1
8.2
Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery
3.2
8.3
1.2
9.1
8.2
9.2
Floor finishes
8.3
9.3
Finishes and fitments
8.4
9.4
8.5
9.5
Garages
9.1
10.1
9.2
10.2
3D models
For the first time, we have introduced a number of 3D models, which have been developed to illustrate important details
more clearly. They can be accessed directly within Standards Plus, the online version of the Standards, by clicking on the
embedded icons. We have also developed the new NHBC 3D Viewer app, which hosts a library of the 3D models to view on iOS
and Android devices.
Using your smartphone and QR reader, scan the codes below to go directly to Standards Plus 2016, or the NHBC 3D Viewer app
(via the App Store and Google Play service).
Scan Me...
Got a smartphone and QR reader app? Scan the codes below to go directly to Standards Plus 2016, or learn more about the NHBC
3D Viewer app, via your phones web browser.
Standards Plus 2016
NHBC 3D Viewer app
The Standards and

Technical Requirements
CHAPTER 2.1
This chapter introduces the NHBC Standards and
contains the Technical Requirements.
The Standards and Technical Requirements 2016

CHAPTER 2.1
Application of the Standards
2.1
The NHBC Standards contain the Technical Requirements, performance standards and guidance for the design and construction
of homes acceptable to NHBC. The home is defined in NHBC Rules for builders and developers registered with NHBC.
The Standards come into effect for everyNHBC registered home whose foundationsare begun on or after 1 January 2016,
and they apply throughout the UK, unlessotherwise stated.
Composition of theStandards
The Standards are divided into 10 Parts, each covering a particular element and subdivided into chapters which, in principle, follow
the normal build sequence (the list of chapters is shown in the Contents section of Part 1). The front cover of each chapter contains
its scope, together with a list of its contents.
The Technical Requirements are shown in red text in this chapter, and must be met by the builder.
Performance standards
The performance standards support the Technical Requirements and are shown in bold black text backed with blue shading.
Where the performance standards are followed, the Technical Requirements for that particular item of work will be met.
Alternative standards of performance will be acceptable only if, in the opinion of NHBC, the Technical Requirements for that
particular item of work are met and the standard achieved is not lower than the stated performance standard.
Guidance
Guidance on how the performance standard may be met is shown in black text and is based on normal construction procedures
and recommended practices which have been shown to be satisfactory and acceptable over time. NHBC will consider alternative
methods to meet specific requirements, subject to prior consultation and evaluation.
Guidance is also contained in illustrations and digital 3D models.
Guidance is provided to demonstrate specific technical principles, and should not be used as working construction details.
Limitations on use
The Technical Requirements, performancestandards and guidance form acceptable technical benchmarks for a particular item
of work, but do not form a complete specification and should not beused as such in contracts.Individual chapters cover, as far
as practical, the requirements for particularelements of construction. To avoid repetition, some cross-referencing is made
between chapters.
The NHBC Standards do not apply to:
health and safety matters relating to building operations
planning matters except where specifically referred to in

these Standards.
Such matters are covered by statutory requirements.
Interpretation
Where a difference exists in how to interpret the Technical Requirements,performance standards and guidance, this would generally
be resolved by further consultation,failing which, NHBC will exercise its right todecide in accordance with the NHBC Rules.
Testing
Where required, samples of materials, products andsystems shall be tested in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 and the
NHBC Rules.

CHAPTER 2.1
Where NHBC Standards refer to authoritative documents such as British Standards, the documents shall be the editions current at
the time of Building Regulation approval, unless other recommendations are agreed by NHBC in writing.
The standards referred to in the NHBC Standards comprise specifications, codes of practice and published documents that are
published by BSI, the European Committee for Standardization (CEN) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO).
Tolerances
All work shall be within acceptable tolerances. Where applicable, account should be taken of Chapter 9.1 A consistent approach
to finishes. In other situations, tolerances will be those currently acceptable in the house-building industry.
Acknowledgements
NHBC is indebted to members of the Standards Committee, the Standards Review Group, the Scottish Technical Subcommittee and
the Northern Ireland Technical Subcommittee for their work in developing and maintaining the NHBC Standards.
NHBC also wishes to acknowledge thehelp given by consultants, authoritativeorganisations, individuals and staff.
The Builder shall ensure that the work complies with the Technical Requirements.
R1 Statutory requirements
Work shall comply with all relevant Building Regulations and other statutory requirements relating to the completed
construction work.
NHBC will generally accept work that accords with relevant Building Regulations/Building Standards and supporting documents.
Exceptions would be where NHBC has a higher standard.
R2 Design requirement
Design and specification shall provide satisfactory performance.
Account shall be taken of:
a) The land quality, including:

i)
climate
ii)
topography
iii)
geology and ground conditions
iv)
contamination
v)
workings below ground
vi)
previous use of the site
vii) any other aspect, on or adjacent to the site, which could affect the design.
Where appropriate, the land quality will have to be determined by a person acceptable to NHBC.
b) The structural adequacy of the works. The design, with appropriate factors of safety, shall satisfactorily allow for loads during and
after construction and for their transfer to the supporting structure, or foundation, without undue movement, including:
i)
self weight
ii)
all imposed loads, including wind loads
iii)
construction loads.
c) T
he geographical location of the site, including:
i)
exposure to wind and rain
ii)
topography.
d) The position of the dwelling on the site, especially with reference to the dwellings exposure to the weather, including at early
stages in the development of a site, even if it is eventually protected by structures built later.
e) The position of building elements within the construction works, including the interrelationship of materials and constructions.
f) T
he security of the dwellings.
2.1
Standards and codesof practice

CHAPTER 2.1
R3 Materials requirement
2.1
All materials, products and building systems shall be suitable for their intended purpose.
The structure of the home shall, unless specifically agreed otherwise in writing with NHBC, have a life of at least 60 years.
Individual components and assemblies, not integral to the structure, may have a lesser durability and need planned maintenance,
repair or replacement during that period.
Account shall be taken of the use and location of materials, products and building systems in relation to:
durability of both the structure and individual components

and assemblies
geographical location
position on the site
position within the structure.
Materials, products and building systems will normally be acceptable if they comply with the following:
a) MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS USED FOR CRITICAL FUNCTIONS

Functions critical to performance are: structure, fire resistance, weatherproofing, durability, thermal and sound insulation,
services including heating appliances and flues. Any of the following are acceptable:
i)
performance in accordance with standards set by NHBC, or
ii)
where no NHBC standard is set, compliance with the relevant British Standard or equivalent European Technical
Specification approved by a Committee for Standardisation, provided they are used in accordance with the relevant Code of
Practice, or
iii)
compliance with standards not lower than those defined in a relevant British Standard specification or equivalent, provided
their use is accepted by NHBC, or
iv)
satisfactory assessment by an appropriate independent technical approvals authority accepted by NHBC, or
v)
use of materials and products in accordance with well established satisfactory custom and practice, provided that such
custom and practice is acceptable to NHBC, or
vi)
acceptance, in writing, by NHBC that the quality and use is satisfactory.
b) MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS USED FOR NON-CRITICAL FUNCTIONS

Compliance with the above acceptance criteria for critical functions or strictly in accordance with manufacturers
recommendations for the specific use.
c) RECLAIMED MATERIALS
Reclaimed materials may only be reused with the prior agreement of NHBC. Independent certification of suitability may
be required.
d) PROPRIETARY BUILDING SYSTEMS
Reference should be made to R3a iv.
e) TIMBER DURABILITY
Reference should be made to Chapter 3.3 Timber preservation (natural solid timber).
f) RECOVERED AGGREGATES
Aggregates derived from recovered inert waste, e.g. recycled aggregate, should only be used where it can be demonstrated
that the inert waste material has been fully recovered, has ceased to be a waste as defined by the Waste Framework Directive
2008 and has become a product. To this end, recovered aggregates produced by a supplier complying with a recognised defined
quality management scheme such as the WRAP Quality Protocoland meeting end-of-waste criteria, will be acceptable to NHBC.
Note
Equivalents to British Standards or technical approvals authority shall be those accepted in the UK.
R4 Workmanship requirement
All work shall be carried out in a proper, neat and workmanlike manner.
The Builder shall ensure that:
a) the conditions of the materials, products and the completed work are satisfactory
b) appropriate precautions are taken to prevent damage
c) account is taken of the following:
i)
the requirements of the design
ii)
suitable methods of unloadingand handling
iii)
proper protection during storage
iv)
use of correct installation methods
v)
protection against weather during construction (includingexcessive heat, cold, wetting or drying)
vi)
protection against damage by following trades.

CHAPTER 2.1
Structural design shall be carried out by suitably qualified persons in accordance with British Standards and
Codes of Practice.
The following shall be designed by Chartered Civil or Structural Engineers whose status (including professional indemnity insurance)
is accepted by NHBC:
a) foundations on hazardous ground where the hazard makes special consideration necessary. (Note: This would not apply to
matters for which NHBC sets standards, such as building near trees, except where specified to the contrary)
b) foundations and superstructure of every building over three storeys in height
c) c ertain types of foundations and retaining walls, as required in the individual chapters of the NHBC Standards
d) any structural element which is not based on specific design criteria as laid down in the chapters of the NHBC Standards
e) any dwelling not constructed in accordance with UK traditional practice.
Note
Other structural elements may be designed by a Chartered Civil or Structural Engineer or others whose status
(including professional indemnity insurance) is accepted by NHBC.
The structural design shall take account of the durability requirement in Technical Requirement R3 Materials.
In England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, structural design may be undertaken by the Builders own Engineer or
a Consulting Engineer employed by the Builder. Where specialist subcontractors undertake the design, it must be separately
appraised by the Builders own Engineer or by a Consulting Engineer employed by the Builder to ensure that the site investigation,
choice of foundations, siting and construction of dwellings are properly taken into account and that the design is appropriate for the
loading and conditions.
In Scotland, the Engineer shall be independent of the Builder and specialist subcontractor.
Account shall be taken of all parts of the following British Standards:
Eurocodes and their respective National Annexes.
BS EN 1990. Eurocode 0: Basis of structural design.
BS EN 1991. Eurocode 1: Actions on structures.
BS EN 1992. Eurocode 2: Design of concrete structures.
BS EN 1993. Eurocode 3: Design of steel structures.
BS EN 1995. Eurocode 5: Design of timber structures.
BS EN 1996. Eurocode 6: Design of masonry structures.
BS EN 1997. Eurocode 7: Geotechnical design.
Alternatively, designs in accordance with BS 8103 Structural design of low rise buildings will be acceptable.
The Builder shall:
require the Engineer to issue clear instructions for

site personnel
not permit departure from the design without the Engineers

written consent
require the Engineer or his representative to carry out such

inspections as may be required by NHBC to ensure the
adequacy of the design and construction.
The Builder shall ensure that the Engineer visits the site during construction:
when the foundations have been designed under this
when specifically required by NHBC in these Standards.
Technical Requirement, or
The Engineer shall satisfy himself that the design is suitable for the conditions encountered on the site of each dwelling.
When requested by NHBC, the Builder shall:
produce such design documents, calculations and prescribed

forms of certification as NHBC requires forscrutiny
provide design documents and assembly instructions,

solely for the use of NHBC staff
arrange for NHBC staff to have access to places where

off-site fabrication is taking place.
2.1
R5 Structural design requirement

CHAPTER 3.1
This chapter gives guidance on meeting
the Technical Requirements for concrete
and its reinforcement.
3.1.1 Compliance
3.1.2
Provision of information
3.1.3
Storage of materials
3.1.4
Site-mixed concrete
3.1.5
Ready-mixed concrete
3.1.6
Concrete specification
3.1.7 Admixtures
3.1.8
Special types of concrete
3.1.9
Design of reinforced concrete
3.1.10 Installation of reinforcement
3.1.11 Blinding concrete
3.1.12 Formwork
3.1.13 Before concreting
3.1.14 Casting
3.1.15 Curing
3.1.16 Testing
3.1.17 Glossary

01
01
01
02
02
02
06
06
06
07
08
08
08
09
09
09
10
Concrete and its reinforcement 2016

CHAPTER 3.1
Introduction
Concrete design and specification should comply with the relevant British Standards. Mix design should take account
of strength and durability, and follow recognised standards and practices. Alternatively, mixes in accordance with the
guidance in this chapter will be acceptable. This applies to plain and reinforced concrete, whether precast or in-situ.
Compliance 3.1.1
Also see: Chapter 2.1, BS 8500 and BS EN 206
Concrete and its reinforcement shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
3.1
Concrete and its reinforcement that complies with the guidance in this chapter, which covers plain and reinforced concrete,
precast or in-situ, will generally be acceptable.
Mix design should take account of strength and durability, and comply with the relevant British Standards.
Provision of information 3.1.2

Designs and specifications shall be produced in a clearly understandable format, include all relevant
information and be distributed to appropriate personnel.
Design and specification information should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers,
and include the following information:
Ground aggressivity
Design sulfate class (DS class).
Aggressive chemical environment for
Strength and durability
Strength.
Maximum free water/cement ratio and/or
Air content (where required).
Aggregate size.
Colour.
concrete class (ACEC Class).
minimum cement content.
Mix design and additional

protective measures (APM)
Consistence class (e.g. slump).
Specification of mix designs
Details of any Additional
(concrete strength class).
Protective Measures.
Reinforcement and
movement joints
Cover to reinforcement.
Reinforcement, plans, sections and
Formwork
Reinforcement details at supporting edges.
Movement joints.
Camber in beams and slabs, where appropriate.
Formwork materials and features.
Mould release agents.
Joints.
Holes for services.
Concrete to be left untouched or with minimum finishing may require detailed formwork drawings
Finishing treatments
Testing
Curing and protection
Reinforcement around openings.
Drawings and bending schedules should be
bending schedules.
prepared in accordance with BS 8666.
indicating the position and detail of joints between shutters, corners and other critical junctions.
Number and frequency of samples to be taken.
Test laboratory details.
Requirements for curing and striking formwork.
Recording of results.
Minimum period for striking/removal of

formwork, curing and protection.
Storage of materials 3.1.3
Also see: Chapter 3.2
Materials shall be properly stored to avoid impairing the performance of the finished concrete.
Where materials need to be stored, the following precautions should be taken:
Follow manufacturers recommendations on maximum

storage time.
Store cement in a dry place and keep each type separate.
Store different sizes of aggregate in separate bays.
Keep sand and aggregate clean and dry (allowance should

be made in the concrete batching for moisture in the sand
and aggregate).
Site-mixed concrete 3.1.4

Site-mixed concrete shall be designed and mixed to ensure sufficient strength and durability.
Concrete should be mixed using an appropriate method to achieve the required strength and durability. Except for very small
quantities, a mechanical mixer should be used. Where hand mixing, add an extra 10% of cement to the quantities shown in
Tables 2 and 3.

CHAPTER 3.1
Material
Guidance
Cement or
cementitious material
BS 8500-2 including Annex A.
Air-entraining admixtures
Should not be used in standardised prescribed concrete mixes.
BS EN 934-2.
Admixtures, other than

air-entraining admixtures
Water
Mains supply water, or in accordance with BS EN 1008.
Compliant with BS EN 12620 Aggregates
Checked and precautions taken when
Aggregates
for concrete.
Mixed, and precautions taken, as described in

BRE Digest 357.
Fine and/or of coarse proportions mixed as

specified.
Proportioned to ensure a reasonable
consistency, when supplied as a mixture.
shrinkable aggregates, aggregates susceptible

to alkali attack or excessive moisture
movement, or unfamiliar materials are used.
Within the limits of the aggregate carbon range

(ACR), when subject to aggressive sulfate
ground conditions.
Assessed in accordance with Technical

Requirement R3 where materials are
recovered or proprietary.
The information below applies to cement strength class 32.5 and 20mm maximum aggregate size. Where cement strength class
42.5 or higher is used, the cement weight should be decreased by 10%.
Table 2: Mix proportions by weight

Standardised prescribed mix Consistence class (slump in mm) Cement (kg) Fine aggregate (kg) Coarse aggregate (kg)
ST1
S1 (10-40)
230
770
1155
ST2
S2 (50-90)
265
760
1135
ST2
S3 (100-150)
285
735
1105
ST2
S4 (160-210)
300
815
990
ST3
S2 (50-90)
295
745
1120
ST4
S2 (50-90)
330
735*
1100
ST5
S2 (50-90)
375
720*
1080
* Fine aggregate grading to be grades CP or MP only of BS EN 12620.
Table 3: Mix proportions by volume using a maximum 20mm aggregate size

Cement strength
class
Standardised
prescribed mix
Consistence class
(slump in mm)
Number of (25 kg)

bags of cement
Fine aggregate
(litres)
Coarse aggregate
(litres)
32.5
ST1
S1 (10-40)
60
85
ST2
S2 (50-90)
50
75
ST2
S3 (100-150)
45
70
ST2
S4 (160-210)
50
60
ST3
S2 (50-90)
45
65
ST1
S1 (10-40)
65
95
ST2
S2 (50-90)
55
80
ST2
S3 (100-150)
50
75
ST2
S4 (160-210)
55
65
ST3
S2 (50-90)
50
75
42.5 or higher
3.1
Table 1: Guidance for site mixed-concrete

CHAPTER 3.1
Ready-mixed concrete 3.1.5
Ready-mixed concrete shall be from a supplier operating under a quality control system acceptable to NHBC
and be of sufficient strength and durability.
Ready-mixed concrete is acceptable from suppliers who operate under a full quality control scheme such as:
the Quality Scheme for Ready-Mixed Concrete (QSRMC), or
the BSI Kitemark scheme.
Other suppliers may be suitable if they operate to an equivalent quality standard acceptable to NHBC.
3.1
Ready-mixed concrete should be ordered to a detailed specification conforming to BS 8500 and BS EN 206-1.
When designated mixes are used, the ready-mix supplier will only require the mix designation, and consistence class.
Ready-mixed concrete should be:
GEN mix
FND mix, or
RC mix.
Delivery information should be checked to ensure that the concrete meets the requirements given in the design.
Concrete specification 3.1.6
Also see: BRE Digest 357, BRE Special Digest 1, BS 8500, BS 8500-1 and BS EN 206-1
Concrete shall be specified correctly to ensure adequate strength and durability. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) concrete in non-hazardous conditions
b) exposure to climatic and atmospheric conditions
c) exposure to aggressive ground conditions
d) exposure to sulfates and acids in groundwater
e) effects of chlorides
f) effects of alkali-silica reaction
g) aggregates.
Concrete mixes should be suitable for particular end uses and specified in accordance with BS 8500-1 as either:
designated mix, which is supplied ready mixed, or
standardised prescribed mix for site mixing.
Designated mixes should conform to Table 5 of BS 8500-2:2012. Standardised prescribed mixes should conform to Tables 2 and 3 in
this chapter.
Mixes should also be designed for the expected conditions of the geographical location of the site and the location of the concrete
element in the structure. Higher grade concrete has greater resistance to chemical and mechanical damage and should be
specified accordingly.
In addition to the issues in this section, durability is reliant on:
correct control of the water:cement ratio
full compaction of the placed concrete
good curing.
Concrete in non-hazardous conditions

Table 4: Minimum specifications for general purpose concrete mixes
Location and use
BS 8500 and BS EN 206-1

Ready-mixed
Site-mixed concrete Consistence
concrete
(standardised
class
(designated mix) prescribed mix)
Substructure and ground floors
Rough blinding (non-structural).
Infill.
Unreinforced oversite concrete below timber floors.
GEN1
ST2
S3
Structural blinding and over break.
Strip foundations.
Trench fill.
Other mass concrete foundations.
Fill to wall cavity.
Solid filling under steps.
House floors not designed as suspended and not reinforced:
GEN1
ST2
S3/S41(1)
GEN1
GEN2
ST2
ST3
S2
S2

Permanent finish to be added, e.g. screed or floating floor.

No permanent finish to be added, e.g. carpet.

CHAPTER 3.1
Table 4 (continued): Minimum specifications for general purpose concrete mixes

Location and use
BS 8500 and BS EN 206-1

Ready-mixed
Site-mixed concrete Consistence
concrete
(standardised
class
(designated mix) prescribed mix)
Fully or nominally reinforced, either ground bearing, suspended or

over sub-floor voids.
GEN3
ST4
S2
RC35
ST5(2)
S2
(4)
S2
S2
Superstructure
General reinforced concrete exposure class(3) to BS8500-1:

Nominal cover to reinforcement of 35mm (which is the minimum
cover of 25mm plus an allowance in design for deviation of 10mm). RC30
XC1 (dry) and XC2 (wet, rarely dry).
RC40
XC3 (moderate humidity), XC4 (cyclic wet and dry) and XF1
(freeze/thaw attack and no de-icing agent).
Nominal cover to reinforcement of 40mm (which is the minimum
cover of 30mm plus an allowance in design for deviation of 10mm). RC35
Any exposure class (XC1-4 and XF1).
In-situ external concrete
Drives and paths.
Foundations for precast concrete paving slabs.
PAV1
GEN1
3.1
Garage floors not designed as suspended and not reinforced.
House and garage ground floor slabs:
(5)
S2
ST5(6)
ST1
S2
S1
Notes
1
Consistence class S3 should be used for strip foundation concrete and consistence class S4 should be used for trench fill foundation concrete.

2
ST4 mix for house and garage floors may only be used in conjunction with Chapter 5.2 Suspended ground floors. In all other cases, the designated mix should
be used.
3 Exposure classes (XC1-4 and XF1) are defined in BS 8500-1 Table A.1.
4
In this situation, ST4 mix may be used only for small quantities of concrete. In all other cases, the appropriate designated mix should be used.
5 In this situation, an ST5 mix may be used only for small quantities of concrete. In all other cases, the appropriate designated mix should be used.
6
Not suitable in areas of severe exposure to frost attack. This is equivalent to exposure class XC4 above.
Exposure to climatic and atmospheric conditions

Any concrete mix should be designed for the conditions expected at the geographical location of the site and at the location of the
element in the structure.
Table 5: Exposure classes and examples of where they may occur, based on Table 1 of BS EN 206-1
Exposure class Environment
Exposure conditions
XC1
Dry or permanently wet
Concrete inside buildings with low air humidity.

Concrete permanently submerged in water.
XC2
Wet, rarely dry
Concrete surfaces subject to long-term water contact. Many foundations.
XC3
Moderate humidity
Concrete inside buildings with moderate or high air humidity.

External concrete sheltered from rain.
XC4
Cyclic wet and dry
Concrete surfaces subject to water contact, not within exposure class XC2.
XF1
Moderate water saturation,

without de-icing agent
Vertical concrete surfaces exposed to rain and freezing.

CHAPTER 3.1
Concrete in aggressive ground

Mixes should conform to BS 8500. The information in this section describes minimum specifications for lower range
chemical aggressiveness. Specialist advice should be sought for more aggressive conditions.
Table 6: Aggressive chemical environment for concrete (ACEC) site classification(1) and applies to concrete exposed to ground with
a pH value greater than 2.5
Sulfate and magnesium
Natural soil
Brownfield(3)
Design sulfate 2:1 water/ Ground Total potential Static Mobile Static
class for site soil extract water
sulfate(2)
water water water
3.1
DS-1
ACEC class for site

Mobile
water
10
SO4
Mg
Mg
pH
pH(5)
pH(5)
mg/l
mg/l
mg/l
SO4
pH
mg/l
SO4
11
<500
All Mg
values
<400
All Mg <0.24
values
>2.5
>2.5
AC-1s
>5.5(6)
>6.5
AC-1
2.5 -5.5
5.5-6.5 AC-2z
4.5-5.5 AC-3z
2.5-4.5 AC-4z
DS-2
500-1500
All Mg
values
400-1400
All Mg 0.24values 0.6
>3.5
>5.5
>5.5
2.5-3.5
AC-1s
>6.5
2.5-5.5
2.5-5.5
AC-2
AC-2s
5.5-6.5 AC-3z
4.5-5.5 AC-4z
<4.5
AC-5z
Notes
1
For concrete quality and APM for ACEC classes above AC-2z, follow specialist advice. For the full list of ACEC classes, refer to Table A.2 of BS 8500-1 or

BRE Special Digest Part C Table C1 for natural ground locations, and Table C2 for brownfield locations.
2 Applies only to sites where concrete will be exposed to sulfate ions (SO4), which may result from the oxidation of sulfides such as pyrite, following ground disturbance.
3 Applies to locations on sites that comprise either undisturbed ground that is in its natural state or clean fill derived from such ground.
4 Brownfield is defined as sites which may contain chemical residues remaining from previous industrial use or from imported wastes.
5 An additional account is taken of hydrochloric and nitric acids by adjustment to sulfate content.
6 For flowing water that is potentially aggressive to concrete owing to high purity or an aggressive carbon dioxide level greater than 15mg/l, increase the ACEC class to
AC-2z.
Explanation of suffix symbols to ACEC class number:
Suffix s indicates that, as the water has been classified
Concrete placed in ACEC classes which include the
as static, no additional protective measures are

generally necessary.
suffix z have primarily to resist acid conditions and may be

made with any of the cements or combinations listed in
Table D2 of BRE Special Digest 1.
This table is based on Tables C1 and C2 of BRE Special Digest 1.

The information in Table 7 provides guidance on selecting mixes for concrete elements in aggressive ground.
Table 7: Design guide for concrete elements in the ground

Concrete element
Strip or trench fill foundation, raft foundation, pile and ground beams.
(3)
ACEC class(1)
Designated mix
AC-1, C1s
As Table 4
AC-2, C2s
FND2(2)
AC-2z
FND2z(2)
Notes
1
For all other ACEC classes, follow specialist advice.

2
Portland limestone cement may only be used where the design sulfate class (see Table 5) of the site does not exceed DS-1.
3
Applies to cast-in-situ piles only for other types of pile refer to BRE Special Digest 1 or follow specialist advice.

CHAPTER 3.1
Exposure to sulfates and acids in groundwater

Sulfates, chemicals and high acidity can cause expansion, cracking and damage to concrete. Where ground water is highly mobile,
or where concrete is at risk from chemical attack, the level of sulfate and other chemicals should be determined according to the
ACEC class (aggressive chemical environment for concrete class) and BRE Special Digest 1.
For lower ACEC classes (AC-1,AC-1s, AC-2, AC-2s and AC-2z), information in Tables 6 and 7 should be used to select the
mix specification.
Effects of chlorides
Chlorides, which are contained in all concrete materials, increase the risk of corrosion in metal and can reduce the chemical
resistance of concrete, therefore chloride content of fresh concrete should be limited in accordance with BS EN 206-1 Table 10.
Cured concrete can be damaged by chlorides in the ground, sea spray, or products used for de-icing highways, and specialist
guidance should be followed.
Effects of alkali-silica reaction

Alkalis can cause expansion, cracking and damage to concrete. Damage can occur when all the following conditions are present:
a source of alkali
a high moisture content
where the aggregate is alkali reactive.
Alkali content calculated in accordance with BRE Digest 330 or Concrete Society Technical Report 30 should not exceed 3kg/m3.
Where unfamiliar aggregate materials are used, special precautions may be required.
Standardised prescribed mixes should conform to BS 8500.
Aggregates
Aggregates should be of a grade which ensures adequate durability of the concrete. Certain types of aggregate are shrinkable
and require special precautions in mixing. Certain types of aggregate may be susceptible to alkali attack or excessive
moisture movement.
Proprietary and recovered aggregates should only be specified where they have been assessed in accordance with Technical
Requirement R3.
Admixtures 3.1.7
Admixtures shall only be used to enhance the performance and durability of concrete.
Issues that should be taken into account include:
improved workability
waterproofing
foaming agents
accelerated strength
retardation
chlorides.
Admixtures should comply with BS EN 934-2 Admixtures for concrete mortar and grout - Concrete admixtures - Definitions,
requirements, conformity, marking and labelling, should be used in accordance with BS EN 206-1 should be:
specified only with full knowledge of their limitations

and effects
used only where permitted in the specification
tested in trial mixes, where necessary
added to the mix water to ensure complete dispersal
dosed correctly
used strictly in accordance with the

manufacturers instructions.
Accelerators produce early setting of the concrete, and plasticisers can improve concrete cohesion and the bond with reinforcement.
Air-entraining agents should not be used as an anti-freeze for fresh concrete. Though they can increase the frost resistance of cured
concrete and are recommended for paths, drives and pavements which are likely to be exposed to freezing conditions.
Retarding agents can increase the risk of frost damage.
Admixtures containing chlorides can cause metal corrosion and should not be used in reinforced concrete.
3.1
For higher ACEC classes, specialist advice should determine the design chemical class (DC class) and appropriate
additional protective measures (APM) where required. Table A.7 of BS 8500-1 should be used to select the mix specification.

CHAPTER 3.1
Special types of concrete 3.1.8
Special types of concrete shall be appropriate for their use.
Proprietary concrete, no-fines or lightweight concrete should be of a quality and density appropriate for the conditions and use.
Where no-fines concrete is used, a render, cover coat or cladding should be applied to the finished structure.
Proprietary methods of reinforcement, e.g. glass fibre, should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Structural design should be in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 and the mix properly detailed.
3.1
Design of reinforced concrete 3.1.9
Also see: BS EN 1992-1-2
Reinforced concrete shall be suitable for its intended use. Issues to take into account include:
a) compliance with appropriate standards
b) end restraint
c) concrete cover
d) fire resistance
e) carbonation.
Reinforced concrete should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5. BS 8103-4 can be used for
the design of suspended ground floors in homes and garages.
Compliance with appropriate standards

The steel specification should indicate the steel type, grade and size. Drawings and bending schedules should be prepared in
accordance with BS 8666 and include all necessary dimensions for completion of the sitework. Reinforcement should comply with
the standards listed below.
BS EN 1992-1
Design of concrete structures.
BS 4449
Steel for the reinforcement of concrete. Specification
BS 4482
Steel wire for the reinforcement of concrete products. Specification
BS 4483
Steel fabric for the reinforcement of concrete. Specification
BS 6744
Stainless steel bars for the reinforcement of and use in concrete. Requirements and test methods
BS 8103-1
Structural design of low-rise buildings. Code of practice
End restraint
Where the ends of slabs are cast monolithically with concrete members, surface cracking may develop over the supports.
Reinforcement should therefore be provided in accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1.
Concrete cover
There should be adequate cover to the reinforcement,
especially where it is exposed or in contact with the ground.
Cover should be adequate for all reinforcement, including
main bars and stirrups. No ties or clips should protrude into the
concrete cover.
cover measured
between links
and formwork
For concrete not designed by an engineer, the minimum cover

for reinforcement should be in accordance with Table 8.
Table 8: Minimum cover for reinforcement for concrete not designed by an engineer
Position of the concrete
Minimum cover (mm)
In contact with the ground.
75
External conditions.
50
Cast against a DPM on sand blinding.
40
Against adequate blinding concrete.
40
Protected or internal conditions.
25

CHAPTER 3.1
Fire resistance
Concrete cover to reinforcement should be adequate to resist fire. Requirements for fire resistance are given in BS EN 1992-1-2.
Cover required by BS EN 1992-1-1 will normally provide up to one hour of fire resistance for columns, simply supported beams
and floors.
Carbonation reduces the corrosion protection of the reinforcement by increasing porosity and decreasing alkalinity. Such corrosion
can be reduced by providing as much concrete cover as possible, and by ensuring that the wet concrete is of good quality and
properly compacted to reduce the rate of carbonation.
Installation of reinforcement 3.1.10
Reinforcement shall be installed in accordance with the design. Issues to take into account include:
a) shape, placing and condition of reinforcement bars
b) lapping bars and mesh
c) support for reinforcement.
Shape, placing and condition of reinforcement bars

Main reinforcing
bars
Should be parallel to the span, or as

detailed in the design.
Slab reinforcement Should be located near the bottom of the

slab, with the main reinforcing bars placed
first and the secondary bars on top.
Beams
span
Should have the main reinforcing bars

placed inside the links.
main bars
secondary bars
Reinforcement should be:
bent using appropriate equipment and placed in accordance

with the design
clean and free from loose rust and contaminants,

especially shutter-releasing agents and oil.
Lapping bars and mesh

Reinforcing bars or mesh should be lapped according to type and size as indicated by the designer to ensure that loads are fully
transferred across the lap. Any additional laps require the designers approval.
Support for reinforcement

Spacers should be either concrete blocks (no more than 50 x 50mm) or ready-made of steel or plastic. Supports should be placed
no more than one metre apart, or closer where necessary.
Spacers for parallel bars should be staggered to avoid creating a plane of weakness in the concrete. Supports for top steel should
be chairs, or other proprietary products.
mild steel
supporting
top layer
spacers staggered to avoid planes of weakness
3.1
Carbonation

CHAPTER 3.1
Blinding concrete 3.1.11
Blinding concrete shall be used where required to aid construction.
Blinding concrete should only be used:
to protect the bottom of the trench/excavation where there is
to provide sufficient support to ensure cover to reinforcement
a delay in pouring structural concrete
where the foundation has been slightly overdug
where localised soft spots have been removed.
is maintained, or
3.1
Formwork 3.1.12
Formwork shall be structurally adequate and constructed in a workmanlike manner.
Formwork should be accurately set out in relation to relevant reference lines and benchmarks. Accuracy is essential to ensure that
the correct cover to the reinforcement is maintained.
Formwork and its supports should be rigid enough to maintain the correct position and to withstand extra loads and accidental
knocks likely to occur during placement and compacting. Wedges, inserts and boxes should be firmly secured to avoid displacement
during vibration.
For concrete which is to be left untreated, or with minimum finishing, formwork joints should be tight to avoid grout loss and
ragged edges. Joints between shutters should be constructed for easy stripping. Any holes for bolts or spacers should be drilled with
care to avoid disfiguring or splintering the formwork surface and giving a poor finish.
Formwork should be capable of being struck without damage to the concrete. Formwork should be dismantled without shock,
disturbance or damage to the concrete. Support for load-bearing elements should not be removed until the concrete has achieved
sufficient strength, as detailed by the designer. Props under suspended floors or beams should be released from the centre,
outwards, to avoid overloading.
Before concreting 3.1.13

Installations and final preparations shall be completed before concreting starts.
Before concreting starts:
all services, ducts, inserts, etc. to be embedded in the

concrete should be securely installed in the correct position
and, where appropriate, tested
completed reinforcement should be checked and, where

necessary, approved by the designer or their representative
formwork should be cleaned out and checked for fallen

debris, especially nails and wire clippings.
Casting 3.1.14
Concrete shall be cast so as to achieve the required design strength and durability.
The temperature of the concrete at the point of use should not be less than 5C (41F). Fresh concrete is susceptible to frost
damage, and freezing can cause internal damage that is not immediately obvious.
Concrete should not be placed in or under water, unless it has been specially designed for that use.
Sufficient concrete should be mixed or ordered, so that it can be placed in a continuous process.
Concrete should be deposited as close as possible to its final location. Transportation on site should be as fast and efficient as
possible in order to avoid segregation and to ensure full compaction of the placed concrete.
Site-mixed concrete should be placed within 30 minutes, and ready-mixed concrete within two hours, of water being added to the
cement. Additional water should not be added to ready-mixed concrete unless under the supervision and approval of the supplier.
Concreting should, wherever possible, be carried out in one operation, taking account of:
weather conditions
available daylight
time to allow for surface finishing.
Concrete cast in one operation (i.e. without construction joints) should always be as square in shape as possible and not
greater than:
reinforced concrete 60m2
unreinforced concrete 16m2.
Construction joints should be formed only where unavoidable and in consultation with the engineer. These should not be positioned
next to a return in the foundation. Before work continues beyond the joint, shuttering used to form the joint should be removed.

CHAPTER 3.1
10
Reinforced concrete should be fully compacted using poker vibration unless the design states otherwise. Poker vibration should be
carried out by experienced operators to ensure complete coverage and to avoid honeycombing. Vibrating beams or hand tamping
may be used to consolidate slabs up to 150mm thick, unless the design details otherwise. Excessive use of vibration can cause
segregation and prevent concrete reaching an adequate strength.
Curing 3.1.15
Concrete performance relies on the curing process. The design should clearly indicate where there are any special requirements for
curing concrete.
Freshly poured concrete should be kept moist by covering as soon as the surface is hard enough to resist damage. This is
particularly important in hot, windy or cold weather to to prevent the surface drying out too rapidly, or freezing. Damp hessian,
damp sharp sand or an impervious sheet (such as polyethylene) are acceptable as surface coverings. Alternatively, a curing agent
can be applied to the surface.
No load should be applied to the work until the concrete has cured sufficiently. It is recommended that plain unreinforced concrete
made with ordinary Portland cement is left for at least four days to cure.
It is possible to proceed with substructure masonry above strip or trench fill foundations on unreinforced ordinary Portland cement
concrete at an early stage, provided that care is taken to protect the surface from damage.
Reinforced concrete or concrete containing cement replacements, such as PFA, will require a longer curing period. This will normally
take seven days, during which the concrete structure should not be loaded.
Any curing agents should comply with Technical Requirement R3 and should be applied strictly in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions. Curing agents should never be used on floors which are to receive either a topping or a screed, as it
could affect the future bond. Curing periods may be extended at low temperatures.
Testing 3.1.16
Testing shall be carried out to the full satisfaction of NHBC.
Testing, where required, shall be conducted to BS EN 12390 by UKAS approved laboratories. Test cubes should be prepared as
requested by the engineer. These should be marked, cured and stored safely until testing.
Proof of testing, with reports, certificates and allied documentation, should be kept for reference and made available to NHBC
upon request.
Ready-mixed concrete supplier should prepare test cubes in accordance with quality assurance procedures.
Glossary 3.1.17
Aggressive chemical
environment for concrete
classification (ACEC class)
A system for the classification of aggressive ground conditions that are derived from
design sulfate class. It takes into account the site (natural or brownfield) and the mobility and
pH of ground water. Brownfield, mobile water and low pH (acidic) conditions may have adverse
effects on buried concrete and hence result in a more severe ACEC class.
Additional protective
measures (APM)
These are defined as the extra measures that could be taken to protect concrete where the basic
concrete specification might not give adequate resistance to chemical attack.
Design chemical class

(DC class)
This defines the qualities of concrete that are required to resist chemical attack. The DC class
is derived from the ACEC class of the ground and other factors, including the type of concrete
element and its required structural performance.
Design sulfate class

(DS class)
A site classification based on the determined sulfate (including potential sulfate) contents of
the ground and/or ground water. It is also dependent on the type of site, presence or absence
of magnesium ions, pyrite, and for pH less than 5.5, chloride and nitrate ions. Five levels of
classification are given that are equivalent to those given in BRE Digest 363 (now superseded).
Enhanced concrete quality
An incremental step in concrete quality that could be used as an Additional Protective Measure
(APM). Each increment in concrete quality is counted as an extra APM.
Mobile ground water
Sites where water is free to flow into an excavation to give a standing water level are affected by
mobile ground water. The threshold ground permeability is greater than 10-6 m/s (i.e. 86 mm/day).
Static ground water
The sites where the free flow of water is confined due to either permanently dry conditions or the
soil is relatively impermeable (of permeability less than 10-6 m/s).
Total potential sulfate (TPS)
The total potential sulfate content is the result of the combination of sulfates already present in the
ground and that which may be added due to the oxidation of pyrite in the ground.
3.1
Concrete shall be adequately cured to achieve full design strength.

CHAPTER 3.2
This chapter gives guidance on meeting the
Technical Requirements for cold weather working.
3.2.1 Compliance
3.2.2
External conditions
3.2.3 Materials
3.2.4 Concreting
3.2.5 Masonry
3.2.6
Rendering, plastering andscreeding
3.2.7 Admixtures
3.2.8 Painting
01
01
01
01
02
02
02
02
Cold weather working 2016

CHAPTER 3.2
Compliance 3.2.1
Cold weather working shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Sitework which complies with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
External conditions 3.2.2
Also see: Meteorological Office
Allowance shall be made for cold weather conditions during construction.
3.2
Work should be planned in advance, and account taken of site and climatic conditions either by:
stopping work, or
taking adequate precautions.
The following conditions should be considered when scheduling work:
Wind (this can create a cooling effect which can reduce
Shade (in particular high trees or adjacent buildings can
temperatures further, i.e. affecting the curing of concrete

and mortar).
block low winter sun and reduce temperatures further).
Valleys (sites in valleys are susceptible to increased

risk of frost).
Where air temperature is below, or likely to fall below, 2C, work should not proceed unless the precautions detailed in this chapter
are adopted.
A thermometer should be sited in the shade and used to indicate if temperatures are rising or falling.
Materials 3.2.3
Materials shall beadequately protected against cold weather.
Materials should:
not be used if frozen
be protected using appropriate covers to prevent damage by

snow, ice, frost or damp.
Appropriate covers should be provided for bricks and blocks,
sand,aggregates and cement, to prevent themfrom becoming
saturated and damaged by frost.
Where it is necessary to continue building during longer periods
of colder weather, heaters should be used to protect materials.
Concreting 3.2.4
Also see: BS EN 13670 Table 4 Curing class 2 and Table F1 Curing class 2
Concrete shall not be placed in cold weather unless suitable precautions are taken.
The minimum temperature of ready-mixed concrete when
delivered should be 5C, in accordance with BS EN 206-1.
When concreting is undertaken during colder weather,
curing periods should be adjusted according to
environmental conditions. Concrete should:
be covered to maintain the temperatureabove freezing,

and heated if necessary
not be placed where the ground, oversite or the surfaces that

will be in contact with the concrete are frozen
be placed with caution where small quantities of fresh

concrete are against a large volume of hardened concrete
which is at a lower temperature.
Where slight overnight frosts are expected, 50mm of insulation held down firmly at the edges should be used to help protect
oversite concrete. Where very severe frosts are expected, insulationalone is inadequate and heating should be provided.

CHAPTER 3.2
Site-mixed concrete
If the air temperature drops to 2C, concrete work should not proceed unless:
the ground into which the concrete is to be placed is
the water for mixing is heated, but not above 60C
not frozen
the aggregate temperature is above 2C
the aggregate is free of frost and snow
(cement should not be heated)
the cast concrete can be properly protected, taking account

of the cross-sectional area and location.
In prolonged or very severe cold weather:
heat aggregates or to use hot air blowers below covers
heating the mixing water cannot be relied upon to thaw

frozen aggregates, and very cold aggregatecan still
remain frozen.
Masonry 3.2.5
Masonry shall not be laid in cold weather unless suitable precautions are taken.
When laying masonry in cold weather:
and temperatures are below, or are likely to fall below,

2C (temperatures should be checked throughout the day on
a thermometer), masonry should not be laid unless heating is
provided and newly laid masonry protected
materials which have been damaged byfrost or are frozen

should not be used
additional covers and insulation will be necessaryat very

low temperatures
polyethylene covers should be used to provide protection and

prevent work from becoming saturated (an air gap between
the masonry and the covers will enable new masonry to cure)
where very severe frosts are expected, heaters may

be required
protection against frost may be required for up to six days,

depending on the severity of the conditions.
Rendering, plastering andscreeding 3.2.6

Rendering, plastering and screeding shall not be carried out in cold weather unless suitable precautions
are taken.
Rendering, plastering and screeding should not be carried out if there is frost on the structure.
Where warm air heaters are used to warm the structure before screeding and plastering takes place, they should:
keep the temperature of the structure above freezing during
be used for longer following a prolonged cold period
the curing period
not produce water vapour (the building should be ventilated

to disperse moisture)
be placed in the room a day before plastering is to start
(as ground floors and walls near to floor level may be

slow to respond)
continue heating for at least 48 hours after completion of

the work but not be excessive (to avoid damage to screeds,
plaster finishes and woodwork).
Render should not be applied if:
the temperature is below, or likely to fallbelow,

2C (temperatures should be checked throughout the day
on a thermometer)
backgrounds are saturated or frozen, or
there is a possibility that new work will be subjected to frost

before it has set.
3.2
covers will not stop severe frost penetrating the aggregate
where work is to continue, it may be necessary to steam

CHAPTER 3.2
Admixtures 3.2.7
Admixtures shall be used correctly and in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
When using admixtures:
3.2
accelerators may assist the mortar or concrete to set before
in cold weather, retarding agents should not be used as they
temperatures fall (admixtures do not prevent frost damage to

uncured concrete or mortar)
plasticisers can entrain air during mixing to provide frost

resistance to mature mortar and concrete
in cold weather, bonding agents may be ineffective
those containing calcium chloride should be avoided.
can increase the setting times of cement
Painting 3.2.8
Painting shall not be carried out when there is a risk of damage due to cold weather.
Paint should not be applied:
on surfaces affected by damp, frost or condensation
where the air temperature is below, or likely to fall below, 2C
when condensation, snow or rain is likely to affect paintwork

before it is dry.
Timber preservation
(natural solid timber)
CHAPTER 3.3
Technical Requirements for the protection of natural
solid timber against fungal decay when exposed to
damp conditions and against insect attack.
3.3.1 Compliance
3.3.2 Durability
3.3.3 Sitework
3.3.4
Protection and storage
3.3.5
Treatment of cut surfaces
3.3.6
Compatibility with metal
3.3.7 Further information
01
01
03
03
03
03
03
Timber preservation (natural solid timber) 2016

CHAPTER 3.3
Introduction
This chapter gives acceptable treatment schedules for the treatment of natural solid timber but does not cover:
products such as plywood and wood particle boards
the condition before the treatment
treatment process techniques, which is the responsibility of the organisation carrying out the operation.
Compliance 3.3.1
3.3
Timber preservative treatments and processes shall comply with the Technical Requirements and reasonably
ensure that the timber is safely and satisfactorily protected against fungal decay and insect attack.
Timber preservative treatments that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable. Timber and external
joinery should either be:
naturally durable and resistant to insect attack, or
treated with preservative in accordance with this chapter.
It is important that treatment of timber and joinery is carried out to appropriate standards which are both suitable and safe.
Treatments in accordance with procedures set out in British Standards, Codes of Practice, or which have been satisfactorily
assessed by an independent authority in accordance with Technical Requirement R3, will generally be acceptable. The specification
should state the specific treatment and standard required.
All preservatives should meet the requirements of the Control of Pesticides Regulations (1986) administered by the Health and
Safety Executive. The safety instructions published by the manufacturers should be followed.
Durability 3.3.2
Timber and joinery used in the construction of homes shall either have adequate natural durability or, where
treatment is undertaken, receive a satisfactory preservative treatment against fungal decay and insect attack.
Timber component groups and preservative treatment required are shown in Table 1 below (based on BS 8417), which provides
information to establish the appropriate type of treatment according to the particular element and conditions of use. Table 2 provides
information on the timber species and durability.
Table 1: Timber component groups and preservative treatment

Component
group
Examples
Hazard Desired Preservative type required(1)

Preservative treatment
class service
not required
life
Copper Organic
Boron
organic solvent or
microemulsion
Internal joinery,
intermediate
floor joists
Architraves, internal doors,

intermediate floor joists
60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Unless a specific request

for treatment against insect
attack has been made.
Roof timbers
(dry)
Pitched roofs: rafters,

purlins, joists, wall plates
60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Unless a specific request

for treatment against insect
attack has been made.
Roof timbers
(dry) in areas
with house
longhorn beetle
As above
60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Where timber used is:
softwood heartwood
only(2) and of durability
class 1 3(3) or
hardwood.
Roof timbers
(risk of wetting)
Flat roofs joists, sarking,

2
tiling battens, valley boards,
timbers exposed to risk of
condensation, porch posts
coated and held clear of
the ground and standing
water, in a free draining
shoe made from suitably
durable material such
as galvanized or
stainless steel.
60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Where timber used is:
softwood heartwood
only(2) and of durability
class 1 3(3) or
hardwood.
60
Yes
Yes
Yes
Where timber used is

heartwood only(2) and of
durability class 1 2(3).
Roof timbers (risk As above

of wetting) in
areas with house
longhorn beetle

CHAPTER 3.3
Component
group
Examples
Hazard Desired Preservative type required(1)

Preservative treatment
class
service
not required
life
Copper Organic
Boron
organic solvent or
microemulsion
External walls/
ground floors
Timber frames,
ground floor joists,
l-beam studwork
60
Yes
Yes
Yes

Sole plates(4)
60
Yes
Yes
Yes

External joinery, Window frames, door

coated (not in
frames, doors, cladding
ground contact)(5) (coated), soffits, fascias,
barge boards
30
No(6)
Yes
Yes

Decking (where the deck is 3

up to 600mm from ground
level)(8), balcony infill,
cladding (uncoated)
15
Yes
No
No

Uncoated
external timbers
(not in ground
contact)
Timber in contact Decking timber in ground

with the ground contact (where the deck
is up to 600mm from
ground level)(8)
15
Yes
No
No

Timber in contact Timber retaining walls up

with the ground to 1m high and within
garden areas(7)
15
Yes
No
No

Timber in contact Timber retaining walls

with the ground greater than 1m high and
within garden areas(7)
30
Yes
No
No

durability class 1(3).
Timber in contact Timber retaining walls up

with the ground to 600mm high and in a
boundary situation(7)
30
Yes
No
No

durability class 1(3).
Notes
1
Preservative treatment of timber should be in accordance with the recommendations of BS 8417 (with the exception of sole plates see note 4).

For preservatives listed in the supplement to the WPA Manual, treatment recommendations are given in table 9, BS 8417.
2
Almost always, packs of timber contain sapwood. It should be assumed that timber is sapwood, and preservative treated accordingly, unless the timber has been
specifically selected as heartwood only.
3
Natural durability classes are given in Table 2.
4
Sole plates should be positioned above DPC. Preservatives used should be resistant to leaching or, for boron, treatment should be to full crosssection retention
standard. Treatment should be carried out in accordance with the WPA Manual.
5
The hardwoods known as meranti, seraya or lauan should be treated in the same way as European redwood / Scots pine when used for joinery.
6
Generally, copper organic preservatives are not used for treating joinery items, but they can be used to treat claddings which are to be coated.
7
Where timber structures more than 600mm high are used for retaining ground in boundary situations, they should be designed with a desired service life
of 60 years. Reference should be made to Chapter 10.2 Drives, paths and landscaping.
8
Decking that is more than 600mm in height should have a desired service life of 60 years. Reference should be made to Chapters 7.1
Flat roofs and balconies and 10.2 Drives, paths and landscaping.
Table 2: Natural durability of building timbers (heartwood only)

Durability
class
1. Very
durable
Hardwoods
Kapur (Sabah, Burma)
Padauk (white, Andaman)
Teak (Malaysian)
Opepe
Afromosia
Greenheart
Guarea
Iroko
Jarrah
Okan
Pyinkado
Peroba
2. Durable
3. Moderately
durable
Oak (American
Keruing
white,
European)
Mahogany
(American)
Chestnut
(sweet)
Louro (red)
Basralocus
Ekki
Karri
Kempas
(Sabah,
Malaysian)
Oak
(Tasmanian,
Turkey)
Mahogany
(African)
4. Slightly
durable
5. Not
durable
Oak (American red)
Elm (Dutch, English,
Birch
white, rock, wych)
Beech (silver)
(silver,
European,
paper,
yellow)
Chestnut
(European
horse)
Beech
(European)
Sycamore
Alder
Lime
3.3
Table 1 (continued): Timber component groups and preservative treatment

CHAPTER 3.3
Table 2 (continued): Natural durability of building timbers (heartwood only)
Durability
class
1. Very
durable
2. Durable
3. Moderately
durable
Softwoods
None
Cedar
Larch (European,
(imported
western red)
4. Slightly
durable
5. Not
durable
3.3
Pine (Canadian red,

None
hybrid, Japanese,
Corsican, jack, parana,
tamarack, western,
ponderosa, radiata, Scots,
maritime)
southern, western white,
yellow, lodgepole)
Fir (North
American Douglas,
Spruce (Eastern Canadian,
UK Douglas)
Engelmann, European
whitewood, Sitka,
Pine
western white)
(Caribbean pitch,
American pitch)
Fir (noble, silver, balsam,

grand)
Cedar
(UK western red)
Hem-fir (USA and Canada)
Redwood (European)
Sitework 3.3.3
Sitework shall follow established good practice and workmanship.
Checks should ensure that, when timber is delivered to site, timber and joinery products have received the specified treatment.
This should be stated on the delivery note.
Protection and storage 3.3.4

Timber and joinery shall be stored and protected to ensure it is in a suitable condition for use.
It is important when timber and joinery products are stored that they are:
protected from damage immediately upon delivery
protected from the weather
stored off the ground
stored to limit the risk of distortion
stored to allow air to circulate.
Treatment of cut surfaces 3.3.5

Timber which has been preservative treated and cut shall be retreated on the cut surfaces.
Timber should not be cut after treatment, but where this is unavoidable, all such surfaces should be retreated with a suitable colour
tinted preservative, to enable confirmation that re-treatment has occurred. Only in situations where colour tinting will affect the
appearance of the timber fixed to the home will clear preservatives be acceptable.
Applied preservatives should be compatible with the original treatment.
Compatibility with metal 3.3.6

Measures shall be taken to prevent adverse effects from incompatibility between metal components and
treated timber.
Copper-containing treatments can cause corrosion between mild steel and aluminium. Where moisture is expected, the following
fittings should be used when in contact with timber treated with copper-containing preservatives:
Occasional dampness galvanised fittings
Likely wetting austenitic stainless steel fittings.
Timber treated with copper containing preservatives should be re-dried to a moisture content of 20% for at least seven days before
being in contact with metal fittings.
Further information 3.3.7
BS 8417 Preservation of Timber Recommendations
BS EN 599 Part 1 Durability of wood and wood-based

products Performance of preventive wood preservatives
as determined by biological tests
Part 1: Specification according to hazard class.

Industrial Wood Preservation Specification and Practice
(WPA Manual) (2008)
The Wood Protection Association, 5C Flemming Court,

Castleford, West Yorkshire, WF10 5HW, UK,
Tel: 01977 558274, Email: info@wood-protection.org
Land quality
managing ground conditions
CHAPTER 4.1
Technical Requirements for assessing and
managing land quality.
4.1.1 Compliance
4.1.2 Initial Assessment desk study
(all sites)
4.1.3 Initial Assessment walkover survey
(all sites)
4.1.4
Initial Assessment results
4.1.5 Basic Investigation
(sites where hazards are not
identified or suspected)
4.1.6 Detailed Investigation
(sites where hazards are identified
or suspected)
4.1.7 Managing the risks
(sites where hazards are found)
4.1.8
Unforeseen hazards
4.1.9
Documentation and verification
4.1.10 Guidance for investigations
01
03
04
04
05
05
06
06
07
07
08
Land quality managing ground conditions 2016

CHAPTER 4.1
Introduction
This chapter provides a framework for managing geotechnical and contamination risks, with the objective of ensuring that:
all sites are properly assessed and investigated for potential geotechnical and contamination hazards
foundations and substructure designs are suitable for the ground conditions
sites are properly remediated where necessary or appropriate, and design precautions are taken
appropriate documentation and verification is provided to NHBC.
Compliance 4.1.1
Assessment of the site and the surrounding area shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Items to be taken into account include:
a) suitability of persons for the level of investigation
b) geotechnical and contamination issues
c) investigation procedures
d) notification in writing to NHBC of hazardous ground conditions.
4.1
Ground investigations and management of risk that complies with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Suitable persons for the level of investigation

The following skills and knowledge are required from the person responsible for the Initial Assessment, Basic Investigation and
documentation and verification. They should:
understand the hazards that can affect the development and
collect information relating to such hazards on and
where they originate
recognise the signs of potential hazards
conduct a desk study and walkover survey
report the findings in a clear and concise manner
determine when specialist advice and detailed testing
adjacent to the site
is required.
The following criteria should be used as guidance for the appointment of a consultant or specialist responsible for Detailed
Investigation, management of hazards, documentation and verification:
Experience
Similar types of site and development.
Appropriate discipline (s)
Understanding of all relevant skills required on the project and access to other disciplines,
including geologists, hydrogeologists, toxicologists and environmental chemists.
Legislation
Understanding of legislation and liabilities associated with the site.
Professional indemnity insurance Appropriate cover for the work being carried out.
Health and safety
Awareness of occupational hygiene issues and Health and Safety legislation.
Quality assurance
Use of a quality management system, including appropriately accredited laboratories.
Project management
Ability to manage a project team consisting of the appropriate disciplines.
Site investigation
Ability to design site investigation programmes, including soil sampling, testing and
laboratory analysis.
Risk management
Ability to conduct risk assessments as required by the risk management process.
Reporting and communication
Ability to prepare comprehensive and well presented reports. Effective communication within
their organisation and with the client, statutory authorities and the general public.
Engineering design
Understanding of effective risk reduction techniques, e.g. engineered foundations and

substructure details of suitable remediation.
Geotechnical and contamination issues

Assessment should be carried out by direct investigation and examination of the ground, supplemented by laboratory testing
where necessary, in order to determine the geotechnical and contamination characteristics of the site.
Specifically, where contamination is suspected or found, the site should be assessed using the Source-Pathway-Receptor
framework (known as the pollutant linkage).
For land contamination to occur, a source, pathway and receptor must all exist. A written or diagrammatic representation of the land
contamination (known as a Conceptual Model), should be produced to show the possible relationships between each.

CHAPTER 4.1
Procedure
The process to assess and manage the ground conditions
is as follows:
Initial Assessment:
desk study
walkover study
results.
Initial Assessment
NHBC requires all sites to be assessed by a desk study and
a walkover survey. The results should be used to determine
whether or not hazards are known or suspected.
Hazards known
or suspected?
No
Yes
Basic Investigation
Detailed Investigation
Basic Investigation
Further Assessment:
geotechnical and
contamination risks
acceptable?
Yes
No
Required where hazards are known or suspected.
Further Investigation
required?
Further Assessment
Required after the Basic or Detailed Investigation has been
conducted, to confirm that all objectives have been met. Where
results are inconclusive, further investigation will be required.
Hazards
Where hazards are identified, design precautions or remediation
will be required to minimise their effects.
If any unforeseen hazards are found during the course of
construction, further investigation may be required.
Documentation and verification

NHBC requires documentation and verification to show that:
Yes
No
4.1
Required to support the results of the Initial Assessment where

hazards are not suspected.
Manage risks
Provide documentation
and verification
Start construction phase
Unforseen hazards
Yes
No
Finish construction
phase
the site has been properly assessed and investigated
where necessary, suitable precautions are incorporated into

the design
all necessary remediation has been carried out.
Notification of potential hazards and associated risks

If a site (defined in the Rules as an area of land that is covered by a single detailed planning consent or series of consents relating
to continuous development) is classed as hazardous, NHBC must be notified in writing a minimum of eight weeks before
work starts. Failure to provide such information may delay the registration process, the construction work and the issuing of
NHBC warranty.

CHAPTER 4.1
Table 1: Potential hazards and associated risks
Potential hazard
Associated risk
High water table or low-lying land
flooding
the effects from toxic or noxious materials which could be concentrated or

transported by ground water.
Mining (past, present and proposed)
ground movement as a result of the type of mining and materials extracted
ground gasses, including methane and carbon dioxide.

Trees
shrinkage and heave of clay soils
physical damage caused by roots.

Peat
acid attack
changes in volume due to variations in moisture content
production of methane and carbon dioxide.

Infill and made ground, including tipping
release of gases which may be explosive or asphyxiating
low bearing capacity causing excessive total and/or differential settlements
consolidation characteristics which may result in subsidence, settlement and/or

excessive tilt
4.1
localised ground variability (laterally and with depth) which may result in
subsidence, settlement and/or excessive tilt
collapse compression or inundation settlement of non-cohesive fills which may

result in subsidence, settlement and/or excessive tilt.
Low bearing capacity ground

Former buildings or structures
Adjacent buildings
Drains, including land drains
Sulfates in ground or ground water
Contamination
settlement of foundations and substructures.
underground obstructions producing variations in bearing capacity and

settlement characteristics.
effect on stability of both new and existing buildings.
contamination, flooding, waterlogging and interruption of land drainage systems.
expansive reaction
chemical attack on concrete, mortar and bricks or blocks made with cement.
from substances which may be carcinogenic, toxic, asphyxiating, corrosive,

phytotoxic, combustive, explosive or radioactive.
Solution features in chalk and limestone,

underground cavities.
including swallow holes
Unstable ground subject to landslip
Seas, lakes and rivers adjacent to land
ground movement.
erosion.
Initial Assessment desk study (all sites) 4.1.2

A desk study of the site and the surrounding area, that covers key and existing site information, shall be
undertaken by a suitable person and include investigation of soils, geology, surface water, ground water,
current and historical uses.
A desk study is the collection and examination of existing information obtained from a wide variety of sources. It should indicate
potential hazards at an early stage and provide a basis for the investigation. Potential problems should be assessed according to the
current and historical uses of the site and surrounding area, including those which may have been left by:
industrial, commercial and agricultural uses,

including storage
mining
quarrying
landfilling and tipping.
Key information sources include:
the Environment Agency or its equivalent for example,

coastal erosion, landfill sites, details of water abstraction
the local authority for example planning and

environmental health
British Geological Survey, maps and information
Ordnance Survey, current and previous editions of plans and

aerial photographs
Coal Authority, mining reports past, present and

proposed mining
utility companies
county records offices, libraries, museums and

local history sources
soil survey maps
the site vendor
in-house information
ongoing monitoring.

CHAPTER 4.1
Initial Assessment walkover survey (all sites) 4.1.3

To assess ground conditions, a walkover survey of the site and the surrounding area shall be undertaken by a
suitable person.
A walkover survey is a direct inspection of the site and the surrounding area carried out in conjunction with the desk study.
Indications of any potential hazards should provide a basis for the investigation. A photographic record of the site can help in the
reporting of the walkover survey.
Source of information
Items to be taken into account
Topography
abrupt changes in slope
valley bottoms or depressions which may be soft or filled
evidence of overburden on slopes
excavations at the base of the slope
signs of landslip, e.g. tilting trees, posts or walls
signs of subsidence
evidence of imported soil including local surface depressions, tipped material or rubbish, particularly if
it is hot or has an odour.
Soils and rocks
Surface water
and vegetation
Vegetation
Structural information
Local information
the basic ground type
evidence of peat, silt or other highly compressible material at or below the surface
cracking or stickiness of the surface which may indicate a shrinkable sub-soil
sudden changes in conditions, e.g. clay to chalk or soil to rock.
a high water table indicated, e.g. by waterlogged ground
signs of flooding
reeds or water-loving plants
springs, ponds, wells, ditches or streams
the source of any discoloured water.
vegetation which may indicate the nature of the soils
sparse dead or dying vegetation
type and condition of vegetation on land adjoining the site
species, height and condition of the trees
species, height, spread and condition of hedges and scrub on clay
evidence of former trees, hedges or scrub on clay.
damage to structures, e.g. cracking in buildings, on or around the site
other evidence of movement, e.g. tilting or distortion
any structures or services below ground.
local knowledge of the site, e.g. mining, refuse tipping or flooding
local industrial history records indicating past and present uses of the site
place names and street names that may give clues to previous site usage,
e.g. Brickfield Cottage, Water Lane.
Initial Assessment results 4.1.4

The results of the desk study and walkover survey shall be recorded and evaluated by a suitable person.
Initial results should be evaluated for suspected hazards and the results recorded, and include the following as appropriate:
site plans, including dates, previous and current uses,
photographs, including aerial photographs, showing points
and proposed site layout
geology of the site, including geological maps, previous site

investigations and laboratory test results
of interest or concern (e.g. areas of ground instability),

interpretation of aerial photographs, and dates
of photographs
list of sources of information consulted and copies of the

information obtained.
4.1
Table 2: Potential hazards

CHAPTER 4.1
Basic Investigation (sites where hazards are not identified or suspected) 4.1.5
Also see: BS EN 1997-2
Where hazards are not suspected, a Basic Investigation of the site, including geotechnical and contamination
investigations, shall be carried out by a suitable person and recorded to the satisfaction of NHBC.
The Basic Investigation aims to provide assurance for all sites, regardless of how free of hazards they may appear, and forms the
minimum requirement for a site investigation.
The number and depth of trial pits should be located so they are representative of the site and will depend upon the:
proposed development
nature of the site
inconsistency of the soil and geology across the site.
Trial pits should be located outside the proposed foundation area, and generally be a minimum of 3m deep. The distance from
the edge of the foundation should not be less than the depth of the trial pit. Where trial pits do not provide sufficient information,
boreholes will be necessary.
Basic geotechnical and contamination investigations should be conducted and include:
physical tests, such as plasticity index tests, to support the
a basic contamination investigation based on sampling and
4.1
results of the Initial Assessment
testing of soil taken from trial pits during the

geotechnical investigation.
During the excavation of the trial pits, the use of sight and smell may help to identify certain contaminants.
If the Basic Investigation reveals the presence of geotechnical and/or contamination hazards, or has not addressed all of the original
objectives, or where there is any doubt about the condition of the ground, further Detailed Investigation should be conducted.
Detailed Investigation (sites where hazards are identified or suspected) 4.1.6

Where hazards are identified or suspected, a Detailed Investigation of the site shall be conducted under the
supervision of a consultant or specialist acceptable to NHBC to determine and report on the nature and extent
of the conditions.
A Detailed Investigation should be carried out where hazards are identified or suspected:
from the outset
from the initial results of the desktop study and walkover
from the Basic Investigation.
survey, or
A consultant or specialist acceptable to NHBC should be appointed to:
design and supervise the Detailed Investigation
present all the factual data obtained from the

Detailed Investigation.
In addition to the Basic Investigation, the Detailed Investigation should adopt a clearly defined, structured approach,
gathering information which considers the:
immediate site and the adjacent area
possibility of future development in the vicinity of thesite
nature of the development
complexity of the ground conditions
extent of influence of the proposed foundations
presence of soil gas (if there is any possibility a full gas

investigation should be carried out and include
flow measurements)
surface water and ground water conditions, soils and

geology, and site history.
The problems and liabilities which have to be managed in order to develop the site should be clearly communicated in the Detailed
Investigation report.
Further investigation should be conducted if the Detailed Investigation has not satisfactorily addressed all of the original objectives.

CHAPTER 4.1
Managing the risks (sites where hazards are found) 4.1.7

Hazardous ground conditions shall be satisfactorily managed under the supervision of a consultant or
specialist acceptable to NHBC. Items to be taken into account include:
a) design precautions
b) remediation techniques
c) a method statement and report.
The consultant or specialist should:
identify any results which show that design precautions
make recommendations for appropriate design precautions
and/or remediation may be necessary
conduct a risk assessment to determine appropriate design

precautions and/or remedial treatment
specify the options for remediating any contamination that

may be present and provide a remediation method statement
as necessary, including all underground services on the site

and any ground improvement techniques
ensure the works are appropriately supervised
produce a remediation report.
factors associated with the site and surrounding area

which could restrict the design precautions or remediation
techniques should be identified
local and statutory requirements should be met to avoid

abortive works
time constraints may influence the choice of solution, but do

not alter the requirement for effective remediation.
Design precautions
Solutions for dealing with geotechnical hazards include:
specialist foundations such as rafts, piling and ground beams
ground improvement techniques such as vibro,

dynamic compaction and surcharging.
Remediation techniques
Solutions for dealing with contamination hazards include:
risk avoidance by changing the pathway or isolating the

target, by adjusting the layout and/or by building protective
measures into the construction
engineering-based treatments that remove or isolate

contaminants or modify the pathway by excavation, providing
ground barriers or covering and capping
process-based treatment to remove,modify, stabilise or

destroy contaminants by physical, biological,
chemical or thermal means.
Remediation method statement and report

The remediation method statement should detail the strategy for the site and include the:
original risk assessment, identification of the remediation

objectives and outline information for the method chosen
remediation objectives for ground, ground water and soil gas
working method for implementing remediation
waste classification and methods for control and disposal
proposed supervision and monitoring of remediation
validation sampling and testing to be implemented.
The report should include the following information:
photographic records, especiallyfor work which will be

buried (e.g. membranes)
site diaries or drawings, environmental supervisors site diary

and independent witness statements where appropriate
accurate surveys of the levels and position of all

remediated areas
a description of any remedial materials used
details of soil movements and waste transfer notes
results of post-remediation sampling (laboratory certificates

should be provided in appendices)
validation test results
results of monitoring
details of all consultations and meetings with

statutory authorities.
Unforeseen hazards 4.1.8

Where additional or unforeseen hazards arise during construction, the builder shall ensure investigation and
management satisfactory to NHBC.
Where additional or unforeseen hazards arise, specialist advice is required so that the hazard is properly investigated,
managed and verified.
4.1
The proposed solutions for dealing with geotechnical and/or contamination hazards should make due allowance for any constraints
that apply, for example:

CHAPTER 4.1
Documentation and verification 4.1.9
Documentation and verification shall be provided to to the satisfaction of NHBC demonstrate that the site is
suitable for the proposed development. All relevant information, designs, specifications and reports shall be
produced in a clearly understandable format and distributed to appropriate personnel.
Where the site is within an area susceptible to radon, it will be necessary to follow appropriate guidance in the building regulations
and associated documents. The information detailed in Table 3 should be provided to NHBC.
Table 3: Information required by NHBC

Geotechnical hazards present:
Yes
No
Yes
No
Contamination hazards present:
Yes
Yes
No
No
Initial Assessment, Further Assessment and Basic Investigation

Proposals to manage geotechnical risks
Proposals to manage contamination risks
4.1
Verification evidence
Note
Evidence may still be required by NHBC to substantiate that contamination and hazards are not present on the site.
Guidance for investigations 4.1.10
Also see: BS EN 1997-2
Site investigations shall be undertaken in accordance with BS EN 1997-2 and recognised practice. Items to be
taken into account include:
a) investigation technique
b) sampling
c) testing.
Investigation technique
A site investigation normally comprises techniques which are classed as either indirect or direct.
Indirect investigations use geophysical techniques, including electromagnetic, resistivity, seismic, gravity and ground radar,
to interpret ground conditions. Conducted from the surface, they measure variations in properties of the ground, both horizontally
and vertically, to define subsurface conditions. Geophysical methods rely on contrasts in the physical properties, for example,
between sand and gravel and rockhead. Contrast may also be provided by faulting, underground cables and pipelines or by cavities.
Direct investigation techniques involve intrusive activities to enable the retrieval and examination of the ground using trial pits,
trenches, boreholes or probes.
Trial pits allow the detailed inspection, logging, sampling and in-situ testing of large volumes of natural soil or fill and the assessment
of ground water conditions. Trenches are extended trial pits, or linked trial pits, which are excavated where greater exposure of the
ground conditions is required. Trial pits and trenches should be positioned where they will not affect future foundations.
Boreholes are typically formed using the following techniques:
Light cable percussion drilling A shell and auger rig typically used in the UK to drill boreholes in soils and weak rocks.
Continuous flight auger
Exploratory boreholes may be drilled in soils by mechanical continuous flight augers of

various sizes. Hollow stem methods are typically employed where sample retrieval is required.
Rotary drilling
Either open-hole drilling or rotary coring, is used to investigate rock and sometimes stiff soils,
such as boulder clay.
Probing techniques
Used to analyse the relative density of soils and for environmental sampling and monitoring
(such as chemical and physical testing of gases, liquids and solids).

CHAPTER 4.1
Sampling
The number and type of samples taken should be:
appropriate for the results of the desk study, the walkover

survey and the site investigation
appropriate for the range of ground materials encountered

and the proposed development
taken, stored and transported so that they avoid

cross-contamination.
Samples are used to enable soil and rock descriptions to be made and to provide material for physical and chemical testing.
Undisturbed soil and rock samples undergo minimal disturbance, so provide a more reliable indication of the physical soil properties
than disturbed samples.
Ground water should be collected from appropriately designed monitoring wells which should be screened and sealed to ensure that
the relevant stratum is being monitored.
4.1
Gas sampling should be carried out from appropriately designed monitoring wells, boreholes or window sampling holes are
typically used. Identification of the probable source and the measurement of gas flow are important for risk assessments.
Testing
Testing may be undertaken in-situ, or in a laboratory.
A wide variety of in-situ tests can be used to support the results of direct testing. These range from basic tests undertaken by
geologists or engineers using simple hand-held devices or portable test kits to methods that require specialist personnel
and equipment.
Testing laboratories should participate in quality assurance programmes and be accredited for relevant tests by bodies such as
UKAS and MCERTS. Physical tests on soil and rock materials are carried out to provide the following information on ground:
strength
relative density
deformation
settlement
consolidation characteristics
permeability.
Chemical tests on soils, rocks, ground water and gases can be carried out to provide an indication of potential contamination
on the site.
BRE: Report BR211 Radon: Guidance on protective

measures for new dwellings
Report BR212 Construction of new buildings on

gas-contaminated land
Report BR376 Radon: guidance on protective measures

for new dwellings in Scotland Report BR413
Radon: guidance on protective measures for new
dwellings in Northern Ireland
Report BR414 Protective measures for housing on gas

contaminated land
Digest 383 Site investigation for low-rise buildings:

Soil description
BS 10175 Investigation of potentially contaminated sites
BS EN ISO 14688 Geotechnical investigation and testing.

Identification and classification of soil: Part 1. Identification
and description. Part 2. Principles for a classification
BS EN ISO 22476 Geotechnical investigation and testing.

Sampling methods and groundwater measurements.
Part 1. Technical principles for execution
BS 8485 Code of practice for the characterization and

remediation of ground gas in affected development
C665 Assessing risks posed by hazardous ground gasses

to buildings
Special publications 101 112 Remedial treatment for

contaminated land
DCLG and its predecessor departments
Approved Documents A and C Structures and site

preparation and resistance to contaminants and moisture
DEFRA and its predecessor departments
CLAN 02/05 Soil guideline values and the determination of

land as contaminated land under Part 2A
Circular 01/2006 Environmental Protection Act 1990:

Part 2A Contaminated Land
Department of the Environment Industry Profiles

Information on the processes, materials and wastes
associated with individual industries
Department of the Environment Waste Management Paper

No 27 Landfill Gas: A technical memorandum on
the monitoring and control of landfill gas
CLR11 Model procedures for the management of

land contamination
CLEA (Contaminated Land Exposure Assessment)

guidance and software Science Reports SR 1,2,3 and 7
Guidance for the safe development of housing on land

affected by contamination.
Building near trees

CHAPTER 4.2
Technical Requirements when building near trees,
hedgerows and shrubs, particularly in shrinkable soils.
4.2.1 Compliance
4.2.2
4.2.3
Building near trees
4.2.4
The effects of trees on shrinkable soils
4.2.5
Foundations in all soil types
4.2.6
Excavation of foundations
4.2.7 Foundations in shrinkable soils
4.2.8
Design and construction of

foundations in shrinkable soils
4.2.9
Foundation depths for specific conditions

in shrinkable soils
4.2.10 Heave precautions
4.2.11 New drainage
4.2.12 Foundation depth charts
4.2.13 Foundation depth tables
4.2.14 Example
01
01
02
03
06
06
06
08
09
10
13
13
16
22
24
Building near trees 2016

CHAPTER 4.2
Introduction
The combination of shrinkable soils and trees, hedgerows or shrubs represents a hazard to structures that requires
special consideration. Trees, hedgerows and shrubs take moisture from the ground and, in cohesive soils such as clay,
this can cause significant volume changes resulting in ground movement. This has the potential to affect foundations
and damage the supported structure. In order to minimise this risk, foundations should be designed to accommodate the
movement or be taken to a depth where the likelihood of damaging movement is low.
This chapter gives guidance for common foundation types to deal with the hazard and includes suitable foundation depths
which have been established from field data, research, NHBC data and practical experience. The depths are not those at
which root activity, desiccation and ground movement are non-existent, but they are intended to provide an acceptable
level of risk. However, if significant quantities of roots are unexpectedly encountered in the base of the trench,
the excavation may need to be deepened.
The interaction between trees, soil and buildings is dependent on many factors and is inherently complex. The relationship
becomes less predictable as factors combine to produce extreme conditions. These are signified by the need for deeper
foundations. Depths greater than 2.5m indicate that conditions exist where prescriptive guidance is less reliable.
The services of a specialist arboriculturalist may be helpful for the identification of the type and condition of trees that may
affect building work. This includes trees both on and adjacent to the site.
4.2
Consideration has been given to the potential effects of climate change in the guidance provided.
The following situations are beyond the scope of the guidance in this chapter and will require a site-specific assessment
by an engineer (see Technical Requirement R5):
Foundations deeper than 2.5m within the influence of trees.
Ground with a slope of greater than 1 in 7 (approximately 8) and man-made slopes such as embankments and cuttings.
Underpinning.
Compliance 4.2.1
When building near trees, hedgerows or shrubs, all foundations shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Foundations near trees, hedgerows or shrubs that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

The site plan should show the trees and hedgerows that affect the ground and works, as well as the type, depth and dimensions
of the foundations that fall within their influence. Where trees or hedgerows are either not shown or are in different positions and
shrinkable soil is identified, it may be necessary to adjust the foundation depths on site.
All necessary dimensions and levels should be indicated and relate to at least one benchmark and reference points on the site.
Details should be provided with respect to:
technical method statements
critical sequences of construction
site layout
site investigation
soil volume change potential
survey, including location and height of trees and hedgerows

affecting the site
tree species (including existing, removed and proposed)

using English names
original and final ground levels
planting schedules
dimensions, type and depth of foundations
locations and detailing of steps in foundations,

movement and construction joints, ducts and services
passing through the foundations
location of services
design of drainage systems.

CHAPTER 4.2
Building near trees 4.2.3
Also see: Technical Requirements R5 and BS 5837
When building near trees, hedgerows or shrubs, the designs shall take account of:
a) physical growth of young trees
b) protection of remaining trees and hedgerows
c) removal of existing trees and hedgerows.
Before the site is cleared, a survey is required to record the location, heights and species of trees, hedgerows and shrubs on and
adjacent to the site, which may affect the proposed development.
If the location of previously removed vegetation is not known, local enquiries and reference to aerial photographs should be
carried out. Alternatively, the design should assume the worst conditions, or an engineer consulted to undertake a site-specific
design based on all relevant information and in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Where root growth is noted within shrinkable soil and where records are not available, an engineer should be consulted to assess
whether volume change is likely.
Damage to foundations resulting from the growth of trees and roots should be avoided by locating structures and services at a
safe distance. Where this cannot be achieved, precautions which allow for future growth should be taken which include:
reinforcing foundations to resist lateral forces
bridging walls or structural slabs over the roots, allowing
laying paving and other surfaces on a flexible base to allow

for some movement.
sufficient clearance or reinforcing to avoid cracking
Protection of remaining trees and hedgerows

Roots often extend to distances in excess of the height of the tree, the majority are within 600mm of the surface and project radially.
All parts of the system are easily susceptible to damage which may not regenerate and which can affect the stability of the tree.
This can be caused by:
stripping topsoil too close to trees
excavating trenches for foundations and services too close

to trees
the compaction of soil around trees by heavy plant
the storage of heavy materials around trees
covering the rooting area with impervious surfaces.
raising soil levels adjacent to trees, particularly where

non-granular materials are used
Trees should be protected from damage by:
a fence or barrier. The fence or barrier should extend around
ensuring services are not routed closeto trees or, where this
a single trunk equivalent to a circle of radius 12 times the

trunk diameter measured 1.5m above ground level.
The shape of this area may change depending on specific
factors such as local drainage, soil type, age and species
of the tree. An arboriculturist may be required to assess
these factors
is impractical, are installed in such a way as to minimise

root damage.
Removal of existing trees and hedgerows

Statutory Requirements, planning conditions, conservation area restrictions or tree preservation orders may result in protected trees
and hedgerows being retained. The local planning authority should be consulted.
Dead trees and hedgerows should be removed. Unstable trees should be made steady or felled. If necessary, specialist advice
should be obtained from a registered arboriculturalist.
4.2
Physical growth of young trees

CHAPTER 4.2
The effects of trees on shrinkable soils 4.2.4
Also see: Arboricultural Advisory and Information Service, Arboricultural

Association, BRE Digest 240 and local geological survey maps
Foundations shall be designed to make allowance for the effect of trees, hedgerows and shrubs on shrinkable
soils. Items to be taken into account include:
a) soil classification, shrinkage and heave
b) water demand, tree heights and zone of influence of trees
c) climate.
Soil classification, shrinkage and heave

Shrinkable soils, that are widely distributed throughout the UK, often change volume as moisture content fluctuates seasonally and
as a result of factors, including the action of tree roots. The resulting shrinkage or swelling can cause subsidence or heave damage
to foundations, the structures they support and services.
The following definitions are used to classify soil properties:
4.2
Shrinkable soils
Over 35% fine particles and a Modified Plasticity Index of 10% or greater.
Fine particles
Nominal diameter less than 60m, i.e. clay and silt particles.
Plasticity Index (Ip)
A measure of volume change potential determined by Atterberg Limits tests. These tests are carried
out on the fine particles and any medium and fine sand particles. Soil particles with a nominal diameter
greater than 425m are removed by sieving beforehand and the smaller particles analysed. This is a
requirement of BS 1377 which specifies the test procedure.
Modified Plasticity
Index (Ip)
Defined as the Ip of the soil multiplied by the percentage of particles less than 425m.
Ip = Ip x % less than 425m
100%
Table 1: Modified Plasticity Index related to volume change potential

Modified Plasticity Index
Volume change potential
40% and greater
High
20% to less than 40%
Medium
Low
Alternatively, the Plasticity Index may be used without modification. For pure clays and other soils with 100% of particles less than
425m, the result will be the same. However, for mixed soils such as glacial tills, use of the Modified Plasticity Index may result in a
more economic design.
The volume change potential should be established from site investigation and reliable local knowledge of the geology.
Sufficient samples should be taken to provide confidence that the results are representative. High volume change potential
should be assumed if the volume change potential is unknown.
Water demand, tree heights and lateral zone of tree influence

Water demand varies according to treespecies and size. Water demand categories of common tree species are given in the
table below.
Where the species of a tree has not been identified, high water demand should be assumed.
Where the species of a tree has been identified but is not listed, the assumptions about water demand as listed in Table 2 may be
made for broad-leafed trees:
Table 2: Water demand of broad-leaf trees by species

Tree species
Water demand
All elms, eucalyptus, hawthorn, oaks, poplars and willows
High water demand
All others
Moderate water demand
Table 3 shows the water demand categories and the average mature heights to which healthytrees of the species may be expected
to grow in favourable ground and environmental conditions. This information:
should be used for trees that are to remain or are scheduled

to be planted
may be used even when actual heights are greater.

CHAPTER 4.2
Table 3: Water demand of tree species in relation to their height

High water
demand species
Mature height (m)
Moderate water
demand species
Mature height (m)
Low water
demand species
Mature height (m)
English elm
24
Acacia (False)
18
Birch
14
Wheatley elm
22
Alder
18
Elder
10
Wych elm
18
Apple
10
Fig
Eucalyptus
18
Ash
23
Hazel
Hawthorn
10
Bay laurel
10
Holly
12
English oak
20
Beech
20
Honey locust
14
Holm oak
16
Blackthorn
Hornbeam
17
Red oak
24
Japanese cherry
Laburnum
12
Turkey oak
24
Laurel cherry
Magnolia
Hybrid black poplar
28
Orchard cherry
12
Mulberry
Lombardy poplar
25
Wild cherry
17
Tulip tree
20
White poplar
15
Horse chestnut
20
Crack willow
24
Sweet chestnut
24
Weeping willow
16
Lime
22
White willow
24
Japanese maple
Norway maple
18
Mountain ash
11
Pear
12
Plane
26
Plum
10
Sycamore
22
Tree of heaven
20
Walnut
18
Whitebeam
12
4.2
Broad-leafed trees:
Coniferous trees:
Lawsons cypress
18
Cedar
20
Leyland cypress
20
Douglas fir
20
Monterey cypress
20
Larch
20
Monkey puzzle
18
Pine
20
Spruce
18
Wellingtonia
30
Yew
12
Tree identification can be assisted by reference to a tree recognition book. Information may be obtained from suitable alternative
authoritative sources for trees not listed in this chapter.
When the species is known but the subspecies is not, the greatest height listed for the species should be assumed.
Where hedgerows contain trees, their effect should be assessed separately and the height of the species likely to have the greatest
effect should be used.

CHAPTER 4.2
Table 3a: Guidance for factors affecting the mature height and water demand of trees
Influencing factor
Guidance
Heavy crown reduction

or pollarding (previously
or planned)
The mature height should be used, or a registered arboricuturalist should be consulted to undertake
a site-specific assessment.
Removal of trees
(previously or planned)
The water demand of a semi-mature tree may be equal to that of a mature tree, though for a sapling
or young tree will be significantly less.
mature height
in this range use
H = mature height
as listed in Table 3
50%
in this range use
H = actual height
4.2
Height H should be determined in accordance

with this diagram when:
deriving foundation depths when trees have

been removed, based on tree height at the
time of removal
checking the appropriate level from which

depths should be measured when trees
remain and the ground level is increased,
based on tree height at time of construction
relative to original ground level, or
determining if heave precautions are to

be provided, based on tree height at time
of construction.
Table 3b: Zone of influence (lateral extent) of trees.

Water demand
Zone of influence
High
1.25 x mature height
Moderate
Low
0.5 x mature height
Climate
High rainfall reduces moisture deficits caused by trees
and hedgerows, while cool, damp weather reduces the
rate of water loss from trees thus reducing the risk of
soil movement.
Thurso
0.50m (500mm)
Wick
The driest and hottest areas in the UK generally exist in

southeast England; therefore, the greatest risk occurs in that
area and diminishes with distance north and west. A 50mm
decrease can be made to the foundation depth
determined in accordance with this chapter for every
50 miles distance north and west of London. Where it
is unclear which zone applies, the lower reduction value
should be used.
0.45m (450mm)
Dingwall
Inverness
Fort William
Pitlochry
Oban
Perth
Peterhead
Aberdeen
Montrose
Dunbar
Glasgow Edinburgh Berwick Upon Tweed
0.40m (400mm)
0.35m (350mm)
0.30m (300mm)
Ayr
Londonderry
Dumfries
Newcastle Tynemouth
0.25m (250mm)
Carlisle
Darlington Middlesbrough
0.20m (200mm)
Scarborough
Barrow-in-Furness
Douglas
Lancaster York
Leeds
Hull
Blackpool
0.15m (150mm)
Manchester
Grimsby
Holyhead
Liverpool
Lincoln
Conwy Chester
Skegness
0.10m (100mm)
Stoke on Trent Derby
Norwich
Shrewsbury Stafford
Kings Lynn
Yarmouth
Aberystwyth
Leicester
Lowestoft
Cardigan
0.05m (50mm)
Worcester Birmingham Cambridge
Banbury
Brecon
Cheltenham Colchester Ipswich
Swansea
Pembroke
Newport Oxford
Chelmsford
Cardiff
Swindon
Ilfracombe
Bristol
Margate
Reading London
Salisbury Winchester
Barnstaple
Dover
Taunton
Southampton Brighton
Exeter
Poole
Portsmouth Hastings
St. Austell Plymouth Weymouth
Penzance
Enniskillen
Belfast

CHAPTER 4.2
Foundations in all soil types 4.2.5

Foundations in all soil types shall be appropriately designed and constructed to transmit loads to the ground
safely and without excessive movement.
Different foundation types should not be used to support the same structure unless the foundation and superstructure design are
undertaken by an engineer.
Freestanding masonry walls should be constructed on foundations in accordance with this chapter or designed to accommodate
potential ground movement, for example, by careful use of movement joints and reinforcement.
Excavation of foundations 4.2.6
Also see: Chapter 4.1, 4.3, 4.4, 4.5 and Technical Requirement R5
Excavation of foundations shall take account of the design and be suitable to receive concrete.
Foundation depths should be measured on the centre line of the excavation and from ground level determined from Clause 4.2.9.
Some root activity may be expected below the depths determined in accordance with this guidance. However, if significant quantities
of roots are unexpectedly encountered in the base of the trench, an engineer should be consulted to determine if the excavation
should be deepened.
Foundations in shrinkable soils
4.2.7
Also see: NHBC Foundation Depth app. www.nhbc.co.uk/apps
Foundations shall be capable of accommodating the effects of trees, shrubs and hedgerows on shrinkable
soils without excessive movement. Items to be taken into account include:
a) foundation type
b) distance between tree and foundation
c) method of assessment of foundation depths
d) foundation depths related to the zone of influence of new tree planting
e) foundation depths related to new shrub planting.
Landscape and foundation designs should be compatible, and planting schedules produced by a qualified landscape architect or
other suitably qualified person and agreed with the local planning authority before work commences on site.
Foundation type
Foundations to all permanent structures, including garages, porches and conservatories, should take account of the effects of
soil desiccation. Foundation types that are acceptable in shrinkable soils include strip, trench fill, pier and beam, pile and beam,
and raft, providing they:
are capable of supporting the applied loads without
include suitable heave precautions.
undue settlement
Variations to the foundation depths derived from this chapter may be permitted where:
it is necessary to take account of local ground conditions
other foundation depths are traditionally acceptable
designed in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Root barriers are not an acceptable alternative to the guidance given.
Distance between tree and foundation

The distance (D) between the centre of the trunk and the nearest face of the foundation should be used to derive the
foundation depths.
D = 2m where trees which have been, or are to be, removed from within 2m of the face of the proposed foundation are less than
50% of the mature height as given in Table 3. This is to avoid a situation where, for example, a sapling removed from the foundation
line would otherwise require an unnecessarily deep foundation since the D/H value would always be zero, regardless of the height H
of the tree.
4.2
Where trench bottoms become excessively dried or softened due to rain or ground water, the excavation should be re-bottomed
prior to concreting.

CHAPTER 4.2
Method of assessment of foundation depths

Foundation depths should be determined according to the
guidance provided in this document. If in doubt, assume the
worst conditions or consult an engineer. Foundations deeper
than 2.5m should be designed by an engineer in accordance
with Technical Requirement R5.
One of the following methods may be used to assess the
foundation depth where foundations are in the zone of influence
of existing or proposed trees.
Foundation Depth app.

www.nhbc.co.uk/apps
Method
Taking account of
Comments
4.2
Design in accordance with

this chapter to a depth
derived from the charts
in Clause 4.2.12, tables
in Clause 4.2.13 or the
Foundation Depth app
site investigation
soil volume change potential
water demand of the tree
appropriate tree height (H)
distance (D) of the tree(s) from the foundations
geographical location of the site north and west of London
appropriate heave precautions.

Design by an engineer in
the recommendations of this chapter
accordance with Technical
site investigation
Requirement R5
advice, when necessary, from a registered arboriculturalist

or other competent person whose qualifications are
acceptable to NHBC.
The most onerous conditions should

be assumed in the absence of
derived information.
When this method is used and it

results in foundation depths or other
details less onerous than those
derived from this chapter, the design
should be submitted to NHBC for
approval prior to work commencing
on site.
Foundation depths related to the zone of influence of new tree planting

Foundation depths relating to the zone of influence of proposed tree planting should be in accordance with any of the following:
Foundation depth charts in Clause 4.2.12.
Tables in Clause 4.2.13.
The Foundation Depth app.
Minimum foundation depths outside of the zone of influence of trees can be determined from Tables 4 and 5.
Table 4: Minimum foundation depths

Volume change
potential
A) Minimum foundation depth (m) (allowing for

restricted new planting)
B) Minimum foundation depth (m) (where planting

is outside the zone of influence of trees)
High
1.50
1.0
Medium
1.25
0.9
Low
1.0
0.75
Table 5: Where foundation depths are in accordance with column A or column B in Table 4, tree planting should be restricted to:
Water demand
No tree planting zone for column A in Table 4
No tree planting zone / zone of influence for

column B in Table 4
High
1.0 x mature height
Moderate
0.5 x mature height
Low
0.2 x mature height
0.5 x mature height
Foundation depths related to new shrub planting

Shrubs have considerable potential to cause changes in soil moisture content. The foundation design should consider shrub planting
in accordance with Table 6.

CHAPTER 4.2
Table 6: Shrub planting

A) Minimum foundation depth (m)
B) Minimum foundation depth (m)
High
1.50
1.0
Medium
1.25
0.9
Low
1.0
0.75
The foundation design should consider shrub planting as follows:

Shrubs that have a maximum
mature height of 1.8m
Use foundation depth from column B.
Pyracantha and cotoneaster

whose mature height
exceeds 1.8m
Use foundation depth from column B and plant at least 1.0 x mature height from foundation,
or use foundation depth from column A and plant at least 0.5 x mature height from foundation.
All others
Use foundation depth from column B and plant at least 0.75 x matureheight from foundation,
or use foundation depth from column A with no restriction on minimum distance
from foundation.
Also see: Chapters 4.3, 4.4 and
Technical Requirement R5
Design and construction of foundations in shrinkable soils 4.2.8

Foundations in shrinkable soils shall be appropriately designed and constructed.
Reference should be made to Clause 4.2.10 to establish the precautions necessary to cater for potential heave.
The following will only be acceptable if they are designed by an engineer and account for all potential movement of the soil on the
foundations and substructure:
Trench fill foundations deeper than 2.5m.
Pile and beam foundations.
Pier and beam foundations.
Rafts.
Trench fill foundations

If trench fill foundations are deeper than 2.5m:
the instability of the trench sides can lead to serious
concrete overspill or overbreak in excavations should be
construction difficulties
the design should take account of soil desiccation and the

associated arboricultural advice
additional heave precautions may be necessary to cater for

lateral and shear forces acting on large vertical areas
of foundation
avoided in order to reduce the possibility of additional vertical

forces being transmitted to the foundation
compressible material should be correctly placed to avoid

excessive heave forces being applied to the foundations
construction joints need to be detailed to account for

increased lateral forces.
Pier and beam foundations

Pier depths not exceeding 2.5m depth may be derived from Clause 4.2.7. Pier depths greater than 2.5m require site
specific assessment.
Pile and beam foundations

When selecting and designing pile and ground beam foundations, piles should be:
designed with an adequate factor of safety to resist uplift

forces on the shaft due to heave.
reinforced for the lengthof the member governed by the

heave design.
Sufficient anchorage should be provided below the depth of desiccated soil. Slip liners may be used to reduce uplift but the amount
of reduction is small, as friction between materials cannot be eliminated.
Bored, cast-in-place piles are well suited to counteracting heave. Most types have a straight-sided shaft, while some are produced
with a contoured shaft to increase load capacity. The design should allow for the enhanced tensile forces in these piles.
Driven piles are less well suited to counteracting heave and are difficult to install in stiff desiccated clay without excessive noise and
vibration. The joint design of these piles should be capable of transmitting tensile heave forces.
Ground beams should be designed to account for the upward forces acting on their underside and transmitted from the compressible
material or void former prior to collapse, and in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
4.2
Climbing shrubs which require Use foundation depth from column B.

wall support and have a
maximum mature height of 5.0m

CHAPTER 4.2
Raft foundations
Raft foundations in shrinkable soils will only be acceptable where all of the following apply:
design is by an engineer in accordance with

NHBC is satisfied that the raft is sufficiently stiff to resist

differential movements
NHBC is satisfied that the raft is founded on granular infill

placed and fully compacted in layers and in accordance with
the engineers specification. Where required by NHBC, site
inspections are to be undertaken by the engineer to verify
suitable compaction of the fill
the raft is generally rectangular in plan with a side ratio of not

more than 2:1
foundation depth is derived in accordance with Clause 4.2.7,

and is less than 2.5m.
Foundation depths for specific conditions in shrinkable soils 4.2.9

4.2
Foundations in shrinkable soils shall be designed to transmit loads to the ground safely and without excessive
movement. Items to be taken into account include:
a) strip and trench fill foundations in non-shrinkable soils overlying shrinkable soil
b) measurement of foundation depths
c) granular infill beneath raft foundations in shrinkable soils
d) steps in foundations.
Strip and trench fill foundations in non-shrinkable soils overlying shrinkable soil
Non shrinkable soils such as sands and gravels may overlie shrinkable soil. Foundations may be constructed on overlying
non-shrinkable soil if all the following are satisfied:
Conditions of Chapter 4.3 Strip and trench fill foundations

are met.
acceptable
foundation
depth
Consistent soil conditions exist across each plot and this is

confirmed by the site investigation.
Depth of the non-shrinkable soil is greater than foundation

depth X, where X is the foundation depth determined using
charts in Clause 4.2.12, tables in Clause 4.2.13 or the
Foundation Depth app, assuming all the soil is shrinkable.
The thickness T of non-shrinkable soil below the foundation is

equal to, or more than, the width of the foundation B.
Proposals are submitted to, and approved by, NHBC prior to

work commencing on site.
depth X
determined
assuming
shrinkable
soil
B
T equal to or greater than B
depth
greater
than
X
non-shrinkable soil
shrinkable soil
Where any of the above are not met foundation depths should be determined as for shrinkable soil.
Measurement of foundation depths

Where ground levels are to remain unaltered, foundation depths
should be measured from original ground level.
Figure 1: Levels from which foundation depths are measured

where trees or hedgerows are to remain
Measurement of foundation depths where ground levels

are reduced or increased, either in the recent past or during
construction, should be as shown in figures 1, 2 and 3.
tree to remain
tree to remain
or
vel
d le
roun
lg
igina
Use the lower of:

a) foundation depth based on appropriate tree height (see Table 3a)
b) foundation depth based on mature height of tree.

CHAPTER 4.2
where trees or hedgerows are removed
tree to be removed
tree to be removed
inal
orig

where trees or hedgerows are proposed
proposed tree
proposed tree
d leve
l groun
origina
ve
nd le
grou
10
b
a
Use the lower of:
a) foundation depth based on appropriate tree height (see Table 3a)
b) minimum foundation depth (see Table 4 column B).
Use the lower of:

a) minimum foundation depth (see Table 4 column B)
b) foundation depth based on mature height of tree.
Granular infill should be placed beneath raft foundations on

shrinkable soils as shown below.
raft foundation
ground level
Infill should:
1.25m max. depth
be at least 50% of the foundation depth and not more

than 1.25m deep (measured from ground level determined in
accordance with 4.2.9b)
extend beyond the edge of the foundation by a distance equal

to its natural angle of repose, plus 0.5m.
0.5m
0.5m
angle of repose of infill material

level formation
fully compacted infill material
Steps in foundations
On sloping ground, foundation trenches can be gradually stepped so that the required foundation depth is reasonably uniform below
ground level.
Where foundations are to be stepped to take account of the influence of trees, hedgerows and shrubs, they should be
stepped gradually, with no step exceeding 0.5m.
Heave precautions 4.2.10
Also see: Chapter 2.1 and BS 5837
Foundations, substructures and services shall be suitably designed and detailed to prevent excessive
movement due to heave. Heave precautions shall be incorporated into foundations and substructures in
accordance with the design. Items to be taken into account include:
a) potential for ground movement
b) minimum void dimensions
c) proprietary heave materials
d) heave precautions for foundations
e) other foundation types

f) suspended ground floors
g) paths and driveways.
Where foundations and substructure may be subject to heave, they should be protected by voids, void formers or
compressible materials.
Where proprietary materials are used, the design of foundations and substructure should take into account the upward force
transmitted through the compressible material or void former prior to collapse (refer to manufacturers data).
This section provides guidance on heave precautions for common building elements when located within the influence of trees which
are to remain or be removed, including:
trench fill foundations
pier and beam foundations
pile and beam foundations
other foundation types
paths and driveways
new drainage.
4.2
Granular infill beneath raft foundations in shrinkable soils

CHAPTER 4.2
11
Potential for ground movement

After the felling or removal of trees and hedgerows on shrinkable soils, heave can occur, as the absorbed moisture causes swelling.
Heave can also occur beneath a building where:
roots are severed
there are changes in ground water conditions.
water enters the ground from leaking drains and services
Minimum void dimensions

Voids should be provided to accommodate movement due to heave forces acting against foundations and suspended ground floors
Table 7: Void dimensions
4.2
Volume change Void dimension against side of

potential
foundation and ground beam
Void dimension under ground

beams, and suspended in-situ
concrete ground floor
Void dimension under

suspended precast concrete
and timber floors(1)
High
35mm
150mm
300mm
Medium
25mm
100mm
250mm
Low
0mm
50mm
200mm
Notes
1 Under suspended floors, the void dimension is measured from the underside of beam or joist to ground level and includes 150mm ventilation allowance.
Void formers consist of materials that collapse to form a void into which the clay can swell. The void dimension is the remaining void
after collapse. The thickness of the void former should be in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Proprietary materials to accommodate heave

Compressible material compacts as clay expands; the void dimension is the amount the material should be able to compress
to accommodate heave. The thickness of compressible material required should be established from the manufacturers
recommendations, but generally will be approximately twice the void dimension shown.
Each material should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 and used in accordance with the independent
assessment and the manufacturers recommendations.
The correct placement of heave materials is essential to ensure the foundations and substructure are adequately protected from
heave forces.
Heave precautions for foundations

Table 8 shows where heave precautions are required for trench fill, pier and beam, and pile and beam foundation types which are in
the zone of influence of trees (see Table 3b) which are to remain or be removed.
Table 8: Position of heave precautions

Situation (see figures 4,5 & 6)
Trench fill
Pier and beam
Pile and beam
External trench fill and pier foundations. Unless NHBC

is satisfied that the soil is not desiccated compressible
material should be provided to the:
Inside faces of external

wall foundations deeper
than 1.5m, based on the
appropriate tree height.
All faces of pier foundations N/A

deeper than 1.5m, based
on the appropriate
tree height.
External ground beams.

N/A
Unless NHBC is satisfied that the soil is not desiccated
compressible material or void formers should be
provided to the:
Inside faces.
Inside faces.
Internal trench fill foundations and ground beams.

Compressible material required:
No
No
No
External and internal ground beams.

Compressible material, void former or void should be
provided to the underside of:
N/A
All
All
Heave precautions required for proposed trees where

the soil is not desiccated:
No
No
No

CHAPTER 4.2
Figure 4: Heave precautions for trench fill foundations up to
12
Figure 5: Heave precautions for pier and beam foundations
2.5m deep
3D
3D
450mm max
backfill
compressible material
vertical face
to
foundation
void (see Table 7)

or void former to
inside face of external
ground beams
or void former
beneath ground
beams
backfill
embedment of
anchorage bars to
be 40 bar
diameters
or designed by an
engineer
(see Technical
Requirement R5)
compressible
material
to sides of piers
500mm
500mm
It is essential that:
Compressible material is provided to the entire area shown,
and the foundation excavation has a vertical face.
Where the excavation is battered or if there is overbreak or
concrete overspill, it may be necessary to consult an engineer.
Figure 6: Heave precautions for pile and beam foundations

3D
It is essential that heave material is provided to the entire

areas shown. Particular care should be taken to ensure that the
full width of the ground beam is protected.
Raft foundations constructed in accordance with

Clause 4.2.8 and Clause 4.2.9 should provide adequate
protection from heave.
void (see Table 7)

backfill
or void former to
inside face of external
ground beams
or void former beneath
ground beams
embedment of
pile tension
reinforcement
to be 40 bar
diameters or
designed by
an engineer
(see Technical
Requirement R5)
optional rigid
slip liner
pile length to
engineer's design
It is essential that heave material is provided to the entire areas shown.

Particular care should be taken to ensure that the full width of the
ground beam and the areas around the piles are protected.
Other foundation types

All foundations not covered in this chapter, but specifically designed to counteract heave, should be:
designed by an engineer taking account of this guidance
submitted to NHBC for approval prior to commencing work

on site.

Suspended ground floors with voids in accordance with Table 7 should be used in situations where heave can occur within the area
bounded by the foundations, including where:
foundation depth, determined in accordance with this

chapter, is more than 1.5m, unless NHBC is satisfied the soil
is not desiccated, or
ground floor construction is undertaken when the surface

soils are seasonally desiccated (i.e. during summer and
autumn), unless NHBC is satisfied the soil is not desiccated.
Paths and driveways

Paths and driveways should be designed and detailed to cater for the likely ground movement.
4.2
void (see Table 7)

CHAPTER 4.2
13
New drainage 4.2.11
Drainage shall be in accordance with the design and allow for ground movement.
To protect against the effects of heave, drainage should be designed:
to take account of potential ground movement as shown in
to use alternative means of catering for the movement when
Table 9, including where pipes and services pass through

substructure walls or foundations
with gradients which may need to be greater than those

in Chapter 5.3 Drainage below ground as these do not
account for possible ground movement
sufficient falls cannot be provided, for example by deepening

the excavation and laying the pipework on a granular
bedding of suitable thickness to reduce the extent of
potential movement.
Table 9: Volume change potential
4.2
Potential ground movement (mm)
High
150
Medium
100
Low
50
Note
Existing land drains should be maintained or diverted.
Foundation depth charts 4.2.12

Table 10: Determination of D/H value
Determination of D/H value
Distance D (m)
Tree H (m)
2
10
12
14
16
18
20
22
24
26
28
30
0.50
0.25
0.17
0.13
0.10
0.08
0.07
0.06
0.06
0.05
0.05
0.04
0.04
0.04
0.03
1.00
0.50
0.33
0.25
0.20
0.17
0.14
0.13
0.11
0.10
0.09
0.08
0.08
0.07
0.07
0.75
0.50
0.38
0.30
0.25
0.21
0.19
0.17
0.15
0.14
0.13
0.12
0.11
0.10
1.00
0.67
0.50
0.40
0.33
0.29
0.25
0.22
0.20
0.18
0.17
0.15
0.14
0.13
0.83
0.63
0.50
0.42
0.36
0.31
0.28
0.25
0.23
0.21
0.19
0.18
0.17
1.00
0.75
0.60
0.50
0.43
0.38
0.33
0.30
0.27
0.25
0.23
0.21
0.20
1.17
0.88
0.70
0.58
0.50
0.44
0.39
0.35
0.32
0.29
0.27
0.25
0.23
1.00
0.80
0.67
0.57
0.50
0.44
0.40
0.36
0.33
0.31
0.29
0.27
1.13
0.90
0.75
0.64
0.56
0.50
0.45
0.41
0.38
0.35
0.32
0.30
1.00
0.83
0.71
0.63
0.56
0.50
0.45
0.42
0.38
0.36
0.33
0.92
0.79
0.69
0.61
0.55
0.50
0.46
0.42
0.39
0.37
1.10
1.00
0.86
0.75
0.67
0.60
0.55
0.50
0.46
0.43
0.40
1.20
0.93
0.81
0.72
0.65
0.59
0.54
0.50
0.46
0.43
1.08
1.00
0.88
0.78
0.70
0.64
0.58
0.54
0.50
0.47
1.07
0.94
0.83
0.75
0.68
0.63
0.58
0.54
0.50
1.00
0.89
0.80
0.73
0.67
0.62
0.57
0.53
1.06
0.94
0.85
0.77
0.71
0.65
0.61
0.57
1.00
0.90
0.82
0.75
0.69
0.64
0.60
0.95
0.86
0.79
0.73
0.68
0.63
1.00
0.91
0.83
0.77
0.71
0.67
0.95
0.88
0.81
0.75
0.70
1.10
1.00
0.92
0.85
0.79
0.73
0.88
0.82
0.77
1.09
1.00
0.92
0.86
0.80
0.89
0.83
1.08
1.00
0.93
0.87
0.96
0.90
1.08
1.00
0.93
0.97
1.07
1.00
1.14
1.07
1.13
1.21
1.10
1.18
1.03
1.11
1.19
1.15
1.04
1.12
1.21
1.17
1.04
1.13
1.18
0.96
1.04
1.14
1.20
0.96
1.05
1.15
1.05
1.17
1.11
21
1.06
1.19
20
1.13
19
1.21
18
1.14
17
16
1.17
1.17
1.20
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
Where no value is given in the table, minimum foundation depths apply (i.e.1.0m, 0.9m and 0.75 m for high, medium and low volume
change potential soils respectively).

CHAPTER 4.2
14
Chart 1: Soils with HIGH volume change potential Modified Plasticity Index 40% or greater
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
D/H
0.8
1.0
1.2
TREE WATER DEMANDS

Broad-leafed trees
High
Moderate
Low
0.5
Coniferous trees
High
Moderate
4.2
1.0
1.5
Lo
2.0
ig
der
Mo
at
er
od
Hig
ate
Foundation depths (m)
Minimum depth 1.0m
2.5
Chart 2: Soils with MEDIUM volume change potential Modified Plasticity Index between 20% and less than 40%
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
D/H
0.8
1.0
1.2
TREE WATER DEMANDS
Broad-leafed trees
High
Moderate
Low
0.5
Coniferous trees
Minimum depth 0.9m
High
1.0
rat
1.5
Lo
ate
er
d
Mo
2.0
Hig
Mo
de
Moderate
gh
Hi
2.5

CHAPTER 4.2
15
Chart 3: Soils with LOW volume change potential Modified Plasticity Index 10 to less than 20%
D/H
0
0.2
0.4
0.6
0.8
1.0
1.2
TREE WATER DEMANDS
Broad-leafed trees
High
Moderate
Low
0.5
Minimum depth 0.75m
Coniferous trees
High
1.0
od
er
at
Low
rat
de
Mo
gh
1.5
2.0
Hi
4.2
Moderate
gh
Hi
2.5

CHAPTER 4.2
16
Foundation depth tables 4.2.13

Table 11: HIGH shrinkage soil and HIGH water demand tree
Broad-leafed trees
Coniferous trees
Foundation depth (m)
Distance Tree height H (m)

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
Foundations greater than 2.5m

deep to be engineer designed
2.50
1.95 2.25 2.50

2.50
1.45 1.85 2.15 2.35 2.50
2.25 2.50
1.00 1.45 1.80 2.05 2.20 2.35 2.50
2.00 2.30 2.50
1.00 1.45 1.75 1.95 2.15 2.25 2.40 2.50
1.75 2.10 2.35 2.50
1.00 1.10 1.45 1.70 1.90 2.05 2.20 2.30 2.40 2.50
1.50 1.90 2.20 2.40 2.50
1.00 1.15 1.45 1.65 1.85 2.00 2.15 2.25 2.35 2.40
1.25 1.70 2.00 2.25 2.40 2.50
1.00 1.20 1.45 1.65 1.80 1.95 2.10 2.20 2.25
10
1.00 1.50 1.85 2.10 2.25 2.40 2.50
10
1.00 1.20 1.45 1.65 1.80 1.90 2.05 2.15
11
1.00 1.30 1.70 1.95 2.15 2.30 2.40 2.50
11
1.00 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.90 2.00
12
1.00 1.10 1.50 1.80 2.00 2.20 2.30 2.45 2.50
12
1.00 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.85
13
1.00 1.35 1.65 1.90 2.10 2.20 2.35 2.45 2.50
13
1.00 1.05 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.70
14
1.00 1.20 1.50 1.75 1.95 2.10 2.25 2.35 2.45 2.50
14
1.00 1.10 1.30 1.45 1.60
15
1.00 1.40 1.65 1.85 2.00 2.15 2.25 2.35 2.45 2.50
15
1.00 1.10 1.30 1.45
16
1.00 1.25 1.50 1.75 1.90 2.05 2.20 2.30 2.40 2.45
16
1.00 1.15 1.30
17
1.00 1.10 1.40 1.65 1.80 1.95 2.10 2.20 2.30 2.40
17
1.00 1.15
18
1.00 1.25 1.50 1.70 1.90 2.00 2.15 2.25 2.30
18
19
1.00 1.15 1.40 1.60 1.80 1.95 2.05 2.15 2.25
19
20
1.00 1.30 1.50 1.70 1.85 2.00 2.10 2.20
20
21
1.00 1.20 1.40 1.60 1.75 1.90 2.00 2.10
21
22
1.00 1.10 1.30 1.50 1.70 1.85 1.95 2.05
22
23
1.00 1.20 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.90 2.00
23
24
1.00 1.10 1.35 1.50 1.65 1.80 1.90
24
25
1.00 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.85
25
26
1.00 1.15 1.35 1.50 1.65 1.80
26
27
1.00 1.05 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.70
27
28
1.00 1.20 1.35 1.50 1.65
28
29
1.00 1.10 1.30 1.45 1.60
29
30
1.00 1.20 1.40 1.50
30
31
1.00 1.15 1.30 1.45
31
32
1.00 1.05 1.25 1.40
32
33
1.00 1.15 1.30
33
34
1.00 1.10 1.25
34
35
1.00 1.20
35
36
1.00 1.10
36
1.00 1.05
37
1.00
38
37
38
1.0m minimum foundation depth
1.00
4.2

CHAPTER 4.2
17
Table 12: HIGH Shrinkage soil and MODERATE water demand tree
4.2
Broad-leafed trees
Coniferous trees

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
2.20 2.25 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.35
1.90 2.00 2.10 2.15 2.15 2.20 2.20 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.30 2.30
1.95 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.20 2.20 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.30
1.40 1.60 1.75 1.85 1.90 2.00 2.00 2.05 2.10 2.10 2.15 2.15
1.70 1.85 1.95 2.00 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.15 2.20 2.20 2.20 2.25
1.00 1.20 1.40 1.55 1.65 1.75 1.80 1.85 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.00
1.50 1.65 1.80 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.05 2.10 2.10 2.15 2.15 2.15
1.00 1.10 1.30 1.40 1.55 1.60 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.85 1.90
1.25 1.50 1.65 1.75 1.85 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.05 2.05 2.10 2.10
1.00 1.00 1.15 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.75
1.00 1.30 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.85 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.00 2.05
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.35 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.60
1.00 1.10 1.35 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.75 1.85 1.90 1.90 1.95 2.00
1.00 1.00 1.15 1.25 1.35 1.40 1.50
1.00 1.20 1.35 1.50 1.60 1.65 1.75 1.80 1.85 1.90 1.90
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.35
1.00 1.20 1.35 1.50 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.85
1.00 1.05 1.15 1.20
10
1.00 1.10 1.25 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.80
10
1.00 1.00 1.10
11
1.00 1.15 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.65 1.70 1.75
11
1.00
12
1.00 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.60 1.65
12
13
1.00 1.05 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.60
13
14
1.00 1.10 1.25 1.35 1.40 1.50 1.55
14
15
1.00 1.15 1.25 1.35 1.40 1.50
15
16
1.00 1.05 1.20 1.25 1.35 1.40
16
17
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.35
17
18
1.00 1.15 1.20 1.30
18
19
1.00 1.05 1.15 1.25
19
20
1.00 1.10 1.20
20
1.00 1.10
21
22
1.00 1.05
22
23
1.00
23
21
Table 13: HIGH shrinkage soil and LOW water demand tree
Broad-leafed trees
D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
1
1.60 1.65 1.70 1.70 1.70 1.75 1.75 1.75 1.75 1.75 1.75 1.75
1.40 1.50 1.55 1.60 1.60 1.65 1.65 1.65 1.65 1.70 1.70 1.70
1.20 1.35 1.40 1.50 1.50 1.55 1.60 1.60 1.60 1.65 1.65 1.65
1.00 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.60 1.60
1.00 1.15 1.25 1.30 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.50 1.55 1.55
1.00 1.15 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.50
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.45
1.00 1.10 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.40
1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.35
10
1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30
11
1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25
12
13
1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20

1.00 1.10 1.15
14
1.00 1.05
15
1.00

CHAPTER 4.2
18
Table 14: MEDIUM shrinkage soil and HIGH water demand tree
Broad-leafed trees
Coniferous trees

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
1
2.15 2.30 2.45 2.50

2.40 2.50
1.70 1.95 2.15 2.25 2.35 2.45 2.50
2.20 2.35 2.45
1.25 1.60 1.85 2.00 2.15 2.25 2.30 2.40 2.45 2.50 2.50
1.95 2.20 2.30 2.40 2.50
0.90 1.25 1.55 1.75 1.95 2.05 2.15 2.20 2.30 2.35 2.40 2.45
1.75 2.00 2.20 2.30 2.40 2.45 2.50
0.90 1.25 1.50 1.70 1.85 1.95 2.05 2.15 2.20 2.25 2.30
1.55 1.85 2.05 2.20 2.30 2.35 2.45 2.50
1.00 1.25 1.50 1.65 1.80 1.90 2.00 2.10 2.15 2.20
1.35 1.70 1.90 2.05 2.20 2.25 2.35 2.40 2.45 2.50
0.90 1.00 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.85 1.95 2.00 2.10
1.15 1.50 1.75 1.95 2.10 2.20 2.25 2.35 2.40 2.45 2.50 2.50
0.90 1.05 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.90 1.95
10
0.90 1.35 1.60 1.80 1.95 2.10 2.20 2.25 2.30 2.35 2.40 2.45
10
0.90 1.10 1.25 1.45 1.55 1.65 1.75 1.85
11
0.90 1.15 1.50 1.70 1.85 2.00 2.10 2.20 2.25 2.30 2.35 2.40
11
0.90 1.10 1.25 1.40 1.55 1.65 1.75
12
0.90 1.00 1.35 1.60 1.75 1.90 2.00 2.10 2.20 2.25 2.30 2.35
12
0.90 1.10 1.25 1.40 1.50 1.60
13
0.90 1.20 1.45 1.65 1.80 1.95 2.05 2.10 2.20 2.25 2.30
13
0.90 0.95 1.10 1.25 1.40 1.50
14
0.90 1.05 1.35 1.55 1.70 1.85 1.95 2.05 2.10 2.20 2.25
14
0.90 1.00 1.15 1.25 1.40
15
0.90 1.20 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.85 1.95 2.05 2.10 2.20
15
0.90 1.00 1.15 1.25
16
0.90 1.10 1.35 1.55 1.70 1.80 1.90 2.00 2.05 2.10
16
0.90 1.00 1.15
17
0.90 1.00 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.70 1.85 1.90 2.00 2.05
17
0.90 1.05
18
0.90 1.15 1.35 1.50 1.65 1.75 1.85 1.95 2.00
18
0.90
19
0.90 1.05 1.25 1.40 1.55 1.70 1.80 1.90 1.95
19
20
0.90 1.15 1.35 1.50 1.60 1.75 1.80 1.90
20
21
0.90 1.05 1.25 1.40 1.55 1.65 1.75 1.85
21
22
0.90 0.95 1.15 1.35 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.80
22
23
0.90 1.10 1.25 1.40 1.55 1.65 1.75
23
24
0.90 1.00 1.20 1.35 1.45 1.60 1.70
24
25
0.90 1.10 1.25 1.40 1.50 1.60
25
26
0.90 1.05 1.20 1.35 1.45 1.55
26
27
0.90 0.95 1.15 1.30 1.40 1.50
27
28
0.90 1.05 1.20 1.35 1.45
28
29
0.90 1.00 1.15 1.30 1.40
29
30
0.90 1.10 1.20 1.35
30
31
0.90 1.00 1.15 1.30
31
32
0.90 0.95 1.10 1.25
32
33
0.90 1.05 1.15
33
34
0.90 1.00 1.10
34
35
0.90 1.05
35
0.90 1.00
36
37
0.90 0.95
37
38
0.90
38
36
4.2

CHAPTER 4.2
19
Table 15: MEDIUM shrinkage soil and MODERATE water demand tree
4.2
Broad-leafed trees
Coniferous

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
1.85 1.85 1.90 1.90 1.95 1.95 1.95 1.95 1.95 1.95 1.95 1.95
1.65 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.80 1.85 1.85 1.90 1.90 1.90 1.90 1.90
1.65 1.75 1.80 1.80 1.85 1.85 1.85 1.90 1.90 1.90 1.90 1.90
1.25 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.65 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.75 1.80 1.80 1.80
1.45 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.80 1.80 1.85 1.85 1.85 1.85
0.90 1.10 1.25 1.35 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.60 1.65 1.65 1.70 1.70
1.30 1.45 1.55 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.75 1.80 1.80 1.80 1.80
0.90 0.95 1.10 1.25 1.30 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.55 1.60
1.10 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.70 1.75 1.75 1.80
0.90 0.90 1.05 1.15 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50
0.90 1.15 1.30 1.40 1.45 1.55 1.60 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.70 1.75
0.90 0.95 1.10 1.15 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.40
0.90 1.00 1.15 1.30 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.60 1.65 1.65 1.70
0.90 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.25 1.30
0.90 0.05 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.55 1.60 1.65
0.90 0.95 1.05 1.10 1.20
0.90 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.55 1.60
0.90 0.95 1.00 1.10
10
0.90 0.95 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50 1.55
10
0.90 0.90 0.95
11
0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45 1.50
11
0.90
12
0.90 1.05 1.15 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.45
12
13
0.90 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.40
13
14
0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.25 1.30 1.35
14
15
0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.25 1.30
15
16
0.90 0.95 1.05 1.10 1.20 1.25
16
17
0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20
17
18
0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15
18
19
0.90 0.95 1.00 1.10
19
20
0.90 0.95 1.05
20
0.90 1.00
21
22
0.90 0.95
22
23
0.90
23
21
Table 16: MEDIUM shrinkage soil and LOW water demand tree
Broad-leafed trees
D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
1
1.35 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.50 1.50
1.20 1.30 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.45
1.05 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.40
0.90 1.05 1.10 1.20 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.30 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.35
0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.20 1.25 1.25 1.30 1.30 1.30
0.90 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.20 1.25 1.25 1.30
0.90 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.15 1.20 1.20 1.25
0.90 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.20
0.90 1.00 1.05 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.15
10
0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.10
11
0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10
12
13
0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05

0.90 0.95 1.00
14
0.90 0.95
15
0.90

CHAPTER 4.2
20
Broad-leafed trees
Coniferous

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
2.35 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.45 2.45 2.45 2.45 2.45 2.45 2.45 2.45
2.15 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40
2.15 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.35 2.35 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.40 2.45
1.80 1.95 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.20 2.25 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.35
2.00 2.10 2.15 2.20 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.35 2.40
1.45 1.65 1.80 1.90 1.95 2.05 2.10 2.10 2.15 2.20 2.20 2.25
1.80 1.95 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.20 2.25 2.25 2.30 2.30 2.30 2.35
1.05 1.35 1.55 1.70 1.80 1.85 1.95 2.00 2.05 2.05 2.10 2.15
1.65 1.80 1.95 2.00 2.10 2.15 2.15 2.20 2.25 2.25 2.25 2.30
0.75 1.05 1.30 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.85 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.05
1.45 1.70 1.80 1.90 2.00 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.15 2.20 2.20 2.25
0.75 1.05 1.25 1.45 1.55 1.65 1.70 1.80 1.85 1.90 1.95
1.30 1.55 1.70 1.80 1.90 2.00 2.05 2.05 2.10 2.15 2.15 2.20
0.75 0.80 1.05 1.25 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.65 1.75 1.80 1.85
1.10 1.40 1.60 1.70 1.80 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.05 2.10 2.10 2.15
0.75 0.85 1.05 1.20 1.35 1.45 1.55 1.60 1.70 1.75
0.95 1.25 1.45 1.60 1.75 1.80 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.05 2.05 2.10
0.75 0.90 1.05 1.20 1.35 1.45 1.50 1.60 1.65
10
0.75 1.10 1.35 1.50 1.65 1.75 1.80 1.90 1.95 2.00 2.00 2.05
10
0.75 0.90 1.05 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.55
11
0.75 1.00 1.20 1.40 1.55 1.65 1.75 1.80 1.90 1.95 1.95 2.00
11
0.75 0.90 1.05 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.45
12
0.75 0.85 1.10 1.30 1.45 1.60 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.85 1.90 1.95
12
0.75 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25 1.35
13
0.75 1.00 1.20 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.85 1.90
13
0.75 0.80 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25
14
0.75 0.90 1.10 1.30 1.45 1.55 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.80 1.85
14
0.75 0.80 0.95 1.05 1.15
15
0.75 1.00 1.20 1.35 1.45 1.55 1.65 1.70 1.75 1.80
15
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05
16
0.75 0.90 1.10 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.60 1.65 1.70 1.75
16
0.75 0.85 0.95
17
0.75 0.80 1.05 1.20 1.35 1.45 1.55 1.60 1.65 1.75
17
0.75 0.85
18
0.75 0.95 1.10 1.25 1.35 1.45 1.55 1.60 1.70
18
0.75
19
0.75 0.85 1.05 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.50 1.55 1.65
19
20
0.75 0.95 1.10 1.25 1.35 1.45 1.50 1.60
20
21
0.75 0.90 1.05 1.20 1.30 1.40 1.45 1.55
21
22
0.75 0.80 1.00 1.10 1.25 1.35 1.40 1.50
22
23
0.75 0.90 1.05 1.20 1.30 1.35 1.45
23
24
0.75 0.85 1.00 1.10 1.25 1.30 1.40
24
25
0.75 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25 1.35
25
26
0.75 0.85 1.00 1.10 1.20 1.30
26
27
0.75 0.80 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.25
27
28
0.75 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.20
28
29
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05 1.15
29
30
0.75 0.90 1.00 1.10
30
31
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05
31
32
0.75 0.80 0.90 1.05
32
33
0.75 0.85 1.00
33
34
0.75 0.80 0.95
34
35
0.75 0.90
35
36
0.75 0.85
36
0.75 0.80
37
0.75
38
37
38
4.2
Table 17: LOW shrinkage soil and HIGH water demand tree

CHAPTER 4.2
21
Table 18: LOW shrinkage soil and MODERATE water demand tree
4.2
Broad-leafed trees
Coniferous

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30

D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
1.50 1.50 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.60 1.60 1.60
1.30 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.55 1.55 1.55
1.35 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.55 1.55 1.55 1.55
1.00 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.45
1.20 1.30 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.50 1.50 1.50 1.50
0.75 0.90 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.40
1.05 1.15 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.45 1.45 1.45 1.45
0.75 0.80 0.95 1.00 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.20 1.25 1.25 1.30
0.90 1.05 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.40 1.40 1.40 1.45
0.75 0.75 0.85 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.20
0.75 0.95 1.05 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.30 1.35 1.35 1.40 1.40
0.75 0.80 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05 1.10 1.20 1.20 1.25 1.30 1.30 1.35 1.35
0.75 0.75 0.85 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.25 1.30 1.30
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.95 0.95
0.75 0.90 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.25 1.25 1.30
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90
10
0.75 0.80 0.90 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.20 1.20 1.25
10
0.75 0.75 0.80
11
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.15 1.20
11
0.75
12
0.75 0.85 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15 1.15
12
13
0.75 0.80 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10 1.15
13
14
0.75 0.85 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.10
14
15
0.75 0.85 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05
15
16
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90 0.95 1.00
16
17
0.75 0.80 0.90 0.95 1.00
17
18
0.75 0.85 0.90 0.95
18
19
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90
19
20
0.75 0.80 0.85
20
0.75 0.85
21
22
0.75 0.80
22
23
0.75
23
21
Table 19: LOW shrinkage soil and LOW water demand tree
Broad-leafed trees
D (m)
8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30
1
1.10 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20 1.20
1.00 1.05 1.05 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15 1.15
0.90 0.95 1.00 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.10 1.15
0.75 0.85 0.90 0.95 1.00 1.00 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.10 1.10 1.10
0.75 0.85 0.90 0.95 0.95 1.00 1.00 1.05 1.05 1.05 1.05
0.75 0.85 0.90 0.90 0.95 0.95 1.00 1.00 1.05 1.05
0.75 0.85 0.85 0.90 0.95 0.95 1.00 1.00 1.00
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90 0.90 0.95 0.95 1.00
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.90 0.90 0.95 0.95
10
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.85 0.90 0.90
11
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.85 0.90
12
13
0.75 0.80 0.85 0.85

0.75 0.80 0.85
14
0.75 0.80
15
0.75

CHAPTER 4.2
22
Example 4.2.14
The following is an example of how to determine foundation depths using the information in this chapter.
The process may be repeated to allow the foundation to be stepped as its distance from the tree increases.
Step 1
Determine the volume change potential of the soil. Ensure the site investigation includes representative sampling and testing.
Site at Oxford, building near a Lombardy poplar (to be retained) and a sycamore (to be removed).
From laboratory tests:
Plasticity Index, Ip = 36%
Test results also report that 100% of particles are smaller than 425m.
Therefore:
4.2
Modified Plasticity Index, Ip = 36 x100 = 36%

100
Volume change potential = medium
(In the absence of tests, assume high volume change potential.)
This example is typical of Oxford clay. More than 35% of the particles are smaller than 60m and therefore the soil is shrinkable.
100% of the particles are smaller than 425m and therefore Ip is the same as the Ip.
A typical boulder clay also has more than 35% of particles smaller than 60m and is therefore also shrinkable. However, it may have
only 80% of its particles smaller than 425m, in which case, the Ip is 80% of the Ip.
A typical clayey sand may have less than 30% of its particles smaller than 60m, in which case, the soil would be non-shrinkable.
Step 2
Establish the species, mature height and water demand of all trees and hedgerows within the influencing radii.
Lombardy poplar
Sycamore
Mature height = 25m

Water demand = high
Mature height = 22m

Water demand = moderate
Step 3
Plot the trees and hedgerows relative to the foundations and
draw their zones of influence to determine which trees will affect
the foundation design. Use a scaled plan.
zone of influence
of Lombardy poplar
1.25 x 25 = 31.25m
Lombardy poplar
mature height 25m
10m
sycamore
mature
height 22m
8m
zone of influence
of sycamore
0.75 x 22 = 16.5m

CHAPTER 4.2
23
Step 4
Establish the appropriate tree height H to use.
Always use the mature height for remaining and proposed trees and hedgerows. The appropriate height to use for removed trees
and hedgerows depends on the actual height when they are removed.
Lombardy poplar
Sycamore
Tree to remain. Therefore:

H = mature height
= 25m
Tree to be removed
Mature height = 22m
Actual height = 15m
Actual height greater than 50% mature height. Therefore:
H = mature height
= 22m
Step 5
Measure the distance D from the centre of the trees or hedgerows to the face of the foundation.
4.2
Lombardy poplar
Sycamore
Distance D = 10m from foundation
Distance D = 8m from foundation
Step 6
Either:
use the NHBC Foundation Depth app, or
select steps 6C (a) and (b) if using charts in Clause 4.2.12 to
select step 6T if using tables in Clause 4.2.13.
derive depths, or
Step 6C (a)
Calculate D/H value
Distance D from face of foundation (step 5) divided by the appropriate tree height H (Step 4).
Alternatively D/H can be obtained from Clause 4.2.12.
Lombardy poplar
Sycamore
D = 10 = D/H = 0.4
H = 25
D = 8 = D/H = 0.36
H = 22
Step 6C (b)
Determine foundation depth using the charts in Clause 4.2.12 as follows:
Chart number
High
Medium
Low
Lombardy poplar
Sycamore
In this example, the volume change potential is medium, then

from Chart 2 for broad-leafed high water demand trees at
D = 0.4
H
Foundation depth = 2.33m
In this example, the volume change potential is medium, then

from Chart 2 for broad-leafed moderate water demand trees at
D = 0.36
H
Foundation depth = 1.50m
The Lombardy poplar is the tree requiring the greater depth (2.33m)

CHAPTER 4.2
24
Step 6T
Determine foundation depth using the tables in 4.2.13 as follows:
Tree water demand
Table number
High
High
Moderate
Low
A
B
C
Medium
High
Moderate
Low
D
E
F
Low
High
Moderate
Low
G
H
I
Step 7
A reduction may be made for distance north and west of London, but the final depth should not be less than the minimum given in
each chart and table.
Oxford is between 50 and 100 miles NW of London. From 4.2.5, a reduction of 0.05m is permitted.
Final foundation depth = 2.33 0.05 = 2.28m
BRE Digests 40, 241 and 242 Low rise buildings on
Glasgow geological survey maps obtainable from British
shrinkable clay soils, parts 1, 2 and 3
BRE Digest 298 The influence of trees on house

foundations in clay soils
BRE Digest 412 Desiccation in clay soils
BS 1377 Methods of test for soils for civil

engineering purposes
BS 5930 Code of practice for site investigations
Tree Recognition A Pocket Manual by Ian Richardson and

Rowena Gale, Richardsons Botanical Identifications,
49/51 Whiteknights Road, Reading, Berks RG6 7BB
Field Guide to the Trees of Britain and Northern Europe

by Alan Mitchell, Harper Collins
Geological Survey, Nicker Hill, Keyworth,

Nottingham NG12 5GG; Tel: 0115 936 3100
Tree root damage to buildings Vol.1 Causes, Diagnosis

and Remedy, Vol. 2 Patterns of Soil Drying in Proximity to
Trees on Clay Soils by P G Biddle, Willowmead Publishing,
Wantage OX12 9JA
Institution of Civil Engineers

1-7 Great George Street, London SW1P 3AA;
Tel: 020 7222 7722; www.ice.org.uk
Institution of Structural Engineers

11 Upper Belgrave Street, London SW1X 8BH;
Tel: 020 7235 4535
Acknowledgements: NHBC gratefully acknowledges the help given by authoritative organisations and individuals in the preparation
of this chapter, particularly: Building Research Establishment; Dr P G Biddle, arboricultural consultant.
4.2
Adjust the depth according to the climatic zone.

CHAPTER 4.3
the Technical Requirements for strip and
trench fill foundations.
4.3.1
Compliance
4.3.2
4.3.3
Ground conditions
4.3.4
Hazardous ground
4.3.5
Setting out
4.3.6
Services and drainage
4.3.7 Safe transmission of loads
4.3.8
Sloping groundand stepped foundations
4.3.9
Excavations
4.3.10 Reinforcement
4.3.11 Concrete
4.3.12 Movement joints
4.3.13 Construction joints
01
01
01
02
02
03
04
05
05
06
06
06
06
Strip and trench fill foundations 2016

CHAPTER 4.3
Compliance 4.3.1
Strip and trench fill foundations shall comply with the Technical Requirements and provide adequate support
to all load-bearing elements.
Strip and trench fill foundations that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Foundations should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 where:
buildings exceed three storeys in height
supporting/retaining walls form habitable rooms
trench fill foundations are deeper than 2.5m
they will be deeper than those of an adjoining construction.
below ground
Elements of the building requiring foundations include:
external walls
separating (party) walls
internal load-bearing walls
chimney breasts
piers.
In Scotland, a sleeper wall is defined as a load-bearing element and therefore should be provided with a suitable foundation.
4.3
In England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, sleeper walls should be provided with suitable foundations where the
oversite concrete is:
cast on shrinkable clay soils where heave could take place
cast on infill deeper than 600mm
less than 100mm thick.
information and be distributed to all appropriate personnel.
Clear and fully detailed drawings should be available on site to enable work to be carried out in accordance with the design.
Design and specification information should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and/or suppliers.
All necessary dimensions and levels should be indicated and relate to at least one benchmark and reference points on the site.
Information on ground conditions, the site investigation and the foundation design may be requested by NHBC, including sites which
may not be classified as hazardous.
Both designers and site operatives need to be aware of the ground conditions and any features requiring special attention, such as
existing sewers or other services, the water table and the presence of any hazardous substances, including sulfates.
Where toxic materials or those likely to present a health hazard are found, all available information should be supplied to NHBC,
together with proposals for remediation.
Full details of junctions, steps, movement joints and any critical sequences of construction should be provided.
Ground conditions 4.3.3
Also see: Chapters 3.2, 4.1, 4.2 and 5.2
Strip and trench fill foundations shall be adequate, of a suitable depth and taken to a suitable bearing stratum.
Issues to be taken into account include:
a) the home design and layout
b) ground conditions
c) frost susceptible soils and cold weather construction

d) shrinkable and volume change soils.
The home design and layout

Foundation design should take account of site conditions, shape, size and construction of the homes. Foundations for terraced
homes may require special precautions to prevent damage from differential settlement, while stepped foundations or suspended
floors may be required for sloping sites.
The depth of foundations should provide a clean, firm and adequate bearing for the design loads.
Ground conditions
All relevant information about the history of the site, plus the nature and load-bearing capacity of the ground, should be available
before the foundations are designed. Information may be available from:
NHBC
local authorities
gas, water and electricity companies
aerial photographs, Ordnance Survey maps and geological

maps and surveys.

CHAPTER 4.3
Site assessment surveys may require supplementary investigations involving trial pits and boreholes.
Frost susceptible soils and cold weather construction

In frost susceptible soils, e.g. chalk, the depth to the underside of
the foundation should be at least 450mm below finished ground
level, to avoid damage from frost action.
finished ground level
Additionally, when construction is undertaken during cold weather

the foundation should either be at least 450mm below finished
ground level, or alternatively, precautions should be taken to
prevent freezing of the ground.
450mm min.
Where the finished ground level is to be above the existing ground

level and cold conditions are expected, the foundation depth
should be taken from the existing, not finished, ground level.
Shrinkable and volume change soil
4.3
The design should specify the minimum foundation depth.
Table 1: Minimum foundation depths in shrinkable soil

Modified Plasticity Index
Minimum depth (m)
40% and greater
High
1.0
Medium
0.9
Low
0.75
Shrinkable soils are classified as containing more than 35% fine particles (clay and silt) and have a Modified Plasticity Index of
10% or greater.
These minimum depths may only be used where any existing or proposed trees or shrubs are outside the zone of tree influence.
Heave is possible in shrinkable soil where trees have been, or are being, removed.
Hazardous ground 4.3.4
Also see: Chapters 2.1 and 4.2
Strip and trench fill foundations on hazardous ground shall be designed by an engineer, and notice given to
NHBC before work commences.
Where hazardous ground has been identified, NHBC must be notified eight weeks before work starts. Hazardous ground is defined
in Chapter 4.1 Land quality managing ground conditions.
Setting out 4.3.5

Strip and trench fill foundations shall be set out to take account of the design details.
The accuracy of setting out should be checked by control
measurements of trenches, including their location relative
to site boundaries and adjacent buildings. Levels should be
checked against accepted benchmarks.
boundary
distance from
boundary
distance from
boundary
For excavations, check:
trench lengths
trench widths
length of diagonals between external corners.

Walls should be located centrally on the foundation,
unless specifically designed otherwise.
Any discrepancy in dimensions should be reported promptly to
the designer. Resulting variations should be distributed to all
appropriate persons, including NHBC.
diagonals
trench
length
trench width

CHAPTER 4.3
Services and drainage 4.3.6
All strip and trench fill foundations shall be installed to:
a) adequately protect existing services and ground water drainage

b) make allowance for drainage and other services.
Adequately protect existing services and ground water drainage

Any existing services, such as cables, water pipes or gas
mains, may need to be supported and protected. Services
should not be rigidly encased in the foundations, and drains
which are redundant should be cut open and filled or removed.
Precautions should be taken to accommodate the effects of
settlement where drains run under, or near to, a building.
land drains
diverted to
suitable
outfall
diversion
Provision should be made to divert or protect any existing

ground water drains affected by excavation work.
4.3
Make allowance for drainage and other services
Where services are to pass through or above foundations, provision should be made for suitable ducts or lintels to enable
later installation.
Strip foundations
Services should not pass through strip foundations but through the masonry above. Adequate lintels should be provided
in the masonry.
Trench fill
The load-bearing capability of foundations should not be affected where services pass through. Services should be either
sleeved or pass through a suitably strengthened opening in the foundation. This is to ensure that differential movement will not
damage services.
For drainage, it is important to leave sufficient space for movement to ensure that the drain is capable of maintaining line
and gradient.
flexible material
around pipe
flexible joint
lintel
granular backfill around pipe
masked opening with

50mm gap all around
Safe transmission of loads 4.3.7
Also see: BS 8103
Strip and trench fill foundations shall transmit loads to the ground safely and without excessive settlement,
and take into account:
a) dead and imposed loads
b) foundation width and thickness
c) stability of any adjoining building.
Dead and imposed loads

Dead and imposed loads should be calculated in accordance with:
BS EN 1991-1-1
UK National Annex to Eurocode 1. Actions on structures. General actions. Densities, self-weight,

imposed loads for buildings
BS EN 1991-1-3
UK National Annex to Eurocode 1. Actions on structures. General actions. Snow loads
BS EN 1991-1-4
UK National Annex to Eurocode 1. Actions on structures. General actions. Wind actions
BS 648
Schedule of weights of building materials

CHAPTER 4.3
All foundations should be:
continuous throughout the building, including integral

garages, porches, conservatories, bay windows, etc.
symmetrical beneath load-bearing elements

(i.e. walls should be located centrally on foundations).
Foundation width and thickness

The width of the foundation should:
be of sufficient width throughout to avoid overstressing

the ground, especially where the foundation is required to
support piers or columns
depend on the load-bearing capacity of the subsoil and the

loads from the building
not be less than the wall thickness, plus at least

50mm each side.
The width of strip foundations should account for ground conditions and be in accordance with the following table:
Table 2: Acceptable foundation widths

Condition of ground
Field test applicable
Total load of load-bearing walling not

more than (kN/linear metre)
Rock
Not inferior to sandstone, Requires at least a pneumatic or other

limestone or firm chalk
mechanically operated pick for excavation.
Gravel
Sand
Medium dense
Requires pick for excavation.

250
Wooden peg 50mm square in cross-section
is hard to drive beyond 150mm.
300
400
500
600
650
Clay
Sandy clay
Stiff
Can be indented slightly by thumb.
250
300
400
500
600
650
Clay
Sandy clay
Firm
Thumb makes impression easily.
300
350
450
600
750
850
Sand
Loose
Silty sand
Clayey sand
Can be excavated with a spade.

400
Wooden peg 50mm square in cross-section
can be easily driven.
600
Silt
Clay
Sandy clay
Clay or silt
Soft
Finger can be pushed in up to 10mm.
450
650
Does not fall within the

provisions of this guidance
where the total load
exceeds 30 kN/linear m.
Silt
Clay
Sandy clay
Clay or silt
Very soft
Finger can be easily pushed in

up to 25mm.
Refer to specialist advice.
20
30
40
50
60
70
Minimum width of strip foundation (mm)

Equal to the width of the wall plus 50mm
each side.
The thickness (T) of the foundation should be:
equal to projection (P) or 150mm (whichever is greater)
150mm to 500mm for strip foundation
500mm minimum for trench fill foundations.
Stability of any adjoining building

Where foundations are taken deeper than an adjoining building, excavation and construction will usually need to be carefully
supervised by the design engineer, to check the standard of workmanship. Where necessary, allowance should be made in the
design for differential movement.
4.3
Type of
ground
(including
engineered
fill)

CHAPTER 4.3
Sloping ground and stepped foundations 4.3.8
Strip and trench fill foundations shall be taken to a suitable bearing level when building on sloping ground,
and steps shall be suitably formed.
Sloping ground may require stepped foundations.
Where foundations are stepped, the height of the step
should not exceed the thickness of the foundation,
unless it forms part of a foundation designed by an engineer
in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
overlap
Table 3: Foundation overlap
4.3
The overlap should be not less than:
Strip foundations
Trench fill foundations
2 x S, or
T (maximum 500mm), or
300mm, whichever is largest.
2 x S, or
One metre, whichever is largest.
Excavations 4.3.9
Excavations for strip and trench fill foundations shall:

a) take account of the design dimensions
b) take account of localised effects
c) be compact, reasonably dry, even and correctly shaped.
Design dimensions
Inaccuracy may prevent walls and piers from being located centrally and therefore result in eccentric loading of foundations and
possible foundation failure.
Excess excavation should be avoided. Accurate trench digging is particularly important where the width of the foundation is only
slightly wider than the wall to be supported.
Acceptance from the foundation designer is required where the foundation design is modified.
Localised effects
At soft spots, excavations should be deepened to a sound bottom or the concrete should be reinforced. Hard spots should
be removed.
Where roots are visible at the bottom or sides of trenches, especially in clay soils, excavations may need to be taken deeper,
or special precautions determined by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Compact, reasonably dry, even and correctly shaped

Unless otherwise designed by an engineer in accordance with
Technical Requirement R5:
trench bottoms should be horizontal, with all loose

material removed
trench sides and steps should be, as near as

possible, vertical.
Trench bottoms affected by rain water, ground water or drying
should be rebottomed to form a sound surface.
vertical sides and steps
horizontal bottom

CHAPTER 4.3
Reinforcement 4.3.10
Reinforcement for strip and trench fill foundations shall ensure the safe transfer of loads and be suitable for
localised ground conditions.
appropriately sized
placed correctly
clean and free from loose rust
secured at laps and crossings
supported to ensure that they are 75mm above the base of

the foundation or as indicated in the design.
75mm min. cover
75mm side cover
Concrete 4.3.11
Concrete for foundations shall be:
a) of a mix which is suitable for the intended use

b) durable against chemical or frost action
c) correctly mixed, placed and cured.
Concreting should be carried out, as far as possible, in one
operation, taking account of weather conditions and available
daylight. Concrete should be placed as soon as possible after
the excavation has been checked.
For trench fill foundations, it is particularly important to check
that the finished level is correct and horizontal, as it is difficult
to adjust for discrepancies in the small number of brick courses
between the foundation and the DPC.
pegs used to ensure correct levels
Movement joints 4.3.12

Strip and trench fill foundations shall have movement joints suitable for their intended purpose.
Where movement joints are specified, they should be continuous with those in the superstructure.
Construction joints 4.3.13

Construction joints in strip and trench fill foundations shall be suitably formed.
Where construction joints are unavoidable:
they should not be positioned near a return in the foundation
all shuttering should be removed before work continues

beyond the construction joint.
Construction joints for strip and trench fill foundations may be formed by one of the methods shown below:
joint with expanded metal lath
joint using reinforcement
4.3
If in doubt about any soft spots, the designers advice should be

taken before placing the concrete.
Raft, pile, pier and

beam foundations
CHAPTER 4.4
Technical Requirements for raft, pile, pier
and beam foundations.
4.4.1 Compliance
4.4.2
4.4.3
Site conditions
4.4.4
Hazardous ground
4.4.5
4.4.6
Safe transmission of loads
4.4.7 Construction
4.4.8
Engineer checks
4.4.9
Compressible materials
4.4.10 Reinforcement
4.4.11 Concrete
4.4.12 Movement joints
4.4.13 Resistance to moisture
01
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02
02
03
03
05
05
05
05
05
06
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations 2016

CHAPTER 4.4
Compliance 4.4.1
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall comply with the Technical Requirements and provide adequate
support to load-bearing elements.
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Relevant Standards and codes of practice include:
BS EN 1991
Actions on structures.
BS EN 1992
BS EN 1997-1
Geotechnical design. General rules.
BS 10175
Investigation of potentially contaminated sites. Code of practice.
Elements of the building requiring foundations include:
4.4
external walls
separating (party) walls
internal load-bearing walls
chimney breasts
piers
sleeper walls
internal masonry walls.

All dimensions and levels should be indicated and relate to at least one benchmark and reference points on site. Design and
specification information should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and/or suppliers, and include the
following information:
Dimensions, type and depth of foundations.
Detailing of ducts.
Junctions.
Steps.
Movement and construction joints.
Location of services.
Critical sequences of construction.
Both designers and site operatives need to be aware of:
ground conditions
any features requiring special attention, such as existing

sewers or other services
water table levels
the presence of any hazardous substances

including sulfates.
Site conditions 4.4.3
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall be designed to take account of site conditions. Issues to be taken
into account include:
a) the results of the site and ground appraisal
b) dwelling design, layout and site levels
c) trees and hedges
d) frost susceptible soils

e) potential for differential settlement.
Site and ground appraisal

All information relating to the site and its ground conditions which is necessary for full and proper foundation design should
be obtained.
Building over changes in ground characteristics should be avoided.
Dwelling design, layout and site levels

Foundation design should take account of site layout, shape, size and construction of the dwelling.
Stepped foundations and suspended floors may be required for sloping sites.
Trees and hedges

Where the soil is shrinkable and nearby trees and hedges are existing, proposed or have been recently removed,
foundations should be designed as shown in Chapter 4.2 Building near trees.

CHAPTER 4.4
Frost susceptible soils

To avoid damage from frost action, the depth to the underside of the foundation in frost susceptible ground should be at least
450mm below finished ground level.
Differential settlement
Foundations should be designed to avoid any local stress points or any differential settlement.
Foundations for terraced homes, or those adjoining an existing building, may require special precautions to prevent damage
from differential settlement. Foundations for attached bays, porches, garages, conservatories and other structures should be a
continuation of those for the main home, unless the design indicates an alternative which takes account of differential movement.
Hazardous ground 4.4.4
Also see: Chapters 3.1, 4.1, 4.2 and BRE Special Digest 1
Where there is hazardous ground, the design of foundations must be carried out by an engineer in accordance with
Technical Requirement R5.
Where hazardous ground has been identified, NHBC should be notified in writing at least eight weeks before work on site begins,
in accordance with NHBC Rules.
Where toxic materials, or those likely to present a health hazard are found, allavailable information should be supplied to NHBC,
together with proposals for remediation.
Sulfate and acids

Sulfates and other chemicals can cause expansion and disruption of concrete. High acidity, for example in peat, or permeable soil
with acidic ground water can cause damage to concrete. Where sulfates or high acidity in ground or ground water are present,
reference should be made to Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement for guidance concerning acceptable concrete mixes.
Where concrete is at risk from chemical attack from the ground, or where the ground water is highly mobile, the level of sulfate and
other chemicals should be determined in terms of the ACEC class (aggressive chemical environment for concrete class),
in accordance with BRE Special Digest 1.
Also see: Chapters 5.1, 5.3 and 8.1
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall take account of new and existing services. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) provision for new services
b) adequate protection of existing services and drainage.
Provision for new services

Where services are to pass through, above or under foundations, openings should be provided using suitable ducts,
sleeves or lintels that:
are detailed so as not to impair structural stability
do not affect the ability of the foundation to carry loads
make suitable provision to allow for movement
have sufficient space to maintain line and gradient of

drainage where movement occurs.
Existing services and drainage

Existing services or drains should:
be supported and protected
be bridged, to prevent any load carrying
not be rigidly encased in concrete, masonry, etc.
Land drains should be diverted to a suitable outfall; other drains should be diverted or bridged.
4.4
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall take account of ground conditions and hazards. Where hazardous
ground has been identified, notice shall be given to NHBC before work commences.

CHAPTER 4.4
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall be designed to transmit loads from the structure to the
ground safely, without excessive settlement.
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations should safely transmit loads. The following issues should be taken into account:
specification of concrete and cover to reinforcement.

not adversely affect the supported structure
nature and bearing capacity of the fill material to be placed

under the foundation
adequate stiffness to ensure that differential movement does
Raft and semi-raft foundations:

Raft and semi-raft foundations should be designed:
to prevent the erosion of ground beneath the raft
(where required) to accommodate warm air ducts,
to limit the risk of ducts becoming flooded.
service ducts or services without any adverse effect

upon the performance of the foundation
4.4
Fill for raft foundations should be in accordance with Chapter 5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing floors.
Semi-raft foundations on made ground:

The following notes are to be used as a guide for engineers designing raft foundations, but are by no means exhaustive.
Special consideration will be required for certain sites.
Raft foundations are to be designed by a chartered civil or
Beams are to use properly formed reinforcement in

structural engineer taking account of ground conditions and
accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1.
the results of the site appraisal and ground assessment.
Where mesh is used in beams, it should be delivered to the

site pre-bent.
Sufficient internal beams are to be provided to stiffen the

slab adequately.
All beams should be cast on a minimum of 50mm

concrete blinding.
The area between downstand beams should not be greater

than 35m2.
Minimum cover to reinforcement should be 40mm.
The ratio of adjacent sides on plan should not exceed 2:1.
Floor slabs should be a minimum 150mm thick, with nominal

top face reinforcement as a minimum and anti-crack
The minimum depth of perimeter and party wall beams is to

reinforcement in the bottom face, where appropriate.
be 450mm. On larger homes, some internal beams should
be of the same depth as the perimeter beams.
Stools or similar should be used to support floor slab mesh

during casting.
Perimeter and internal beams should be sufficiently wide at

their base to carry their total loading at the allowable bearing
Corners and junctions to beams should be adequately tied

pressure for the site.
using similar reinforcement to the beams.
Beams are to be designed to span 3m simply supported and
A minimum cavity drain of 225mm below the DPC is to

cantilever 1.5m.
be maintained.
Piled foundations:
The design of all piled foundations should specify precautions for cohesive soils where volume changes can occur.
The bearing capacity and integrity of pilesshould be confirmed by testing, when required.
Construction 4.4.7
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall be constructed in accordance with the design. Issues to be taken
a) setting out and excavations
b) localised effects and trench bottoms
c) installation of piles, piers and ground beams
d) load capacity verification of piles.
Setting out and excavations

The accuracy of setting out should be checked by control measurements of trenches, including their location relative to site
boundaries and adjacent buildings. Levels should be checked against benchmarks, where appropriate. For excavations, check:
trench lengths
trench widths
length of diagonals between external corners.

CHAPTER 4.4
In addition, for piled, pier and beam foundations, check:
spacing
alignment
positions in relation to the proposed superstructure.
Walls should be located centrally on the foundation, unless specifically designed otherwise. Inaccuracy may prevent walls and piers
being located centrally, resulting in eccentric loading and possible foundation failure.
Discrepancies to the design of the foundations or variations in the ground conditions should be reported formally to the engineer.
Variations in design or ground conditions should be recorded and distributed to NHBC and others concerned with sitework.
Foundation excavations should:
be kept free from water
not be excessive.
distance from
boundary
distance from
boundary
distance from
boundary
distance from
boundary
diagonals
diagonals
alignment
trench
length
trench
width
alignment
Localised effects and trench bottoms

Trench bottoms affected by rain water, ground water or drying should be rebottomed to form a sound surface.
Table 1: Localised effects

Situation
Action
Differences in bearing capacity

(e.g. from localised changes in strata)
Consult the engineer.
Soft spots
Excavations should be deepened locally to a sound bottom, or the concrete should

be reinforced.
Hard spots
Should be removed.
Visible roots, especially in clay soils
Consult the engineer and modify the design depth.
Installation of piles, piers and ground beams

Piles are to be installed by an appropriatespecialist and under the supervision of an engineer.
Piles are to be vertical, unless designed otherwise.
Where piles are more than 75mm out of position, or out of alignment by more than 1:75, the engineer should reconsider the
adequacy of the foundation design.
Where piles are misaligned by more than 150mm in any direction, or more than 5 from their specified rake, they should be
replaced, unless otherwise recommended by the engineer. Alternatively, additional piles should be provided in accordance with the
design modifications provided by the engineer.
Care should be taken to ensure that the bond of beams to piers and piles is in accordance with the design and is adequate.
Load capacity verification of piles

Test loading of piles should be undertaken when required. The builder is to obtain written confirmation that the piles are suitable for
their design load.
4.4
boundary
boundary

CHAPTER 4.4
Engineer checks 4.4.8
Engineer-designed foundations shall be inspected by the engineer during construction.
The engineer should undertake site visits to ensure that the design of the foundation is suitable for the actual ground
conditions encountered, and that the construction is in accordance with the design.
Compressible materials 4.4.9
Compressible materials shall be capable of absorbing potential heave forces.

Materials used to accommodate heave should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 and used in accordance
with the manufacturers recommendations and independent assessment when applicable.
Reinforcement 4.4.10
4.4
Reinforcement of raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall be in accordance with the design, sufficient to
ensure the safe transfer of loads and be suitable for localised ground conditions.
appropriately sized
placed correctly
clean and free from loose rust
secured at laps and crossings
properly supported to ensure that the cover indicated in the

design is maintained.
Reinforcement may be necessary, for example at construction joints or over small localised soft spots or changes in bearing strata.
Concrete 4.4.11
Concrete for raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall be:
a) of a suitable mix design to achieve the required strength and resistance to chemical and frost action
b) correctly mixed, placed and cured.
Mixing, placing, testing and curing of concrete should be carried out as indicated in Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement
and when work is carried out in cold weather, Chapter 3.2 Cold weather working.
Suitable mix
Concrete should be of a mix which:
will achieve the required strength and not impair the
is sufficiently resistant tochemical and frost action.
performance of the foundation
Correctly mixed, placed and cured

Before concrete is placed, excavations and reinforcement may need to be approved by the engineer or their representative and,
in England and Wales, foundations should be approved by the person responsible for building control inspections.
Concreting should:
be carried out in one operation (as far as possible)
take account of weather conditions and available daylight
be placed as soon as possible after the excavation or after

the reinforcement has been checked
be placed in even, compact and reasonably dry trenches.
Movement joints 4.4.12

Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall have movement joints suitable for their intended purpose, and be
formed using appropriate materials.
Movement joints should be located so as to limit the risk of damage caused by movement. The design of movement joints and
choice of sealing materials should consider:
anticipated movement
movement capability of seal
designed joint width
actual joint width
joint depth
surface preparation
backing medium
projected life span of the joint.

CHAPTER 4.4
Resistance to moisture 4.4.13
Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations shall prevent the passage of moisture to the inside of the home and,
where necessary, include a drained cavity and damp proof membranes.
Cavity walls should drain below the DPC and should:
prevent water crossing from the outside to the inside
prevent the flooding of cavities above the DPC
drain below the DPC
have a minimum 225mm clear cavity below the DPC

where strip, trenchfill or ground beams are used, or have a
minimum 150mm clear cavity below the DPC where other
types of foundations are used, provided that weep holes
and other necessary measures are taken to ensure that the
cavity can drain freely.
DPC cavity trays are not an acceptable waterproofing to the edges of specialised foundations, such as rafts and ground beams.
DPC
150mm min.
ground beam
weep hole
above
cavity tray
raft foundation
4.4
DPC
225mm
min.
Vibratory ground
improvement techniques
CHAPTER 4.5
Technical Requirements and recommendations
for vibratory ground improvement techniques.
4.5.1 Compliance
4.5.2
Hazardous sites and ground hazards
4.5.3
Desk study and site investigation
4.5.4
Confirmation of suitability for treatment
4.5.5
Suitability of ground conditions
4.5.6
Compatibility of the ground,

design and treatment
4.5.7
Acceptable methods
4.5.8
Materials for use as fill
4.5.9
Granular material
4.5.10 Sitework
4.5.11 Adjacent excavations
4.5.12 Verification of completed treatment
01
01
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06
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07
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09
Vibratory ground improvement techniques 2016

CHAPTER 4.5
Introduction
The vibratory process is generally applied to weak natural soils and filled ground. The purpose is to improve the
load-bearing capacity, reduce settlement and provide an adequate bearing stratum for the foundation supporting
the home.
Compliance 4.5.1
Vibratory ground improvement techniques shall comply with the Technical Requirements and be designed by
an engineer in accordance with established standards and codes of practice.
Vibratory ground improvement techniques that comply with the guidance in this chapter, and that are in accordance with the relevant
British Standards, building regulations and statutory requirements, will generally be acceptable.
Design of vibratory ground improvement, including foundations, should be carried out by an engineer experienced in ground
improvement techniques in accordance with Technical Requirement R5. In this chapter, the term engineer refers to an appropriate
engineer who is independent of the contractor responsible for the vibratory ground improvement techniques.
4.5
British Standards, codes of practice and authoritative documents relevant to vibratory ground improvement techniques and site
investigations include:
BS 10175
Investigation of potentially contaminated sites Code of practice.
BS EN 1991
Actions on structures.
BS EN 1997-1
General rules.
BS EN 1997-2
Ground investigation and testing
BS EN 14731
Execution of special geotechnical works Ground treatment by deep vibration.
BS EN ISO 14688
Geotechnical investigation and testing Identification and classification of rock.
BS EN ISO 14689
Geotechnical investigation and testing Identification and classification of rock.
BS EN ISO 22476
Geotechnical investigation and testing Field testing.
BR 391
Specifying vibro stone columns.
ICE
Specification for Ground Treatment.
Hazardous sites and ground hazards 4.5.2
Also see: Chapter 2.1, 4.1 and 4.2
Vibratory ground improvement techniques on hazardous sites shall be reported to NHBC before work on site
commences, and be designed to take account of the characteristics of the site, including any ground hazards.
Hazardous sites, as defined in the NHBC Rules, should be reported to NHBC in writing at least eight weeks before sitework begins.
Details of ground hazards to be taken into consideration are given in Chapter 4.1 Land quality managing ground conditions
and Chapter 4.2 Building near trees.
Desk study and site investigation 4.5.3
The engineer shall ensure a desk study and site investigation are undertaken and findings used to inform
the design.
The engineer should establish the scope of, and supervise, the site investigation, taking account of the findings of the desk study,
and relevant standards listed in Clause 4.5.1.
The specialist contractor should be satisfied that the site investigation provides adequate and representative information in order to
design the ground improvements. The results of the site investigation and desk study should be sent to NHBC prior to work starting
and should, as a minimum, determine the items listed in Table 1.

CHAPTER 4.5
Item to be determined
Guidance
Depths and properties of natural

materials under the site
Includes the presence of caves, workings, or natural phenomena such as rocks or soils
which dissolve or erode when exposed to the passage of water.
Data for comparison with post-treatment properties should be established.
Extent and nature of any areas of

filled ground on the site
Includes:
proportions and distribution of constituent materials
state of compaction of the fill material throughout its depth
grading and particle size distribution of fill materials
potential for gas generation from fill materials
potential for spontaneouscombustion of fill and/or natural deposits.
Presence and extent of any existing

or redundant services and drains
Includes information on the extent and nature of the backfill to the excavations.
The effect of sustainable drainage

systems
Includes the effect that any sustainable drainagesystem (SuDS) may have on the
geotechnical parameters of the site.
Presence, level and nature of any

ground water
Includes the potential for ground water to rise andcause heave or collapse by saturation.
Previous structures
Includes any potential underground obstructions or hard-spots,e.g. basement walls,

floor slabs, which remain.
Occurrence of
contaminated substances
Includes the presence and extent of contaminatedsubstances or gases present

or suspected.
Confirmation of suitability for treatment 4.5.4
The builder shall obtain written confirmation from the engineer and specialist contractor that the site is
suitable for the proposed ground improvement system.
NHBC should be notified prior to work starting, that the site is suitable for the proposed system. The engineer and specialist
contractor should agree the following in writing before work commences on site:
Design objectives.
Detailed schedule of work.
Programme of work.
Tests to be conducted on completion of the work.
Responsibility for procedures and tests.
The following considerations should be taken into account:
Layout and depth of the stone columns and the accuracy to

be achieved.
Safety issues to be incorporated into the design to allow for

unforeseen circumstances.
Criteria for non-acceptance of the vibrating poker worktests

to be conducted on completion of the work.
Responsibility for procedures and tests.
Calculations and case histories required to justify the ground

improvement proposals together with the layout of the stone
columns and details of the equipment and process to be
used on site.
These written agreements should be made available to NHBC before work commences on site.
Suitability of ground conditions 4.5.5
Vibratory ground improvement techniques shall only be conducted on suitable ground and be appropriate for
the site conditions. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) unsuitable ground conditions
b) detrimental factors
c) ground water conditions.
The engineer should assess the ground and be satisfied that it is suitable for treatment. Conditions acceptable for treatment are only
those within zones A and B of Chart 1.
4.5
Table 1: Results of the site investigation and desk study

CHAPTER 4.5
100
63
75
50
28
37.5
14
20
10
5
6.3
3.35
mm
1.18
600
300
425
150
212
63
Micron
Chart 1: Conditions acceptable for treatment
90
80
Zone B
Percentage passing
70
60
50
Zone A
40
30
4.5
20
10
0
0.002
0.006
Fine
Clay
0.02
Medium
0.06
Coarse
Silt
0.2
Fine
0.6
Medium
2
Coarse
6
Fine
Sand
20
Medium
Gravel
60
Coarse
200 mm
Cobbles
Zone A range of materials suitable for deep compaction (vibro-compaction) techniques.

Zone B range of materials suitable for stone column (vibro-replacement) techniques.
Unsuitable ground conditions

Table 2: Ground conditions not generally acceptable for treatment
Soil composition
Clays
Ground with a Plasticity Index greater than 40%.
Soft clays
Ground with soft clays with an undrained shear strength less than 30kN/m2.
For clay strength less than 30kN/m2 additional consideration must be given to group effects,
ground heave and settlement due to installation. Any proposals will be subject to NHBC agreement.
Ground with peat layers
Ground with peat layers close to foundation level or the base of the stone column, or where
intermediate layers of peat are thicker than 200mm either as a single layer, or the sum of the
thicknesses of individual layers, throughout the length of the stone column.
Highly sensitive soils
Ground liable to collapse or remoulding.
Ground with fill

Voided filled ground
Ground which includes, for example, old water tanks, pottery, glass bottles, concrete rubble or brick
fill of unsuitable grading.
Loose or
non-engineered fill
Ground with any loose or non-engineered fill not previously subject to rising or fluctuating water levels
or saturation.
Filled ground which is

still settling or expected
to settle
Ground subject to settlement or settling:
under its own weight or due to the effects of

surcharging/upfilling
where there is a high organic content
where decay is continuing.

settlement of fill
Fill containing
degradable material
Ground where organic material forms more than 15% of fill by volume.
layers with high organic content

CHAPTER 4.5
Highly contaminated ground

Ground which includes,
for example toxic waste,
or where inflammable,
explosive or toxic gas
generation may
take place
Stone columns may act as vertical vents.

Consideration will be given to proprietary systems
which do not permit vertical venting such as vibro
concrete plug technology.
stone column acting

as vent for
dangerous gases
4.5
Detrimental factors
When specifying vibratory ground improvement techniques, the following factors should be considered:
Partial depth treatment of filled ground. The engineer should
Obstructions and variations in the density of fill and natural
be satisfied with the anticipated performance of both the

treated and untreated zones.
The specialist contractor should take responsibility for the

treated zone and the depth of treatment.
Alterations to the oversite level before or after treatment, or

the disturbance of ground by excavations after treatment.
Soils with a Modified Plasticity Index of 10% or greater;

foundations should be designed to accommodate
volume changes.
ground (hard spots) and the location of changes in the

profile of the natural underlying ground, e.g. edges of pits
or quarries, slopes, or manmade obstructions such as
soakaways or drainage runs.
The minimum depth of soil treated, which should allow for

the interaction of adjacent foundations.
Stone columns that may form vertical drains, allowing the

passage of water to a moisture-susceptible strata, or provide
seepage paths for gases.
house A
house B
stone column acting

as soakaway
foundation depth in
accordance with
Chapter 4.2
interaction of adjacent foundations
Ground water conditions

When specifying vibratory ground improvement techniques, the following factors should be considered:
Long-term lowering of the water table causing settlement of

existing adjacent buildings.
Short-term rise in local water table due to large volumes

of water used in wet process during construction causing
settlement or heave of existing adjacent buildings.

CHAPTER 4.5
adjacent building
original
water level
adjacent building
new building
depressed
water level
original
water level
dry process
stone column
new building
raised
water level
stone
column
Surface water sewers should be used for rainwater disposal where possible, but where soakaways are necessary, these should be
positioned so that their construction and operation is not detrimental to the treated ground.
The effect of any new or existing sustainable drainage systems (SuDS)should be taken into account when vibro improvement
techniques are proposed.
4.5
Compatibility of the ground, design and treatment 4.5.6

Vibratory ground improvement techniques shall be compatible with the treated ground, site layout and the
home design. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) limitations of the treated ground
b) limitations of ground support
c) suitable foundation types
d) use of suspended ground floors

e) notice to NHBC.
Limitations of the treated ground

The engineer should:
avoid siting homes in locations where major changes in
discuss the feasibility of proposals with the
ground conditions can be expected
consider limitations of the configuration of the homes

including the vulnerability at junctions and of long blocks
determine the loads to be imposed by the homes, and

assess these against the results of the site investigation
specialist contractor
confirm the required load and settlement performance of the

treated ground
advise and discuss design criteria with NHBC at the

design stage.
design loading
ground - bearing capacity

and settlement potential
Limitations of ground support

The engineer should establish the likely limits of ground
movement and account for this in the design, including:
the position and spacing of movement joints
the flexibility of masonry mortars
masonry reinforcement.
brick reinforcement and movement

joints in walls where required

CHAPTER 4.5
Suitable foundation types

Foundations adjoining those of an existing building may require special design. Where taken to a greater depth, such foundations
should be engineer designed and carefully supervised to check the standard of workmanship. Where necessary, allowance should
be made in the design for differential movement.
Use of suspended ground floors

Suspended ground floors should be provided for all homes where vibratory ground improvement has been conducted, unless the
engineer can substantiatean alternative solution that is acceptable to NHBC.
Notice to NHBC
Where vibratory ground improvement is proposed, NHBC should be informed of:
proposed start date of treatment.
Acceptable methods 4.5.7

Vibratory ground improvement techniques shall only be conducted using methods that are appropriate to the
ground conditions and acceptable to NHBC.
There are two main vibratory methods commonly used in the UK. These are known as the dry bottom feed and dry top feed
methods. A third method, infrequently used in the UK and known as the wet bottom feed, is also acceptable to NHBC.
Dry bottom feed method

The dry bottom feed method is adopted in weaker soils or situations where there is a high water table and the bore hole is liable to
collapse between vibrator insertions.
The vibrator penetrates by its mass, air flush and vibration.
At design depth, the stone is introduced via a hopper into a pipe
fixed to the side of a vibrator. The stone, generally of 40mm size,
exits the pipe at the tip of the vibrator and discharges in to the
bottom of the bore hole. The stone is then compacted into the
surrounding soil by repeated withdrawal and insertion of
the vibrator.
Dry top feed method

The dry top feed method is only used on cohesive soils where
the bore hole can remain open. The vibrator penetrates the
weak soil, or fill, by its mass, air flush and vibration to form a
bore hole.
Once refusal or design depth is reached, the vibrator is removed
and stone fill introduced into the bore hole, the charge is
generally 500-800mm deep. The vibrator is re-inserted and
packs the stone into the surrounding strata. Successive
charges of stone are added and compacted, bringing the column
up to working level. The stone grading is generally 40-75mm.
Materials for use as fill 4.5.8
Also see: BRE Special Digest 1 Part 1, BRE Special Digest 433 and BS EN 771
Stone fill for forming columns shall be compatible with the ground conditions, and be suitable for the vibratory
ground improvement process.
Column fill should be a clean, hard, inert material. Limestone fill may not be acceptable in acidic ground conditions.
Suitable sources for fill material

All material used for fill should be suitable.
Where the material is of a stable and uniform type from one source, it may only be necessary to check its suitability once.
Regular inspections and/or testing may be required where material is variable or from a number of sources.
Where material is obtained from stockpiles, the uniformity should be checked. Different forms of stockpiling can affect particle size
and grading. The outside of a stockpile may be weathered and may not be the same as unweathered material. The use of recycled
aggregate as fill should comply with BRE Digest 433 or other suitable guidance as agreed with NHBC.
4.5
proposed development
appointment of the specialist contractor

CHAPTER 4.5
Hazardous materials
The following materials require testing toensure their suitability for use as fill to support structural foundations and slabs, or as
backfill to associated trenches:
Acid wastes.
Reactive materials.
Materials that include sulfates, e.g. gypsum.
Organic materials.
Toxic materials.
Materials that cause noxious fumes, rot, undue settlement or

damage to surrounding materials.
Test requirements for fill material

Tests should be carried out by a suitably qualified person with a detailed knowledge of the:
material to be tested
proposed conditions of use.
The samples which are tested must be representative of the true nature of the material. It may be necessary to take a number of
samples to find out the material characteristics of the fill.
4.5
Sulfate content should be expressed as a percentage SO4 by weight on the basis ofacid soluble testing, taking full account of the
recommendations of BRE Special Digest 1 Part 1.
Fill material requiring NHBC approval

The following types of fill should not be used unless written permission has been obtained from NHBC:
Colliery shale and any other residue from mineral extraction.
Slags.
Furnace ashes and other products of combustion.
Material obtained from demolition.
On wet sites, or sites with a high water table, crushed

or broken bricks which have no limit on their soluble salt
content (as defined in BS EN 771).
Expansive fill materials

Fill containing expansive material is not acceptable for use as support to structural foundations and slabs, or as backfill to
associated trenches.
Granular material 4.5.9

Granular material for raising site levels before treatment, or adding during deep compaction, shall be suitable
for compaction and, unless appropriate precautions are taken, be free from hazardous materials.
The grading of material for adding during deep compaction should be within Zone A of Chart 1. Well graded, inert fill which passes a
100mm x 100mm screen in all directions and contains less than 10% fine material of silt or clay size will generally be acceptable for
raising site levels.
Precautions, including testing where appropriate, should be taken where hazardous materials are present in fill.
Sitework 4.5.10
When using vibratory ground improvement techniques, the builder shall ensure that the engineer visits the
site and provides competent supervision throughout the ground treatment process. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) engineer checks
b) location, depth and alignment of columns
c) managing unforeseen circumstances.
Engineer checks
The engineer should provide competent site supervision throughout the ground treatment process and at critical stages, including:
the inspection of setting out
the installation of columns during the early stage of the work
checking of materials
where installation data differs from design assumptions
where changes in treatment layout are required.
Some aspects of sitework may be the responsibility of the engineer or their representative, or of the specialist contractor, rather than
of the builder.

CHAPTER 4.5
Location, depth and alignment of columns

Supervision should ensure that:
the minimum required depth of the stone columns is

achieved and each one correctly located (the builder should
provide sufficient profiles to enable locations to be checked)
the stone columns are located either centrally under the

foundations they are to support or are in the predetermined
staggered arrangement, at a maximum of 2m centres and at
the intersection of adjacent reinforced concrete strips
missing stone columns are replaced
stone columns which are misaligned by more than 150mm in

any direction are replaced
the location of all stone columns is checked by the

engineers representative prior to the specialist plant
leaving the site.
2m max.
centres
4.5
2m max.
centres
missing stone
column =
new column
required
stone column
misaligned by
more than
150mm =
new column
required
in correct position
stone column
misaligned by less
than150mm =
no action needed
Managing unforeseen circumstances

Table 3: Actions for managing unforeseen circumstances
Circumstance
Action
In all cases
Unforeseen changes or trends which affect

the site conditions
Recorded and reported to the

engineer immediately
Where there is an effect on the final

efficiency of the treatment, this should
be fully considered by the engineer
and the specialist contractor.
The builder and NHBC are to be
advised immediately regarding
proposed remedial measures.
Change in the anticipated depth of the

compaction point in excess of 25%
Recorded and reported to the engineer

and specialist contractor as soon as
Variation of over 50% in the quantity of backfill possible but no later than the end of the
used in compaction points of the same length working day of occurrence
Allowance should be made for unforeseen obstructions that

require either local removal and backfilling prior to treatment,
realignment or additional columns, coupled with local
amendment of foundation design.
depth 25%
greater than
anticipated
50% more
backfill than
anticipated
Adjacent excavations 4.5.11

The builder shall ensure that foundations are not disturbed by adjacent excavations.
The engineer should consider the influence of drainage and
other service trenches on the stability of the complete design.
The minimum clearance between excavations and foundations
must not be less than the depth of excavation minus the depth
of the structural foundation. Particular attention is needed for
excavation below the water table.
excavation and
drain/service
trenches should
be above 45 line

CHAPTER 4.5
Verification of completed treatment 4.5.12
The engineer shall require the specialist contractor to verify that the ground treatment is
satisfactory, including:
a) suitable testing
b) written confirmation of completed treatment
c) recording of work.
Suitable testing
Tests should be carried out to establish thedegree of ground improvement, the load-bearing characteristics and
settlement potential.
The specialist contractor should:
predict the results from his experience of work on the type of

ground prior to the test taking place
agree results and tolerance with the engineer prior to testing
agree results and tolerance with the engineer with

actual results.
4.5
Where the results are vastly different, a further investigation may be necessary.
Where a threefold improvement were predicted and only a twofold improvement achieved, this could indicate that the ground was
different to that identified in the investigation, or that the treatment carried out differed from the specified treatment.
Tests on ground containing clay soils may need to be conducted several days after completion to allow excess pore pressures
to dissipate. The engineer may choose any appropriate combination of the tests detailed in Table 4, with the agreement of NHBC.
Table 4: Test methods

Test
Comments
600mm diameter plate tests
Plate tests will not determine the design butwill allow for an assessment to be made ofthe
workmanship on the stone columns.
The tests should be carried out on stonecolumns or treated ground at a frequency of at least
one test per day per rig.
Dummy footing test/mini

zone test
A mini zone test can be used as a limited

substitute for zone tests. The test should be
applied to at least two stone columns and the
area of foundation which they support.
The load may be applied through a rigid beam
or stiffened plate using skips or other known
loads, arranged to give a uniform distribution
of the load.
Mini zone tests should be continued for a sufficient time to allow creep behaviour to
be quantified. Allowances for this time should be made in the overall project programme.

CHAPTER 4.5
10
Test
Comments
Zone test
An isolated pad or strip footing is used to test

up to eight stone columns and the intervening
ground. Loadings which should simulate the
dwelling loads are held for 24 hours at
predetermined stages to examine
creep behaviour.
In-situ test
Where vibration will improve the ground itself, e.g. granular materials, then in-situ testing
is appropriate.
Improvement can be assessed when the in-situ test results are compared with the
pretreatment investigation.
Trial pits
Trial pits can be excavated around trialstone columns to prove that they are fully formed and to
the required depth and diameter.
This is a destructive test, and allowance should be made accordingly.
Written confirmation of completed treatment

On completion of the treatment, the engineer should:
use the test results to verify that the treated ground has
achieved the anticipated condition assumed in the design
advise the builder and NHBC in writing of the verified

effectiveness of treatment in relation to the design
advise the builder of any special precautions which should

be taken for the positioning of services both beneath the
home and adjacent to it.
Recording of work
A comprehensive record of all works should be madeavailable to NHBC, including:
information concerning the treatment
depth of fill
volume of stone used
on-site changes
any other relevant information.
4.5
Table 4 (continued): Test methods
Substructure and
ground-bearing floors
CHAPTER 5.1
This chapter gives guidance on meeting the Technical Requirements and
recommendations for substructures (excluding foundations), including
substructure walls, ground-bearing floors where infill is no deeper than
600mm, and installation of services below the damp proof course (DPC).
5.1.1 Compliance
5.1.2
5.1.3
Transfer of loads
5.1.4
Ground conditions
5.1.5
5.1.6
Ground below fill
5.1.7 Fill below floors
5.1.8
Fill up to 600mm deep
5.1.9
Materials used for fill
5.1.10 Harmful or toxic materials
5.1.11 Regulatory solutions
5.1.12 Walls below the DPC
5.1.13 Durability
5.1.14 Mortar
5.1.15 Wall ties
5.1.16 Blinding
5.1.17 Ground floor slab and concrete
5.1.18 Laying the ground-bearing floor slab
5.1.19 Damp proof course
5.1.20 Damp proofing concrete floors
5.1.21 Thermal insulation
5.1.22 Installation of insulation
01
01
01
01
02
03
03
04
04
04
05
05
06
07
07
07
07
08
08
09
09
10
10
Substructure and ground-bearing floors 2016

CHAPTER 5.1
Compliance 5.1.1
Substructures and ground-bearing floors shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Substructures and ground-bearing floors that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Ground-bearing floors may only be used where the depth of infill is less than 600mm deep and properly compacted.

Plan dimensions and levels which should be related

to benchmarks.
The required sequence and depth of trench backfill where

relevant to the design of the walls below the DPC.
Details of trench backfill, infill and void formers
Work required to maintain the integrity of DPCs and

damp proof membranes (DPMs).
Transfer of loads 5.1.3
Information on proposed underground services,

including points of entry to the building.
Detailing of service penetrations through the substructure,

including support of the structure above details of junctions
between the DPM, DPC and tanking.
Details of underfloor, floor edge and cavity insulation.
5.1
Substructures and ground-bearing floors shall ensure that loads are supported and transferred to the
foundations, or ground, without undue movement.
The design of the substructure should take account of findings from the site investigation. Where infill deeper than 600mm is
needed, a suspended floor should be used.
Load-bearing partitions should have proper foundations and not be supported off ground-bearing floors. In Scotland, sleeper walls
should not be built on ground-bearing floors.
Also see: Chapters 4.1, 4.2, 5.2 and BRE Report 211
Substructure and ground-bearing floors shall not be adversely affected by ground conditions, and take
account of:
a) ground hazards
ffect of sloping ground on depth of infill and
d) e
b) bearing capacity of the ground
c) nature of the ground
wall construction
e) site works and construction.
Ground hazards
Hazards likely to affect substructure and ground-bearing floors include contaminated materials, waterlogged ground and chemicals,
particularly sulfates.
Where it is necessary to reduce the entry of radon gas, which should be identified in the site investigation, such precautions should
be acceptable to NHBC.
Bearing capacity
Ground-bearing floors may not be suitable where the bearing capacity and nature of the ground varies, even where the depth of infill
is less than 600mm. Special measures may be needed to restrict settlement, such as the use of suspended floor construction.
Nature of the ground

Where there is shrinkable soil, expansive materials or other unstable soils, suspended floor construction may be necessary.
Shrinkable soils are classified as those which contain more than 35% fine particles (silt and clay) and which have a Modified
Plasticity Index of 10% or more. A soil testing laboratory should be consulted to verify the Plasticity Index of the soil.

CHAPTER 5.1
The effect of sloping ground

Sloping ground may require steps in the substructure and possibly different floor levels.
Where more than 600mm of infill is required at any point in a self-contained area, the floor over the whole of that area must be of
suspended construction.
Construction on steep slopes may involve walls below DPC level acting as retaining walls and should be designed by an engineer
where (H) is greater than four times (T).
(H) = height difference between floor/ground levels
(T) = the total thickness of the retaining wall.

T
T
t1
t2
H greater
than 4 x T
H
suspended floor
where the infill is
more than 600mm
5.1
where cavity
fill is omitted
T = t1 + t2
Site works and construction

Special precautions may be needed to prevent damage to the substructure from site operations on adjoining ground such as
ground treatment, or surcharging due to infill.
Substructure and ground-bearing floors shall be installed to:

a) adequately protect existing services and ground water drainage
b) have suitable surface and subsoil drainage
c) make allowance for drainage and other services.
Adequately protect existing services and ground water drainage

All existing services should be located and identified before work
commences. During dry periods it can be difficult to determine
if ground water drains are active, so where they are severed or
disturbed, they should be reconnected to a suitable outfall.
Existing active groundwater drainage should be retained to
minimise the risk of flooding. Water from these drains may
require diverting.
diversion
land drains
diverted to
suitable
outfall
Where existing services conflict with the proposed foundations

or substructure, and they are to remain, they should be
protected or diverted and remaining voids filled with concrete
or grout. Where they are no longer active and are not needed,
they should be disconnected and grubbed up.
Surface water and subsoil drainage

Surface and/or subsoil drainage may be needed on sites where there is a risk of waterlogging.
Walls which act as retaining walls may require land drains, hardcore fill and suitable outlets to dispose of any subsoil water that
collects behind the wall.
Ground or paths adjoining the home should:
slope away at a slight fall
generally be at least 150mm below the DPC.


CHAPTER 5.1
Make allowance for drainage and other services
Design information should include all necessary details relating to the proposed underground services.
Drain pipes passing through or under the building may require flexible connections or other means of accommodating
differential movement.
Where pipes penetrate walls, they should be provided with flexible joints or be sited in an opening formed by lintels.
150mm
max.
3D
150mm
max.
600mm
max.
600mm
max.
minimum
50mm space
around pipe
opening masked
on both sides
flexible joint
flexible joint
lintel
pipe bedded in walls
granular backfill around pipe
pipe passing through lintelled opening
Services should be sleeved where they pass through a structural element. Where required, they should be arranged so that future
access can be obtained without affecting structural stability.
5.1
When unidentified services, ducts, cables or pipes are exposed, advice should be sought from local offices of statutory undertakings
and service supply companies.
Ground below fill 5.1.6

Ground below fill shall be adequately prepared to provide consistent support to the fill and the ground-bearing
slab without undue movement.
Ground-bearing floor slabs may only be built on ground where:
the ground is suitable to support floor loads and any

other loads
all topsoil containing vegetation and organic matter,

including tree roots, has been removed
there is a suitable and even bearing surface.
Fill below floors 5.1.7

Fill, including made ground, trench backfill and infill below ground-bearing floor slabs shall provide full and
consistent support to ground-bearing slabs.
Where more than 600mm of infill is required at any point within
a self-contained area, or the bearing capacity and nature of the
ground varies, the floor over the self-contained area should be of
suspended construction.
Infill under slabs and backfill in trenches should be properly
placed and mechanically compacted to form a stable mass in
layers not exceeding 225mm. Concrete may be used as an
alternative to backfill in trenches.
properly compacted
infill and backfill

CHAPTER 5.1
Infill up to 600mm deep 5.1.8
Infill beneath ground-bearing floors shall be a maximum of 600mm deep.

Ground-bearing slabs are not acceptable where infill exceeds 600mm in depth.
Where the design requires in excess of 600mm of infill at any point within a self-contained area, the floor construction over the whole
of that area is required to be independent of the fill and capable of supporting:
self-weight
non load-bearing partitions
Materials used for fill 5.1.9
other imposed loads.
Also see: BRE DG 522 Hardcore for supporting ground floors of buildings
Materials used for fill shall be suitable for the intended use and, unless appropriate precautions are taken,
free from hazardous materials. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) sources of fill materials
b) hazardous materials.
Fill should be:
well graded
inert and contain no hazardous materials
able to pass a 150mm x 150mm screen in all directions.
Fill containing either expansive materials or chemicals is not acceptable for the support of ground-bearing slabs.
on wet sites, or sites with a high water table, crushed

or broken bricks which have S1 designation according
to BS EN 771.
Sources of fill material

Where the material is of a stable and uniform type, and from one source, it may only be necessary to check its suitability once.
Where material is variable, or from a number of sources, it should all be suitable, and regular inspections and/or testing may
be required.
Where industrial waste is permitted as fill material, it is essential that sufficient testing is carried out to ensure suitability.
Where material is obtained from stockpiles, check the material is uniform. Different forms of stockpiling can affect particle
size/grading. The outside of a stockpile may be weathered and may not be the same as unweathered material.
Hazardous materials
The following fill materials require testing to ensure their suitability for use with ground-bearing slabs or as backfill to
associated trenches:
reactive materials
organic materials
toxic materials
materials that include sulfates, e.g. gypsum
Harmful or toxic materials 5.1.10
materials that cause noxious fumes, rot, undue settlement or

damage to surrounding materials
acid wastes.
Also see: BRE DG 522 Hardcore for supporting ground floors of buildings
Harmful or toxic materials present in the fill or in the ground shall be identified to the satisfaction of NHBC and
not affect the performance of the substructure and ground-bearing slab.
Precautions should be taken by either:
ensuring that made ground and fill materials are free from
harmful or toxic substances, or
designing the construction to contain, resist and prevent

the adverse effects of such materials, using means
acceptable to NHBC.
Tests for sulfate content should comply with the recommendations of BRE Special Digest 1 Third Edition by a suitably qualified
person who has a detailed knowledge of the:
material being tested
proposed conditions of use.
5.1
The following types of fill should not be used unless written permission has been obtained from NHBC:
material obtained from demolition
furnace ashes and other products of combustion
colliery shale and any other residue from mineral extraction
slags

CHAPTER 5.1
The samples tested must be representative of the material, so it may be necessary to collect multiple samples to
identify characteristics.
Where there are likely to be harmful levels of sulfate:
the floor slab should be of an appropriate mix to resist
the concrete blocks in substructure walls should be sulfate
sulfate attack or be protected by an impervious layer of 1200

gauge (0.3mm) polyethylene sheet, or 1000 gauge (0.25mm)
where it complies with Technical Requirement R3. This may
also serve as a DPM
resistant and suitable for the fill and ground conditions
the mortar should be sulfate resisting to comply with of

BS EN 1996-1-1.
Fill containing expansive materials or chemicals is no acceptable for use as infill or backfill.
Regulatory solutions 5.1.11

Use of recycled or secondary materials shall comply with the relevant waste regulatory requirements.
Table 1: Regulatory solution for fill, including recycled and secondary materials
Location
Materials used on:
Regulatory solution
England and Wales
Site of origin
CL:AIRE Code of Practice.
Other sites and less than 5000t
Registration under a U1 exemption with the EA is required at the

receiving site.
Other sites and over 5000t
Ensure that the supplier has followed the WRAP protocol.
Any site
Registration under a paragraph 19 exemption with the SEPA/NIEA is

required at the receiving site.
Northern Ireland
and Scotland
5.1
EA: Environment Agency

CL:AIRE: Contaminated Land: Applications in Real Environments.
NIEA: Northern Ireland Environment Agency

SEPA: Scottish Environment Protection Agency
Walls below the DPC 5.1.12
Substructure and walls below the DPC shall be suitably constructed. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) construction of walls acting as temporary retaining walls
b) concrete cavity fill.
Construction of walls acting as temporary retaining walls

Backfill should be placed in layers of equal thickness to both sides of the substructure walls, so that compaction on one side is not
more than one layer ahead of the other. Where backfill is placed and compacted on one side of the foundation trench before the
other side is backfilled, the wall will be acting as a temporary retaining wall.
In such cases, the wall should either be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 or the thickness (T)
should be as indicated in Table 2.
T
t1
t2
fill compacted equally

on both sides
where cavity
fill is omitted
T = t1 + t2
backfill placed after

concrete cavity fill

CHAPTER 5.1
Table 2: Acceptable D:T of temporary retaining walls

Depth (D) of filled trench
Minimum thickness (T) of wall leaf supporting fill
Up to 1100mm
200mm
1100-1400mm
300mm
1400-1700mm
400mm
1700-2000mm
500mm
This guidance is only applicable to the temporary condition and where problems such as hydrostatic pressure are not present.
Concrete cavity fill

A minimum 225mm clear cavity below the DPC should be maintained. When specialised foundations are used, including those for
timber framed buildings, the minimum clear cavity depth may be reduced to 150mm below the DPC, provided that weep holes and
other necessary measures are taken to ensure free drainage.
Durability 5.1.13
Also see: Chapters 4.3, 6.1 and BS EN 1996-1-1
Substructure and walls below the DPC shall be capable of supporting their intended loads and, where
necessary, be resistant to frost action, sulfates and other harmful or toxic materials. Issues to be taken into
account include:
Frost damage occurs on saturated masonry exposed to freezing conditions. Bricks, blocks and mortars located 150mm above and
below ground level are the most likely to be damaged by frost.
Masonry walls below the DPC should be designed and constructed as described in Chapter 6.1 External Masonry Walls.
Recommendations for the design strength of bricks, masonry blocks and mortars are given in BS EN 1996-1-1.
Brickwork
Bricks should be of suitable durability, especially in the outer leaf below the DPC, or where they could be frozen when saturated.
Bricks used in retaining walls should be suitable for the exposure and climate, as recommended by the manufacturer.
Clay bricks should comply with BS EN 771, which classifies bricks according to their durability designation (F) and to the content of
active soluble salts (S).
F0
Not freeze/thaw resistant and should not be used externally
F1
Moderately freeze/thaw resistant
F2
Freeze/thaw resistant
S1
Normal active soluble salts
S2
Low active soluble salts
Generally, bricks are designated to F1,S2 or F1,S1. If in doubt as to suitability, bricks of F2,S2 or F2,S1 should be specified, or the
manufacturer consulted and written confirmation obtained in relation to:
location in the structure.
Calcium silicate bricks for use below DPC should be at least compressive strength class 20.
Blockwork
Concrete blocks for use below the DPC should meet BS EN 771 and one of the following:
Minimum density of 1500kg/m2
Minimum compressive strength of 7.3N/mm2
assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Where it is necessary to resist sulfate attack and ensure adequate durability, blocks made with sulfate-resisting cement and/or a
higher than normal cement content should be used.
Where there is doubt regarding the suitability of the block, particularly where acids or sulfates occur, written confirmation of its
suitability should be obtained from the manufacturer in relation to:
location in the structure.
5.1
a) brickwork
b) blockwork.

CHAPTER 5.1
Mortar 5.1.14
Substructure and walls below DPC level shall use mortar which is suitable for the location and intended use.
a) mortar mix
b) sulfate resistance.
Mortar mix
Mortar should comply with the design and should take account of the strength, type and location of the masonry. The selection of
mortar for use below the DPC should follow the recommendations given in BS EN 1996-1-1.
The use of proprietary mortars and admixtures should:
account for the type of masonry unit and its location
only be used in accordance with the

manufacturers recommendations.
For non-clay bricks or blocks, mortar should be used in accordance with the brick manufacturers recommendations.
Sulfate resistance
Sulfate-resisting cement should be used where:
sulfates are present in the ground, ground water or masonry
recommended by the brick manufacturer.
In such cases, sulfate-resisting cement to BS 4027 should be used.
5.1
Wall ties 5.1.15

Substructure and walls below the DPC shall use wall ties suitable for their intended use.
Wall ties should comply with BS EN 845 or be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Where cavity insulation batts or slabs start below DPC level, the vertical and horizontal spacing of wall ties should be compatible
with the spacing to be used above DPC level.
Blinding 5.1.16
Blinding shall provide a suitable surface for the materials above.
Infill should be sufficiently blinded to receive the concrete, and DPM where required, using the minimum thickness necessary to give
a suitable surface.
Concrete blinding may be needed where voids in the fill could result in loss of fines from the blinding. Where hardcore fill is used,
smooth blinding, e.g. sand or other suitable fine material, is essential to avoid puncturing a sheet DPM.
Where the ground floor is to be reinforced, blinding should be firm and even, to give good support for the reinforcement and to
maintain the design cover using reinforcement stools, where appropriate.
Ground floor slab and concrete 5.1.17
Ground-bearing floors shall be of adequate strength and durability, and use concrete mixed and reinforced as
necessary to support floor loads safely and resist chemical and frost action.
Ground-bearing concrete floor slabs should be at least 100mm thick, including monolithic screed where appropriate.

CHAPTER 5.1
Laying the ground-bearing floor slab 5.1.18
Ground-bearing floors shall be reasonably level and effectively impervious to moisture.

All underfloor services and ducts should be installed and tested
before concreting, where appropriate.
DPM protected
by a board
Care should be taken to ensure that all joints and junctions

between DPMs, wall DPCs or tanking in substructure walls are
undamaged, especially while the concrete for the ground slab is
being poured.
Damp proof course 5.1.19
Damp proof courses shall adequately resist moisture from reaching the inside of the building. Issues to be
a) positioning of DPCs
b) DPC materials.
5.1
Positioning of DPCs
DPCs should be:
positioned a minimum of 150mm above finished ground or

paving level
linked with any DPM
of the correct width and fully bedded
either welded or lapped by 100mm minimum
impermeable.
membrane linked
with a stepped DPC
floor level
DPC level
150mm
DPC level
150mm
min.
ground level
Where homes are stepped on a sloping site, care should be taken to link DPCs and DPMs so that all parts of each home
are protected.
DPC materials
Acceptable materials for DPCs include:
Bitumen based materials
BS 6398
Polyethylene, (should not be used below

copings,in parapets or for tanking)
BS 6515
0.5mm minimum
Proprietary materials
DPCs and flexible cavity trays should be of the correct dimensions. At complicated junctions, preformed cavity trays of the correct
type and shape should be used.
Brick DPCs are only suitable to resist the upward movement of moisture and should:
consist of two courses of engineering bricks,

laid broken bond
be bedded and jointed in a 1::3, cement:lime:sand,

or equivalent, mortar.

CHAPTER 5.1
Damp proofing concrete floors 5.1.20
Ground-bearing floors shall resist the passage of moisture to the inside of the home.
Ground-bearing concrete floor slabs should be protected against ground moisture by providing a continuous membrane.
The membrane should:
have sealed laps of at least 300mm wide
link with wall DPCs to form an impervious barrier to prevent
take account of possible differential movement.
moisture reaching the interior of the dwelling

Care should be taken not to trap moisture when a combination of damp proofing and vapour control layers are used.
When the membrane is located below the slab, a blinding layer
of sand should be provided to fill voids in the hardcore and to
minimise the risk of puncturing the membrane.
DPC laps DPM
A clear cavity of at least 225mm below the DPC should be

maintained. When specialised foundations are used, including
those for timber framed buildings, this depth may be reduced
to 150mm below the DPC where weep holes are provided and
other necessary measures are taken to ensure that the cavity
can drain freely.
225mm
min.
5.1
Where homes are stepped down a sloping site, the DPCs and
DPMs should be linked so that all parts of each home
are protected. The guidance in Chapter 5.4 Waterproofing
of basements and other below ground structures should be
followed where steps between floor slabs are greater
than 150mm.
Suitable materials for DPMs include:
1200 gauge (0.3mm) polyethylene sheet
minimum 1000 gauge (0.25mm) polyethylene sheet where it
bitumen sheet to BS 743
materials that comply with Technical Requirement R3.
complies with Technical Requirement R3
Thermal insulation 5.1.21
Also see: Chapters 6.1, 9.3 and BRE Report Thermal insulation: avoiding risks
Ground-bearing floors and walls below the DPC shall be thermally insulated to comply with building
regulations and be suitable for the intended use. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) floor insulation
b) wall insulation
c) cold bridging.
Floor insulation
Thermal insulation materials for use below ground-bearing slabs should have:
appropriate density for the location
low water absorption.
Insulation to be positioned below both the slab and DPM should be resistant to ground contaminants. The following materials are
acceptable for use as insulation:
expanded polystyrene boards (grade EPS 70)

to BS EN 13163
a proprietary material that complies with

Wall insulation
Cavity insulation materials, super lightweight blocks, blocks with face bonded insulation or integral insulation should be:
manufactured and used to comply with a British Standard

and relevant code of practice, or
used in compliance with Technical Requirement R3.

CHAPTER 5.1
10
The thickness of materials should be suitable for the required level of performance:
England and Wales
BS 6232 Thermal insulation of cavity walls by filling with blown man-made mineral fibre
BS 6676 Thermal insulation of cavity walls using man-made mineral fibre batts (slabs)
BS 5617 for UF foam when permitted and installed by a specialist company registered by BSI in
Scotland
Not permitted to fill the full width of the cavity with any thermal insulants at the time of construction.
Not permitted to fill cavities with pumped thermal insulants at the time of construction.
accordance with BS 5618.
Northern Ireland and the

Isle of Man
Cold bridging
The design should ensure that any risk of cold bridging is minimised, especially at junctions between floors and external walls.
Precautions include:
extending cavity insulation below floor slab level
linking floor and wall insulation
providing perimeter insulation to floors
facing supporting substructure with insulation

where homes are stepped or staggered, the wall forming
the step or stagger may require insulation.
Installation of insulation 5.1.22

Installation of thermal insulation shall ensure that the full thermal performance of the floor is achieved.
insulation protected
by board
5.1
Insulation boards should be tightly butted together to maintain

insulation continuity. Where the insulation is turned up vertically
at the edge of the slab, it should be protected whilst the concrete
is being poured and tamped.
DPM trimmed to
avoid bridging
cavity
BRE Special Digest 433.

CHAPTER 5.2
Technical Requirements for suspended
ground floors including those constructed from:
in-situ concrete
precast concrete
timber joists.
5.2.1 Compliance
5.2.2
5.2.3 Contaminants
5.2.4
Proprietary systems
5.2.5
Transfer of loads: concrete floors
5.2.6
Reinforced concrete
5.2.7 Construction of suspended
concrete ground floors
5.2.8
Transfer of loads: timber floors
5.2.9
Thermal insulation and cold bridging
5.2.10 Damp-proofing and ventilation
5.2.11 Floor finishes
5.2.12 Floor decking
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Suspended ground floors 2016

CHAPTER 5.2
Compliance 5.2.1
Also see: Chapters 2.1, 4.1, 4.2, 4.5 and 5.1
Suspended ground floors shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Suspended ground floors that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Ground floors should be constructed as suspended floors where:
the depth of fill exceeds 600mm
there is shrinkable soil that could be subject to movement
the ground has been subject to vibratory improvement
ground or fill is not suitable to support ground-bearing slabs.
(See Chapter 4.2 Building near trees), expansive materials

or other unstable soils

Design and specification information should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers, and
include the following information:
All necessary plan dimensions and levels related to
Details of trench backfill, infill and void formers.
Details of junctions between DPM, DPC and tanking.
Details of underfloor and floor edge insulation and cavity
5.2
identified benchmarks.
Details of load-bearing walls.
Minimum bearing dimensions.
Information on all proposed underground services.
Points of entry to the building for services.
Contaminants 5.2.3
insulation, where relevant.
Span and direction of structural members.
Details of non-loadbearing walls.

Also see: Chapter 4.1, BRE Report 211 and
Approved Document C1/2/3 Appendix Introduction to remedial measures
Suspended ground floors shall be designed and constructed to ensure that adequate measures are taken
against the adverse effects of ground contaminants and radioactive materials, including adequate protection
against radon gas.
Any contaminants in, or above, the ground should be identified to the satisfaction of NHBC, following the guidance given in
theappropriate British Standard, and precautions againsthealth hazards caused by contaminantsshould be taken.
Precautions acceptable to NHBC may be necessary to reducethe entry of radon gas; such conditions should be identified in the
site investigation.
Proprietary systems 5.2.4

Proprietary suspended flooring systems shall have adequate strength and durability.
Proprietary concrete flooring systemsshould be designed in accordance with BS EN 1992-1-1. Where a system incorporates
elements which cannot be designed to thisstandard, e.g. polystyrene infill blocks, the floor should be assessed in accordance with
Transfer of loads: concrete floors 5.2.5

Suspended ground floors shall be designed and constructed to transmit all loads safely to the supporting
structure without undue movement. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) dead and imposed loads
b) end bearings.
Dead and imposed loads

In-situ:
Loads should be calculated in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-1.
Suspended in-situ concrete ground floors should be designed either:
by an engineer in accordance with

Technical Requirement R5, or
in accordance with BS 8103-1.

CHAPTER 5.2
Precast:
Loads should be calculated in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-1.
Precast concrete suspended ground floors should be:
designed by an engineer in accordance with

proprietary systems which have been assessed in

accordance with Technical Requirement R3, or
chosen from the manufacturers details which are based on

recognised standards and codes of practice.
End bearings
In-situ:
Bearings on supporting walls should be designed either:
by an engineer in accordance with

in accordance with BS 8103-1.
Precast:
Bearings on supporting walls should be as recommended by the manufacturer, and in no case less than 90mm.
Reinforced concrete 5.2.6
Guidance for the specification and use of in-situ concrete, additives and reinforcement is contained in Chapter 3.1
Concrete and its reinforcement.
Construction of suspended concrete ground floors 5.2.7
Suspended ground floors shall be designed and constructed to ensure the safe support of the intended loads
and be reasonably level.
In-situ:
Concreting should be carried out in accordance with:
the design information
relevant parts of NHBC guidance for concrete,

including Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement.
Precast:
Care should be taken to ensure that DPCs are not damaged or displaced. All sitework for precast concrete floors should be carried
out in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Transfer of loads: timber floors 5.2.8
Timber suspended ground floors, including the decking material, shall be designed and constructed to be
suitable for their intended use. Issues to be taken into account include the:
a) support of self-weight, dead and imposed loads and
limited deflection
b) safe transmission of loads to the supporting structure

c) adverse effects of shrinkage and movement.
Support of self-weight, dead and imposed loads, and limited deflection

Structural timber grades andsizes should be adequate for the spansand imposed loads. Where trimming is necessary,
adequately sized timbers should be used.
Safe transmission of loads to the supporting structure

Joist hangers should be suitable for:
the joist width and depth
the strength of masonry
the loading
providing adequate end bearings to joists.
Sleeper walls should adequately support the floor joists, and joists should be correctly supported at masonry separating walls.
Shrinkage and movement

Strutting should be provided where required to limit the twisting of joists.
5.2
Suspended ground floors shall use suitably mixed and reinforced concrete, which will achieve sufficient
strength to support floor loads safely and be sufficiently durable to remain unaffected by chemical or
frost action.

CHAPTER 5.2
Also see: Chapter 9.3 and
BRE report Thermal insulation: avoiding risks
Thermal insulation and cold bridging 5.2.9
Suspended ground floors shall be insulated in accordance with building regulations to minimise thermal
transmission through the floor and using materials suitable for the location and intended use.
Insulation should be installed to ensure that any risk of cold bridging is minimised, especially at junctions between floors and
external walls. Cold bridging precautions include:
extending cavity wall insulation below floor level
providing perimeter insulation to floors.
Insulation below cast in-situ suspended ground floor slabs should be:
placed on a suitable, compacted andeven substrate
of a material with low water absorption
resistant to ground contaminants
strong enough to support wet construction loads
compatible with any DPM.
Insulation for timber floors may be either insulation quilt or rigid insulation.
Cavity wall insulation should extend below the floor insulation level.
Insulation for use above suspended concrete floors should be in accordance with Chapter 9.3 Floor finishes.
Damp-proofing and ventilation 5.2.10
Also see: Chapters 4.2, 5.1, 5.4, 6.1 and 9.3
Suspended ground floors shall be designed and constructed to resist the passage of moisture into the
building. Issues to be taken into account include:
5.2
a) damp-proofing
b) ventilation.
Damp-proofing
Where DPMs are required, they should be linked with any DPCs in the supporting structure, in order to provide continuous
protection from moisture from the ground or through the supporting structure.
DPMs should be properly lapped in accordance with Chapter 5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing floors.
In-situ concrete:
Dampness from the ground and supportingstructure should be prevented from reaching the floor by using linked DPMs and DPCs
to provide continuous protection.
Where there is a risk of sulfate attack, in-situ or oversite concrete should be protected with polyethylene sheet that is a minimum:
1200 gauge (0.3mm), or
1000 gauge (0.25mm) if assessed in accordance with

Precast concrete:
Additional damp-proofing may not be necessary where:
the underfloor void is ventilated and DPCs are provided

under bearings of precast floors in accordance with CP 102
ground below the floor is effectively drained, if excavated

below the level of the surrounding ground.
Where proprietary floor systems are used, adequate moisture-resistant membranes should be installed in accordance with the
Vapour control layers may be necessary to protect floor finishes, and where used, should be positioned in accordance with the
Timber ground floors:

Timber used for suspended ground floors should be treated or naturally durable, in accordance with Chapter 3.3
Timber preservation (natural solid timber), and the ground below the floor covered with:
50mm concrete or fine aggregate on a polyethylene
100mm concrete.
membrane laid on 50mm sand blinding, or

In Scotland, the deemed-to-satisfy specification of the building regulations should be followed.

CHAPTER 5.2
Ventilation
Ventilation should be provided to precast and timber suspended floors. This is generally provided by ventilators on at least two
opposite external walls, with air bricks properly ducted in accordance with Chapter 6.1 External masonry walls. Where this is
not possible, suitable cross ventilation should be provided by a combination of openings and air ducts. Ventilation should not be
obtained through a garage.
Sleeper walls and partitions should be constructed with sufficient openings to ensure adequate through ventilation. If necessary,
pipe ducts should be incorporated in adjoining solid floors, separating walls or other obstructions.Where underfloor voids adjoin
ground bearing floors, ventilation ducts should be installed.
Void ventilation should be provided to whichever gives the greater opening area:
1500mm2 per metre run of external wall
500mm2 per m2 of floor area.
In the case of timber floors, ventilators should be spaced at no more that 2m centres and within 450mm of the end of any wall.
A minimum ventilation void of 150mm should be provided below the underside of precast concrete and timber suspended floors.
On shrinkable soil where heave could take place, a larger void is required to allow for movement according to the volume
change potential.
high volume change potential 150mm (300mm total void)
medium volume change potential 100mm
low volume change potential 50mm (200mm total void).
(250mm total void)
Finishes to concrete suspended ground floors shall be protected where necessary, against damp,
condensation or spillage.
Guidance for suitable floor finishes is given in Chapter 9.3 Floor finishes. Care should be taken to prevent trapping any water
spillage below timber floors.
Other floor decking should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 and should be installed in accordance with
Floor decking 5.2.12

Floor decking shall be suitable for the intended purpose and be correctly installed.
Acceptable installation details and materials used for decking are detailed in Chapter 6.4 Timber and concrete upper floors.
5.2
Floor finishes 5.2.11
Drainage below ground

CHAPTER 5.3
Technical Requirements for foul, surface water
and ground water drainage systems.
This chapter does not apply to the adoption of sewers
under Section 104 agreement of the Water Industry
Act 1991 or the Sewerage (Scotland) Act 1968.
For information on standards required for adopted
sewers, contact the local sewerage undertaker
and other relevant authorities.
5.3.1 Compliance
5.3.2
5.3.3
Preliminary work
5.3.4
Foul and surface water disposal
5.3.5
Drainage system performance
5.3.6
Ground water drainage
5.3.7 Design to avoid damage and blockages
5.3.8 Durability
5.3.9
Septic tanks and cesspools
5.3.10 Septic tanks
5.3.11 Surface watersoakaways
5.3.12 Component requirements
5.3.13 Excavation
5.3.14 Protection of pipework
5.3.15 Laying pipework
5.3.16 Protection of work
5.3.17 Testing
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Drainage below ground 2016

CHAPTER 5.3
Compliance 5.3.1
Drainage systems shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Below ground drainage that complies with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
All drainage schemes require the approval of the building control authority. Local sewerage undertakers may impose additional
requirements and restrictions. Both should be consulted early, especially where the drainage system is to be adopted under a
Section 104 agreement of the Water Industry Act 1991 or Sewerage (Scotland) Act 1968. The system may need to be inspected and
tested by the sewerage undertaker, as well as by the local authority, building control authority and NHBC.
Satisfactory outfall disposal is essential where a septic tank is installed. In England and Wales, Environment Agency consent may
be required to discharge effluent from a septic tank. In Northern Ireland, the NIEA should approve proposals; in Scotland, the local
authority and, where appropriate, the river purification authority should approve proposals.
Ground conditions may preclude the use of septic tanks in some locations. In all cases, NHBC will require evidence of a satisfactory
percolation test where a septic tank drainage system is being installed.
For surface water discharge into a watercourse, the permission of the Environment Agency is required in England and Wales.
A consent to discharge is required from the Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland. In Scotland, the local authority and,
where appropriate, the river purification authorities should be consulted.
In all cases:
relevant local authorities should be consulted and

appropriate permissions sought before sitework begins
NHBC will require evidence of a satisfactory percolation test

where a septic tank drainage system is being installed.
Table 1: Guide to relevant authority
5.3
Septic tank discharge

England and Wales
Environment Agency
DEFRA
Northern Ireland
Northern Ireland Environment Agency
Scotland
Local authority
River purification authority
Surface water discharge into a watercourse
Local authority
River purification authority
Scottish Environmental Protection Agency
Provision ofinformation 5.3.2

Proposed drain layout.
Invert levels and locations of existingsewers.
Junctions.
Ground floor levels of homes.
External finished levels.
Inspection and access points.
Method of disposal of both foul and surface water.
Position of any septic tank or cesspool in relation to
Results of percolation tests wheretreated effluent disposal is

through field drains.
Length of field drains and their layout (including details of

trench width as this is critical to the functioning of
the system).
Depth of field drains.
Details of drains or sewers intended for adoption.
adjacent buildings.
Preliminary work 5.3.3

Drainage systems shall be checked on site to ensure that the design can be achieved.
Check that the following are as specified in the design:
invert levels and locations of existing sewers
ground floor levels of homes
external finished levels.
Percolation tests should be verified where treated effluent disposal is through field drains. The length of any field drains specified in
the design should be accommodated within the site boundaries.

CHAPTER 5.3
Foul and surface water disposal 5.3.4
Also see: BS EN 752, Clause 5.3.11 and BRE Digest 365
Drainage systems shall be designed in accordance with relevant codes and standards to convey foul effluents
and surface water satisfactorily to an appropriate outfall. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) connections to sewers
b) connections to surface water disposal systems
c) rights of connection to disposal systems
d) compatibility with other systems

e) capacity of private sewers
f) treatment plants for more than one home.
Connections to sewers
Connections to public sewers require the agreement of the responsible authority, which should be consulted as to the type and
position of the connection.
Connections to private sewers require the agreement of the owners of the sewer. This should be obtained as part of the
design process. Where the private sewer subsequently discharges into a public sewer, the local sewerage undertaker should be
notified of the proposal.
Connections to surface water disposal systems

Surface water drainage is generally required to be separated from foul water drainage. Where permitted, surface water may be
discharged into the main public surface water drains or directly into natural watercourses, ponds or soakaways, as appropriate.
Surface water should not discharge to:
separate foul sewers.
For large or complicated homes, the volume of surface water to be disposed should be calculated in accordance with BS 6367.
Rights of connection to disposal systems

A legal right must exist when connecting drains to an outfall.
Compatibility with other systems

The drainage system should be compatible with the main
sewerage system:
with separate systems for foul water and surface water
with separate systems where foul water is connected to the

main sewer, while surface water disposal is by soakaways or
other suitable means, or
as a combined system.
surface water
manhole
interceptor
foul
manhole
Where the sewerage undertaker permits surface water drains to

be connected to a foul water system:
public combined
sewer
an interceptor should be installed on the surface water side of

the foul sewer junction, or
trapped gullies should be used.

Where ground water drains are connected to surface water
drains, there should be a silt trap on the ground water side of
the junction.
Capacity of private sewers

Private drainage systems should be:
in accordance with BS EN 752
sufficient to cope with the intended capacity.
Where an existing private drainage system is to be extended, or where the capacity is to be increased, sufficient investigation,
measurement and calculation should be undertaken to ensure that all parts of the private system are of adequate capacity.
Treatment plants for more than one home

Small sewage treatment works for more than one home should be designed inaccordance with BS 6297.
Dischargefrom the waste water treatment plant should be:
sited at least 10m away from water courses and homes
designed by a suitably qualified engineer.
5.3
septic tanks
cesspools

CHAPTER 5.3
Drainage system performance 5.3.5
Also see: Chapter 4.1, 8.1, BRE Report 211 and BRE Report 212
Drainage shall be suitably located and prevent health hazards. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) ventilation of drainage systems
b) prevention of gases entering thehome
c) siting of septic tanks and cesspools

d) pumped systems.
Ventilation of drainage systems

Ventilation of drains is normally achieved by ventilating discharge stacks.
Air admittance valves which comply with Technical Requirement R3 may be used in some homes to prevent trap seal siphonage.
An open vent is generally required at the head of common drainage systems, and where the discharge pipe is the only vent for a
septic tank or cesspool.
Prevention of gases entering the home

Where special precautions are necessary (e.g. sealing drains where they enter the building) to reduce the entry of gases such as
radon or landfill gas, such precautions should be acceptable to NHBC.
Siting of septic tanks and cesspools

Septic tanks and cesspools should be:
a minimum of 7m from homes
a maximum of 30m from vehicular access to

permit emptying.
In Scotland, a minimum distance of 5m from homes and boundaries is acceptable for septic tanks.
5.3
Pumped systems
Where a gravity system is not possible, pumped systems may have to be used and should be designed in accordance with
BS EN 752 and BS 6297. The installation should include:
a holding tank of sufficient volume to contain 24 hours of
suitable equipment housing.
domestic effluent based on 120L/150L per head per day
a suitable warning system providing visual and/or audible

signals to indicate malfunction
Ground water drainage 5.3.6

Ground water drainage shall convey excess ground waterto a suitable outfall. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) layout of pipes
b) pipe construction.
Layout of pipes
Where ground water drainage is required, depending on the site contours and groundconditions, it may be designed as:
a natural system
a herringbone system
a grid system
a fan-shaped system
a moat system.
Pipe construction
Pipe perforations should be holes or slotsto suit the nature of the ground.
Ground water drain systems connected to foul, surface water or combined drains should discharge into the drain through a catchpit.
Where suitable, ground water drainage may discharge into a soakaway, preferably through a catchpit or into a watercourse.
Design to avoid damage and blockages 5.3.7
Drainage systems shall minimise the risk of damage and blockage. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) ground stability
b) pipe runs
c) pipe sizes
d) gradients
e) access and connections

f) drainage covers and gully grids
g) ground water
h) flooding.

CHAPTER 5.3
Ground stability
Proper allowance should be made for ground movement.
Pipes should have flexible joints and additional precautions taken to prevent leakage where required. Where ground movement
could be significant, for example in made-up ground or clay soils, the following issues should be taken into account:
the use of flexible pipes and flexible joints
design gradients that are steeper than the minimum

requirements for flow rate and pipe size
a support system designed by an engineer in accordance

with Technical Requirement R5
conditions where ground movement is likely to adversely

affect the drain.
In non-uniform or saturated soils where movement at the trench bottom can be expected, soft spots should be removed and
replaced with suitable material. Immediately after excavation, the protective blinding should be placed in the trench bottom.
Pipe runs
Pipe runs should be designed to maintain a self-cleansing velocity (0.7 m/s). Theyshould be as straight as practicable with minimal
changes of direction. Bends should only occur in, or next to, inspection chambers and manhole covers. Curves should be slight so
that blocked pipes can be cleared.
Pipe sizes
Pipe sizes should be designed for the maximum peak load in accordance with BS EN 752.
Ground water drains and soakaways should be designed with sufficient capacity for normal weatherconditions.
5.3
Gradients
Design gradients should:
be as even as practicable
where flows are less than 1.0L/second, gradients for 100mm
where peak flows exceed 1.0L/second, the gradients in

Table 2 may be used:
diameter pipes should not be flatter than 1:40
Table 2: Minimum gradients

Pipe diameter (mm)
Minimum gradient
100
1:80
150
1:150
Where peak flows are greater than 1.0L/second, 100mm pipes should serve a minimum of one WC and 150mm pipes should serve
a minimum of five.
Access and connections

To ensure that every length of drain can be rodded, the design
should include appropriately located access points, such as:
rodding eyes
access chambers
inspection chambers
manholes.
access chamber
inspection chamber
manhole

CHAPTER 5.3
All access points should be located asshown in the design information and should:
be accessible for rodding and cleaning
not cross boundaries or kerb lines.
Inspection chambers and manholes should:
be of sufficient size for the depth of invert, and
the invert depth for the fitting or chamber should not

exceeded those given in Table 3.
Table 3: Minimum dimensions for access fittings and chambers

Type
Depth to invert
from cover
level (m)
Rodding eye
Internal sizes
Cover sizes
Length x width Circular Length x width

(mm x mm)
(mm)
(mm x mm)
Circular (mm)
As drain but
min. 100
Same size as pipework(1)
Small access fitting 150 dia.

0.6 or less, except 150 x 100
150 x 100 where situated in a
Large access fitting 225 x 100 chamber
225 x 100
150
150 x 100(1)
Same size as access fitting
225
225 x 100(1)
Same size as access fitting
Shallow inspection chamber
0.6 or less
1.2 or less
225 x 100
450 x 450
190(2)
450
Min. 430 x 430
190(1)
430
Deep inspection chamber
Greater than 1.2
450 x 450
450
Max. 300 x 300(3) Access restricted to max. 350(3)
Notes
1 The clear opening may be reduced by 20mm in order to provide further support for the cover and frame.
2 Drains up to 150mm.
3 A larger clear opening cover may be used in conjunction with restricted access. The size is restricted for health and safety reasons to deter entry.
5.3
Table 4: Minimum dimension for manholes

Type
Size of largest pipe (DN) (mm) Minimum internal dimensions(1)

Rectangular
length and
width (mm)
Circular diameter (mm)
Min. clear opening size(1)

Rectangular Circular
length and
diameter
width (mm) (mm)
Manhole up to
1.5m deep to
soffit
Equal to or less than 150

225
300
Greater than 300
750 x 675(7)
1200 x 675
1200 x 750
1800 x (DN+450)
1000(7)
750 x 675(2)
NA(3)
1200
1200 x 675(2)
1200
The larger of 1800 or (DN+450)
Manhole greater
than 1.5m deep
to soffit
Equal to or less than 225

300
375-450
Greater than 450
1200 x 1000
1200 x 1075
1350 x 1225
1800 x (DN+775)
1200
600 x 600
1200
1200
The larger of 1800 or (DN+775)
600
1050 x 800
1050
600 x 600
600
900 x 800
900
600 x 600
600
1200 x 800
1200
Manhole shaft(4)
Steps(5)
greater than 3.0m Winch(6)
deep to soffit pipe
Ladder(5)
Notes
1 Larger sizes may be required for manholes on bends or where there are junctions.
2 May be reduced to 600 x 600 where required by highway loading restrictions and subject to a safe system of work being specified.
3 Not applicable due to working space needed.
4 Minimum height of chamber in shafted manhole 2m from benching to underside of reducing slab.
5 Minimum clear space between ladder or steps and the opposite face of the shaft should be approximately 900mm.
6 Winch only; no steps or ladders, permanent or removable.
7 The minimum size of any manhole serving a sewer, i.e. any drain serving more than one home, should be 1200mm x 675mm rectangular or 1200mm diameter.
8 Tables 3 & 4 have been reproduced from Tables 11 and 12 of Approved Document H by permission of HMSO.
Inspection chambers and manholes may be one of the following types:
Open, half-round section channel with suitable benching.
Closed access, where covers have to be removed to gain

access to the pipe.
Side branches to inspection chambers and manholes should discharge into the mainchannel no higher than half pipe level.
Connections should be made obliquely in the direction of flow.

CHAPTER 5.3
slow radius bends
proprietary manhole
Traditional construction
The minimum specification for traditionalmanholes and inspection chambers is asfollows:
Minimum 100mm concrete.
Walls
Brick, blockwork or concrete shouldbe appropriate for the ground conditions.

100mm minimum thickness issuitable for depths up to 0.9m where no vehicular traffic loads are encountered and
there is no ground water pressure.
Elsewhere, 200mm minimum thicknessshould be provided.
Rendering
Where required, rendering should be applied tothe external faces of the wall.
Benching
Benching should be steel trowelled toprovide:
a smooth finish
rounded corners
a fall of not less than 1:12.
5.3
Base
Clay bricks for manholes should complywith BS EN 771 and:
be of low active soluble salt content
have a minimum compressive strength of 48N/mm2.
Engineering bricks are also suitable.

Concrete bricks for manholes should:
comply with BS EN 771
havea minimum crushing strength of 48N/mm2with a

minimum cement content of 350kg/m3 for foul drainage.
Calcium silicate bricks should comprisestrength class 20 or above for fouldrainage situations.
Proprietary systems
Proprietary systems should be installed in accordance with manufacturers instructions.
Proprietary manholes should not be used at a depth greater than the manufacturers instructions.
Adaptors, couplers and sealing rings should be:
installed correctly and in accordance with the
treated using the lubricants and solvents specified.
manufacturers instructions
Drainage covers and gully grids

Manhole covers and gully grids shouldbe of the correct type for the proposed location in accordance with Tables 5 and 5a.
Manhole covers used within buildingsshould be airtight and mechanically secured. Covers used for septic tanks, cesspits and
settlement tanks should be lockable.

CHAPTER 5.3
Manholes should be constructed or installedat the correct level so that the covers willalign with the adjacent ground.
Gullies should be adequately:
bedded
set level
square and kerbed.
Table 5: Type of covering and grid required for inspection and manhole covers andframes
Group 1
Areas which can only be usedby pedestrians and cyclists.
Group 2
Footways, pedestrian areasand comparable areas, car parks or carparking decks.
Group 3
For gully tops installed in thearea of kerbside channels of roads which when measured from the kerb edge,
extend a maximum of 0.5m into thecarriageway and a maximum of 0.2minto the footway.
Group 4
Carriageways of roads, including pedestrian streets, hardshoulders and parking areas, and suitable for all
types of road vehicles.
Proprietary items, e.g. covers toplastic manholes, should be in accordancewith manufacturers recommendations.
Table 5a: Gully grids in carriageways

Grade B
For use in carriageways of roads with cars and slow-moving normal commercial vehicles.
Grade A class 2
For use in carriageways of roads.
Grade A class 1
For use in carriageways of roads (gully grids of permanent non-rock design).
Ground water
Foul and surface water drainage systems should prevent the ingress of ground water.
5.3
Flooding
Where there is a risk of flooding, the advice of the relevant river authority should be followed.
Durability 5.3.8
Also see: Chapter 3.1 and 6.1
Drainage systems shall be adequately durable and protected against damage. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) loads from foundations
b) bedding of pipes
c) loads from overlying fill and traffic
d) drainage under buildings

e) chemicals in ground and ground water.
Loads from foundations

Drains should be located so that foundation loads are not transmitted to pipes. Where drainage trenches are nearfoundations:
foundation bottoms should be lower than
the drain should be re-routed to increase separation.
adjacent trenches, or
Where the bottom of a drainage trench is below foundation level, the trench should be filled with concrete to a suitable level.
A = less than 1m
A = more than 1m
B is within A-150mm
from the bottom of foundation
Bedding of pipes
Bedding should be in accordance with Clause 5.3.15.

CHAPTER 5.3
Loads from overlying fill and traffic

Special protection may be required where pipes are near the ground surface or where they could be damaged by the weight of
backfill or traffic load fromabove.
For flexible pipes, and where greater safety is needed, the bedding class and grading of backfill should comply with BS EN 13242,
BS 5955 and BS EN 752.
When using proprietary systems assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3, pipes should be supported accordingly.
Drainage under buildings

Pipework support shouldtake account of the ground conditions andensure that the drainage is not adverselyaffected by
ground movement.
Pipework under suspended floors should not be supported on ground or fill that is susceptible to movement without adequate
provision being made to:
maintain minimum design gradients
protect against backfall
protect against leakage.
Where drains are located beneath raft foundations or where ground movement is likely, the design of the pipework and support
system should be carried out by a suitably qualified engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
See Clause 4.3.14 for Pipework passing through substructure walls.
Chemicals in ground and ground water
5.3
Where the ground or ground water contains sulfates, concrete and masonry work may require special precautions.
Septic tank and cesspools 5.3.9

Septic tanks and cesspools shall be correctly installed and be suitable for their intended use. Issues to be
a) capacity
b) access and ventilation
c) permeability of septic tanks and cesspools

d) connections to septic tanks and cesspools.
A septic tank is a form of treatment plant and requires a suitable outfall for treated effluent discharge, which is agreed with the
relevant authority.
A cesspool is a tank which stores effluent and has to be emptied periodically.
Capacity
The capacity of the septic tank should be based on the number of people it willserve, using the formula: C = 180P + 2000
C = Capacity of tank in litres. Minimum 2700L.
P = Design population/potential occupancy. Minimum four occupants.
Cesspools are required to be at least 18m3 capacity. A 45-day holding capacity calculated at 150 litres/head/day should be provided.
Access and ventilation

Septic tanks and cesspools should:
be covered and ventilated
be provided with access points for inspection, emptying,
have the access points with lockable covers and no

dimension less than 600mm.
de-sludging and cleaning

The inlet and outlet of a septic tank should be provided with access for inspection.The inlet of a cesspool should be provided with
access for inspection. Cesspools should have no openings except the inlet, the vent and the inspection access.
Permeability of septic tanks and cesspools

Septic tanks and cesspools should be impermeable to their contents and to subsoil water. They should be constructed of brickwork,
concrete, glass reinforced concrete, glass reinforced plastics or steel.
Brickwork should be of engineering bricks,laid in cement mortar at least 220mm thick. In-situ concrete should be at least
150mm thick.

CHAPTER 5.3
Connections to septic tanks and cesspools
The entry flow velocity should be restricted to reduce disturbance in the tank. Where the drain into the septic tank is less than
150mm in diameter; it should have a gradient no steeper than 1:50 for at least 12m.
Rodding and cleaning facilities should be provided at the connection with the tank.
Septic tanks 5.3.10

Septic tanks shall have suitable drainage connections. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) outfall
b) flow velocity
c) soakaways for septic tanks
d) field drains
e) underdrains.
Outfall
The designer should ensure at an early stage that consent for discharge will be given, or select an alternative method ofdrainage.
Certain locations and ground conditions may preclude the use of septic tanks. Septic tank sewage systems should have:
satisfactory outfall disposal
placement that accounts for topography and ensures that

water is drained away from the building.
Where a septic tank drainage system is to be installed, NHBC requires:
evidence of a satisfactory percolation test
copies of relevant consents and approvals before

work commences.
5.3
Flow velocity
A dip pipe should be providedwith:
the top limb rising above scum level, and
the bottom limb extending about450mm below top

water level.
Soakaways for septic tanks

Soakaways in porous subsoils
A soakaway may be used where the outfall from a septic tank is to discharge to a porous subsoil at a level above that of the winter
water table. Soakaway constructions generally consist of an excavation filled with brick bats or other large pieces of inert material,
or unfilled but lined, e.g. with dry laid brickwork or precast concrete (porous or perforated) rings, from which the effluent may
percolate into thesurrounding ground. Proprietary septic tanks should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Soakaways which are not filled should be covered by a slabincorporating an inspection cover.
The size of the soakaway should be determined as described in this chapter and the area of the bottom of the soakaway should
equal the area of trench bottom in Chart 1 below.
Where the porous strata is overlaid by less permeable subsoil, a borehole may bepermitted by the appropriate authority.
Soakaways in less porous subsoils

In less porous subsoils, a sub-surface irrigation system may be used, which should be designed:
according to the area of sub-surface drainage from which

the length of land drain can be found, determined by the
following procedure.
using approved means to determine the percolation rate
Percolation test procedure for septic tanks:

Step 1
Excavate a hole 300mm square and 250mm deep below the proposed invert level of the land drain.
Step 2
Fill with water to depth of 250mm. As an aid, mark a stick 250mm from one end,
place in the hole and fill to the mark. Allow the water to drain away overnight.
Step 3
Refill to a depth of at least 250mm and note the time taken (in seconds) to drain away completely.
Step 4
Repeat the exercise two more times and calculate the average of the three results, as follows:
percolation value (s) = time to drain away (seconds)
depth of water (mm)
The results of the percolation test should be used in accordance with Table 6 to determine a suitable method of drainage.

CHAPTER 5.3
10
Table 6: Suitable methods of drainage

Percolation value (s)
Suitability for less porous subsoils
Up to 100
100 to 140
Chart 1 to determine the field drain trench area.

Chart 2 to determine the pipe length to provide this area.
As above, but underdrains are also necessary.
Over 140
The soil is unsuitable for field drains.
Table 7: Capacity based on potential occupancy

Number of persons/bed spaces
Minimum capacity (litres)
< 4
2700
2720
2900
3080
3260
3440
3620
10
3800
Field drain trench area (m2)
Chart 1: Field drains trench area

240
230
220
210
200
190
180
170
160
150
140
130
120
110
100
90
80
70
60
50
40
30
20
10
0
8 persons
7 persons
6 persons
5 persons
4 persons
10
20
30
40
50
60
70
80
90
100
Percolation value
Chart 2: Field pipe length

300 wide
800
750
700
650
Linear pipe length (m)
600
550
450 wide
500
450
400
600 wide
350
750 wide
300
900 wide
250
200
150
100
50
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
140
Drain trench floor (m2)
160
180
200
220
240
5.3
9 persons
11

CHAPTER 5.3
Field drains
Field drains should be:
sited according to topography, ensuring that water is drained
laid on a 150mm bed of clinker, clean gravel or broken stone
away from the building
formed with perforated pipe, laid at least 500mm below

the surface
laid in trenches with a uniform gradient less than 1:200 with

undisturbed ground 2m wide between trenches and at least
8m from any building and 10m from any water course
(20mm50mm grade) and trenches filled to a level 50mm

above the pipe and covered with strips of plastic material to
prevent entry of silt
backfilled with as dug material.
Wherethe level of the water table isexpected to rise in the winter months towithin 1m of the field drain invert, it is not acceptable to
use subsurface irrigation.
Underdrains
Where underdrains are necessary, drainage trenches should be
constructed a minimum of600mm deeper than the pipe level
specified in the design.
The lower part of the drainage trenches should be filled with
peagravel. A second system of drainage pipes should be laid
on the bottom of the trenches to conveysurplus drainage to an
outfall in a surface ditch or watercourse.
soil, gravel or
other topping
300-600mm
tar paper
300mm
broken tile as
cover to joint
5.3
sand and
gravel
600mm
drain
600mm
Surface watersoakaways 5.3.11
Also see: BREDigest 36
Soakaway drainage shall be sited and constructed to provide adequate short term storage for surface water
and adequate percolation into the surrounding ground. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) soakaway location
b) soakaway design.
Soakaway location
Soakaways should be:
built on land lower than, or sloping away from, buildings
sited at least 5m from the foundations of a building
sited to take account of topography, ensuring that water is
in soil of low permeability, only be provided where no

alternative system is available.
drained away from the building
Soakaway design
NHBC may require a percolation test fora soakaway,
especially where there is:
PVC sheet or
concrete blinding
doubt about theground,
a large quantity of run-off into the soakaway which may

swamp the ground.
Where the ground is free drainingand granular, a test may not
be necessary.
In soil, chalk and fill material subject tomodification or instability,
the advice of a specialist geotechnologist should be sought
regarding the siting and suitability of soakaways.
effective depth
D
diameter D

CHAPTER 5.3
12
Small soakaways
Small soakaways are holes filled withgranular material, e.g. broken brick, crushedrock or gravel, with particle size 10mm to150mm.
PVC sheet or concrete blindingshould be laid over the fill to preventtopsoil being washed down into thesoakaway.
Large soakaways
Large soakaways consist of a pit lined with dryjointed or honeycomb brickwork.
Alternatively, precast perforated concreterings or segments may be laid dry andsurrounded with granular material.
The volume of large soakaways should becalculated to ensure suitablecapacity.
Percolation test procedure for surface water soakaway

The rate at which water will disperse into the ground depends on the permeability of the ground, which varies with soil type.
The percolation test provides an assessment of how the ground drains.
As the test hole can be used as part of a soakaway, it should be:
dug in a place that could be used as asoakaway
at least 5m from the foundations of a building
to the same depth as the proposed drain.
Step 1
Bore a hole 150mm in diameter with an auger, to a depth of one metre.
Step 2
Fill with water to depth of 300mm. As an aid, mark a stick 300mm fromone end, place in the hole and fill up to
the mark. It takes approximately 5.5 litres to fill a volume of this size.
Step 3
Observe the time taken in minutes for the water to soak away.
Step 4
Where possible, the test should be repeated and the average time used.
Step 5
A second group of tests are carried out after the hole has been bored out to a depth of two metres, still using a
300mm depth of water.
Step 6
Where the soil appears to become more permeable with depth, it may be useful to deepen andretest the bore in
one-metre stages.
Design of soakaway
The relationship between the diameter or effective depth required for a soakaway, to suit a given collection area, e.g. roof or paved
surface, and the average time (T) resulting from the test is shown in the graph below.
The diameter and effective depth belowinvert level are assumed to be the same dimension (D).
Example
Test time (T) = 900 minutes
Plan area to drain = 150m2
From the graph below, the diameter and effective depth of the soakaway (D) are both 2.8m.
400
Plan area drained (m2)
300
D = diameter and effective depth
200
D = 2.8
150
D
D=
100
D=
D=
D=
1.5
m
1.0m
0
0
400
800
900
3.5
m
=3
.0m
2.5
m
2.0m
1200
1600
2000
2400
2800
3200
3600
4000
4400
Time (T) in minutes
5.3
Percolation test procedure for surface water soakaways
13

CHAPTER 5.3
Where the ground is of low permeability; dig separate soakaways to drain smaller but distinctparts, for example:
the driveway or yard to a third soakaway.
one side of a roof to one soakaway
the other side to a second soakaway
Where the permeability of the ground increases with depth; tests in the deepened trialholes will give shorter percolation times.
It may be more cost effective to build a smaller soakawayat a greater depth below the surface.
Component requirements 5.3.12

Drainage systems shall be constructed with materials that ensure satisfactory service over the life of
the system.
Components in accordance with the following standards will generally be acceptable:
5.3
BS 65
Vitrified clay pipes, fittings, joints and ducts, including perforated pipes.
BS 437
Cast iron spigots, socket drainpipes and fittings.
BS 1247
Manhole step irons.
BS 4660
Unplasticised PVC underground drain pipes and fittings.
BS 4962
Plastics pipes for use as light duty subsoil drains.
BS 5911
Precast concrete pipes, fittings and ancillary products.
BS 5955
Plastics pipework including thermoplastic materials.
BS 6087
Flexible joints for cast iron drainpipes and fittings (BS 437) and for cast iron soil, waste and ventilating pipes
and fittings (BS 416).
BS DD 76
Draft for development, including precast concrete pipes of composite construction.
BS EN 588
Fibre cement pipes for sewers and drains.
BS EN 124
Gully tops and manhole tops for vehicular and pedestrian areas.
BS EN 295
Vitrified clay pipes, fittings and pipe joints for drains and sewers.
BS EN 1401-1 Plastics piping systems for non-pressure underground drainage and sewerage
Unplasticised poly (vinyl chloride) (PVC-U).
Excavation 5.3.13
Excavations shall ensure that the invert levels and gradients requiredby the design are achieved. Issues to be
a) setting out dimensions
b) depth of trenches
c) width of trenches.
Setting out dimensions

When setting out:
discrepancies in dimensions, and ground conditions

which require design modification, should be reported
to the designer
drain runs and depths should be set out from benchmarks

previously checked and verified
resulting variations should be recorded and distributed to

all concerned.
Depth of trenches
Excavate to the depths specified in the design.
Where any trench is excavated lower than the designed bottom level, it should be refilled to the designed level.
Fill material should be:
granular material, or
concrete mix GEN1 or ST , (not for field drains).
Hard spots should be undercut andremoved so that local stress points underpipes are avoided. Soft spots should be filled with
suitable well-compacted material.
Width of trenches
Trenches should be as narrow as possiblewithin working limits and allow a minimum 150mm working space on each side of
the pipe.

CHAPTER 5.3
Protection of pipework 5.3.14
14
Drainage systems shall have pipework adequatelyprotected against damage. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) pipes passing through substructure walls
b) pipework under finishes
c) movement joints.
Pipes passing through substructurewalls

Where drains pass through structural elements; allowance should be made to accommodate movement.
Pipes passing through substructure wallsshould accommodate movement by:
a 50mm clearance all round
a sleeve, with 50mm clearance all round and suitably

sealed, or
bedded pipes, connected on both sides of the wall with

flexible joints located a maximum of 150mm from the face of
the wall.
Flexible joints shouldbe made in accordance with the pipemanufacturers recommendations.

150mm
max.
50mm space
around pipe
600mm max.
150mm
max.
600mm max.
5.3
opening masked
on both sides
flexible joint
pipe passing through

lintelled opening
pipe bedded in walls
Pipework under finishes

Where drains pass under roads and drives, the final compaction should be sufficient to prevent later settlement.
Rigid pipes less
than 1.2m below
road surface
Should have:
where necessary, a minimum 100mm concrete encasement
movement joints formed with compressible board at each socket orsleeve joint face
flexible joints which remain flexible.
Flexible pipes less Should be protected by:

than 0.9m below
concrete bridging slabs, or

road surface
surrounded with concrete reinforced as appropriate.

Garden areas
Where flexible pipes are not under a roadand have

less than 600mm cover, where necessary they
should have:
concrete paving slabs laid as bridging above the

pipes, and
a minimum 75mm of granular materialbetween the

top of the pipe and undersideof the slabs.
cover less
than
600mm
75mm
100mm
15

CHAPTER 5.3
Movement joints
Where rigid pipes are to be encased inconcrete,
movement joints should be:
provided around the spigot next to the socket either at

5m maximum intervals or at each joint
13mm thick compressible board.

pipe encased in
100mm min.
concrete all round
13mm compressible
board
movement joint
Laying pipework 5.3.15

Pipework shall be laid to thedesigned lines and gradients. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) bedding
b) sidefill and backfill.
Bedding
Pipes should be firmly supported throughout their length and bedded as specified in the design to resist loads from overlying fill
and traffic.
Where pipework is installed under a suspended floor and is supported onground or fill where movement is likely to occur,
additional provisions may be required. See Clause 5.3.8.
5.3
Bricks, blocks or other hard material should not be used as temporary supportsto achieve the correct gradients, as they may create
hard spots which can distort the completed pipe run.
Pipes should be either:
bedded on granular material, minimum 100mm deep, or
laid directly on the trench bottom, where the trench bottom

can be accurately hand trimmed with a shovel but is not so
soft that it puddles when walked on.
For 150mm diameter and 100mm diameter drains, a bed and surround pea gravel in accordance with Table 8 (to a thickness of
100mm all round the drain) will be acceptable for drains under gardens, paths and drives.
Proprietary systems should be assessedin accordance with Technical Requirement R3 and supported in accordance with the
manufacturers recommendations. Some proprietarysystems permit a minimum of 50mm depth of bedding in certain circumstances.
Depressions should be formed wherenecessary in the trench bottom toaccommodate pipe joints.
Pipe bedding, including the bedding material, should be in
accordance with:
BS EN 13242
BS 5955
BS EN 752.
Bedding material and specification should be in accordance with Table 8. Backfill and bedding that includes recycledor secondary
pipe supported on
pipe supported on a
materials should conform tothe appropriate regulatory requirementsfor waste, trench
as defined
Directive 2008.
bottom in the WasteFramework
bed of granular material
Table 8: Bedding size

Nominal pipe size
Bedding material complying with BS EN 13242
110mm flexible pipes

100mm rigid pipes
4/10mm pipe bedding gravel
160mm flexible pipes

150mm rigid pipes
2/14mm pipe bedding gravel

CHAPTER 5.3
16
Sidefill and backfill

Sidefill and backfill should be placed assoon as the pipes have been bedded,jointed and inspected.
Sidefill should be either granular material or selected backfill material from thetrench excavation, free from:
stones larger than 40mm
clay lumps larger than 100mm
timber
frozen material
vegetable matter.
Backfill should be wellcompacted and placed in layers nodeeper than 300mm. Mechanical compacting shouldonly be used when
compacted backfill is over 450mm above the crown of the pipe.
two layers hand compacted

before mechanical compaction
5.3
150mm
above pipe
Protection of work 5.3.16

Drainage systems shall besuitably protected from damage byconstruction work.
Damaged drainage will not be accepted, and itis
recommended that:
no heavy loading orunderground work is permitted above,

ornear, unprotected drainage
dumpers, trucks, fork lifts or other heavyvehicles are not

driven along, or near, piperuns.
Testing 5.3.17
All foul and surface water drainage systems shall be adequately watertight, and tested where appropriate.
Inspection and testing should be arrangedwhen required by:
the local authority
thesewerage undertaker
NHBC.
Before backfilling, visual inspections arerequired and the builder is advised to test.When the home is handed over, the system must
be in full working order andfree from obstruction.
Waterproofing of basements and

other below ground structures
CHAPTER 5.4
This chapter gives guidance on meeting the Technical
Requirements for the waterproofing of basements and
other structures below, or near to, ground level.
5.4.1 Compliance
5.4.2
5.4.3
Waterproofing
5.4.4
Ground conditions
5.4.5
Structural stability
5.4.6
Design considerations
5.4.7
Waterproofing systems
5.4.8
Handling, storage and protection
02
02
02
03
04
04
06
08
Waterproofing of basements and other below ground structures 2016

CHAPTER 5.4
Introduction
This chapter includes guidance for walls, floors and foundations below, or near to, ground level that are intended to
prevent the passage of moisture and water into the building from the ground and other sources that could reasonably be
expected during the design life of the building.
Guidance for the following types of waterproofing systems is included in this chapter:
Type A waterproofing barriers
Type C drained cavity construction.
Type B structurally integral construction

Constructions that generally require waterproofing include:
basements
semi-basements
below ground parking areas
lift pits
cellars
storage or plant rooms
service ducts, or similar, that are connected to the

below ground structure
stepped floor slabs where the step is greater

than 150mm.
Near to ground constructions that may require waterproofing include:
external walls where the lowest finished floor level is
less than 150mm higher than the external ground level.
Typical examples of construction types generally requiring waterproofing:

Waterproofing should be considered
Waterproofing is required
5.4
Semi-basement
Basement
Lift pit
depth varies
where height (H) varies

lift
Stairs adjacent to the structure
Stepped floor slabs where the step is

greater than 150mm
Raised external ground levels
lowest finished floor level less than

150mm above external ground level
stairs
stepped floor slabs with
a step greater than 150mm
Buried podium
Raised podium
Split levels
Buried podium. Guidance for roof
coverings, including green roofs,
can be found in
Chapter 7.1 Flat roofs and balconies
structures adjacent to voids

where water may accumulate
Retaining
Guidance for acceptable detailling of

the junction between timber framed
walls and external ground can be found
in Chapter 6.2 External Timber
Framed
Walls. lightwells
walls
forming

CHAPTER 5.4
Definitions for this chapter

For the purposes of this chapter the following definitions apply:
Cavity drain membrane
Semi-flexible sheet designed to form a cavity that intercepts water penetrating the structure and
directs it to a suitable drainage point.
See Type C drained cavity construction.
Fully bonded barrier
Type A barrier that forms part of acomposite structural wall, including liquid applied and
cementitious systems.
Post-applied sheet membranes are not considered to be fully bonded barriers for the purposes
of this chapter.
Ground barrier
A barrier used to resist the ingress of moisture and or ground gases into the building.
Lowest finished floor level The top surface of the lowest finished floor, including lift pit floors, car park surfaces and other
similar surfaces. Excluding coverings such as carpet and tiles.
Type A waterproofing
barrier
A waterproofing barrier applied to the structural element being waterproofed, also known as tanking.
Type C drained cavity

construction
Construction that incorporates a cavity, generally formed with a cavity drain membrane.
Water is removed from the cavity via a managed drainage system.
Waterproofing design
specialist
A suitably qualified person co-ordinating the team involved in the design of waterproofing to
basements and other below ground structures.
Waterproofing system
A fully assessed and certified system of compatible materials and components used to provide
waterproofing. These are normally considered to be Type A, B or C as defined above.
Compliance 5.4.1
Also see: Chapter 2.1, BS 8102 and Basements for dwellings; guidance document
Basements and other below ground structures shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Waterproofing of basements and other below ground structures,including foundations, walls and floors that complies with the
guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Design and specification information should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and/or suppliers
A full set of current drawings.
Details of joints, junctions and service penetrations.
The manufacturers information, including relevant parts of

the system design manual.
An installation method statement detailing the

sequence of works.
A ground condition report.
Third-party certifications.
Details of the waterproofing design specialist.
Design and specification information should be provided to NHBC at least eight weeks in advance of the works starting on site,
in accordance with NHBC Rules.
Waterproofing 5.4.3
Also see: BS 8102
The design of waterproofing systems shall be undertaken by a suitably qualified personand be appropriate for
the specific performance required. Items to be taken into account include:
a) waterproofing design
b) risk-based design.
Waterproofing design
Waterproofing systems should be designed by a waterproofing design specialist. Designers who have successfully completed the
Certified Surveyor in Structural Waterproofing (CSSW) qualification available from the Property Care Association (PCA) would
generally be acceptable to NHBC. An alternative demonstration of competence may be acceptable to NHBC, subject to
successful review.
5.4
Type B structurally integral The water-resistant properties of the retaining structure providing waterproofing to the building.
construction
This chapter provides specific guidance for the use of Type B concrete systems cast in- situ,
with or without waterproofing admixtures. The principles are applicable to other Type B systems
listed in BS 8102.

CHAPTER 5.4
The waterproofing design specialist should be appointed in the early design stages to co-ordinate with other designers, including the
engineer, and to ensure satisfactory integration of the waterproofing system.
Risk-based design
Waterproofing should be appropriate to the risk, and generally assume exposure to a full height of water during the design life of
the building.
Combined systems should be used where Grade 3 protection is required, and the below ground wall retains more than 600mm
measured from the top of the retained ground to the lowest finished floor level.
For the purposes of this chapter, a combined system includes:
Type A and Type B
Type A and Type C
Type B and Type C.
Alternatively, where the builder has demonstrated that the water table is permanently below the underside of the lowest floor slab,
a Type B structurally integral concrete system is acceptable without further protection from a combined system.
Where Grade 2 waterproofing is required to walls retaining ground greater than 600mm, Type A systems that are not fully bonded
should only be used as part of a combined system.
The waterproofing system shall take account of ground conditions.

The ground conditions should be fully considered by the engineer andwaterproofing design specialist in the design of the
waterproofing system.
5.4
NHBC may request investigation and a report of the ground conditions where the below groundwaterproofed structure:
retains more than 600mm of ground, measured from the top

of the retained ground to the lowest finished floor level
comprises more than 15% of the perimeter of an individual

building (e.g. terraced homes, apartment blocks and
detached garages), measured on plan.
The ground conditions report should takeinto account appropriate investigations, as described in Table 1.
Table 1: Investigation of ground conditions

Further investigation
Guidance and information
Desk study, including review of:
ground water and flooding issues
flood potential of the site
available ground water data
SuDS impact assessment
flood risk assessment
topography of the site
effects of adjacent surface finishes.
www.environment-agency.gov.uk/homeandleisure/floods
www.bgs.ac.uk/research/groundwater/datainfo/levels/home.html
www.metoffice.gov.uk/climate/uk/stationdata
Contaminated or aggressive ground and/or

ground water conditions.
Testing required where there is the potential for chemically

aggressive ground and/or ground water.
Water level change, including potential for flash flooding

and waterlogging.
Identifying likely fluctuations and short-term flooding events.
Impact assessment of ground water flow where the

construction is likely to have a damming effect.
Interpretative report by a qualified engineer, hydrologist or

hydrogeologist to include:
assessment of the direction of ground water flow
damming effects on the ground water regime
damming effect of adjacent structures.
Where it is necessary to establish the water table, a detailedhydrogeological assessment should beundertaken by a suitably
qualified engineer, to include:
long-term water level monitoring over at least one year to

capture seasonal fluctuations
short-term flooding events that typicallyoccur during

autumn and spring
information based on a suitable number of boreholes

monitored at a minimum of three-month intervals.

CHAPTER 5.4
Structural stability 5.4.5
Elements forming a waterproofing structure below ground, including foundations, walls and floors,
shall adequately resist movement and be suitable for their intended purpose. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) site conditions
b) structural design
c) durability
d) movement
e) design co-ordination.
Site conditions
Parts of the building constructed below ground level that form the structural elements of usable spaces should be designed by an
engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 where they are retaining more than 600mm. Issues that should be taken into
account include:
characteristics of the site
ground conditions
hazards.
Structural design
The structure should be designed totake account of allimposed loads and actions, including:
ground movement
lateral forces from ground water, retained ground and

ground surcharge loads
buoyancy
loading from other parts of the building
temporary loading conditions.
5.4
Durability
The structure should be designed tobe sufficiently durable against sitehazards, including:
chemicals
frost action
cyclical wet-dry conditions.
Movement
Movement within the structure should be limited to the capacity of the waterproofing systems resistance to such movement,
ensuring that the designed level of watertightness is achieved. Where appropriate, detailed guidance for the limitation of movement
should be provided.
Movement joints in below ground waterproofed structures should be avoided. Where it is necessary to provide movement joints,
the design should ensure satisfactory in-service performance, including watertightness. Such joints should be accessible for
maintenance, and not permanently concealed by other structural elements of the building.
Design co-ordination
Structural design should be co-ordinatedwith the design of the waterproofing.
Design considerations 5.4.6
The waterproofing of all elements, including walls, floors and foundations, forming below ground structures
shall be suitable for intended use. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) grade of waterproofing protection
b) waterproofing systems, materials and components
c) interface with the above ground structure

d) joints, abutments and service penetrations.
Grade of waterproofing protection

Waterproofing systems should be designedto resist the passage of water and moistureto internal surfaces.
The waterproofing grades should be appropriatefor the proposed use of the internal space and the equipment located within.

CHAPTER 5.4
Table 2: Waterproofing grades
Grade
Description
Generally required for:
Grade 3
No water penetration acceptable and

a dry environment provided where
maintained by adequate ventilation.
Habitable accommodation.
Grade 2 No water penetration is acceptable

although damp areas are tolerated.
Non-habitable areas, such as car parks, storage or plant rooms where the
internal finishes are not readily damaged by moisture.
(Some water ingress may occur where openings are provided in car parks,
e.g. for ventilation. To minimise potential for standing water, refer to Chapter
9.1 A consistent approach to finishes. Car parks should be provided with
drainage to a suitable outfall).
Grade 1 Some seepage and damp areas are

tolerable, dependent on intended use.
Retaining walls typically used to formexternal lightwells.

(Drainage may be required to deal with seepage).
Where there is doubt about potential use,minimum Grade 3 protection should be considered in the waterproofing design.
Waterproofing systems, materials and components

Components forming the waterproofing system should be predefined and assessed to demonstrate suitable performance.
The assessment should specifically consider compatibility where materials and components are intended to be interchangeable
between systems.
The design information and documentation shoulddetail waterproofing systems, materialsand components in accordance with
themanufacturers recommendations.
5.4
Proprietary waterproofing systems, materials and components should be assessed in accordance withTechnical Requirement R3.
Interface with the above ground structure

Waterproofing should extend at least 150mm above the external
ground level where it connects with the superstructure. This can
generally be achieved by linking the below ground waterproofing
system to a continuous cavity tray.
The connection between the below and above ground
waterproofing should bebonded and formed with
appropriate materials.
DPC
habitable area
Where the waterproofing is linked to the above ground structure

via a cavity tray, the materials should:
compress to form a watertight seal
be capable of taking the load.

Bitumen-based materials in accordance with BS 6398 or
suitable materials assessed in accordance with
Technical Requirement R3 should be used.
cavity tray
external
waterproofing
Joints, abutments and service penetrations

The design of waterproofing systems should include the correct
method and detailing to form joints, abutments and service
penetrations, including those between:
the waterproofing system andsuperstructure damp proofing
horizontal and vertical waterproofing
system components.
The manufacturer should confirm compatibility between different
materials where they are used to form joints.
Details of how junctions and abutments are formed should be
provided to site personnel. Proprietary components that are
part of,or compatible with, the waterproofing system should be
used for complex joints, abutments and service penetrations.
lintel to
bridge recess
recess in
basement wall
drain connection

CHAPTER 5.4
The design should avoid penetrations through the waterproofing system. However, where penetrations cannot be avoided,
the design should detail the method of waterproofing to ensure that it is watertight and durable.
Penetrations, including those for wall ties, services and drainage systems, should:
be suitably separated to allow for proprietary seals to be
account for differential settlement and movement between
correctly installed
Waterproofing systems 5.4.7
the structure/finishes and services.

Also see: Chapters 3.1, 3.2, BS 8102 and Concrete basements.
Guidance on the design and construction ofin-situ concrete basement structures
The waterproofing of below ground structures and elements shall be suitable for intended use and installed in
accordance with the design. Systems include:
a) Type A waterproofing barriers
b) Type B structure, integral
c) Type C drained cavity
d) ancillary components.
Appropriate sequencing of work will enable logical and timely construction of the waterproofing system and prevent unnecessary
damage to completed elements of work. Installation should be undertaken in accordance with the design and the installation method
statement detailing the sequence of works.
Type A waterproofing barrier

Type A systems generally accepted by NHBC when assessed in
accordance with Technical Requirement R3 include:
external waterproofing
with protection
5.4
bonded sheet membranes
liquid-applied membranes
geosynthetic (bentonite) clay liners
mastic asphalt to BS 6925 or BS EN 12970
cementitious systems
pre-applied fully bonded systems
proprietary systems or products assessed in accordance with

Plain polyethylene sheet shouldnot be used as a
waterproofing system.
Only fully bonded systems assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 for the specific purpose should be used
internally or in sandwich constructions.
Externally applied membranes to waterproofed walls forming a return should continue around the return to prevent water tracking
back through the structure.
Design at junctions and corners should account for proprietary components and be in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations.
The substrate to which the Type A system is to be applied should be clean, free from debris and prepared in accordance with the
manufacturers recommendations. Bonded sheet membranes should onlybe applied directly to masonry substrates that are smooth
and have flush pointed joints.
Type A waterproofing should be installed in accordance with themanufacturers instructions by operatives:
who are suitably qualified or have been trained by the
who are fully aware of the design and the manufacturers
manufacturer or supplier, and
recommendations for installation.
Completed waterproofing should have a protection board to prevent damage. Where the waterproofing system is protected by
backfilled material, this should be placed carefully in layers.
The manufacturers recommendations for climatic conditions in relation to the installation should be followed.
Type B structure, integral construction, concrete and application

Structural design should be undertaken by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5. The design of in-situ Type B
concrete systems should be in accordance with:
BS EN 1992-1-1
BS EN 1992-3
Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement.

CHAPTER 5.4
Structural design should be undertaken by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5. The design of in-situ Type B
concrete systems should be in accordance with:
BS EN 1992-1-1
BS EN 1992-3
Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement.
Type B systems acceptable to NHBC include:
in-situ concrete with or without admixtures and crack widths

limited by design
in-situ high-strength concrete with crack widths limited by

design and post-construction crack injections
precast concrete systems assessed in accordance with

Specialist advice should be sought where other Type B systems

are specified. BS 8102 contains guidance for the use of Type B
systems, including secant, contiguous and sheet piled systems.
waterproof
reinforced concrete
Ready-mixed concrete should be of sufficient strength and

durability, and from a supplier operating under a quality control
system acceptable to NHBC such as:
the Quality Scheme for Ready-Mixed Concrete (QSRMC), or
the BSI Kitemark scheme.

Other suppliers may be accepted if they operate to a standard
acceptable to NHBC.
5.4
The concrete mix should be agreed betweenthe engineer and the waterproofing design specialist, and:
achieve the necessary robustness,

durability and waterproofing
be suitable for the environmental exposure and

ground conditions.
Type B waterproofing shouldbe installed:
by suitably qualified operatives who are fully aware of the
in accordance with the design.
requirements for placing concrete and reinforcement and for

installing ancillary components used in Type B systems
The line, level and position of formwork and reinforcement should be checked prior to concrete placement to ensure that it is in
accordance with the design.
Penetrations from tie bars etc. should be made good in accordance with the design.
Where joints are formed in concrete, surfaces should be clean and free of excessive laitance. Hydrophilic strips should be protected
from water before the joint is formed.
Quality management systems and quality audits should be used to record and monitor the placement of concrete on site.
Monitoring records should be supplied to NHBC as requested.
Design details for reinforced concrete structures should include:
Concrete specification.
The type of concrete.
Concrete strength.
Proportion of any admixture.
Proposals for limiting crack widths.
Consideration of temporary support to the formwork.
Type and position of reinforcement.
The method of making good holes in the concrete formed for

shutter bolts and tie bars.
Positioning of structural elements.
Appropriate tolerances for the line and level of

structural elements.
Joints between components, includingday work joints, should be durable and made watertight with appropriate waterstops or
hydrophilic strips. Kickers, generally cast as part of the slab, should be used to form the joint between floorsand walls.
Concrete with admixtures

Where the design of in-situ concretewaterproofing includes admixtures:
the ratio of admixture to concretespecified in the design

should take account of the recommendations of the
admixture supplier
the reinforcement should limit crack widths to 0.3mm for

flexural cracks and 0.2mm for cracks that pass through
the section
suitable quality management systems and quality

audits should be used to record and monitor the
batching of admixture.

CHAPTER 5.4
Admixtures should be:
independently assessed, in accordance with Technical

Requirement R3
assessed according to the intended use
used strictly in accordance with the

Concrete without admixtures

Where the design of in-situ concrete waterproofing does not include admixtures:
the reinforcement should limit crack widths to 0.2mm for both

the necessary level of waterproofing, but post-construction
flexural cracks and for cracks that pass through the section
crack injection may be required in order to deal withcracking
a minimum section thickness of 250mm should be used in

induced by increased thermal and shrinkage strains
the design.
high-strength concrete may be specified in order to achieve
Type C drained cavity construction

Type C systems that include a cavity drain membrane which forms a waterproof barrier are acceptable to NHBC when assessed in
accordance with Technical Requirement R3. Where a Type C system is formed using a drained masonry cavity wall, the guidance in
BS 8102 should be considered.
Type C systems should be designed to include a drainage system that adequately disposes of water to a suitable outlet, either by
gravity or through a sump and pump. The drainage channel, sump and pump should include appropriately located access points for
servicing and maintenance. To prevent backflow, the drainage
system should be fitted with a one-way valve.
Type C waterproofing should be installed in accordance with the
manufacturers instructions by operatives:
continous
drained
cavity
5.4
who are suitably qualified or have been trained by the

manufacturer or supplier
who are fully aware of the design and the manufacturers

recommendations for installation
using the fixings recommended by the manufacturer.

Pump systems should operate automatically and include:
a primary pump
a secondary pump with battery or generator backup
a suitable audio or visual alarm that indicates pump failure.
drainage sump
discharging to
suitable outlet
Ancillary components
Ancillary components should be assessed as part of the waterproofing system. Alternatively, an assessment of compatibility and
satisfactory performance should be provided for materials and products that are interchangeable between different systems.
Ancillary components include:
preformed junctions and corners
reinforcement
waterstops
hydrophilic strips.
Handling, storageand protection 5.4.8

Waterproofing materials, products and systems shall be handled, stored and protected in a satisfactory
manner to prevent damage, distortion, weathering or degradation. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) handling and storage
b) protection from ongoing works.
Handling and storage

Materials, products and systems should be transported, lifted, handled and stored in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations.
Protection from ongoing works

Design should consider the risk of damage caused by ongoing works. Details of suitable protection measuresshould be specified in
the design and include:
fixing of other components, such asskirtings, wall ties and
protection of the waterproofingfrom backfilling.
wall linings
Proprietary products and systems shouldbe protected and tested before backfilling occurs.

CHAPTER 6.1
Technical Requirements for external masonry walls.
6.1.1 Compliance
6.1.2
6.1.3
Structural design
6.1.4
Fire resistance
6.1.5
Acoustic resistance
6.1.6 Exposure
6.1.7 Thermal insulation
6.1.8
Concrete blocks
6.1.9 Bricks
6.1.10 Stone masonry
6.1.11 Construction of masonry walls
6.1.12 Lintels
6.1.13 Suitable materials for mortar and render
6.1.14 Mortar
6.1.15 Render
6.1.16 Cladding
6.1.17 DPCs and cavity trays
6.1.18 Wall ties
6.1.19 Handling materials
6.1.20 Cold weather working
01
01
01
03
03
03
06
09
09
10
11
14
15
15
17
19
20
24
25
25
External masonry walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.1
Compliance 6.1.1
External walls shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

External masonry walls that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

information and be distributed to the appropriate personnel.
Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers, and include the
Construction materials.
Wall layout with all dimensions shown.
Position and size of openings.
Wall layouts and elevations with dimensions shown.
Coursing of bricks and blocks in relation to storey heights

and opening positions.
All junctions, indicating position of DPCs and cavity trays

(isometric sketches are recommended for
complicated junctions).
Position and type of lintels.
Position of restraint straps.
Cavity closers.
Reveals.
How support is given to other elements, e.g. padstones and

wall plates.
Movement joints.
Acceptable methods of pointing ormortar joint finish.
Type of insulant to be used.
Type, spacing and location of wall ties.
Where proprietary products are to be used, manufacturers generally have specific requirements for fixing and/or assembly.
This information should also be made available for reference on site so that work can be carried out satisfactorily in accordance with
the design and specification.
Structural design 6.1.3

6.1
External masonry shall be designed to support andtransfer loads to foundations safely and without undue
movement. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) compliance with relevant standards
b) lateral restraint
c) point loads
d) bonding
e) movement joints.
Compliance with relevant standards

Design of masonry walls should comply with relevant standards:
Structural design
BS EN 1996-1-1 Eurocode 6. Design of masonry structures.

General rules for reinforced and unreinforced masonry structures.
Intermediate floors, roofs and roofs designed BS 8103 Structural design of low-rise buildings.
to provide lateral restraint to external walls
Ancillary components
BS EN 845-1 Specification for ancillary components for masonry.
Walls of homes, or buildings containing

homes, over three storeys high
Designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Lateral restraint
Lateral restraint provided by concrete floors:
Concrete floors, with a minimum bearing of 90mm onto the wall, can provide adequate restraint. Concrete floors running parallel to,
and not built into, walls require restraint straps to provide restraint to the wall.
Lateral restraint provided by timber floors:

Timber joisted floors can provide adequate restraint when joists are carried by ordinary hangers to BS EN 845, and connected to the
wall with restraint straps. In buildings up to two storeys, timber joisted floors can provide adequaterestraint without strapping when:
the minimum bearing onto masonry is 90mm

(or 75mm onto a timber wallplate), or
joists are carried by BS EN 845-1 restraint-type hangers

with performance equivalent to arestraint strap spaced at a
maximum of 2m centres.
Point loads
Where padstones and spreaders are required, they should be located beneath areas of concentratedloads.

CHAPTER 6.1
Bonding
Where partition walls abut an external wall constructed of similar materials, fully bonded or tied joints are acceptable. To reduce the
risk of cracking, a tied joint is preferable where:
materials have dissimilar shrinkage or expansion
there is a connection between a load-bearing wall on
characteristics, e.g. dense concrete and aerated concrete
foundations and a non load-bearing wall supported on a

ground-bearing slab.
Tied joints should be formed usingexpanded metal, wire wall ties or aproprietary equivalent, spaced at maximum 300mm intervals.
Movement joints
Movement joints should be included in long lengths of walling to reduce unsightly cracking, and detailed so that stability
is maintained. Where possible, joints should be hidden in corners, or behind rainwater pipes, and:
run the full heightof the superstructure masonry wall
continue from those provided in the substructure to the

superstructure (movement joints may be needed in the
superstructure and not in the substructure, providing suitable
allowance is made for relative movement).
Vertical movement joints should be provided in the outer leaf, in accordance with Table 1.
Material
Joint width (mm) Normal spacing (m)
Clay brick
16
12 (15 maximum)
Calcium silicate brick
10
7.5 9
Lightweight concrete block and brick

(autoclaved or using lightweight aggregates)(2)
10
Dense concrete block and brick (using dense aggregate)(2) 10
7.5 9
Any masonry in a parapet wall
Half the above spacings and 1.5 from corners

(double frequency)
10
Notes
1 Manufacturers guidance for the provision of movement joints and bed joint reinforcement should be considered.
2 Lightweight concrete masonry units are generally made of aggregates that have a gross density not exceeding 1,500 kg/m. Dense concrete masonry units are
generally made of aggregate that have a gross density exceeding 1,500 kg/m.
The spacing of the first movement joint from a return should not
be more than half of the dimension in Table 1.
easily compressible filler
10mm
Movement joints are not generally necessary in the inner leaf of

cavity walls, but consideration should be given to providing:
movement joints in rooms with straight unbroken lengths of

wall over 6m
bed joint reinforcement as an alternative to movement joints

in areas of risk, e.g. under window openings.
sealant
Wall ties should be provided on either side of movement joints, in accordance with Clause 6.1.18.
Where masonry walls form panels in a framed structure, movement joints should be provided in accordance with BS EN 1996-2.
Movement joints should be formed using the correct materials, and account taken of:
joint width and depth
anticipated movement and capability of the material
surface preparation and backing materials
likely design life of the joint.
Clay bricks expand and require movement joints formed from easily compressiblematerials, such as:
flexible cellular polyethylene
cellular polyurethane
foam rubber.
The following materials are acceptable for use in contraction joints in concrete brickwork:
Hemp.
Fibreboard.
Cork.
Where movement joints are provided tocontrol shrinkage in concrete blockwork, they may be made as simple vertical joints filled
with mortar, and sealed.
6.1
Table 1: Suitable dimensions for movement joints

CHAPTER 6.1
Sealant should be a minimum of 10mm deepto ensure a good bond. Where the joint is in a freestanding wall, the filler will require
sealant at:
both exposed edges
the top, where the joint is carried through anycoping.
Fire resistance 6.1.4

External cavity walls shall adequately resist the passage of fire.
Cavities should be closed with cavity closers, in accordance with Building Regulations.
Acoustic resistance 6.1.5

External walls adjacent to separating walls shall be designed to resist flanking sound transmission.
Acceptable levels of sound reduction between homes may be achieved by:
the inner leaf of an external cavity wall having

sufficient density
sealing air paths
allowing appropriate spacing betweenthe openings in

external walls.
The density of external walls and the position of openings adjacent to separating walls should be in accordance with Building
Regulations and, where relevant, an assessment which complies with Technical Requirement R3.
Exposure 6.1.6
External walls shall be suitable for their exposure and resist the passage of moisture to the inside of
the home. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) durability
b) rain penetration
c) frost attack.
Durability
Masonry can become saturated, and may remain so for long periods. Therefore, precautions should be taken to resist frost damage
and sulfate attack affecting:
6.1
parapet walls and copings
sills and projections
masonry below the DPC at ground level
freestanding walls.
Bricks and mortar should comply with BS EN 1996-1-1 and the manufacturers recommendations. In addition, the following mortar
mixes can be used with ordinary Portland cement or sulfate-resisting cement:
Air-entrained 1:1:5 cement:lime:sand.
Air-entrained 1::4 cement:lime:sand.
Sulfate-resisting cement should be used where S1 clay bricks are used in the following situations:
Below the DPC where there are sulfates present in

the ground.
Below the DPC where there is a high risk ofsaturation.
Retaining walls.
Parapets.
Freestanding walls.
Rendered walls.
Areas of severe, or very severe, exposureto driving rain.
Reclaimed bricks should only be used where in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Rain penetration
In prolonged periods of driving rain, water will penetrate the outer leaf ofa masonry wall. The following should be taken into account:
Site-specific exposure to wind-driven rain.
Suitability of the wall construction andinsulation method.
Design detailing for the local exposure, and the likely quality
of workmanship on site.
Exposed parts of the building should be given particular attention whenselecting a suitable construction method, as this may affect
the choice for the whole building.

CHAPTER 6.1
Complete resistance can onlybe achieved with an impervious cladding. However, the following approaches can reduce the risk of
rain penetration:
Providing cladding to the wall.
Increasing the clear cavity width (minimum 50mm) or the
Designing protective features to keep the wall dry,
width of full-fill cavity insulation (increasing the cavity width

for full-fill cavity insulation greatly reduces the risk of rain
passing through the cavity).
Rendering the wall and specifying crack-resistant

backing material.
Cavities should be continuous around enclosedporches and
habitable areas.
e.g. projecting sills and deep overhanging eaves and verges.
Ensuring mortar joints are fully filled. Where full cavity

insulation is proposed, recessed joints should not beused.
Following the recommendations of any assessment of the

insulation and the manufacturers recommendations.
Ensuring that cavities arenot bridged.
3D
Insulation should be in accordance with Clause 6.1.7 and

Table 2. In Scotland, the cavity should not contain full-fill
insulation. In Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, it is not
permissible to fill cavities with pumped thermal insulants at
the time of construction.
min. 12mm overlap of masonry

(or render) to frame
external
25mm
sealant
sealant
internal
rebated or check reveals to be used
in areas of very severe exposure
Figure 1: Exposure zones
Sills, copings and similar features should be weathered and

throated unless adequate alternative provision is made to protect
the brickwork from saturation, frost damage and staining.
Dornoch
Variations to the exposure shown on the map can only be made

by site-specific calculations using BS 8104 Code of practice for
assessing exposure of walls to wind-driven rain.
Lerwick
Inverness
Aberdeen
Adapted from BRE report Thermal Insulation: avoiding risks.
6.1
In Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and in other places

where the exposure to driving rain is very severe, masonry
should form a rebate at the reveals of openings to avoid a
straight through joint where the frame abuts the masonry, or a
proprietary cavity closer assessed in accordance with Technical
Requirement R3 should be used.
Dundee
Perth
Stirling
Dunbar
Glasgow Edinburgh
Exposure zones
Exposure to wind-driven rain (litres/m per spell)
Very severe
100 or more
Severe
56.5 to less than 100
Moderate
33 to less than 56.5
Sheltered
Less than 33
Ayr
Variations to the exposure shown on
the map can only be made by site-specific
calculations
using BS 8104 Assessing
Londonderry
exposure of walls to wind driven rain
and the table above.
Adapted from the mapBelfast
in the Stranraer
Enniskillen
BRE report Dungannon
Thermal Insulation:
avoiding risks
Newcastle
Carlisle
Alston
Workington
Middlesborough
Darlington
Whitby
Ripon
York
Hebden Bridge
Hull
Skelmersdale
Doncaster
Colwyn Bay
Grimsby
Manchester
Sheffield
Bangor
Lincoln
Chester Macclesfield
Skegness
Bala
Nottingham
Stafford
Shrewsbury
Leicester
Norwich
Peterborough
Llanidloes
Birmingham
Northampton
Llandrindod Wells
Cambridge
Hay-on-Wye
Colchester
Brecon
Luton
Gloucester
Welwyn
Garden
City
Swansea
Swindon
Newbury
Bristol
London
Staines
Weston-super-Mare
Aldershot
Watchet
Dover
Gatwick
Barnstable Taunton
Southampton
Exeter
Brighton
Poole
Eastbourne
Sidmouth
Cardiff

CHAPTER 6.1
Frost attack
Common factors which increase the level of frost attack include:
degree of exposure (incidence of frost)
saturation of the masonry
frost resistance of the masonry
localised protection of the masonryby roof overhangs,

trees and otherbuildings.
Good brickwork detailing can limitpersistent wetting and reducethe risk of frost attack, for example:
Paths should drain away from walls toavoid saturating bricks

near the ground.
Sills, copings and similar features should have aweathered

upper surface.
A coping or capping should be provided forall parapet walls,

chimneys andfreestanding walls unless clay bricks ofF2,S1
or F2,S2 classification to BS EN771 are used.
Copings shouldhave:
a generous overhang
throatings a minimum of 40mm clear of the wall
acontinuous supported DPCwhich projects beyond the line

of thewall.
Single leaf parapet walls should notbe rendered on both sides.
KW
The following should be taken into account:
Bricks that are not frost-resistant (F0,S2 or F0,S1 to
6.1
BS EN 771) may not be acceptable for use externally,

unless completely protected by a cladding which can
adequately resist the passage of water.
Where there is a risk that brickwork maybe persistently wet,

bricks should bespecified that are low in soluble salts.
Where clay, F2,S2 or F1,S2 to BS EN 771 should be used.
Only clay bricks designated L by BS EN 771 have a low limit

on their soluble salt content. In persistently wet conditions,
clay bricks of S1 designation may advance sulfate attack on
the mortar.
Painted or decorated finishes can trapmoisture in external

brickwork and increase the risk of frost damage, sulfateattack
or other detrimental effects. They should not be applied to S1
designation bricks without written agreement from the
brick manufacturer.
IV
PA
AB
PH
DD
PA
In Northern Ireland, the three criteria

for assessing severe exposure to
frost attack do not simultaneously
occur in any part.
FK
KY
EH
ML
TD
KA
DG
NE
CA
DH SR
DL
LA
BD
In Scotland, all clay bricks used as facingsshould be

frost-resistant, F2,S2 or F2,S1 to BS EN 771.
FY PR
This applies particularly to bricks such as fletton facings which

are moderately freeze-/thaw-resistant (F1,S2 or F1,S1).
In addition, manufacturers recommendations on suitability
should be followed, including the choice and use of mortar and
the type of pointing.
DE
ST
TF
SY
WS
WV
DY
LD
SA
GL
CF
BS
TA
WR
HR
NP
The shaded areas on the map opposite have a frost over 60

days in a year, annual rainfall over 1m and are 90m above
sea level. They are therefore are considered to be at severe
exposure to frost.
HG
YO
BB
LS
HX
BL OL
WF
HD
L WN M
WA
S
SK
CH
CW
LL
Severe exposure to frost attack
TS
SN
BA
SP
EX
DT
BH
HU
DN
LN
NG
LE
CV
PE
NR
NN
IP
CB
MK
SG
LU
CO
OX
HP AL EN CM
HA UB
G
SL TW
RM SS
DB SM
RG
BR DA
KT CR
ME
CT
GU RH
TN
SO
PO
BN
PL
In areas of severe exposure to frost, the following types of brick

are acceptable:
Clay facing bricks which are frost-resistant F2,S2 or

F2,S1 to BS EN 771.
Clay bricks which are classifiedin the manufacturers

published recommendations as satisfactory for theexposure.
Calcium silicate bricks of at least compressive strength Class

30 and declared as freeze/thaw resistant to BS EN 771.
TQ
TR
Concrete bricks with a minimum strength of 20N/mm2.
Concrete blocks with a minimum density of 1,500kg/m3 or

more than 7.3N/mm2 strength classification.
Most types of aerated concrete blocks with render.

CHAPTER 6.1
Exceptionally severe frost exposure

These are locations which face long stretches of open countryside and are within an area of severe frost exposure, where only
frost-resistant bricks F2,S2 or F2,S1 to BS EN 771 are acceptable for the superstructure.
Where there is doubt about the suitability of a facing brick for sites in areas of exceptionally severe frost exposure, written
confirmation should be obtained from the brick manufacturer that the brick is suitable for the geographical location, and location in
the structure.
Postcode areas at risk of severe exposure to frost attack

The following list identifies the postal areas within which the three criteria for severe exposure to frost attack are met.
3
1
13
0
5
8
7
8
4
1
8
8
14
1
62
3
3
2
2
1
1
3
13
2
1
11
24
1
19
1
1
23
1
22
6
9
6
10
10
1
9
6
5
2
15
1
6
37
3
20
2
7
39
4
21
7
8
40
5
22
8
9
41
6
23
9
10
42
7
24
10
11
12
11
43
12
44
13
45
16
46
17
47
19
48
9
6
2
10
11
12
13
14
11
23
8
63
4
12
26
11
64
7
13
27
12
65
8
28
13
72
43
14
74
44
15
75
45
16
76
46
17
77
47
18
81
48
19
82
3
4
3
3
5
5
6
4
4
6
7
6
5
7
7
6
8
12
16
9
13
17
10
14
18
11
15
19
12
16
26
13
17
6
2
15
8
3
16
9
4
20
10
5
21
12
6
22
20
7
23
21
8
24
22
23
25
26
2
46
2
2
24
2
23
10
10
10
13
16
2
3
47
3
3
25
3
25
11
11
11
6
48
4
4
26
4
26
30
13
12
7
49
5
5
27
5
30
8
66
6
6
32
6
31
9
71
7
7
33
7
32
10
11
12
8
8
34
8
33
44
9
35
9
34
19
13
20
14
32
15
33
16
17
5
18
8
19
11
20
71
21
22
18
21
22
20
22
23
55
20
83
21
84
47
18
19
22
23
24
25
26
27
27
28
32
33
40
41
54
55
57
10
36
10
35
11
37
11
36
12
38
15
37
13
40
16
38
14
41
17
39
15
16
18
40
19
41
20
21
39
17
40
44
48
23
24
25
28
40
54
14
6.1
AA
BB
BD
BL
CA
CF
CH
DD
DE
DG
DH
DL
EH
FK
G
HD
HG
HR
HX
IV
KA
KW
KY
LA
LD
LL
M
ML
NE
NP
OL
PA
PH
PH
S
SA
SK
ST
SY
TD
TS
YO
Notes
1 Reproduced by permission of the London Brick Company Ltd.
2 Shaded boxes indicate areas which are wholly within areas of severe frost exposure. Other areas are partly within.
Thermal insulation 6.1.7

Thermal insulation shall be adequate and installed correctly. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) installation
b) insulation materials
c) construction type.
The insulation value of the wall must meetthe requirements of the relevant Building Regulations. Cold bridging should be avoided.
Particular care is needed:
at openings
between external walls and roofs, internal walls and floors.
Installation
Workmanship should be maintained to minimise the risk of damp penetration to the inside of the home. Gaps provide routes for
dampness, and condensation can form on the cold spots where insulation is missing. Insulation should be:
close butted with no gaps
installed in accordance with the


CHAPTER 6.1
Where cavity insulation is used:
mortar joints, including perpends, should be solidly filled

with mortar
mortar droppings should be removed from wall ties and the

edges of insulation materials
excess mortar should be struck smoothfrom the inside of the

outer leaf.
The first row of insulation boards or batts should be supported on wall ties:
with a minimum of two ties to each board or batt
which coincide with horizontal joints in the insulation.
Where wall ties need to be closely spaced, e.g. at reveals, it is acceptable to make a neat cut in the insulation to accept the
extra ties.
Insulation boards for partial fill should:
be stored flat without bearers, otherwise they may distort,
be rejected where warped.
making them difficult to fix against the wall

insulation cut down to avoid
leaving uninsulated gaps
fibres in insulation
should be parallel
to the wall to avoid
bridging the cavity
(full cavity fill)
lintel
ties in vertical
rows at joints
between
insulation
boards
(partial
cavity fill)
reveal
blocks
All retro-fill insulation materials, including UFfoam, blown mineral fibre and expandedpolystyrene beads should be:
installed by a member of asurveillance scheme

acceptable to NHBC
installed by operatives trained by the assessment holder,
6.1
and approved by the assessmentholder and the

assessing organisation.
Insulation materials
Insulation should be:
UF foam to BS 5617 and installed in accordance
with BS 5618, or
Construction type
The following are recommendations and guidance according to construction type:
Partial cavity insulation

Where partial cavity insulation is installed:
it should only be fixed against the cavity face of the innerleaf
a 50mm clear cavity between the partialcavity insulation and
wall ties long enough to allow a 50mm embedment in each

masonry leaf should be used.
the outer leaf should be maintained

In areas of very severe exposure in England and Wales, aresidual cavity of 75mm is required wherethe outer leaf is
fairfaced masonry.
Full cavity insulation

Where the cavity is to be fully filled with insulation:
the type of insulation, its thickness and the wall construction

should be suitable forthe exposure of the home.
(see Table 2)
render on an external leaf of clay bricks (F2,S1 or F1,S1

designation bricks to BS EN 771) is not permitted In areas of
severe or very severe exposure to wind-driven rain
mortar joints should not be recessed
painted finishes on bricks or render are not acceptable

where they are likely to cause damage (including frost
damage or sulfate attack).

CHAPTER 6.1
Table 2: Suitable wall constructions for use with full-fill cavity insulation
Suitable wall construction
Minimum insulation thickness (mm)

Built-in insulation
Retro-fill (other than UF foam) UF foam
50
50
50
Fairfaced masonry with impervious cladding

to all walls above ground storey
100
100
N/A
Any wall fully rendered(2)
75
75
N/A
Fairfaced masonry(1)
N/A
N/A
N/A
Very severe Any wall with impervious cladding
Severe
Moderate
Sheltered
Any wall with impervious cladding or render
50
50
50

or render(2) to all walls above ground storey
50
75
50
Fairfaced masonry
75
75
N/A
50
50
50

or render to all walls above ground storey
50
50
50
Fairfaced masonry
50
75
75
50
50
50

or render to all walls above ground storey
50
50
50
Fairfaced masonry
50
50
50
(2)
Notes
1 In very severe exposure locations, fairfaced masonry with full cavity insulation is not permitted.
2 Render on an external leaf of clay bricks (F2,S1 or F1,S1 designation bricks to BS EN 771) in severe or very severe exposures is not permitted where the cavity is to
be fully filled with insulation.
3 This table covers walls where the external leaf does not exceed 12m in height.
4 The exposure category of the home is determined by its location on the map showing categories of exposure to wind-driven rain.
5 Fairfaced masonry includes clay, calcium silicate and concrete bricks and blocks and 5 dressed natural stone laid in an appropriate mortar (see Appendix
6.1-C) preferably with struck, weathered or bucket handle joints. Cavity walls of random rubble or random natural stone should not be fully filled.
6 Recessed mortar joints should not be used.
7 In Scotland, it is not permissible to fill the full width of the cavity with any thermal insulation at the time of construction.
8 In Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, it is not permissible to fill the cavity with pumped thermal insulants (for example, UF foam) at the time of construction.
The thickness of materials should be asrequired in the design, and in accordance with Building Regulations.
Guidance for retro-filling cavities:
Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man
Not permitted to fill cavities withpumped thermal insulants at the time ofconstruction.
Scotland
Not permitted to fill the cavity fully with any thermalinsulants at the time of construction.
England and Wales
In accordance with the guidance in this chapter.
Inner leaf of insulated blockwork

Types of blockwork include:
lightweight aerated concrete
lightweight aggregate blocks
voided blocks with insulation infill
blocks faced with insulation material.
For insulated blockwork:
manufacturers recommendations shouldbe followed
a clear 50mm wide cavity shouldbe maintained
blocks should be capable ofsupporting concentrated loads
the correct type of joist hanger for thetype and size of both
the block and joist should be used
long unbroken lengths of blockwork should be avoided
precautions should be taken to reduce risk of

shrinkage cracking
restrictions on chasing for serviceswhen using voided blocks

should be noted.
Insulated dry linings

Where an insulated dry lining contains a combustible insulant, to prevent early collapse of the lining in a fire,
the plasterboard should be:
a minimum of 12.5mm thick
mechanically fixed to the masonry inner leaf.
Dual insulation
Where partial cavity insulation is used in addition to an insulated block innerleaf, the composite construction should be assessed in
accordancewith Technical Requirement R3.
6.1
Exposure
category

CHAPTER 6.1
Concrete blocks 6.1.8
Concrete blocks shall be capable of supporting intended loads, have appropriate thermal resistance and be
resistant to the adverse effects of climate. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) intended loads
b) freeze/thaw and sulfate attack
c) thermal resistance.
Intended loads
Blocks should:
comply with BS EN 771 and be used in accordance

with BS EN 1996-2
not be used where they do not support the required

load-bearing capacity of the wall
be used in accordance with the

The maximum load-bearing capacity of the wall should not exceed the manufacturers recommendations. Other factors may dictate
the strength ofblocks required in certain circumstances, e.g. sulfate resistance may require blocks of greater strength.
For one and two storey homes, blocks with a minimum compressive strength of 2.9N/mm2 should be adequate.
For three storey homes or those with storey heights over 2.7m, 7.3N/mm2 blocks are required for certain parts of thestructure,
unless structural design shows that strengths lower than 7.3N/mm2 are adequate.
Freeze/thaw andsulfate attack

Concrete blocks used in the outer leafwithout protective cladding or rendershould:
have a compressive strength exceeding7.3N/mm2
have a density exceeding 1,500kg/m3
be made with dense aggregate to BS EN12620, or
be lightweight aerated concrete blockshaving had their

suitability confirmed bythe manufacturer.
Where there are sulfates in the ground, concrete blocks should not be used below the DPC unless suitability is confirmed by the
block manufacturer. Where this is permissible, the mortar should be sulfate-resisting with a mix suitable for the level of sulfates in
the ground.
6.1
Thermal resistance
Concrete blocks may have been specified according to thermal performance and strength. Alternative concrete blocks should not
beused without the designers acceptance.
Bricks 6.1.9
Bricks shall be capable of supporting intendedloads and have appropriate resistance to the adverse effects of
freeze/thaw and sulfate attack.
The design strength of bricks should comply with:
BS EN 1996-1
the design.
Table 3: Classification of clay bricks according to their freeze/thaw resistance and active soluble salt content in accordance
with BS EN 771-1
Durability
Freeze/thaw resistance
Active soluble salt content
F2,S2
Freeze-/thaw-resistant (F2), durable inall building situations
(S2) low
F2,S1
Freeze-/thaw-resistant (F2), durable inall building situations
(S1) normal
F1,S2
Moderately freeze-/thaw-resistant(F1), durable except when saturatedand

subject to repeated freezing andthawing
(S2) low
F1,S1
Moderately freeze-/thaw-resistant(F1), durable except when saturatedand

subject to repeated freezing andthawing
(S1)normal
F0,S2
Not freeze-/thaw-resistant (F0),liable to be damaged by freezing andthawing
(S2) low
F0,S1
Not freeze-/thaw-resistant (F0),liable to be damaged by freezing andthawing
(S1) normal
Calcium silicate and concrete bricks contain no significant active soluble salts. Information on their durability is given in this chapter.

CHAPTER 6.1
10
Clay bricks
Bricks that are freeze-/thaw-resistant(F2,S2 or F2,S1 to BS EN 771) shouldbe used where there is a high risk ofprolonged wetting
and freezing including:
external facing work in Scotland
exposed parts, including copings, sills, parapets and
areas of the country subject to exceptionally severe freeze/

thaw exposure. See Clause 6.1.6.
chimneys which haveno overhang to provide protection.

In areas of severe freeze/thaw exposure outside Scotland, bricks that are moderately freeze-/thaw-resistant (F1,S1 or F1,S2 to
BS EN 771) may be used for general wall areas, provided they are classified in the manufacturers published recommendations as
satisfactory for the exposure.
Bricks that are not freeze-/thaw-resistant (F0,S2 or F0,S1 to BS EN 771) are not acceptable for use externally, unless completely
protected by a cladding which can satisfactorily resist the passage of water.
Where brickwork may become saturated, moderately freeze-/thaw-resistant bricks (F1,S1 or F1,S2 to BS EN 771) are not
appropriate where there is a risk of vulnerability to frost. In saturated conditions, sulfate-resisting cement mortar is required for
S1 designation bricks.
For one and two storey homes, clay bricks to BS EN 771, with a minimum compressive strength of 9N/mm2 should be adequate.
For three storey homes; clay bricks to BS EN 771 with a minimum compressive strength of 13N/mm2 are acceptable.
Concrete bricks
Concrete bricks have a direct relationship between strength and durability, including freeze/thaw resistance. Most concrete bricks
have a strength of 20N/mm2 and are durable in most situations. For copings and sills, bricks with a compressive strength of
36N/mm2 should be used.
Calcium silicate bricks

Calcium silicate bricks do not contain significant amounts of soluble sulfates and may be suitable where sulfate-bearing soil
and ground water conditions exist. Where calcium silicate bricks are used, it should be in accordance with the
Bricks of strength Class 30 and declared as freeze-/thaw-resistant toBS EN 771-2 are recommended in the following areas:
severe freeze/thaw exposure
where bricks may be persistently wet, e.g. parapets,

chimneys, sills and below the DPC.
Reclaimed bricks
Reclaimed bricks:
should be used in accordance with
may be unsuitable for external work because of a high salt
should be considered as F1,S1 or F1,S2 to BS EN 771 and

used accordingly
may require independent certification ofsuitability
content or a lack of freeze/thaw resistance
which have previously been used internally or which were

fully protected may be unsuitable in external situations.
It is advisable to know where reclaimed bricks came from, and if they were used internally or externally.
Special shaped bricks

Special shaped bricks should conform to BS 4729.
Stone masonry 6.1.10

Stone masonry shall be constructed to an acceptable standard, including the performance standards for brick
and block where applicable. Walls shall be capable of supporting the intended loads and have appropriate
resistance to the adverse effects of freeze/thaw.
Stone masonry should comply with the following:
Stone for masonry
BS EN 771-6 Specification for masonry units. Natural stone masonry units
Cast stone masonry units
BS EN 771-5 Specification for masonry units. Manufactured stone masonry units

or BS 1217 Cast stone. Specification
Stone masonry, natural or cast
BS EN 1996 Design ofmasonry structures
6.1
Bricks of compressive strength Class 20 (BS EN 771-2) are suitable for most applications.
11

CHAPTER 6.1
Stone masonry will be acceptable where it:
provides an adequate weather-resisting structure in

conjunction with any brick or block backing, and/or
vertical DPMs
complies with the guidance in this chapter for

brickwork/blockwork
follows good local recognised practice to provide a

high standard.
Construction of masonry walls 6.1.11
Also see: Chapter 7.1, 9.1 and PD 6697:2010
Construction shall ensure a satisfactory standard of brickwork and blockwork. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) finished appearance
b) bonding
c) construction
d) openings
e) corbelling
f) chasing for services
g) protection of ancillary components.
Finished appearance
The appearance of a masonry wall dependsupon the:
materials used
setting out
workmanship.
When setting out masonry, avoid:
cutting bricks or blocks, except when it is essential
irregular or broken bonds,particularly at openings.

All work should be reasonably level andtrue, and:
the bond detailed in the design used
perpendicular joints kept in line and plumb
courses kept level by using lines andspirit levels.
6.1
To keep courses to the correct height, use a gauge rod marked with the height of windows, doors and floors.
Where a number of openings of similar width are being formed, use a rod cut tothe required size to check the width of openings as
the work rises.
Brickwork and blockwork should not be subjected to vibration until the mortar hasset.
Bonding
A regular bonding pattern should bemaintained. External walls should bebonded to partitions and party walls asrequired by
the design. Either:
tooth every alternate course, or
tie with wall ties, expanded metal orequivalent at maximum

300mm vertical centres.
bonded connection
tie where blocks are of a different type
1/2
3/4
3/4
1/2
3/4
3/4
brick bond set out at the base

of the wall to ensure that cut
bricks occur below openings
Where joist hangers are not used, joistfilling should be brickwork or blockwork and without excessive mortar joints.
Joist filling should be:
12mm below the top of flat roof joists to allow for timber
shrinkage, and
checked to ensure the cold roofventilation is not blocked.

CHAPTER 6.1
12
Clay bricks and concrete blocks should not be mixed. Where a different size of masonry unit is needed to ensure correct coursing,
smallunits of the same material should be used to reduce cracking and problems due to different thermal insulation properties.
Where the inner leaf of a cavity wall isbeing used for thermal insulation, and where a different size of masonry unit is used to ensure
correct coursing, the unit should have similar thermal insulation properties to the masonry used for the rest of the wall.
different masonry types
used to adjust coursing
12mm max.
flat roof joists
incorrect use of different

masonry types
Construction
The difference in heights between the two leaves of a cavity wall under construction can be up to six block courses, provided the
ties are sufficiently flexible to ensure coursing is achieved without breaking the bond. To keep the wall plumb, do not over-reach at
changes of lift; wait for the next scaffolding lift.
Cavities should be constructed so that:
they are uniform and in accordance with the design,
where cavity insulation is used, mortar droppings are

removed from the top edge
where partial cavity insulation is used, it is against the inner

leaf of the cavity.
6.1
including wall tie specification and cavity width
mortar is struck from all joints aswork proceeds
cavity trays and wall ties are clear of droppings anddebris
mortar droppings are removed
board used to
keep cavity clean
Openings
Masonry may be built around either:
the frame in-situ, or
a profile or template to enable the frameto be fitted later.

Openings should be the correct size,square and:
brickwork should butt closelyagainst the frame
the frame should notbe distorted by forcing bricks against

thejamb.
When window and door frames are built-in, they should be
fixed with:
frames should not be distorted
frame cramps
proprietary cavity closers, or
plugs and fixings.
13

CHAPTER 6.1
Corbelling
Where reinforcing is used, corbels shouldbe designed by an
engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
T
wall tie
Where courses are corbelled outwards in ordinary masonry,

one above another; theextent of corbelling should not exceed
that shown in the diagrams on the right.
maximum corbel = T/3
maximum corbel = T/3
cavity wall
Chasing for services
thickness not
reduced
on this side
solid wall
Chases should:
not be cut with impact power tools, as they can damage

the wall
not be cut into hollow blocks unless specificallypermitted by

the manufacturer
be cut with care
be limited to 1/6 of the depth of the leaf where horizontal
be limited to 1/3 of the depth of the leaf where vertical.
Protection of ancillary components

The following are requirements for a selection of ancillary components for use in buildings up to three storeys in height,
in a non-aggressive environment.
Table 4: Protection of ancillary components

Product type
EN 845ref(1)
Material/coating specification (the zinc coating masses are for one surface)
6.1
Wall ties, tension straps

1
and hangers conforming to 3
BS EN 845-1
8 or 9
Austenitic stainless steel (molybdenum chrome nickel alloys)
Tension straps and

hangers conforming to
BS EN 845-1
(internal uses(2))
10
Zinc coated (710g/m2) steel component
11
12.1 or 12.2
Zinc coated (300g/m2) steel strip or sheet with organic coatingover all outer
surfaces of finished component
13
Zinc coated (265g/m2) steel wire
14
Zinc coated (300g/m2) steel strip or sheet with all cut edgesorganic coated
15
Zinc precoated (300g/m2) steel strip or sheet
16.1 or 16.2
17
Zinc precoated (137g/m2) steel strip with zinc coated edges
L3
Austenitic stainless steel (chrome and nickel alloys)
L10
L11.1 or L11.2
Zinc coated (460g/m2) steel component with organic coatingover all outer
L12.1 or L12.2
L16.2
L11
L14
Zinc coated (300g/m2) steel strip or sheet with all cut edgesorganic coated
L16.1
Lintels conforming to
BS EN 845-2
Lintels conforming to
BS EN 845-2, where used
with a separate DPC
Bed joint reinforcement

R1
conforming to BS EN 845-3 R3
Austenitic stainless steel (chrome nickel alloys)

Zinc coated (940g/m2) steel wire or component
Austenitic stainless steel (molybdenum chrome nickel alloys)

Austenitic stainless steel (chrome nickel alloys)
Notes
1 Material/coating reference in accordance with the relevant part of BS EN 845.
2 These products are not suitable for use in contact with the outer leaf of an external cavitywall or a single leaf cavity wall.
Components in contact with, or embedded in, an innerleaf which is damp or exposed to periodic wetting (e.g. below the DPC)
should be protected in the same way as components in contact with, or embedded in, an outer leaf.

CHAPTER 6.1
Lintels 6.1.12
14
Also see: Chapter 6.5 and BRE Report Thermal insulation: avoiding risks
Lintels, and supporting beams, shall be installed correctly, safely support the applied loads and be of the type
and dimensions appropriate to their position within the structure. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) thermal insulation and condensation
b) durability and resistance to water entering the home
c) placing lintels.
Concrete, steel and reinforced brickwork are acceptable

materials for use as lintels. Timber lintels should not
be used, unless:
steel lintel
protected from weather
they do not support masonry or other rigid or brittle materials.
lintel toe
projects beyond
window head
max. 25mm
overhang
max. 25mm
overhang
flexible sealant between

lintel and window
Lintels should:
comply with BS EN 845-2 Specification for ancillary

components for masonry, where steel or concrete
be designed in accordance either with Technical

Requirement R5 or the manufacturers recommendations
be provided where frames are not designed to support

superimposed loads
be wide enough to provideadequate support to the

walling above
not have brickwork or masonry which overhangs more

than 25mm
have cavity trays where they are specified in the design
have padstones and spreaders provided under the bearings,

where necessary
not have point loads applied before the manufacturers

requirement of fully bedded brickwork is met (this is to
avoid overstressing).
Lintels should extend beyond the opening (at eachend) by the minimum lengths shown in Table 5.
Table 5: Lintel bearing

Minimum bearing length (mm)
Simple lintel
Lintel combined with cavity tray
Up to 1.2
100
150
Over 1.2
150
150
6.1
Span (m)
Where steel lintels are used:
the manufacturers recommendations for providing adequate

fire resistance should be followed, particularly to the lower
steel flange
the inner and outer leaf should be built uptogether to avoid

twisting the lintel flange
the difference in height between theleaves should not

exceed 225mm.
sealant
sealant
Thermal insulation and condensation

The risk of condensation at potential cold bridges, such as reveals and soffits, increases as the level of wallinsulation increases.
To avoid cold bridging:
wall insulation should abut the head of the window frame
insulation should be provided at the underside of the lintel,

unless the manufacturer produces an alternative.
In England and Wales, account shouldbe taken of Accredited Details.
Durability and resistance to water entering the homes

Cavity tray/damp proof protection should be provided:
over all openings, either combined as part of the lintel

or separate
where the outer leaf is fairfaced masonry or where full-fill

insulation is used, all cavity trays (separate or combined)
should have stop ends.
15

CHAPTER 6.1
Separate cavity tray protection should beprovided when corrosion protection to the lintel isinadequate, or the shape of the lintel
is unsuitable, such as when:
the profile of the lintel does not form a cavity tray
steel lintels in external walls have material/coating in

accordance with L11, L14 and L16.1, see Table 4.
In Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle ofMan and areas of severe or very severe exposure to driving rain, a separate cavity tray
should be provided overall lintels.
Lintels should be:
austeniticstainless steel where used in aggressive

environments, e.g. coastal sites
located and sized so that the external edge of thelintel

projects beyond, and therefore offersprotection to,
the window head.
Placing lintels
The design should be checked and lintels should:
be an appropriate size for the opening and the end bearings

(at each end)
have padstones where required, e.g. for long spans
be installed level on asolid bed of mortar (not soft or

non-durable packing)
be set out to ensure that lintelsbear on a full block
not have brickwork or masonry which overhangs more

than 25mm.
lintel
full block for
lintel bearing
correct bonding
below supporting
block
Concrete floor units or other heavy components which bear on lintels should be positioned carefully to avoid damage or shock load.
Suitable materials for mortar and render 6.1.13

Mortar and rendering materials should comply with the appropriate requirements and standards.
Standards for rendering materials include:
6.1
BS EN 197
Cement. Composition, specifications and conformity criteria for common cements
BS 4027
Sulfate-resisting Portland cement
BS EN 197 or BS EN413
Masonry cement
BS EN 459
Lime
BS EN 998
Ready-mixed mortar
BS EN 934
Air entraining and set retarding admixtures
BS EN 12878
Pigments for colouring mortars
BS EN 13139
Sand for render
Sand for render should be sharp sand, preferably from the coarseend of the grading scale. Sand withexcessive fine material will
shrink and crack.
Mortar 6.1.14
Mortar shall be of the mix proportions necessary to achieve adequate strength and durability and be suitable
for the type of masonry. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) sources of sulfate
b) admixtures and additives
c) preparing mortar
d) joints.
Unless recommended otherwise by the brick manufacturer, the mixes in Table 6 should be used for clay bricks.In the case of
concrete or calcium silicate bricks, particular attention should be paid to the manufacturers recommendations.
Table 6: Mortar mixes using ordinary Portland or sulfate-resisting cements

Location
General wall area

above the DPC
Recommended Recommended
cement:lime:
cement:sand mix
sand mix
with air entraining
plasticiser
Recommended
masonry
cement:
sand mix
Mortar
designation
to
BS EN 1996-1-1
In areas of severe or very

1::4
severe exposure high durability
1:3
1:3
(ii)
Other exposure categories

general use
1:5
1:4
(iii)
1:1:5

CHAPTER 6.1
16
Table 6 (continued): Mortar mixes using ordinary Portland or sulfate-resisting cements

Location
Recommended Recommended
cement:lime:
cement:sand mix
sand mix
with air entraining
plasticiser
Recommended
masonry
cement:
sand mix
Mortar
designation
to
BS EN 1996-1-1
Below DPC level and High durability

in chimney stacks
1::4
1:3
1:3
(ii)
Cappings, copings
and sills
1:0 to :3
(i)
Low permeability
Air-entraining plasticiser can be incorporated in the following general use and high durabilitymortars:
1:1:5, cement:lime:sand, or
1:1:4, cement:lime:sand.
Retarded mortar
Retarded mortar and most premixed mortars can be used over a longer period of time than site-mixed, cement:lime:sand mortars.
When using retarded mortar:
follow manufacturers recommendations and timescales
temporary bracing of larger walls, e.g. at gable peaks and

long walls, may be necessary due to delayed setting times.
do not use it beyond the time for which it is effective
protect it against freezing prior to use
Sources of sulfate
Mortar is vulnerable to deterioration by sulfates, especially when masonry is saturated for long periods of time. Clay bricks contain
soluble sulfate (S1 designations have no limit on their sulfate content) and so a suitable mortar should be used.
To reduce risk, sulfate-resistingPortland cement to BS 4027 should beused:
below the DPC level when sulfates arepresent in the ground
when clay bricks (F2,S1 and F1,S1 to BSEN 771) are used
when there is a highsaturation risk (examples below).
High saturation risk situations are:
freestanding walls
rendered walls
chimney stacks.
6.1
below the DPC
areas of severe or very severeexposure to driving rain
parapets
retaining walls
Admixtures and additives

Admixtures should:
only be used where authorised
not contain calcium chloride
be dosed and used in accordance with the

Mortars containing an air-entrainingplasticiser are more resistant to freeze and thaw damage when set, but do not prevent freezing
before the mortar is cured.
White cement to BS EN 197 and pigments to BS EN 12878 may be used, but pigmentsshould not exceed 10% of the
cement weight, or 3% where carbon black is used.
Preparing mortar
When preparing mortar:
ensure the mix is appropriate for the use and location
plant and banker boards should be keptclean
mixers should be kept clean tooperate efficiently
the colourshould be consistent.

When laying bricks and blocks:
mortar which has started to set should not be retempered
they should have a solid mortar bedding and fully filled

perpends, to reduce the risk of rain penetration and
dampness in the wall.
properly filled joints reduce
risk of rain preparation
17

CHAPTER 6.1
Joints
Jointing is preferable to pointing because it leaves the mortar undisturbed. Struck (or weathered) and bucket handlejoints are
preferable for external walls. Unless the design states otherwise, only bucket handle or weathered joints should be used.
Recessed joints should not be used where:
bricks are not frost-resistant, e.g. clay F1,S1 or F1,S2 to

BS EN 771, unless the brick manufacturer has confirmed
their use for that particular location in writing
the home is built on steep sloping ground, facing open

countryside or within 8km of a coast or large estuary
bricks are perforated closer than 15mm to the face
there is no reasonable shelter from driving rain, e.g.

from buildings or groups of trees within 50m and of
similar height to the home
the cavity is to be fully filled with cavityinsulation.
Render 6.1.15
Rendering, and the surface to which it is applied, shall satisfactorily resist the passage of moisture.
The rendering shall be the correct mix and have a good bond. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) backing
b) mixes
c) number of coats and application
d) detailing of timber/brick/render
e) proprietary and local rendering systems
f) prevention of cracking and crazing.
External rendered finishes should:
comply with BS EN 13914 Design, preparationand

application of external rendering andinternal plastering
and the guidance given in this chapter
be designed to prevent rainwaterpenetrating behind

the render.
Design features around openings and at the headof the rendering should provide shelter and help shed water away from the
surface below. It is not advisable to render exposedparts of a building, such as parapets andchimneys constructed of S1 clay
bricks, without the use of sulfate-resistingcement.
Reinforcement for render, including angle beads, corner beads, stop beads and render stops, should be stainless steel or PVC.
Backing
6.1
To provide a good bond, masonrybacking should be moderately strongand porous to give some suction and amechanical key.
Dense masonry with asmooth surface should not be rendered.
Render should be appliedonly to bricks where either keyed bricks are used, orthe joints are raked out to at least 15mmdeep
(except Scotland).Render may be applied to bricks (clayF2,S1 or F1,S1 to BS EN 771) where:
the brick manufacturer has confirmedin writing that the brick

is suitable,taking account of the brickwork detailingand
particular exposure of eachrendered element
the cement for brickwork mortar is sulfate-resisting

to BS 4027
sulfate-resistingcement is used in spatterdash coats

andbase coats of the render.
The surface to be rendered should be freefrom dust, loose particles, efflorescenceand organic growth.Where necessary,
surfaces should betreated to provide an adequate key by:
raking out joints
hacking the surface
applying a bonding agent
applying metal lathing
applying a spatterdash coat, or
other appropriate means.
The surface suction should be checked bysplashing water onto the wall. The resultshould be observed and appropriate
actiontaken as follows:
Too much suction
Spraying with watermay be needed do not use too muchwater.
Too little suction
A spatterdash coat orbonding agent may be needed.
The background is too wet
Delayrendering until conditions improve.
In Scotland, before render is applied, bricks should be keyed, ora spatterdash coatapplied before the first renderundercoat.
Rendering may be used on brickworkwhich contains partial cavity insulation, provided a minimum 50mm clear cavity between the
insulation andthe outer leaf ismaintained.
Where the cavity is fully filled, care should be taken when specifyingrender, as the lack of a ventilated cavity can slow down therate
at which the wall dries out. Rendered finishes should not be used over fully filled cavity walls where:
the outer leaf is built in bricks with S1designation (F2,S1

and F1,S1 to BS EN771), and
the site is in an area classed as having severeor very

severe exposure to driving rain.

CHAPTER 6.1
18
Aerated or lightweight aggregate concreteblocks can be rendered, but the following precautions apply:
Care is needed when selectinga rendering mix and
Roughcast and dry dash finishes thatrequire a strong mix
surface treatment.
Strong render mixes should not be used.
are not recommended.
the manufacturers recommendations should be followed.
The design should bechecked where rendering is continuous

over dissimilar materials, as movement can occur.
In such cases, the render should:
be stopped at specially formedmovement joints, or
be reinforced by corrosion-resistant expanded metallathing

carried across the joint.
separating strip used behind expanded metal

when plastering across dissimilar backgrounds
Where expanded metal lathing is used, three render coatsshould be applied.

Expanded metal lathing should be fixed withthe correct side towards the wall and in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations. Where it is used to bridge changes in the background material:
a separating strip, e.g. breather paper, should be fixed
it should be setaway from the wall so that render canbe

behind the lathing so that the render does not bond at
forced through the mesh to achieve a good bond.
thebackground joints
Mixes
Render mixes should be:
in accordance with BS EN 13914 Design, preparation and
checked against the specification, especially whether
application of externalrendering and internal plastering
appropriate to the strength of the background
of adequate strength to achieve durability.
sulfate-resisting cement is required
Table 7: Mixes for rendering on brickwork usingclay bricks with no limit on their solublesalt content (F2,S1 or F1,S1 to BS EN 771)
Exposure conditions
Undercoat mix proportions (by volume)
Finishing coat mix proportions (by volume)
All walls other than those above
1:5 sulfate-resisting Portland cement:sand,

plus integral waterproofer
1:5 ordinary Portland cement:sand;

dry dashing strongly advised
Where water-resisting properties are required:
Portland cement with a waterproofingagent already

incorporated may be used, or
a waterproofingagent should be added to therender mix in

accordance withthe manufacturers recommendations.
Number of coats and application

The number of coats should be chosen taking account of the
background and exposure conditions of the site.
Recommendations are as follows:
Masonry cavity walls
Solid wall
construction or
metal lathing
One undercoat and one finishing

coat is acceptable.
Two undercoats and one finishing
coat is acceptable.
Adhesion to dense concrete blocks can be improvedby the use

of proprietary bonding agents or aspatterdash coat.
When applying render:
the manufacturer of the background masonry should be

consulted regarding particular requirements for the mix
or its application
the number and thickness of coats shouldbe in accordance

with the design
undercoats should be applied at least three days before

applying the following coat
coats should be allowed to shrink and dry out before

applying the following layers, which should be thinner than
the previous
joints raked out

15mm to give key
for 10-15mm
thick undercoat
following coats
should be thinner
and weaker
than the undercoat
render stopped
above DPC
initial undercoats should be 10-15mm thick
coats should not be stronger than thebackground or the

precedingcoat
where coloured pigments are specified,batching should be

undertaken with careto ensure colour consistency
pigments to BS EN 12878 can be used but should not

exceed 10% of the cement weight, or 3% where carbon
black is used (white Portland cement may be used)
finishing coats should be 6-10mm thick.
6.1
Parapets, freestanding walls, pillars, Rendering not recommended

retaining walls and chimneys
19

CHAPTER 6.1
Detailing of timber/brick/render
Homes which incorporate renderedpanels between timber boards:
should have at least one coat of render applied overthe
may have a second coat applied between the boards.
whole wall face before the boards are fixed

Rendering and timber can shrink causinggaps. Precautions should be taken toprevent rain from penetrating the junctionas this
might cause the render to fail as aresult of frost damage.
Where timber is used:
it should be naturally durable or suitably treated
in large sections, it should be fitted with suitable weather

bars, flashings, etc. to prevent moisture penetration through
joints with adjacent materials
the fixings should be non-ferrous
on brick or render, it is essential that all cut ends, mortices,

etc. made after treatment are coatedwith preservative.
Proprietary and local renderingsystems

Proprietary rendering finishes should beassessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3, and applied in accordance with
the manufacturers recommendations.
Traditional local rendering should complywith:
the guidance in this chapter
established local practice.
Prevention of cracking and crazing

Rendering should be free from significantcracking and crazing.To avoid surface crazing:
rendering should not be carried out during hot weather orin
the finishing coat should be kept dampfor at least three days
bright sunshine
properly graded sand should be used and fine sand avoided
overworking should be avoided as this causes laitance to be

drawn to the surface
and not be a strong mix
in warm dry weather,spraying or protection by polyethylene

sheet may be needed.
6.1
Cladding 6.1.16
Cladding shall satisfactorily resist the passage of moisture and be of the quality, type and dimensions required
by the design. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) masonry cladding to framed structures
b) joints
c) moisture barriers
d) materials for cladding

e) vertical tile or slate cladding.
Masonry cladding to framed structures

Allowance should be made for differential movement between cladding and the frame. The following precautions should be taken to
prevent buckling and fracturing of masonry panels:
Flexible movement joints should be provided at the

underside of each horizontal support member.
The masonry outer leaf should have a minimum two-thirds

of its width supported securely by the concrete frame or a
metal angle.
Vertical movement joints should be provided at corners.
The inner leaf should be adequately tied to the

structural frame.
Joints
Joints between claddings and adjacent materials should:
be detailed to be watertight under the particular exposure

conditions of the site
have provision for differential movement, where necessary.
Moisture barriers
Moisture barriersshould be:
provided between walls of solidmasonry and any boarding,
roofing underfelt orequivalent.
slating, tilingor other similar claddings (unless specifically

not required for aproprietary cladding)
Vapour control layers, such as polyethylenesheet, are not an acceptable moisturebarrier.

CHAPTER 6.1
20
Materials for cladding

Table 8: Materials for cladding
Component
Requirement
Notes
Tiles and slates
BS 402, BS 473, BS 680
Clay tiles for tile hanging, concrete tiles for tile hanging, slates for
vertical slating.
Timber boarding
BS 1186
Timber should:
Underfelt behind cladding
BS 747
Type 1F felt is acceptable as an underfelt behind cladding.
comply with, and be class 3 or better
be a naturally durable species or pretreated

with preservative.
Battens
Proprietary cladding systems
Battens should be:

of the size specified in the design
pretreated with preservative.

Timber cladding should be in accordance with Chapter 3.3 Timber preservation (natural solid timber).
Vertical tile or slate cladding

Vertical tile or slate claddingshould:
have each tile or slate fixed withtwo nails
be fixed using aluminium,copper or silicon bronze nails
be finished with anunder-course and tilting batten at the

bottom edges.
DPCsand cavity trays 6.1.17

DPCs and related components shall be provided to preventmoisture rising or entering the building. Issues to
be taken into account include:
a) provision of DPCs and cavity trays
b) stepped cavity trays
c) parapet details.
DPCs and flexible cavity trays should be of the correct dimensions to suit the detailed design.
At complicated junctions, clear drawings and the design should be provided, and preformedcavity trays used.
The following materials are acceptable foruse as DPCs:
Bitumen to BS 6398.
Polyethylene to BS 6515 (except below copings and
Proprietary materials assessed in accordance with

in parapets).
Table 9: Positions where DPCs and cavity trays are generally required
Location
Provision of DPCs and cavity trays
Base of walls, piers,etc.
A DPC should be provided a minimum 150mm above adjoining surfaces and linked with the
DPM in solid floors.
Base of partitions built off oversite

where there is no integral DPM
The DPC should be the full width of the partition.
Base of wall built off beam, slab, etc. Detail to prevent entry of damp by driving rain.
Parapets
Beneath coping, and 150mm above adjoining roof surface to link with the roof upstand.
In cavity walls overopenings,

air bricks, etc.
A cavity tray should be provided to direct any water that entersthe cavity to the outside.
The cavity tray should fully protect the opening.
At the horizontal abutment of all

roofs over enclosed areas and
balconies to walls
A cavity tray should be provided 150mm above any adjoining roof or balcony surface.
The tray should be lapped over any roof upstand or flashing to ensurewater penetrating into
the cavity does not enter the enclosed area.
At sloping abutments of all roofs

over enclosed areas to cavity walls
Preformed stepped cavity trays should be provided above the roof surface and linked to the
roof upstand or flashing to ensure any water penetrating into the cavity does not enter the
enclosed area.
Doorsteps
A DPC should be provided behind a doorstep where it is higher than a wall DPC.
6.1

CHAPTER 6.1
21
Table 9 (continued): Positions where DPCs and cavity trays are generally required
Location
Sills
Where precast concrete or similar sills incorporate joints or are of a permeable material,
a DPC should be provided beneath them for the full length and be turned up at the back and
the end of the sill.
Jambs in cavity
The reveal should be protected throughout its width by a continuous DPC. The width of the
DPC should be sufficient to be fixed to, or overlap, the frame and fully protect the reveal.
For severe and very severe exposure conditions, rebated reveal construction or a
proprietary closer, suitable for the conditions, should be used.
cavity tray
cavity tray
DPC laps DPM
DPC level
150mm
min.
ground
level
air brick
meter box

DPC turned up at
back and ends of sills
level of
wall DPC
DPM behind
doorstep links
with DPC
doorstep
6.1
Cavity trays
Cavity trays should be provided at all interruptions to the cavity (e.g. window and door openings and air bricks) unless otherwise
protected (e.g. by overhanging eaves). Cavity trays should:
provide an impervious barrier and ensure that water
be shaped to provide 100mm minimum vertical protection
drains outwards
project at least 25mm beyond the outer face of the cavity

closer or, where a combined cavity tray and lintel is
acceptable, give complete protection to the top of the reveal
and vertical DPC
provide drip protection to door and window heads
have a 140mm minimum upstand from the inside face of the

outer leaf to the outside of the inner leaf
above points where mortar droppings could collect
be provided where the cavity is bridged by air bricks,

etc. and the DPC should extend 150mm beyond each
side of the bridge
where not otherwise protected (e.g. by a roof at an

appropriate level), be provided over meter boxes
be in one continuous piece or have sealed or welded joints.
3D
25mm
min.
stop end
140mm
min.
DPC oversails lintel to

protect timber door and
window head
100mm
min.
groove in window
head prevents
rain penetration
at least two weep holes

per opening, not
more than 450mm
combined lintel projects
at least 25mm beyond the
outer face of cavity closure
combined
lintel or
cavity tray

CHAPTER 6.1
22
The upstand part of the cavity tray should be returned into the inner leaf unless it is stiff enough to stand against the inner leaf
without support. In Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man and areas of very severe exposure to driving rain, the upstand part of
the damp proof protection should be returned into the inner leaf of masonry (this does not apply at sloping abutments).
Where fairfaced masonry is supported bylintels:
weep holes should be provided at a maximum of

450mm intervals
eachopening should have at least two weepholes
cavity trays or combined lintels shouldhave stop ends.
Where the lintel does not require a DPC, it should:
have a suitableprofile and durability
give complete protection to the top of the reveal and vertical

DPC, where provided.
Where the cavity has full-fill insulation, a cavity tray should be used above the highest insulation level, unless theinsulation is taken
to the top of the wall and is in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Horizontal DPCs
DPCs should:
be the correct width
lap the DPM where appropriate
be laid on a surface free from projections which could

puncture or adversely affect the DPC material
be fully bedded on mortar whererequired by the design,

or where the building is over three storeys in height
at ground level, generally be a minimum of 150mm above

finished groundor paving level
where intended to prevent rising damp, jointsshould have

100mm lapping, or be sealed or welded

The concrete fill in a cavity wall should stop at least 225mm below the base DPC. This may be reduced to 150mm where special
foundations, such as rafts, are used.
DPC clear of cavity
225mm
minimum
150mm min.
150mm min.
Where a jointed or permeable sill is used, a DPC should be:
placed between the sill and the outer leaf
turned up at the back and ends of the sill.
At sills where there is:
a DPC, it should be lapped with the reveal DPC
no DPC, the vertical DPC should be continued 150mm below

the sill level.
Special DPC detailing may be required at accessible thresholds.
Vertical DPCs
A separate vertical DPC should be provided around openings, extend to the underside of the lintel, and:
be of a proprietary material assessed in accordance with

150mm wide DPC material, nailed to the full height of the

frame and protrude 25mm into the cavity.
A fillet joint of sealant should not be considered a substitute for good workmanship or DPCs. However, a bead of mastic should be
used around openings.
6.1
DPC laps DPM
23

CHAPTER 6.1
Connections with flashings
Where flashings link with DPCs, (e.g. horizontal or preformed stepped cavity trays), 25mm of mortar below the DPC should also be
raked out as the work proceeds to allow for the flashing to be tucked in.
mortar raked out
while still green
flashing wedged
in raked out
mortar
place and pointed
upstill green
while
25mm
Stage 1
flashing wedged in
place and pointed up
25mm
Stage 2
Stage 1
Stage 2
Stepped cavity trays

Where the roof abuts at an angle with the wall,
preformed stepped cavity trays should be provided.
preformed
step trays
3D
To minimise the risk of water ingress below the abutment,

preformed stepped cavity trays:
should be provided where a roof abuts a cavity wall above an

enclosed area, e.g. an attached garage
should have two stopends at the lowest cavity tray and a
65mm min.
weep hole to allow water todrain from the cavity
are not necessary where the roofis not over an enclosed

area, e.g. open car ports and open porches.
Preformed stepped cavity trays should be installed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and positioned:
so that the stepped cavity tray cannot discharge behind

accordance with the manufacturers recommendations or a
flashing (where it is necessary to cut bricks or blocks,
minimum width of 65mm)
the bond should be maintained in the following joint).
to suit the dimension of the flashing (which should be in
6.1
Parapet details
Parapet walls should have:
a DPC under the coping, anda DPC tray starting 150mm

minimumabove the roof
3D
DPC supported
over cavity tray
throating clear
of brickwork
coping throating which is clear of thebrickwork.

DPCs in parapet walls should be:
supported over the cavity to preventsagging below copings
fully bedded in mortar
specified toachieve a good key with the mortar.
open perpend
weep holes.
1,000mm
max. spacing
min.
150 mm

CHAPTER 6.1
24
Wall ties 6.1.18

Wall ties of the correct type shall be installed where required, and be suitable for their intended use
and location. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) position
b) ties for partial fill insulation.
Wall ties should:
be in accordance with BS EN 845

or Technical Requirement R3
be of the type as specified in the design
be long enough to be embedded a minimum of 50mm into

each leaf
in England and Wales, be stainless steel or non-ferrous
in Northern Ireland, be stainless steel or non-ferrous ties

used where the cavity is fully filled with insulation and 75mm
wide or more; in Scotland, galvanised ties may be used
be spaced above andbelow the DPC in accordance with

Table 10.
Position
Table 10: Spacing of wall ties
Maximum horizontal spacing (mm)
Maximum vertical spacing (mm)
General wall area
900
450
Jamb openings, movement joints, etc.
Within 225 of opening
Not more than 300(1)
Top of gable walls
225 (parallel to the top of the wall)
Not more than 300
Notes
1 The cavity insulation may need cutting to insert the tie.
Water should be prevented from crossing the cavity. Care should be taken to avoid:
ties sloping down to the inner leaf
drips being off-centre
ties having mortardroppings on them.
additional ties
at movement joints
50mm
min.
225mm
additional ties
at openings
6.1
Cavity walls should be coursed so thatthe wall tie is level or slopes outwards.
50mm
min.
wall tie should

project enough to
build 50mm into
the unbuilt leaf
external
internal
drip of wall tie

placed centrally
in cavity
450mm
900mm
Wall ties should be:
built in and not pushed into joints
bedded into the built leaf (by a minimum of 50mm) so that
positioned so that the drip faces downwards.
they can have a minimum 50mm bed into the unbuilt leaf
Ties for partial fill insulation

Where partial cavity fill insulation isbeing used, it should be held againstthe inner leaf by retaining devices, which may be clipped to
the wall ties. Retaining devices should be:
compatible with the wall ties
used in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Where 1,200mm boards are used with partial fill cavities, the wall ties should:
be spaced closer to provide adequate support and restraint
be spaced at 600mm centresin rows, i.e. not staggered.
25

CHAPTER 6.1
Handling materials 6.1.19
Materials shall be handled in such a way as to ensure that the construction is neat, clean and undamaged
upon completion.
Materials should be stored properly. Issues to be taken into account include the following:
Stacks of bricks and blocks should be protected from rain

and mud splashes, etc. by covering them with
waterproof covers.
Cement should be stored off the groundand protected

from weather.
Sand should be prevented from spreading and beprotected

so that it remains clean.
Materials should be handled with care during construction to avoid damage and staining. Chipped or fractured bricks arenot
acceptable for facework.
Bricks that are tippedon delivery or moved about the site in dumper trucks often have a high degree of wastage.
The unloading of all bricks and blocks, especially facing bricks, should be:
by mechanical means
directly onto afirm level surface.
Unless bricks have been blended bythe manufacturer, bricks from differentbatches should be mixed to avoid colourpatching.
To reduce the risk of efflorescence, newlyerected masonry should be covered. Thisalso prevents the mortar being washedout of
the joints by rain and stops masonrybecoming saturated. Bricksand blocks that become excessively wetcan suffer from:
staining and efflorescence
increased drying shrinkage, with agreater risk of cracking
lack of mortar adhesion to mud-stainedsurfaces.
The work place should be kept clean to reduce mortar splashes to a minimum. Any accidental mortar smears should be lightly
brushed off the face after the mortar has taken its first set.
6.1
bricks from different
batches should be mixed
to avoid colour patching
protection of
bricks and blocks
avoid damage and staining
and do not use badly chipped
bricks for facework
Cold weather working 6.1.20
Precautions shall be taken to protect walls and rendering from damageby frost during construction.
Freshly laid mortar and render may fail where it freezes.
The use of air entraining agents in cold weather gives better frost resistance toset mortar but does not aid the set. The use of
accelerating admixtures and other admixtures should not:
be relied on as ananti-freeze precaution
contain calcium chloride.
Ensure the setting times of additives are checked and adhered to in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Cold weather retarders increase setting times.
In cold weather:
brickwork and blockwork should not be built or rendered
covers should be provided to form a still air space to insulate
when the air temperature is below 2C and falling
walls should be protected from frost untilthe mortar has set

sufficiently to resist frost damage
walling damaged by frost will not regain strength and should
the wall
be taken down and rebuilt when conditions improve.
External timber framed walls

CHAPTER 6.2
Technical Requirements for external walls of timber
framed homes up to seven storeys high, substantially
timber framed homes and timber wall panels.
6.2.1 Compliance
6.2.2
6.2.3
Design and certification
6.2.4
Load-bearing walls
6.2.5
Fixing the frame
6.2.6
Nails and staples
6.2.7 Sheathing
6.2.8
Differential movement
6.2.9
Fire resistance
6.2.10 Protection from moisture
6.2.11 Timber preservation
6.2.12 Vapour control layers
6.2.13 Breather membranes
6.2.14 Wall tiles and fixings
6.2.15 Insulation
01
01
01
01
04
04
04
05
09
09
11
11
11
12
12
External timber framed walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.2
Compliance 6.2.1
External timber framed walls shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
External timber framed walls that comply with the guidance in this chapter willgenerally be acceptable.

and includes the following:
A full set of drawings.
Materials specification.
The position and materials for cavity barriers in accordance

with relevant building regulations.
Fixing schedules.
Nailing details.
Manufacturers recommendations relating to

proprietary items.
The fixing schedule should detail every connection which is to be made on site, including those for structural connections,
framing, wall ties, breathermembranes, sheathing and vapour controllayers, and should show as appropriate:
number and spacing of fixings
size and type of fixing, including material and
method of fixing, e.g. skew nailing.
corrosion protection
Where wall design relies onplasterboard to take racking forces, the design should:
clearly define those walls
include thetype and spacing of fixings required.
Design and certification 6.2.3
Also see: Technical@nhbc.co.uk
Design of the superstructure shall be checked by an NHBC timberframe certifier.
6.2
Homes with a timber frame superstructure require certification confirming that the design has been checked by an NHBC approved
timber frame certifier. In addition, the design should be submitted to NHBC when proposed buildings are four storeys or more and
the floor joists are solid timber.
The timber frame certifier should:
be listed on NHBCs list of timber frame certifiers
be a suitably qualified civilor structural engineer

with a minimum of three years experience in timber
frameconstruction
not be the designer of the timber frame
complete and sign a certificateconfirming assessment of

structural adequacy for each specific project
provide the registered builder with the completed and

signed certificate.
The registered builder should ensure thatthe completed timber frame certificate isavailable on site for inspection by NHBC.
Contact NHBCStandards and Technical department:
if you require contact details of frame certifiers, or
to apply to become a timber framecertifier.
Load-bearing walls 6.2.4

Load-bearing timber framed walls shall be constructed to support and transfer loads to foundations safely and
without undue movement. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) timber elements
b) joints between panels and other elements
c) positioning of sole plates
d) packing under sole plates

e) fixing panels
f) support of prefabricated chimneys.
Timber elements
Load-bearing timberframed walls should be in accordance withBS EN 1995-1-1, and take into account:
wind loads
roof loads
floor loads.

CHAPTER 6.2
Timber in external framed walls should be:
a suitable grade in accordance with BS EN 338

and BS EN 14081-1
dry graded and marked in accordancewith BS 4978
I-studs assessed in accordance with

Individual timber studs should have:
a minimum width of 37mm
a maximum spacing of 600mm,unless other adequate

support is providedfor wall boards and fixings.
Narrow or inaccessible gaps between studs which are difficult to insulate should be avoided.
Lintels and cripple studs should beprovided at openings in
load-bearing panels except where:
the opening does not affect the stud spacing, or
supported loads are carried by a rim beam or perimeter joist.
lintel
load-bearing lintel
supported by
cripple studs
Sheathing and associated fixings should be structurally

adequate, and resist racking due to wind and other forces.
Where masonry cladding is used, additional studs may be
required at openings to fix wall ties.
Multiple studs should be included tosupport multiple joists and
other point loads, unless otherwise specified by the designer.
Where head binders are not provided, joists and roof trusses,
including girder trusses and other similar loads, should bear
directly over studs.
Joints between panels and other elements

Wall panels should be:
securely fixed together, and securely fixed to the floor and
constructed to prevent buckling.
At joints between wall panels, sole plates and head binders should be provided tobind panels together. Joints in sole platesand
head binders should:
occur over a stud
not coincide with joints between panels.
Positioning of sole plates

When setting out:
the substructure should be correctly setout to receive the
the load from the frameshould be supported as intended in
timber frame
the timber frame should be checked to ensure that it is

erected accurately, both horizontally and vertically
protection should be provided where ledges form
the design
moisture traps.
12mm
12mm max.
overhang over
supporting structure
(20mm for 140mm
wide studs)
12mm
frame set back

12mm max. from
edge of supporting
structure
(20mm for 140mm
wide studs)
ledge protected
by membrane
6.2
roof framing

CHAPTER 6.2
Packing under sole plates
Where packing is required to ensure the timber frameor sole plate is level:
permanent packing should be used for gaps less than 5mm
grout and mortar should not be usedfor gaps less than 5mm
hollow plastic packing with reducedbearing surfaces should
temporary spacers can remain in placeprovided they are

durable and non-degradable.
not be used
Permanent packing should be:
designed and approved by the timber framedesigner to suit

the horizontal and vertical loads on the sole plate
at least the same plan areaas the load points,

e.g. studs or posts.
Packing exceeding 20mm should be agreed between the timber framemanufacturers engineer and NHBC. The following methods
are generally acceptable to NHBC for packing up to 20mm.
Permanent structural packing under sole plate
bottom member
of wall panel
The sole plate should be levelled on temporary spacers.

When the first lift construction (including wall panels, first floor
structure, or roof structure in a single storey building) has been
erected, permanent packing should beplaced under the sole
plate, which can be:
free-flowing non-shrinkable grout for thefull length and width

of the sole plate, or
individual packers placed under eachload point,

e.g. stud or post.
sole plate
Bedding of the sole plate
permanent packing
under each stud
bottom member
of wall panel
The sole plate should be laid and levelled on acontinuous bed

of mortar prior to the erection of the wall panels.
mortar bed
6.2
The bedding should extend the full width of the soleplate.

Care is needed to ensure that thebedding is not disturbed
during the fixing of the sole plate.
sole plate
Double sole plate sandwich

The lower sole plate should be fixed to follow the contours of the
supporting structure.
bottom member
of wall panel
The upper sole plate should then be fixed on top andlevelled

with temporary spacers inserted between the sole plates.
temporary
spacer
When the first lift construction has been erected, permanent

packing should be inserted under each load point, e.g. stud
or post. As this method uses anadditional sole plate, the extra
shrinkage should be taken into account.
permanent packing
under each stud
sole plate
Fixing panels
The wall panels should be adequately fixedto the sole plate so that the frame can resistboth lateral and vertical forces.
When fixing panels:
fixings, including nailed joints and sheathing, should be as

scheduled in the design
they should be securely fixed together, to the floor and to the

roof framing
sole plates and head binders should beprovided to bind the

panels together.
Support of prefabricated chimneys

Prefabricated chimneys should be supported by the:
masonry cladding, or
the timber frame, including any roof construction supported

by the timber frame.

CHAPTER 6.2
Fixing the frame 6.2.5

The timber frame shall be suitably fixed to the substructure.
Shotfiring
Where shotfiring:
into masonry, solid concreteblocks should be specified as

BS EN 771 with a minimum crushing strengthof 7.3N/mm2
and positioned toreceive fixings
the blocks in beam and block floors should be grouted
care should be taken notto spall edges of masonry or slabs.
Anchoring
When anchoring the frame:
the sole plate should be adequately anchored to the

substructure so that the frame can resistboth lateral and
vertical forces
careshould be taken to avoid splitting timberplates or

damaging the substructure.
DPC
Fixing to plate
Holding-down devices should be durable, asdetailed in the design and manufactured from:
austenitic stainless steel to BS EN10088-1,

minimum grade 1.4301
galvanised mild steel with zinc coatingto BS EN ISO 1461,

minimum coating 940g/m2 on each side.
Sole plate anchors within the internalenvelope should be galvanised mild steel,minimum coating Z275.
Nails and staples 6.2.6

Nails and staples shall bedurable and of the correct type toprovide adequate mechanical fixing.
Nails for fixing sheathing or timber shouldbe either:
austenitic stainless steel
galvanised, or
sheradized.
Staples for fixing breather membranesshould be:
austenitic stainless steel, or
other material of similar strength andcorrosion resistance.
Sheathing 6.2.7
Sheathing shall be durableand capable of providing structuralresistance to racking
The following materials are acceptable:
Plywood
BS EN 636 and BS EN 13986 Table 7
Oriented strand board
BS EN 300 type OSB/3 or 4
Moisture-resistant chipboard
BS EN 312 type P5 or P7
Medium board
BS EN 622-3 type MBH.HLS1 or MBH.HLS2
Impregnated soft board
BS EN 622-4 type SB.HLS
Proprietary sheathing materials
Technical Requirement R3 and used in accordancewith the assessment.
6.2
Fixing to stud

CHAPTER 6.2
Differential movement 6.2.8
Also see: Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (www.igem.org.uk) and Guidance on
detailing to accommodate differential movement in timber frame buildings (www.uktfa.com)
Timber structures shall account for differential movement between the timber frame wall and other
building elements.
As the timber frame dries out, it will shrink and the overall height will reduce. The extent of the differential movement
increases with the number of storeys, and will typically occur between the timber frame and other parts of the construction, including:
door and window openings
eaves and verges
balconies (including Juliet balconies)
service entries
openings for drive-throughs
staircases and lift shaft enclosures

(where they are not timber framed)
the interface of the timber frame withany other

construction at each floor level where cladding is fixed to
the timber frame.
Movement joints should be provided to accommodate theexpected movement. Joints should be detailed to:
accommodate the expected amount of shrinkage or
be protected by a cover strip where the movement gap/joint
expansion safely
provide a weather resistant anddurable joint
is expected tobe more than 35mm.
In the absence of project-specific calculations, gaps in accordance with Table 1 should be provided.
Table 1: Gap sizes to accommodate differential movement

Gap location
Opening and closing gaps (mm)

Floor joists
Solid timber (mm)
Eaves/verge
Add 5mm to gap dimension at level below
Sixth storey
Specialist calculations to be submitted to NHBC(2)
Fifth storey
Engineered I-joist (mm)

61
53
Fourth storey
45
6.2
Third storey
45
35
Second storey
35
25
First storey
20
15
Ground storey
(1)
Notes
1 Ground storey or lowest level of timber frame.
2 Calculations, where required, are to be based on BS EN 1995-1-1.
Table 1 is based on the following:
The table allows for a 2mm thickness of compressible

material in closing gaps. Check the manufacturers
product details.
Timber components are not saturated and have normal

moisture contents at the time of construction, e.g. less than
20% and tight-jointed construction.
The ground floor is concrete. For ground floors of

timber joists, add 15mm for solid timber and 10mm for
engineered I-joists
Timber joist and rim beam/header joist have a maximum

depth of 240mm.
Timber frame floor cross-section is as shown below,

with maximum 45mm deep timber plates/binders.
Single head binder at the eaves. Maximum double

sole plates.
Outer leaf brickwork with expansion rates no greater than

2.5mm per storey.
Brickwork up to five storeys, with lightweight cladding

above five storeys.
Lightweight cladding floor level joints must be 15mm for

solid timber and 10mm for engineered I-joists.
stud
bottom rail of panel
sole plate
structural decking
joist
headbinder
top rail of panel
stud
Timber frame construction on which Table 1 is based

CHAPTER 6.2
Differential movement should be accommodated by the timber
frame and by the services affected, especially where they:
are within the timber frame construction/envelope
pass through the envelope.
opening
gap
Common details
The following sketches consider downward movement of the
timber frame and upward brick expansion, taken as 2.5mm per
storey of clay masonry. Cavity trays are omitted for clarity.
closing
gap
as built
after movement
Window head and sill with masonry cladding
allow for
movement
sill not built
into masonry
allow for
movement
allow for
movement
6.2
allow for
movement
Window head and sill with lightweight cladding
no differential movement
no differential movement
Roof to vertical abutment
allow for
movement
75mm min.
timber frame
movement

CHAPTER 6.2
Timber frame interface with concrete or masonry stairs and common areas
transition piece
timber frame
movement
(transition piece
removed)
after movement
Eaves and verges
allow for
movement
allow for
movement
Services
Drive through
6.2
B
service passing
through wall
B
allow for
movement
Drive through
timber frame
movement
timber floor
construction
allow for
movement
ceiling
lintel/beam
ceiling
drive
through
Section A-A
Section B-B

CHAPTER 6.2
Lightweight wall cladding joint at each floor level (with and without insulation in cavity)
15mm*
15mm*
movement across
floor zone
15mm*
15mm*
cavity
vertical batten
*10mm for
I-joist
Lightweight cladding and masonry plinth
Balcony abutment lightweight cladding
allow for
movement
allow for
movement
allow for
movement
decking
balcony structure
independent of
timber frame
opening gap
6.2
gap
Balcony abutment masonry cladding
slotted holes
allow for
movement
slotted hole joint
Walls to flat roof abutment
allow for movement

and maintain
min. 75mm cover
after
movement
fix to masonry
cladding subject
to engineers
design
sliding joint

CHAPTER 6.2
Fire resistance
Also see: Fire Prevention on Construction Sites Construction Federation and

Fire Protection Association (www.thefpa.co.uk) Site Safety Strategy STA
16 Steps to Fire Safety STA Design Guide to Separating Distances (www.uktfa.com)
6.2.9
Timber walls and panels shall control and resist the spread of fire and smoke. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) cavity barriers and fire stops
b) services.
All building elements should have adequate fire resistance. Materials in accordance with building regulations are acceptable;
other materials should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
For guidance on the prevention of fire during construction; refer to Fire Prevention on Construction Sites jointly published by
the Construction Federation and the Fire Protection Association (www.thefpa.co.uk), and guidance from the Structural Timber
Association (www.structuraltimber.co.uk) under the Site Safety Strategy, including the 16 Steps to Fire Safety and the
Design Guide to Separating Distances.
Cavity barriers and fire stops

The installation, position and materials for cavity barriers and fire stops should be in accordancewith the relevant building
regulations and the design.
Horizontal and vertical cavity barriers should be protected by DPCs arranged to shedmoisture away from the sheathing.
Horizontal cavity barriers, except undereaves, should be protected with:
DPC tray with a 100mm minimum upstand, or
a polyethylene-encased cavity barrier with a 100mm

minimum upstand.
fire stop between

batten and above
underlay
breather membrane
lapped over
DPC tray
fire stop
below underlay
DPC
6.2
cavity closed
at eaves
DPC
cavity barrier of mineral wool
or fire-resisting board in boxed eaves
Services
Only the services shown in the design should be installed in separating walls and:
service outlets should not impair the fireresistance of floors

and walls
service mains should not pass throughseparating

wall cavities.
Notching or drilling of structural timbermembers should be carried out as detailedin the design. If these details are notavailable,
the designer should be consultedbefore such operations are begun.
In Scotland, services are not permittedwithin a timber framed separating wall.
Protection from moisture 6.2.10
Timber structures and panels shall be adequately protectedfrom the effects of moisture. Issues to be taken in
to account include:
a) Cavity construction
b) DPCs.
Cavity construction
A drained and vented cavity should beprovided to reduce the risk of rain penetrating the frame. Cavity widths, measured between
the cladding andsheathing, should be in accordance with Table 2.

CHAPTER 6.2
10
Table 2: Cavity widths

Cladding
Minimum cavity width
Masonry
Render on backed lathing
Vertical tile hanging without underlay
Other cladding(1)
50mm nominal
25mm nominal
No vertical cavityrequired when a breather membrane isfitted to the sheathing
15mm
Notes
1 See Chapter 6.9 Curtain walling and cladding.
In areas of very severe exposure to wind driven rain, wall construction should include a50mm cavity between the sheathing andthe
cladding and:
a high performance breather membrane, or
masonry cladding which is rendered or clad with an

impervious material.
Cavities should be:
vented to allow some limited, but not necessarily through,

movement of air
kept clean, free of obstructions and capable of

draining freely.
Where wall areas aredivided by horizontal cavity barriers,openings should be provided to eachsection:
equivalent to open brick perpends every1.2m
located to prevent the ingress of rain, and
below the lowest timber.
Proprietary perpend ventilators should be used to provide drainageof the cavity.

Horizontal battens, which obstruct the drained and vented cavity, should notbe used to support cladding (except tilehanging).
Battens supporting lightweight cladding should be fixed to studs.
Masonry cladding should be constructed in accordance with Chapter 6.1 Externalmasonry walls. Proprietary cladding should be
fixedin accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and Chapter 6.9 Curtain walling and cladding.
Drained and vented cavities should not contain electricity cablesother than meter tails.
6.2
DPCs
DPCs and trays should be:
fitted at openings to prevent rain penetration
installed below the sole plates of ground floor walls and

internal partitions.
In Northern Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man, and in areas of severe or very severe exposure to driving rain, masonry should
form a rebate at thereveals of openings to avoid a straight through joint where the frame abuts the masonry.
3D
rain
DPC
sealant
DPC
weepholes drain
any moisture
sealant to resist
driving rain
Cavities should:
extend below DPC to allow drainage
be kept clear and be vented to allowlimited, but not
be suitably drained to prevent water build-up.
necessarily through,movement of air

The lowest timber should be a minimum of 75mm or 150mm above ground level, depending on the drainage arrangements.
11

CHAPTER 6.2
3D
3D
weep vents
DPC turned up
to lap with VPC
lowest
timber
150mm min.
above
ground
level
seal between
wall and floor
barriers or
between skirting
board and floor
lowest timber
75mm min.
above ground level
225
mm
min.
drainage holes
weep holes
drainage next to
masonry cladding
Timber preservation 6.2.11

Timber and timber products shall either be naturally durable or treated with preservative to give adequate
resistance against decay and insect attack.
The following should be treated in accordance with Chapter 2.3 Timber preservation (natural solid timber):
Timber framing.
Timber cladding.
I-studs manufactured from timber of durability class

moderately durable or lower.
Vapour controllayers 6.2.12

Vapour control layers shall be installed correctly and restrict the passage of water from within the home to the
timber frame.
Vapour control layers should be:
500 gauge (120 micron) polyethylene sheet, vapourcontrol
6.2
plasterboard or a product assessed in accordance with

adequately fixed tothe warm side of the insulation and frame

(framing timbers should have a moisturecontent of less
than 20%)
placed to cover the external framed wall area, including rails,

studs, reveals, lintels and sills
fixed at 250mm centres to the top and bottom of the frame,

at laps and around openings
lapped with the DPC
made good where damage has occured.
Joints in vapour control membranesshould:
have 100mm minimum laps
be located on studs ornoggings.
Where vapour control plasterboard is used, joints should be:
positioned on studs or noggings
filled, taped and finished
cut with care to avoid displacing the vapour control material.
Breather membranes 6.2.13

Breather membranes shall be correctly installed to protect the sheathing and frame from moisture, and allow
water vapour from within the frame to pass into thecavity.
Breather membranes should be:
vapour resistant to less than 0.6MNs/g when tested in

accordance with BS 3177 at 25C and a relative
humidity of 75%
Type 1 to BS 4016 in areas of very severe exposure to

wind driven rain, unless impervious or rendered masonry
cladding is used
capable of resisting water penetration
durable and adequately strong when wet, to resist

site damage
self extinguishing
fixed so that vertical joints are staggered where possible,

and at regular intervals, to prevent damage by wind
lapped so that each joint is protected and moisturedrains

outwards and downwards
lapped so that upper layers are over lower layers to ensure

rainruns away from the sheathing
lapped so that water is shed away from the lowesttimber
lapped with a minimum 100mm overlap on horizontal joints

and 150mm on vertical joints
fixed at a maximum spacing of 600mmhorizontally and

300mm vertically
fixed at a maximum spacing of 150mm around openings
marked with stud positions for wall tie fixing
applied using fixings that are in accordance with this chapter
repaired or replaced before proceeding with the cladding,

if damaged.

CHAPTER 6.2
12
When bitumen impregnated fibre building board is used and a breather membraneis not specified, the joints of the boardsshould be
closely butted and horizontal joints sealed to prevent water ingress.
When a breather membrane is not required, the bottom frame members should beprotected from water in the cavity.
150mm
100mm
membrane detailed
to protect the sole plate
staggered joints
membrane
protects lowest
timber
Wall ties and fixings 6.2.14

Wall ties and fixings shalladequately connectthe cladding to the timber frame.
Wall ties and their fixings should be:
spaced at jambs of openings and at movement joints at

a maximum of 300mm vertically and within 225mm of the
masonry reveal or movement joint; additional studs may
be needed.
spaced within 225mm of the top of the wall,

including at gables
inclined away from the sheathing so that the slope is

maintained following differential movement.
6.2
compliant with BS EN 845
in accordance with the design
capable of accommodating differential movement
of the type specified in the design
ofaustenitic stainless steel
fixed to the studs and not the sheathing
kept clean and free from mortar droppings
spaced at a maximum of 600mm horizontally

and 450mm vertically
Insulation 6.2.15
Also see: BRE Report Thermal insulation:avoiding risks
Insulation shall be correctly installed and provide suitable performance.

breathable, e.g. mineral wool (rock or glass), or
assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 for

use in timber frame wall panels.
Insulation should generally be placed within the stud void and
cover the whole wall area between studs. No gaps should
be left:
at corners
at junctions with partitions
against studs or rails
against noggings
behind service panels.

In England and Wales, account should be taken of Accredited Details.
Water and heating services within wallsshould be on the warm side of the insulation.
Where partial fill cavity insulation with a 50mm residual cavity is used, it should be assessed in accordance with
Technical Requirement R3 as an integral part of the wall system.
Internal walls
CHAPTER 6.3
Technical Requirements for internal walls, including:
separating and compartment walls
internal partition walls.

6.3.1 Compliance
6.3.2
6.3.3
Supporting load-bearing internal walls
6.3.4
Masonry walls
6.3.5
Load-bearing timber walls
6.3.6 Fire resistance
6.3.7
Sound insulation
6.3.8
Partitions: internal non load-bearing
6.3.9
Construction of timber partitions
6.3.10 Plasterboard
6.3.11 Construction of proprietary systems
6.3.12 Damp proof courses
6.3.13 Components
01
01
01
01
03
04
05
07
07
08
09
09
09
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Compliance 6.3.1
Internal walls shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Internal walls, including separating, compartment and partition walls, which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally
be acceptable.

Wall layout, with all dimensions shown.
Position and size of openings and lintels.
Details of junctions, indicating fire stopping where applicable.
Details of wall constructions and materials,

ties and restraints.
Details of junctions between a separating or compartment

wall and a pitched or flat roof.
Details of pipes and cables where they penetrate walls,

including fire-resisting walls.
Manufacturers recommendations for assembly and fixing of

propriety components.
Supporting load-bearing internal walls 6.3.3

Loadbearing internal walls shall be adequately supported by foundations.
Load-bearing internal walls should have:
a foundation, or
a means of support that transfers loads safely to a foundation.
Foundations should be in accordance with Part 4 of these Standards, including, where applicable, Chapter 4.3 Strip and trench fill
foundations and Chapter 4.4 Raft, pile, beam and pier foundations.
6.3
Masonry walls 6.3.4
Internal masonry walls shall be designed to support and transfer loads to foundations safely and without
undue movement. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) structural elements
b) mortar mix and jointing
c) workmanship
d) bonding and tying
e) lateral restraint
f) masonry separating walls
g) lintels and beams.
Structural elements
Structural design of masonry walls should be in accordance with BS EN 1996-1-1.
Bricks and blocks should be selected in accordance with their intended use and as recommended in Table 1.
Table 1: Bricks and blocks in buildings up to three storeys high

Height of wall
Unit
Minimum compressive strength
One or two storey
Blocks
2.9 N/mm2
Bricks
9.0 N/mm2
Lowest storey of a three storey wall, or

where individual storeys exceed 2.7m
Blocks
7.3 N/mm2
Bricks
13.0 N/mm2
Upper storeys of a three storey wall
Blocks
2.9 N/mm2
Bricks
9.0 N/mm2
Where buildings are more than three storeys high, masonry should be designed in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 and
the block strength specified in the design.
Precast concrete blocks

Concrete blocks should comply with BS EN 771. The maximum load-bearing capacity of the wall should not exceed the
recommendations of the manufacturer.
Flue blocks should be in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Bricks
Bricks should comply with the relevant British Standards:
Clay bricks
BS EN 771-1
Calcium silicate bricks
BS EN 771-2
Concrete bricks
BS EN 771-3
When used in a separating wall, masonry should:
be in accordance with the design information
provide a suitable level of sound resistance.
Mortar mix and jointing

Mortar should:
be the correct mix and used within two hours, unless it is

retarded mortar
not be re-tempered if it has started to set
include sulfate-resisting cement where required.
Admixtures, retarded mortars and premixed mortars should be:
compatible with masonry and other components
used in accordance with the

Air-entraining agents:
can help reduce frost damage but cannot be used

as anti-freeze
should be carefully measured for each batch and be in

accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
Bricks and blocks should be laid on a full bed of mortar, with perpends solidly filled.
Where walls are to be finished with wet plaster, joints should be raked out to a shallow depth to provide a key. For dry lining,
mortar joints should be struck off flush.
Workmanship
Internal masonry walls and associated works should be:
constructed in lifts/stages to prevent the distortion of wall
6.3
panels during construction
accurately set out
reasonably plane and true
plumb, with courses level.
Bonding and tying

Internal masonry walls should:
maintain a regular bonding pattern
not include bricks or blocks of different types in the

same wall, to avoid cracking
be fully bonded or tied, either with a tooth at alternate

courses, or an expanded metal tie (or equivalent) at a
maximum vertical spacing of 300mm.
Joist filling should be brick or blockwork, without excessive mortar joints.

bonded connection
tied connection where blocks

are of a different type
different masonry types

used to adjust coursing
incorrect use of different

masonry types
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Lateral restraint
Load-bearing masonry walls, including separating walls, should be provided with lateral restraint at:
each floor level
ceiling level below a roof.
Restraint straps should be provided to separating walls on each level, at a maximum of 2m centres, when the floor:
is not on, or near, the same level
does not provide adequate restraint.
Lateral restraint should be provided in accordance with Chapter 6.4 Timber and concrete upper floors.
Timber floors
Adequate restraint can be provided by timber floors where joists have a minimum 90mm bearing. Alternatively, restraint should be
provided by:
restraint straps with a minimum 30mm x 5mm
restraint type joist hangers to BS EN 845-1 with a
cross-section, or
performance equivalent to restraint straps.
Concrete floors
450mm min.
Adequate restraint can be provided by concrete floors that have

a minimum 90mm bearing on to the wall. Alternatively, restraint
should be provided by:
restraint straps
at 2m centres
to each floor
restraint straps that are a minimum of 450mm long with the
450mm min.
end turned down between a joint in the concrete floor or

suitably fixed with screws.
Masonry separating walls

Both leaves of a masonry cavity separating wall should be tied together to provide structural stability. The type of tie and spacing
should limit the sound transmission across the cavity in accordance with building regulations.
Lintels and beams

Lintels should be specified according to loads and spans:
reinforced concrete
lintel right way up
6.3
in accordance with manufacturers recommendations, or

lintel bearing
on full block
For masonry:
concrete and steel lintels are suitable
timber lintels should not be used
lintels should extend beyond the end of each opening in

accordance with Table 2.
Table 2: Lintel bearings

Span (m)
Minimum length of bearing (mm)
Up to 1.2
100
Over 1.2
150
Lintels and beams should:
have padstones where required
be the correct way up
bear on a full block, and be level and bedded on a solid bed

of suitable mortar
not have soft or non-durable packing.
Load-bearing timber walls 6.3.5
Internal load-bearing timber walls shall be designed to support and transfer loads to foundations safely and
without undue movement. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) structural elements
b) timber separating walls
c) timber quality.
Structural elements
Structural design of load-bearing timber walls should be in accordance with BS EN 1995-1-1.
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
When constructing structural elements:
continuous
top binder
individual studs, sills and headplates should be

38mm x 75mm minimum, although larger sizes may be
required to achieve an adequate level of fire resistance
studs should be spaced at a maximum of 600mm centres
lintel and cripple stud should be provided to each opening,

except when the stud spacing is unaffected
multiple joists should be supported by multiple studs
framing joints should be secured with a minimum of two nails

per joint
where internal walls are made up from panels, structural

continuity should be maintained, e.g. by the use of a
continuous top binder.
cripple studs
support
loadbearing lintels
Timber separating walls

The type and spacing of wall ties and straps should limit sound transmission across the cavity in accordance with
building regulations.
Wall ties should:
be specified in accordance with the system designers

recommendations
have a maximum cross-section of 40mm x 3mm
be fixed below ceiling level
be spaced a minimum of 1.2m horizontally.
Timber quality
Timber should be of the appropriate grade, moisture content and size to support the imposed loads.
Structural timber should be of a suitable grade and specified according to the strength classes in BS EN 338, e.g. C16 or C24.
When graded to BS 4978:
the species should be included in accordance with
BS EN 338 can be used to determine strength class.
6.3
BS EN 1912 or the class strength specified

Timber should have a maximum moisture content of 20%.
Structural softwood for internal use should be:
dry graded to BS 4978
marked DRY or KD.
Timber for walls which are to be dry-lined should be regularised and comply with BS 8212. Finger joints should comply
with BS EN 385.
Fire resistance 6.3.6
Internal walls shall have adequate resistance to the spread of fire. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) fire resistance
b) typical construction
c) services
d) materials.
The guidance below does not apply to Scotland, and reference should be made to the Technical Handbooks.
Fire resistance
Internal walls should provide fire resistance in accordance with building regulations.
Typical construction
Internal walls of hollow or cavity construction (fire-resisting or otherwise) should have cavity barriers installed at:
the perimeter
junctions with fire-resistingfloors and walls.
Fire-resisting walls should be fire stopped or constructed to resist fire spread at:
their perimeter
junctions with other fire-resisting walls, floors and roofs
openings for doors and pipes, etc.
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Where fire-resisting walls are of:
masonry construction with a cavity, they should be closed
fire stop between

battens above
underlay
at the top
timber construction, they should have wirereinforced mineral

wool cavity barriers at junctions with floors and ceilings.
fire stop
below underlay
At junctions between a separating or compartment wall and a

pitched roof or flat roof:
adequate precautions should be provided to prevent

fire spread
the separating wall should stop approximately 25mm below

the top of adjacent roof trusses
soft packing such as mineral wool should be installed above

and below the roofing underlay to allow for movement in roof
timbers to prevent hogging of the tiles.
cavity barrier in separating wall

of mineral wool or fire-resisting board
in boxed eaves
A wire reinforced mineral wool blanket cavity barrier should be provided within boxed eaves and be:
a minimum 50mm thick
carefully cut to shape toseal the boxed eaves fully
fixedto the rafter.
The wall dividing an integral, or attached, garage and the floor above should be designed to act together to provide adequate
resistance to fire spread. Where the garage has either no ceiling or there is no floor in the space above, vertical fire separation may
be required.
For timber constructions, fire stopping material should be compressible, e.g. mineral wool, to accommodate timber shrinkage without
affecting fire stopping.
Services
Where services such as pipes, cables and ducting pass through fire-resisting walls, penetrations should be fire stopped.
Services should not penetrate plasterboard layers of separating walls.
Fire stopping should be:
6.3
in accordance with building regulations and the
completed neatly.
design information
Materials
Suitable fire stopping materials include:
mineral wool
cement mortar
gypsum plaster
intumescent mastic or preformed strip
proprietary sealing systems assessed in accordance with

Sound insulation 6.3.7
Also see: BS 8212
Walls shall be insulated with materials of suitable thickness and density to provide adequate resistance to the
transmission of sound. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) sound-resisting construction
b) rooms which contain a WC.
Sound-resisting construction
Masonry separating walls
In England and Wales, separating walls may be built in accordance with Robust Details Resistance to the passage of sound.
To maintain sound insulation:
the correct blocks should be used
fully fill joints, mortar beds and perpends
use only approved wall ties
space wall ties 900mm minimum horizontally and 450mm

minimum vertically
avoid any reduction in the thickness of masonry
ensure spaces around joists are fully filled with masonry

and pointed
where external cavity walls have blown or pumped

insulation, separating walls should be constructed with
flexible cavity stops so that insulation cannot enter the cavity
care should be taken when specifying dry lining, as the

thickness of plasterboard layers, and the methods of sealing
and fixing, can affect the transmission of sound
holes, voids and hairline cracks should be avoided or made

good, as they can significantly reduce the effectiveness of a
sound-insulating wall.
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
In masonry separating cavity walls and where the cavity is up to
75mm, flexible wall ties should be:
separating wall taken through

and tied to inner leaf
butterfly type ties, or
tested to show compliance with building regulations.

Solid separating walls should be taken through the inner leaf
of an external cavity wall and tied. Where the same blocks are
used for both walls, tooth bonding is acceptable.
Chases can reduce the sound insulation value of a wall
and should:
be cut only where specified in the design
not be cut using impact power tools where there is a risk
dense block
separating wall
lightweight block
inner leaf
of damage
not exceed 1/6 of the thickness of thesingle leaf

where horizontal
horizontal chase
no deeper than
1/6 block thickness
not exceed 1/3 the thickness of the single leaf

where vertical
not be chased where hollow blocks are used, unless

specifically permitted by the manufacturer
be fully filled with mortar
have positions of electrical socketoutlets staggered

on opposite sides of the wall.
vertical chase
no deeper than
1/3 block thickness
Timber separating walls

Timber separating walls should not have gaps in the:
mineral wool quilt
plasterboard layers
fire stopping.
Flanking walls
6.3
The construction of the flanking wall and the position of openings should comply with building regulations.
Rooms containing a WC
The guidance below applies in Northern Ireland, Scotland and the Isle of Man. In England and Wales, the construction should
comply with building regulations.
A minimum sound reduction of 38dB (100-3150Hz) when tested in accordance with BS EN ISO 140-4 is required between rooms
that include a WC and:
living rooms
dining rooms
studies
bedrooms, except where the WC is ensuite.
Timber studwork
Timber studwork should be used with one of the following on
each side:
two layers of 12.5mm plasterboard
one layer of 12.5mm plasterboard and 25mm mineral wool

between the studs
one layer of 9.5mm plasterboard, 5mm skim coat and 25mm
one layer
of 12.5mm
plasterboard
on each side
and 25mm
wool quilt
of mineral wool between the studs
one layer of 12.5mm panel board and 75mm of mineral wool

between the studs.
Other forms of studwork construction may be acceptable where the sound reduction is achieved and independent evidence of
performance is available.
Where mineral wool quilt is used for acoustic insulation in partitions, it should be of a suitable thickness and density. Where two
layers of plasterboard are used, joints should be staggered and properly filled.
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Blockwork partitions
Masonry partitions provide adequate sound insulation without additional treatment where:
blocks are tied at every course to adjoining walls, with joints

on both sides with 13mm of plaster, and
fully filled.
blocks have a minimum density of 600kg/m3 and are finished

Proprietary partitions
Independent test evidence of the systems performance is required in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Partitions: internal non load-bearing 6.3.8

Non load-bearing partitions shall have adequate strength and support.
The following constructions are acceptable:
Masonry partitions.
Timber partitions using 63mm x 38mm studs, sills and

headplates with compatible spacing and
plasterboard thickness.
Steel partitions in accordance with Chapter 6.10

Light steel frame walls and floors.
Proprietary partitions in accordance with

Walls and partitions should:
be appropriately supported
not be supported by a floating floor which incorporates

a compressible layer, unless the material is specifically
manufactured for that purpose.
Masonry partitions should be supported on:
foundations
other masonry partitions or walls
concrete floors
steel or concrete beams, which may require padstones.
Masonry partitions should not be supported by timber joists or beams.

Where stud partitions or proprietary plasterboard partitions are supported by a timber floor, extra noggings or joists should be
specified unless it can be shown that the deck can transfer the load without undue movement.
6.3
Construction of timber partitions 6.3.9
Construction of timber stud internal walls shall ensure adequate stability, including:
a) setting out and workmanship
b) size of timber members
c) fixing.
Setting out and workmanship

Partitions should be:
correctly positioned, square and plumb
have studwork spaced at centres tosuit the

plasterboard thickness
have extra studs at openings, asrequired.
Size of timber members

Timber partitions should be constructed in accordance with the design information. Unless designed otherwise, the minimum
specification for all partitions should be in accordance with Table 3.
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Table 3: Timber sizes for partition walls

Component
Size
Sill and head plates
63mm x 38mm
Studs
63mm x 38mm at maximum 600mm centres
Blocking/nogging for support of plasterboard
43mm x 38mm
Blocking/nogging for other purposes
63mm x 38mm
Framing joints should be secured with two nails per joint.
Fixing
Partitions should:
be firmly fixed to each other and to abutting walls;

noggings or extra studs should be used where necessary
be fixed to the structure where possible
be fixed to noggings when parallel to structural elements
not be over-wedged at floor level
not be wedged against ceiling joists or roof trusses.
partition parallel to joist fixing to nogging

partition at right angles to joist fixing to joist
nogging
supports
radiator
partition parallel to joist fixing to nogging

partition at right angles to joist fixing to joist
Noggings should be provided to support fittings, such as radiators, wall mounted boilers, sanitary fittings and kitchen units.
Plasterboard 6.3.10
Plasterboard shall be of a suitable thickness for its intended use.

Dry lining should comply with BS 8212. Plasterboard should be to BS 1230, and be:
9.5mm for stud spacing up to 450mm
12.5mm for stud spacing up to 600mm.
For sound-resisting walls (e.g. separating walls and walls to WCs), the correct thickness, number of layers and sealing should be
specified in the design information.
Tapered edge boards should be used where the plasterboard is to be jointed before decoration.
6.3
extra stud
Internal walls 2016

CHAPTER 6.3
Construction of proprietary systems 6.3.11
Proprietary partition systems shall be suitable for their intended purpose and erected in accordance with the
Proprietary partitions should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3, and:
constructed and specified according to the manufacturers
correctly positioned, square and plumb.
recommendations, including construction sequence

Timber or other additional fixings should be provided for radiators, electrical outlets, switches etc.
Damp-proof courses 6.3.12
DPCs shall be installed where required to prevent moisture entering the building.
Load-bearing partition walls built on foundations should have a DPC. Where partitions which could be affected by residual damp are
placed on concrete floors, a DPC should be provided directly below, even where there is a DPM beneath the slab.
DPCs should be:
at least the width of the wall or partition
linked with any adjoining DPM
continuous or lapped by a minimum of 100mm.
screed on
DPM
above slab
DPC below
stud partition
partition on
DPC above
polyethylene
DPM
DPM below
slab
6.3
Where steps are necessary in the ground floor slab,
a DPC should be:
cavity seperating wall
incorporated as a continuous link between the upper and

lower DPCs
membranes and
DPC linked
protected from damage during construction.

Where steps are greater than 150mm, waterproofing should be
provided in accordance with Chapter 5.4 Waterproofing of
basements and other below ground structures.
protection to
vertical DPM
DPM
Materials acceptable for DPCs include:

Bitumen
BS 6398
Polyethylene
BS 6515
Proprietary materials
Components 6.3.13
Walls ties and related items shall be of the appropriate type and strength and shall have adequate durability.
Joist hangers, restraint straps, bond ties, etc. should be protected against corrosion. Ferrous metals with the following levels of
protection are acceptable:
Post-galvanizing to BS 729, or
Pre-galvanizing to BS 2989.
Timber and concrete upper floors

CHAPTER 6.4
Technical Requirements for timber and
concrete upper floors.
6.4.1 Compliance
6.4.2
6.4.3
Upper floor design
6.4.4
Fire spread
6.4.5
Sound insulation
6.4.6
In-situ concrete floors and concreting
6.4.7 Precast concrete
6.4.8
Timber joist spans
6.4.9
Timber joists
6.4.10 Construction of timber floors
6.4.11 Joists supported by intermediate walls
6.4.12 Joists connected to steel
6.4.13 Joists into hangers
6.4.14 Timber joist and restraint straps
6.4.15 Strutting
6.4.16 Joists and openings
6.4.17 Multiple joists
6.4.18 Notching and drilling
6.4.19 Floor decking
6.4.20 Floating floors or floors between homes
01
01
01
02
02
03
03
04
06
06
08
08
09
10
12
12
13
13
14
16
Timber and concrete upper floors 2016

CHAPTER 6.4
Compliance 6.4.1
Timber and concrete upper floors shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Timber and concrete upper floors that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Direction of floor span, and sizeand spacing of joists or

concrete components.
Size of trimmers and trimming joists.
Position of strutting.
Detailing of openings in the floor.
Supporting walls below.
Walls and partitions above.
Positions of restraint straps.
Positions of large service penetrations,e.g. chimneys, SVPs.
Position of insulation.
Details of all junctions.
Manufacturers recommendations for assembly and fixing of

proprietary components.
Upper floor design 6.4.3
Upper floors shall support and transmit loads safely tothe supporting structure without undue deflection.
a) loads and support to partitions
b) steelwork.
Loads and support to partitions

Structural design of timber and concrete upper floors should be in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-1.
6.4
The design of upper floors should account for dead loads, including:
floor structure, decking and finishes
ceilings and applied finishes
walls and partitions supported by thefloor
permanent fixtures such as boilers,watertanks etc.
Imposed loads should be calculated in accordance with the relevant British Standards, including BS EN 1991-1-1
which recommends:
1.5kN/m2 for self-contained homes
values for communal areasserving flats or maisonettes.
Bearers or additional joists should beused to support heavy loads.

Joists built into separating walls may provide lateral support, and should be detailed to ensure that sound insulation and fire
resistance requirements are met.
Masonry partitions
Where first floor masonry partitions cannot be built directly in line with ground floor masonry walls, steel or reinforced concrete
support should be specified. Masonry should not be supported on joists.
Lightweight partitions
Where multiple solid timber joists support lightweight non load-bearing partitions which are parallel to the joists, they should be
suitably fixed together. Where I-joists and metal web joists are used, they should:
be positioned centrally below a non load-bearing

partition and, where necessary, additional joists
should be doubled or tripled in accordance with the
manufacturersrecommendations
support the weight of the non load-bearing partition by

noggings or bearers fixed to the joists on either side.
Unless designed otherwise, noggings should be a minimum
38mm x 90mm minimum at 600mm centres and fixed with
metal clips. The sole plate of the non load-bearing partition
should be fixed to the noggings, or
be in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.

CHAPTER 6.4
non load-bearing partition

supported by noggings
metal
web joist
I-joist
Steelwork
Steelwork should be:
designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical
sized to allow an adequate joist bearing.
Requirement R5 and comply with Chapter 6.4 Steelwork

Structural continuity of the floor should beprovided by the use of continuous decking fixed to joists on both sides of a transverse
steel joist.
Steel beams should be protected by asuitably durable paint coating as detailedin Chapter 6.5 Steelwork.
Fire spread 6.4.4

Adequate fire resistance and fire stopping shall be provided by floors between homes and at penetrations.
Upper floors shall be constructed to ensure structural timber is located away from heat sources.
Floors and ceilings should:
be in accordance with the design
have adequate fire stopping
should be able to resist the passage of smoke when the
40mm
min.
40mm
min.
fire stopping has been installed.

Ceilings should not be perforated, e.g. for downlighters, unless
it can be shown that the floor construction achieves the required
fire resistance. Where downlighters are incorporated in a ceiling,
they should be installed in accordance with the
structural
timber
separated
from
chimney wall
Timber
To counteract fire spread:
combustible material should be kept away from heat sources
structural timber should be separated from sources of heat

in accordance with Chapter 6.8 Fireplaces, chimneys
and flues.
Sound insulation 6.4.5

Upper floors shall be constructed to ensure that sound transmission is adequately limited.
Timber upper floors should comply with building regulations and Chapter 9.3 Floor finishes.
6.4
comply with the relevant building regulations and

CHAPTER 6.4
In-situ concrete floors and concreting 6.4.6
In-situ concrete upper floors shall be adequately reinforced and of a mix which is suitable for the location and
intended use, and appropriately constructed.
Concrete floors should:
comply with BS EN 1992-1-1 and
be reasonably level and smooth, especially at doorways
Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement
comply with the design
be in accordance with Technical Requirement R3 where
and junctions
proprietary elements are used.
Precast concrete 6.4.7

Precast concrete upper floorsshall be erected in accordance withthe design.
Precast concrete flooring systems should be in accordance with
BS EN 1992-1-1 or Technical Requirement R3.
infill blocks
used as spacers
For precast concrete systems:
details of manufacturers assemblyinstructions and any

independent certification should be available on site
and followed
beams, planks or infill blocks that aredamaged should not

be used
adequate support should be provided until design strength

is reached
joints should be grouted in accordance with the

Bearings should be:
6.4
solid and level
90mm minimum on masonry (open frogs in brickwork
75mm minimum on steelwork.
should be filled)
The setting out of beam and block floors should:
ensure correct spacing between beams, using infill blocks

as spacers
allow for additional beams where required to support

concentrated loads such as partitions.
Infill blocks should:
be omitted or cut wherenecessary to allow for services
be cut carefully and neatly without damage

(not using a hammer and bolster).
Where floors rely on structural topping or in-situ make-up sections, propping maybe needed until the in-situ concrete hasreached
design strength.
Trimmed openings
Where voids in precast concrete floors are to be trimmed:
3D
min. 450mm
straps at max.
2m centres
specifications and drawingsshould be followed
steel trimmer shoes may be used.

Double beams, common around trimmed openings, should be
adequately supported until all voids have been solidly concreted
and the concrete has reached its designstrength.
Restraint straps and ties

Straps:
should be shown in the design
are generally required where beams run parallel with the wall
strap tight
to
blockwork
precast
beam

CHAPTER 6.4
Timber joist spans 6.4.8

Timber floor joists shall be adequate for the spans and loads, and be correctly installed.
Solid timber joist sizes are provided in the BS 8103-3 span tables. Where the tables do not apply, or where there are concentrated
loads, floor joists should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Span tables for solid timber joists

Tables 1 and 2 in this chapter are derived from the TRADA Technology Ltd. Eurocode 5 span Tables forsolid timber members in
floors, ceilings and roofs for dwellings (3rd edition). The section sizes are based on regularised ALS or CLS timber.
For timber floors between homes:
to meet acoustic performance, the dead load of the
use the three right-hand columns from Tables 1 and 2.
construction is likely to be 0.6-0.7kN/m2

For upper floors with 22mm thick chipboard decking and a 12.5mm plasterboard ceiling:
a dead load of between 0.25kN/m2 and 0.5kN/m2 may
use the centre three columns from Tables 1 and 2.
be assumed
Where lightweight non load-bearing partitions weigh up to 1.0kN (101.9kg)per metre run and are parallel to the joists,
the following applies:
Where similar lightweight partitions run at right-angles to
additional joists.
Partitions should be fixed through the floor decking into the

joist(s) beneath.
the joists, the maximum spans in Tables 1 and 2 should be

reduced by 10%.
For all other additional loads, joist sizes should be

6.4
Partitions may be directly supported by one or two

CHAPTER 6.4
Table 1: Permissible clear spans for domestic floor joists.
Table 2: Permissible clear spans for domestic floor joists.
Strength class C16
Strength class C24
Imposed load not exceeding 1.5 kN/m .

Service class 1 or 2.
Imposed load not exceeding qk = 1.5 kN/m2 or qk = 0.90 kN.

Service class 1 or 2.
Dead load gk (kN/m2) excluding self-weight of joist
Dead load gk (kN/m2) excluding self-weight of joist
Size of joist
Size of joist
gk not more
than 0.25
gk not more
than 0.50
gk not more
than 1.25
Joist spacing (mm)
gk not more
than 0.25
gk not more
than 0.50
gk not more
than 1.25
Joist spacing (mm)
400 450 600 400 450 600 400 450 600

Breadth
(mm)
Depth
(mm)
Maximum clear span (m)
38
97
1.76* 1.66* 1.43
1.64* 1.55* 1.35
1.43
1.35
38
120
2.36* 2.23* 1.94
2.18* 2.07* 1.80
1.86
1.77
38
145
2.85* 2.74* 2.48
2.68* 2.58* 2.32
2.33
38
170
3.33* 3.20* 2.90
3.14* 3.02* 2.73
38
195
3.81* 3.67* 3.32
38
220
44
44
400 450 600 400 450 600 400 450 600
6.4
Breadth
(mm)
Depth
(mm)
Maximum clear span (m)
0.71
38
97
2.05* 1.94* 1.68
1.91* 1.80* 1.57
1.64
1.56
1.37
1.55
38
120
2.63* 2.53* 2.26
2.48* 2.38* 2.09
2.13
2.02
1.78
2.22
1.96
38
145
3.17* 3.05* 2.77
2.99* 2.87* 2.60
2.61
2.51
2.25
2.74
2.63
2.37
38
170
3.71* 3.57* 3.24
3.50* 3.36* 3.05
3.06
2.94
2.65
3.59* 3.45* 3.12
3.14
3.01
2.71
38
195
4.25* 4.08* 3.71
4.00* 3.85* 3.49
3.50
3.36
3.04
4.29* 4.13* 3.74
4.05* 3.89* 3.52
3.53
3.39
3.06
38
220
4.78* 4.60* 4.17
4.51* 4.33* 3.93
3.95
3.79
3.42
97
1.89* 1.78* 1.54
1.76* 1.67* 1.45
1.53
1.45
1.27
44
97
2.19* 2.07* 1.81
2.04* 1.93* 1.69
1.75
1.66
1.46
120
2.48* 2.39* 2.08
2.33* 2.21* 1.94
1.98
1.88
1.66
44
120
2.77* 2.66* 2.41
2.61* 2.50* 2.24
2.26
2.15
1.90
44
145
2.99* 2.88* 2.61
2.82* 2.71* 2.45
2.46
2.36
2.09
44
145
3.33* 3.20* 2.91
3.14* 3.02* 2.74
2.75
2.64
2.38
44
170
3.50* 3.37* 3.05
3.30* 3.17* 2.87
2.88
2.77
2.50
44
170
3.90* 3.75* 3.40
3.67* 3.53* 3.20
3.22
3.09
2.79
44
195
4.00* 3.85* 3.49
3.78* 3.63* 3.29
3.30
3.17
2.86
44
195
4.46* 4.29* 3.90
4.21* 4.04* 3.67
3.68
3.54
3.20
44
220
4.51* 4.33* 3.94
4.25* 4.09* 3.71
3.72
3.57
3.23
44
220
5.01* 4.82* 4.39
4.73* 4.55* 4.13
4.15
3.98
3.61
47
97
1.95* 1.84* 1.60
1.81* 1.72* 1.50
1.57
1.49
1.31
47
97
2.26* 2.14* 1.87
2.10* 1.99* 1.74
1.80
1.71
1.51
47
120
2.54* 2.44* 2.15
2.39* 2.27* 2.00
2.04
1.94
1.71
47
120
2.83* 2.72* 2.47
2.67* 2.56* 2.31
2.32
2.21
1.96
47
145
3.06* 2.94* 2.67
2.88* 2.77* 2.51
2.52
2.42
2.15
47
145
3.40* 3.27* 2.97
3.21* 3.09* 2.80
2.81
2.70
2.44
47
170
3.58* 3.44* 3.12
3.37* 3.24* 2.94
2.95
2.83
2.56
47
170
3.98* 3.83* 3.48
3.76* 3.61* 3.28
3.29
3.16
2.86
47
195
4.09* 3.94* 3.57
3.86* 3.71* 3.36
3.38
3.24
2.93
47
195
4.55* 4.38* 3.98
4.30* 4.13* 3.75
3.77
3.62
3.27
47
220
4.60* 4.43* 4.02
4.34* 4.18* 3.79
3.80
3.65
3.30
47
220
5.12* 4.93* 4.48
4.83* 4.65* 4.23
4.24
4.08
3.69
50
97
2.00* 1.89* 1.65
1.87* 1.77* 1.54
1.61
1.53
1.34
50
97
2.32* 2.20* 1.92
2.15* 2.04* 1.79
1.85
1.76
1.55
50
120
2.59* 2.49* 2.22
2.44* 2.34* 2.05
2.09
1.99
1.75
50
120
2.88* 2.77* 2.52
2.72* 2.62* 2.37
2.38
2.27
2.01
50
145
3.12* 3.00* 2.72
2.94* 2.83* 2.56
2.57
2.47
2.21
50
145
3.48* 3.34* 3.04
3.28* 3.15* 2.86
2.87
2.76
2.50
50
170
3.65* 3.51* 3.19
3.44* 3.31* 3.00
3.01
2.89
2.61
50
170
4.06* 3.91* 3.55
3.83* 3.69* 3.35
3.36
3.23
2.92
50
195
4.17* 4.02* 3.65
3.94* 3.79* 3.44
3.45
3.31
3.00
50
195
4.64* 4.47* 4.07
4.38* 4.22* 3.38
3.85
3.69
3.35
50
220
4.70* 4.52* 4.11
4.43* 4.26* 3.87
3.88
3.73
3.38
50
220
5.22* 5.03* 4.58
4.93* 4.75* 4.32
4.33
4.16
3.77
63
97
2.23* 2.11*
1.84
2.07* 1.97* 1.72
1.78
1.70
1.50
63
97
2.52* 2.43* 2.14
2.38* 2.26* 1.99
2.03
1.94
1.72
63
120
2.80* 2.69* 2.44
2.64* 2.54* 2.28
2.30
2.19
1.94
63
120
3.11*
2.99* 2.72
2.94* 2.83* 2.57
2.57
2.47
2.22
63
145
3.37* 3.24* 2.95
3.18* 3.06* 2.78
2.79
2.68
2.42
63
145
3.74* 3.60* 3.28
3.54* 3.40* 3.09
3.10
2.98
2.70
63
170
3.94* 3.79* 3.45
3.72* 3.58* 3.25
3.26
3.13
2.84
63
170
4.37* 4.21* 3.84
4.13* 3.98* 3.62
3.63
3.49
3.17
63
195
4.50* 4.33* 3.94
4.25* 4.09* 3.72
3.73
3.58
3.25
63
195
5.00* 4.81* 4.39
4.72* 4.55* 4.14
4.15
4.00
3.62
63
220
5.06* 4.87* 4.44
4.78* 4.60* 4.18
4.20
4.04
3.66
63
220
5.61* 5.41* 4.94
5.31* 5.12* 4.66
4.68
4.50
4.08
75
120
2.96* 2.85* 2.59
2.79* 2.69* 2.44
2.45
2.35
2.09
75
120
3.29* 3.17* 2.88
3.11*
2.99* 2.72
2.73
2.62
2.38
75
145
3.56* 3.43* 3.12
3.37* 3.24* 2.94
2.95
2.84
2.57
75
145
3.96* 3.81* 3.48
3.74* 3.60* 3.28
3.29
3.16
2.87
75
170
4.16* 4.01* 3.65
3.93* 3.79* 3.44
3.45
3.32
3.01
75
170
4.62* 4.45* 4.06
4.37* 4.21* 3.83
3.85
3.70
3.36
75
195
4.75* 4.58* 4.17
4.49* 4.33* 3.94
3.95
3.80
3.45
75
195
5.27* 5.08* 4.64
4.99* 4.81* 4.38
4.40
4.23
3.85
75
220
5.34* 5.15* 4.70
5.05* 4.87* 4.43
4.45
4.28
3.88
75
220
5.92* 5.71* 5.22
5.61* 5.41* 4.93
4.95
4.76
4.33
ALS/CLS
ALS/CLS
38
140
2.75* 2.64* 2.39
2.59* 2.49* 2.21
2.24
2.13
1.88
38
140
3.07* 2.95* 2.67
2.89* 2.77* 2.51
2.52
2.42
2.15
38
184
3.60* 3.46* 3.14
3.39* 3.26* 2.95
2.96
2.84
2.56
38
184
4.01* 3.86* 3.50
3.78* 3.63* 3.29
3.31
3.17
2.87
38
235
4.58* 4.40* 3.99
4.32* 4.15* 3.76
3.77
3.62
3.27
38
235
5.10* 4.90* 4.46
4.81* 4.62* 4.20
4.21
4.04
3.65
89
184
4.74* 4.57* 4.17
4.48* 4.32* 3.94
3.95
3.80
3.45
89
184
5.25* 5.07* 4.63
4.98* 4.80* 4.38
4.39
4.23
3.85
89
235
5.99* 5.78* 5.29
5.68* 5.48* 5.00
5.01
4.83
4.39
89
235
6.64* 6.41* 5.87
6.30* 6.08* 5.56
5.57
5.37
4.89
* Two additional joists required

Bold text = normal bearing of 40mm to be doubled
* Two additional joists required

Bold text = normal bearing of 40mm to be doubled

CHAPTER 6.4
Timber joists 6.4.9
Joists shall be of an appropriate size and quality, and be suitably durable.

I-joists and metal web joists should not be used in situations where any part of the joist is exposed to external conditions, and be:
in accordance with Technical Requirement R3
used in accordance with the
protected from adverse weatherconditions during transport
manufacturers recommendations
specified using the following deflection limits based on total

dead and imposed loads for combined bending and shear:
0.003 x the span, with a maximum deflection of 14mm where
strutting is provided, or 12mm where strutting is not provided
stored clear of the groundand stacked vertically
not used where damaged.
and storage
Structural solid timber joists should be specified according to the strength classes in BS EN 338, e.g. C16 or C24 and
marked with:
the strength class, or evidence of species and grade made
the identification of the company responsible for the grading
available so as to determine the strength class
(when graded to BS 4978 or BS EN 519).
When graded to BS 4978:
the species should be included in accordance with
BS EN 338 can be used to determine strength class.
BS EN 1912 or the class strength specified

Regularised timber should be used for solid timber joists, and be:
dry graded to BS 4978 or BS EN 519
marked DRY or KD.
Materials should be checked on delivery for conformity with the design.

Timber should be treated with preservative where it is to be built
in or embedded into solid external walls.
Joists should be stored on bearers or in racks and
be protected.
6.4
Timber should not be used where:
it is excessively bowed, twisted orcambered
it has large edge knots or shakes
it has a waney edge more than half the thickness
it is damaged or has any sign of rot.
store timbers off the ground on bearers
Construction of timber floors 6.4.10
Upper floors shall be constructed in a workmanlike manner and provide satisfactory performance. Issues to be
a) levelling
b) joist spacing and clearance
c) support.
Levelling
Bearings for joists should be level. The floor should be levelled:
from the staircase trimmer and trimming joist
in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations
using hard packing; loose or soft packing should not
staircase
trimmer
be used.
joists levelled from staircase trimmer or trimming joist

CHAPTER 6.4
Joist spacing and clearance
Joist spacing should:
be in accordance with the design and not increased
account for the decking material to be used
be a maximum of 600mm
have a clearance of 25-75mm between thefirst joist and the

wall face to aid the installation of services and the fixing of
floor decking.
Support
The floor should have an adequate bearing on the supportingstructure.
Timber joists should normallyhave a minimum bearing as shown in Table 3.
Table 3: Support of joists

Type of timberjoist
Minimum bearing (mm)

End support
Intermediatesupport
Solid joist onmasonry walls
90 (75)
90 (75)
Solid joist ontimber wall plate
75
75
I-joist
90 (45)
90
Metal web joist
90 (75)
90
The figures in brackets should only be usedwhen the joist is not providing restraint tothe wall.
Joists may be:
supported on joist hangersor on internal load-bearing walls
built into the innerleaf of an external cavity wall, with care

taken to ensure air-tightness.
Where joists are built into separating walls, fire-and sound-resisting performance, in accordance with building regulations, should be
taken into account.
Solid timber joists
6.4
Where built into solid external walls, joists should be treated with preservative.
I-joists and metal web joists

I-joists and metal webjoists should not be built into solid
external walls.
The support reaction, due to dead and imposed loads on the
floor, should not exceed the recommended value specified by
the manufacturer.
I-joist
Where there are concentrated loads:
web stiffeners should be used for I-joists
uprights between the flanges, held in place by punched metal
metal web
plate fasteners or bottom chord (flange) support, should be

used for metal web joists
themanufacturers recommendations should be followed.
uprights at
intermediate bearing
intermediate bearing
end bearing
uprights at
end bearing

CHAPTER 6.4
Where joists are supported on walls, noggings may be required at the top flange along the wall to support the floor decking,
and at the bottom flange to support the plasterboard ceiling. Where joists are not built into brickwork or blockwork, blocking should
be provided at the joist bearing. The blocking may be used for fixing plasterboard and floor decking.
perimeter nogging
top flange restraint
Joists supported by intermediate walls 6.4.11

Joists shall be properly fixed at intermediate load-bearing walls.
Solid timber joists
Solid timber joists bearing onto intermediate load-bearing walls should:
be nailed together where they overlap
not project more than 100mm.
I-joists
I-joists bearing onto intermediate load-bearing walls should have:
blocking used to brace the butt joint
short sections of joist used to provide lateral support.
Metal web joists

Metal web joists bearing onto intermediate load-bearing walls should:
overlapping joists
nailed together
be overlapped.
intermediate
support for I-joist
intermediate support
for metal web joist
100mm max.
overhang
Joists connected to steel 6.4.12

Joists shall be suitably connected to steelwork.
Solid timber joists
min. 12mm projection
Where connected to steel beams, solid timber joists should:
be deep enough to be notched
have 12mm top and 2mm bottom projections to allow for

timber shrinkage
be provided with strutting to prevent rotation.

min. 2mm projection
6.4
have a minimum 90mm bearing

CHAPTER 6.4
I-joists
Where connected to steel beams, I-joists should not be notched at the flange, and should:
have blocking fixedto the steel beam to enable the I-joists

than 45mm. Strutting, (noggings 38mm x thickness of flange)
to be face fixed using joist hangers. Struttingis not required
should be provided at the top and bottom flanges, or
when hangers the full depth of the joist areused to face fix
joists to the blocking.
bear directly into the steel beam where the bearing is more
Metal web joists

Where connected to steel beams, metal web joists should not be notched at the flange, and should:
bear directly into the bottom flange of the steel beam where
the bearing is more than 75mm. There should be timber
uprights between the flanges and 38mm x 97mm noggings
between the uprights
where the bearing is less than 75mm, the joist can be

supported on the top flange with the bottom flange fixed to
timber blocking supported inside the steel beam.
timber blocking to support

metal web joists
solid strutting
timber blocking behind

joist hanger
Joists into hangers 6.4.13

Joist hangers shall provide a suitable bearing on the supporting structure and be of an adequate size,
strength and durability.
6.4
Masonry supporting joist hangers should be checked for level and height. The top flange loading on the joist hanger should not be
greater than the strength of the supporting masonry. Where joist hangers are supported on lightweight blockwork, the suitability of
the hanger should be checked. Joist hangers which meet BS EN 845 have a stamp indicating the minimum compressive strength of
block for which they are suitable.
Hangers should:
be detailed in the design, including the type of support to be

used for joists, trimmers and trimming joists
have a 75mm minimum bearing on masonry
comply with BS EN 845-1 or comply with

have performance equivalent to restraint straps at 2m centres

where required to provide restraint
be the correct size for the joist or trimmer
be nailed through each circular hole in the vertical sides
bear on level beds and be tight to the wall
not be cut into the walling.
timber to
timber hanger
timber to
masonry hanger
gap between joist and

hanger is 6mm max.
Joists should be accurately cut to length. Where joists are not

built into brickwork or blockwork, blocking should be provided
at the joist bearing. The blocking may be used for fixing
plasterboard and floor decking.
Solid joists
Where connected to hangers, solid timber joists should:
have a minimum bearing of 75mm onto the hanger
be notched into the hanger to keep the ceilingline level
be the full depth of the hanger.
notched to
keep ceiling
line level
heavy duty
hanger

CHAPTER 6.4
10
I-joists
Where connected to hangers, I-joists should not be notched at the flange, and should have:
a minimum bearing of 45mm onto the hanger
the tabs of the hanger bent andnailed to the bottom flange.
Hangers should be:
the full depth of the joist and restrain the top flange, or
at least 0.6 x the depth of the joistand have stiffeners

(full depth) fixed to both sides of the web.
Metal web joists

Where connected to hangers, metal web joists should not be notched at the flange, and should have:
a minimum bearing of 75mm onto the hanger
timber uprights fixed betweenthe flanges.
Hangers should be to the full depth of the joist and restrain the top flange, or another suitable means of restraining the top flange
should be provided.
solid blocking where joists
are not built into blockwork
joist hanger
tabs bent over
and nailed to flange
top flange restraint
Timber joist and restraint straps 6.4.14

Upper floors shall provide adequate lateral restraint.
Restraint straps and joist hangerssuitable for taking tensile forces may berequired to tie walls and upper floorstogether or when the
external wall is stabilisedby a connection to the floor. Straps should:
be detailed in the design, including the size, position

and fixings
be galvanised steel with a 30mm x 5mm cross-section or be

have adequate packing between the wall and the first joist
restraint strap held tight
against blockwork
bear on the centre of bricksor blocks and not on

mortar joints
be fixed on the side, top or bottom, as appropriate to the

joist type.
top fixed strap
strap centered on block

and tight to wall
side fixed
strap
6.4
Also see: Chapter 6.1 and BS 8103-1
11

CHAPTER 6.4
Restraint straps should be provided along the direction of thejoists and spaced at a maximum of 2m centres. They are not generally
required at the ends of joists in buildings up to, and including, two storeys where:
restraint type joist hangers in accordance with
joists are built into a wall and bear at least90mm on the wall.
Technical Requirement R3 are used, or

Where joists run parallel to thewall, straps should be fitted along the joists with a maximum spacing of 2m, and:
be supported on noggings and extend over at least

three joists
be fixed with two screws or nails into each joist

I-joist with
restraint strap
have noggings provided to receive two additional nails

(for solid joists, two 4.76mm diameter x 50mm long wood
screws (No.10) or 4mm diameter x 75mm round nails
(8 SWG) can be used in each joist).
max. 2m centres
nogging
packing
Solid timber joists

Solid timber joists should, have noggings provided at:
a minimum of 0.5 x the depth of the member when straps are

located on top of the joist, or
the full depth of the member where straps are located

beneath the joist.
I-joists
I-joists should not be notched and have:
6.4
solid timber noggingsno less than 0.5 x the depth of

themember and a maximum of 150mm fixedbetween the
webs and located beneaththe top flange, when 30mmx
5mm galvanised straps are used, or
When nailing into laminated veneer lumber flanges:
care shouldbe taken to prevent splitting
noggings made from short lengths of I-joist, or solid timber

the full depth of the I-joists, when proprietary straps
are used.
nails should be driven in at an angle (not horizontally) and

should not protrude from the flanges.
Metal web joists

Metal web joists should not be notched and should have:
35mm x 97mm solid timber noggings beneath the top flange
noggings nailed twice to each joist.
of the metal web joists, and

noggings for metal
web joists
noggings for
I-joists

CHAPTER 6.4
12
Strutting 6.4.15
Strutting shall be provided where required to distribute loads and ensure adequaterigidity of the
floor structure.
Strutting should:
herringbone strutting
blocking
not project beyond the top andbottom edges of joists
be firmly blocked to the wall at the end of each run
be provided before the deck is laid.

Proprietary metal strutting should comply with
Solid timber joists

Strutting to solid timber joists should be:
provided in accordance Table 4
be herringbone (38mm x 38mm timber) or solid

(minimum 38mm thick and 0.75 x the depth of the joist).
Table 4: Strutting for solid timber and I-joists

Joist span (m)
Rows of strutting
Under 2.5
None needed
2.5-4.5
1 (at centre of span)
Over 4.5
2 (at equal spacing)
I-joists
bracing
strongback
Strutting to I-joists should be:
provided in accordance with the Table 4, where required.
Metal web joists

Strutting to metal web joists should be:
6.4
provided in accordance with Table 5
solid timber strongback bracing.
Table 5: Strutting for metal web joists

Joist span (m)
Rows of strutting
4-8
1 (at centre of span)
over 8
2 (at equal spacing)
Joistsand openings 6.4.16
Upper floors shall have adequately sized and properly supported trimmer joists around openings.
Trimmed and trimming joists should be:
detailed in the design
designed in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Connections between joists should be made with suitable timber-to-timber hangers, and:
where face fixing I-joists to another I-joist, be provided with

backer blocks on both sides of the web of the trimmer
void
trimmer
trimmed joists
where metal web joists are used as a trimming joist to

support another metal web joist, have timber uprights
between the flanges of the trimmer.
single or double trimmer in
accordance with the design
backer
blocks
supporting wall
trimming joist
timber upright
13

CHAPTER 6.4
Multiple joists 6.4.17
Multiple joists shall be securely fixed together.
Joists can be doubled or tripled upto provide additional support, e.g. for lightweight partitions or to form trimmers. The design should
specify how the joists are fixed together and be in accordance with manufacturersrecommendations.
When securing joists:
fixings should be in accordance with the engineers
washers or single-faced connectors should be used
specification and should be checked before the ceiling is

fixed, including the tightness of bolts
toothed plate, split ring and shear plate connectors should be

provided where required
with bolts
ensure that timber is not damaged by over-tightening.
nails approx. 20mm

from top and
bottom of joist
nails spaced
at approx.
450mm centres
timber filler block
Notching and drilling 6.4.18

Notching and drilling shall becarried out within recognised limits.
Solid timber joists
Notching anddrilling should be designed by an engineer where:
6.4
the joist is deeper than 250mm
it does not meet the guidelines in this chapter, or
it is close to heavy loads, such asthose from partitions,

cisterns, cylindersand stair trimming.
Notching and drilling should:
have a minimum horizontal separation of 100mm
be in accordance with Table 6.
Table 6: Notching and drilling solid timber joists

Notching joists up to 250mm depth
Drilling joists up to 250mm depth
Location
Maximum size
Top edge 0.1-0.2 x span

Centre line 0.25-0.4 x span
0.15 x depth of joist

holes located on the centre line in a

zone (0.25-0.4 x span) from the end
and max. notch depth = 0.25 x joist depth
notches located in a zone
(0.1-0.2 x span) from the end and
max. notch depth = 0.15 x joist depth
100mm min.
between notches
and holes

CHAPTER 6.4
I-joists
14
services passing
through joists
Preformed holes should be provided in the web and:
holes or notches should not be cut without the approval of

the manufacturer
restraint straps can be slotted into webs immediately below

the top flange.
Metal web joists

In metal web joists:
service conduits should run in the gaps between the

metal webs
maximum duct sizes should be in accordance with the

large service ducts may have to be inserted before fixing

the joists, as it may not be possible after the joists have
been fixed.
Floor decking 6.4.19

Floor decking shall be suitable for the intended use and be of adequatestrength and moisture resistance.
a) type, thickness and fixing
b) protection against damage.
Type, thickness and fixing

Where decking contributes tothe sound insulation of a floor, the thicknesses listed in this chapter should be checked.
Floor decking should:
be in accordance with Table 7 (which applies to normal

domestic loads, i.e. an imposed load of 1.5kN/m2),
or comply with Technical Requirement R3.
Table 7: Floor decking requirements

Floor decking
400mm joist centres
450mm joist centres
600mm joist centres
Standard
Softwood boarding
16
16
19
BS 1297
Moisture resistant chipboard 18
18
22
BS EN 312 type P5
Plywood
15
15
18/19
BS EN 636
15
15
18/19
BS EN 300 type OSB3
When installing decking:
fixings and support should be in accordance withthe
where nails are used, they should be 2.5 xthe thickness of
checks should be made, prior to fixing, to ensure that

noggings, blocking and strutting are in the correct position
and secure
butt joints should be staggered andsupported on

noggings or joists
adjacent boards should besquare
the decking material
where gluing is required, boards should be glued to the

joists and at joints, using a suitable polyvinyl acetate
(PVAc) adhesive
temporary wedges and packing should be removed once the

floor decking is complete.
6.4
be appropriate to the joist spacing
15

CHAPTER 6.4
Square edged boards and boardswith loose tongues
When fixing boards with square edges or loose tongues, they should be supported on all sides byjoists or noggings.
Tongued and grooved boards

When fixing boards with tongued and grooved edges:
boards should be laid with long edges atright angles to joists
short edges should be supported on joistsor noggings or cut

back to form a butt joint over a joist
boards should be glued to the joists and the sheets glued to

each other with polyvinyl acetate (PVAc) adhesive
(not softwood boarding)
long edges at room perimetersshould be fully supported on

joists or noggings.
Chipboard flooring
Chipboard flooring should be supported and fixed in accordance with manufacturersrecommendations using either:
flat-headed ring shank nails, 2.5 x the thickness of the board

and minimum 3mm diameter, or
screws to BS 1210, minimum 2 x the thickness of the board

andno less than size No. 8.
min. 10mm
expansion gap
nogging
joist or nogging
When fixing:
fixings should have a maximum spacing of 300mm along
6.4
continuously supported edges andintermediate supports
where boards abut a rigidupstand, a minimum 10mm

expansion gap should be provided; for large areas of
boarded floor, a wider expansion gap may be required at
upstandsand intermediate expansion gaps of2mm per
linear metre of floor should be provided.
Oriented strand board flooring

When fixing oriented strand board flooring:
boards should be laid over supports in the direction indicated

on the board, with the stronger axis at right angles to the
supporting joists
boards should be long enough to span two joists
nails should be flat headed, annulargrooved nails,

3mm in diameter
where boards abut a rigid upstand, a minimum 10mm

expansion gap should be provided; for large areas of
boarded floor, a wider expansion gap may be required at
upstands and intermediate expansion gaps of 2mm per
linear metre of floor should be provided.
Plywood flooring
When fixing plywood flooring:
boards should be laid with the face grainat right angles to
fixings should have a maximum spacing of 150mm around
the supports
end joints should occur over joists or noggings
the perimeter and a maximum spacing of 300mm on

intermediate supports
an expansion gap of at least 1.5mm-2mmshould be allowed

between each panel.
Nails for fixing plywood should be in accordance with Table 8.
Table 8: Fixings for plywood floors

Plain wire nails (mm)
Annular ring shank nails (mm)
Minimum diameter
3.35
Minimum length
65
50
Minimum penetration
40
32

CHAPTER 6.4
16
Proprietary flooring
Proprietary flooring should be:
installed inaccordance with certification requirements.
Protection against damage

Floor decking should be stored:
on a hard base
under cover
indoors where possible.
Where timber decking is to be installed before thehome is watertight, themanufacturer should confirm suitability.
Floors should not be overloaded, especiallywith materials during construction, and be protected againstdamp, plaster splashesand
other damage.
Floating floors or floors between homes 6.4.20

Floating floors shall be separated from the main structureand surrounding walls by aresilient layer.
The structural component of floorsbetween homes may be concrete, steel,timber or a combination of these materials.
The floor finish should be isolated fromwalls and skirtings.
Where board materials are laid loose,joints in tongued and grooved boardsshould be glued.
Proprietary floating floor materialsand systems should be fixed inaccordance with:
relevant certification requirements.
6.4
building regulations
Steelwork
CHAPTER 6.5
Technical Requirements for steelwork which
supports masonry partitions and timber floors,
including trimmed openings.
6.5.1 Compliance
6.5.2
Design guidance
6.5.3
Steel grade and coatings
6.5.4
Installation and support
6.5.5 Padstones
6.5.6 Connections
6.5.7 Examples
01
01
03
05
05
06
07
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
Compliance 6.5.1
Steelwork shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Steelwork (including trimming to floor voids) for supporting masonry partitions or timber floors which comply with the guidance in this
chapter will generally be acceptable.
The information provided in this chapter is inaccordance with BS EN 1993-1-1 using grade S275 steel; however, more economical
or smaller beams may be designed by an engineer.
Steelwork, including its support and any connections, should be:
detailed in accordance with this chapter.
Design guidance 6.5.2
Steelwork shall be designed to support and transmit loads to the supporting structure without undue
movement or deflection. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) support of masonry partitions
b) support of timber floors, including trimmed openings.
Support of masonry partitions

Masonry partitions may be supported by steelwork selected in accordance with this chapter. Care should be taken to avoid masonry
supported by steelwork being partially supported or out of true.
Conditions for Tables 1 and 2

Steel beams in accordance with Tables 1 and 2 of this chapter will generally be acceptable for the support of masonry partitions
where the following conditions are met:
The partition is of one of the types detailed in Table 1.
The partition is built centrally on the steelwork beam and is
6.5
less than 2.7m in height.
The span of the steel beam is less than 4m.
Steel beams only support the weight of the partition

and self-weight.
Brickwork or blockwork (workface size 440mm x 215mm)

supporting the steel beam has a minimum strength of 2.8N/
mm2 and the beam supports do not occur over a door or
window opening.
Padstones are provided where required, in accordance

with Table 6.
Where any of the conditions are not met, steelwork should be designed in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Method of applying tables:
Ensure that all conditions apply.
Identify the masonry partition construction and thickness.
Use Table 1 to establish the load per metre run.
Check the span of the beam(s).
Use Table 2 to determine a suitable steel section size.
Use Table 6 to determine if padstones are required.
An example is provided at the end of this chapter.
Table 1: Load of partition to be supported

Type of masonry for supported partition
(not more than 2.7m high
and plastered both sides)
Maximum masonry
density (kg/m3)
Dense masonry
2000
Medium masonry
1400
Lightweight masonry
800
Structural thickness (mm)

100
90
75
6.8
6.2
5.4
5.1
4.8
4.2
3.5
3.3
2.9
Load (kN/m run)
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
Table 2: Size of steel beam supporting partition

Partition load (from Table 1)
(kN/m run)
Clear span of beam (m)
Smallest suitable universal beam size

(mm x mm x kg/m)
Less than 3
Up to 4
Over 4
127 x 76 x 13
3 to 5
Up to 3
3 to 3.5
3.5 to 4
Over 4
127 x 76 x 13
152 x 89 x 16
178 x 102 x 19
Up to 2.5
2.5 to 3
3 to 4
Over 4
127 x 76 x 13
152 x 89 x 16
178 x 102 x 19
5 to 7
(2)
(2)
(2)
Notes
1
For spans up to 4m, universal column 152mm x 152mm x 23kg/m (smallest size available) may be used.
2
For spans over 4m, beams should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Support of timber floors, including trimmed openings

Timber floors may be supported by steelwork selected in
accordance with this chapter and should include full allowance
for the shrinkage of timber joists.
min. 12mm projection
min. 2mm projection
Conditions for Tables 3 and 7

Steel beams in accordance with Tables 3 and 7 will be acceptable to NHBC for the support of floors, where the following
conditions are met:
Any lightweight partition, such as plasterboard on timber
chipboard, oriented strand board or plywood) on timber joists

and the ceiling is plasterboard with a plaster skim coat or a
plastic finish (Artex or similar).
Allowance has been made of 0.5kN/m2 for self-weight

(floor and ceiling load).
The floor does not support masonry partitions.
studwork or proprietary product, is non load-bearing.
Padstones are provided where required in accordance

with Table 6.
Clear span of beam does not exceed 4.4m.
Connections between steelwork beams are in accordance

with clause 6.5.6, or are designed by an engineer.
The floor support is one of the methods shown in Figure 1.
Where any of the conditions are not met, steelwork should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Method of applying tables:
Use Figure 1 to determine the area supported by
Use Table 7 to determine if padstones are required.
Where steel beam-to-steel connections are required,
the beam(s).
Check the span of the beam(s).
Use Table 3 to determine a suitable steelsection size.
refer to the connections in Clause 6.5.6.
Ensure that all conditions apply.
Figure 1: Effective areas supported by steel beams

B
A
wall
under
wall
under
B
A
A
B
void
B
Beam
AA
Effective area
Beam
AA
BB
Effective area
Beam
AA
Effective area
BB
6.5
The floor construction is of decking (softwood boarding,
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
A
A
B
void
Effective area
BB
void
B
B
Beam
AA
Beam
AA
A
void
C
Effective area
Beam
AA
BB
BB
CC
CC
C
Effective area
Where any area shown as void contains a staircase, add 2m2 to theeffective area supported by any beam which fully or partially
supports that staircase.
Table 3: Size of steel beam supporting timber floor
6.5
Effective area
supported (m2)
Effective trimmer span

= clear span + 100mm (m)
Smallest suitable steel section size (mm x mm x kg/m)

Universal beam
Universal column
0 to 20
0 to 2.0
127 x 76 x 13
152 x 152 x 23
0 to 20
20 to 30
2 to 2.5
127 x 76 x 13
152 x 89 x 16
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
0 to 10
10 to 20
20 to 30
2.5 to 3
127 x 76 x 13
152 x 89 x 16
178 x 102 x 19
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
0 to 10
10 to 30
30 to 40
3 to 3.5
127 x 76 x 13
178 x 102 x 19
203 x 133 x 25
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 30
0 to 10
10 to 20
20 to 30
30 to 40
40 to 50
3.5 to 4
152 x 89 x 16
178 x 102 x 19
203 x 102 x 23
203 x 102 x 30
*
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 30
152 x 152 x 37
0 to 10
10 to 20
20 to 30
30 to 40
40 to 50
4 to 4.5
203 x 102 x 23
203 x 133 x 25
203 x 133 x 30
*
*
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 23
152 x 152 x 30
152 x 152 x 37
203 x 203 x 46
*Beams should be designed by an engineer in accordance withTechnical Requirement R5.
Steel grade and coatings 6.5.3

Steelwork shall be specified to provide sufficient strength, durability, and fire resistance.
The design should detail the method of fixing or connecting structural steelwork. The guidance given in this chapter applies to
steelwork which is to be bolted (using black bolts) or not connected.
Steelwork should be in accordance with the guidance in this chapter and:
BS 4 Part 1 Structural steel sections: Specification for

hot-rolled sections, or
BS 4848 Specification for hot-rolled structural steel

sections.
To ensure adequate durability in the environment it will be exposed to steelwork should:
have a protective coating system applied before being

delivered to site
comply with the level of fire resistance required by

Where welding is to be carried out, the protective coating system specified by the designer should be used.
Further guidance on the protection of structural steel is given in BS EN ISO 12944 Paints and varnishes. Corrosion protection of
steel structures by protective paint systems and BS EN ISO 14713 Protection against corrosion of iron and steel in structures.
Decorative finishes should be compatible with the protective coat specification. The designer should determine compatibility
in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations. Chapter 9.5 Painting and decorating contains further guidance for
decorative paint finishes to steelwork.
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
Table 4: Atmospheric corrosivity category for component groups in different locations and exposure conditions
Component group Location
Description of exposure condition
Atmospheric corrosivity
External
Above splash zone
C4 or C5(1)
At ground level within splash zone

(up to 150mm above ground)
C5(2)
Below ground level
C5(2)
Unventilated
C3
Ventilated
C2
Outside a home
Outside or basement
Internal
Sub-floor void
Internal
(3)
Kitchen/bathroom, etc. Moist humid conditions protected against condensation C2
Internal/external
Kitchen/bathroom, etc. Moist humid conditions exposed to condensation
C2
Rooms other than

Warm dry
kitchen/bathroom, etc.
C2
In roof void
Unheated dry
C2
Faade
Embedded or partially embedded in building envelope
C5
Notes
1
For construction located within 500m of coastal shoreline.
2
Alternatively, steelwork may be encased in concrete.
3
For steelwork not in contact with the ground.
Alternatively, guidance on suitable atmospheric corrosivity categories (C1 C5) and appropriate protective coatings for domestic
construction may be based on the recommendations given on the website www.steelconstruction.info. A site specific assessment
is required in order to determine an appropriate classification level for the steelwork. A suitable protective coating specification is to
be determined by the designer in accordance with the coating manufacturers recommendations.
Table 5: Protective coatings for hot rolled structural steelwork for atmospheric corrosivity category (recommended for housing
Atmospheric Surface
corrosivity
preparation(4)
and risk
Protective coating(1, 2, 3 & 5)

Material
Site or Making good of

Minimum coating thickness Number factory damaged areas of
(d.f.t.) / weight(6 & 7)
of coats applied protective coating
C1
Very low
N/A
None required.
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
C2
Low
Thoroughly clean High build zinc

surface prior to
phosphate epoxy
abrasive blast
primer(8)
cleaning to Sa 2.
80 m(9)
1 or 2
Factory
Thoroughly wire brush

damaged areas and
build up coats using the
same materials and to
the same d.f.t.
C3
Medium
Thoroughly clean
surface prior to
abrasive blast
cleaning to
Sa 2.
High build zinc

80 m(9)
phosphate epoxy
(8)
primer, followed
by high build
120 m
recoatable epoxy
micaceous iron
oxide (MIO)
(200 m in total)
Factory
Thoroughly wire brush

damaged areas and
build up coats using the
same materials and to
the same d.f.t.
C4(10)
High
Hot dip
galvanize to
BS EN ISO 1461
460 gms/m
Factory
To be determined by the
designer in accordance
with the manufacturers
recommendations.
C5(10)
Very high
Hot dip
galvanize to
BS EN ISO 1461
710 gms/m
Factory
To be determined by the
designer in accordance
with the manufacturers
recommendations.
Notes
1 W
here steelwork is to be given a decorative finish, the protective coat is to be compatible with the decorative finish.
Manufacturers recommendations should be followed.
2
Where steelwork is to be protected by intumescent paint for fire purposes, manufacturers recommendations should be followed.
3
All fixings and fittings to the structural steel elements are to be protected against corrosion in a manner that is both commensurate and compatible with the
protective coatings.
4
Surface preparation to BS EN ISO 12944-4.
5
Coating thicknesses given represent nominal dry film thickness (d.f.t.).
6
Thicknesses and weights shown represent the coating to be applied to each face of a steel section.
7
Epoxy primers have a limited time for over-coating. Manufacturers recommendations should be followed.
8
80 m can be in one coat or as 20 m pre-fabrication primer plus 60 m post-fabrication primer.
9
Alternatively, use products manufactured from austenitic stainless steel in accordance with the recommendations of BS EN 1993-1-4:2006.
6.5
applications only)
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
Where shop-applied protective coatings have been damaged, the coatings should be made good on site prior to being built into the
works, as indicated in Table 5 Making good of damaged areas.
Where steelwork is to be welded, the protective coatingsystem specified by the designer should be used.
Where steelwork is to be protected byintumescent paint for fire purposes, this should be in accordance with the
Installation and support 6.5.4

Steelwork shall be installed to achieve the required structural performance. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) section size and grade detailed in the design
b) steelwork support.
Section size and grade detailed in the design

When materials are delivered to site, they should be checked to ensure conformity with:
engineers design, or
steelwork sizes in this chapter.
Steelwork support
Beam supports should not occur above window or door openings. Bearings for steelwork supported on masonry should be:
100mm minimum
clean, dry and level.
Padstones 6.5.5
Steelwork shall be supported by padstones where required to distribute point loads safely to the supporting
structure without undue movement or deflection.
Where a steel beam is supported by masonry, a padstone may be required to spread the load over a larger areato
prevent overstressing. Padstones should be in accordance with:
the engineers design, or
the guidance given in this chapter.
6.5
Where the inner leaf of the cavity wall contributes to the overall thermal performance of the wall, padstones should:
have similar thermal properties to themasonry used for the
not create a cold bridge.
rest of the inner leaf, or
Table 6: Size of padstones (for steel supporting partition walls)

Type of masonry for supported
partition (not more than 2.7m high
and plastered both sides)
Thickness of wall supporting beam (mm)
Dense masonry
215
190
185
180
165
155
150
Medium masonry
155
140
135
130
120
110
150
Lightweight masonry
95
85
80
75
70
70
150
100
125
140
150
190
215
Minimum depth of padstone

(mm)
Minimum length of padstone (mm)
Notes
1
Padstones are not necessary where the flange dimension of the beam exceeds the length of the padstone given in this table.
2
When steelwork is in line with the wall supporting it, i.e. when acting as a lintel over an opening:
the flange dimension of the beam should not be more than 50mm greater than the thickness of the supporting wall
the minimum length of padstone should be 200mm
the padstone depth should match the coursing of adjacent masonry
the web of the beam should be over the centre of the wall.
3
The minimum length of steel bearing onto padstone should be 100mm.
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
Table 7: Size of padstones (for steel supporting floors)

Effective area supported
(as used in Table 3) (m2)
Minimum padstone size (mm)

Thickness of wall supporting steel beam (mm)
Up to 105
105 to 155
156 to 216
Length
Depth
Length
Depth
Length
Depth
Up to 10
95
150
80
150
70
150
10 to 20
185
150
160
150
140
150
20 to 30
275
150
240
150
210
150
30 to 40
365
215
320
150
280
150
40 to 50
455
300
400
215
345
215
Notes
1
Padstones are not necessary where the flange dimension of the beam exceeds the length of the padstone given in this table.
2
When steelwork is in line with the wall supporting it, i.e. when acting as a lintel over an opening:
the flange dimension of the beam should not be more than 50mm greater than the thickness of the supporting wall
the minimum length of padstone should be 200mm
the padstone depth should match the coursing of adjacent masonry, and
the web of the beam should be over the centre of the wall.
Padstones should be formed in one unit with a minimum compressive strength of 10 N/mm2 from:
in-situ concrete
precast concrete
concrete blocks
clay bricks, or
engineering bricks (when less than 215mm x 100mm).
Connections 6.5.6
Connections shall be chosen and installed to achieve the required structural performance.
Steelwork connections should:
where other forms of connection (e.g. high strength friction

grip bolts) are required, be designed by an engineer in
accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Only weld, cut or drill steelwork where it isrequired by the design.

Bolts for connections should comply with the design information and relevant British Standards, including:
BS 4190
Specification for ISO metric black hexagon bolts, screws and nuts.
BS 4395
Specification for high strength friction grip bolts and associated nuts and washers for structural engineering.
BS 4604
Specification for use of high strength friction grip bolts in structural steelwork.
BS 5135
Specification for arc welding of carbon and carbon-manganese steels.
The connection methods detailed in this chapter are suitable for connecting steelbeams used to support floor loads only, using black
bolts or welding.
25mm
25mm
cleats from 70x70x6mm

rolled steel angle
one on each side
35mm
50mm
cleats joined to beams

with 6No. M20 bolt with
washers or 6mm fillet
weld all round
35mm
cleats from 70x70x6mm

rolled steel angle
one on each side
=
80mm
min.
170mm
to
230mm
cleats joined to beams

with 3No. M20 bolt with
washers or 6mm fillet
weld all round
170mm
max.
10mm max.
10mm max.
Joints between beams of similar size

(neither beam deeper than 170mm)
Joints between beams of similar size

(beams 170mm to 2390mm deep)
6.5
be in accordance with the guidance in this chapter, or
Steelwork 2016
CHAPTER 6.5
Conditions for the use of this method are:
beams should only support timber floors in accordance with

this chapter
both beams have been chosen from Table 3
beams do not differ in depth by morethan 40mm.
Connections between steel sections should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5,
where the above conditions are not met.
Example 6.5.7
1 Using information about the supported wall and Table 1:
load per metre run = 4.2kN/m
Wall supported by steel beam:

75mm thick
medium density (1200kg/m3)
plastered both sides
2.6m high.
2 Using the load per metre run, the span of the beam
and Table 2:
suitable section size = 178 x 102 x 19 UB

52 x 152 x 23 UC is not suitable as it is too wide for the

1
inner padstone/wall.
3 Using information about the wall supporting the beam

(100mm thick), the walls supported by the beam
(medium density block) and Table 6:
outer
padstone
100mm
inner
padstone
Steel beam:
opening 3.8m
100mm
min 100mm bearing at each end.
Results from example calculation:

Minimum padstone size
155mm long
150 mm deep
Outer padstone (beam at right angles to wall)

Minimum length
Minimum depth
Thickness
155mm long(1)
150mm
100mm, to match blockwork(2)
6.5
Inner padstone (beam in line with the wall)

Minimum length
Minimum depth
Thickness
200mm (see note 2 to Table 6)

150 mm
100mm, to match blockwork.
Notes
1
This is greater than the flange dimension of the steel section obtained in 2 above 102mm therefore a padstone is required to distribute the load.
2
The actual length and depth of a padstone could be greater to suit masonry coursing.
Staircases
CHAPTER 6.6
Technical Requirements for staircases.
6.6.1 Compliance
6.6.2
6.6.3
Fire precautions
6.6.4 Lighting
6.6.5
Safe transmission of loads
6.6.6
Headroom and width
6.6.7 Design of steps
6.6.8 Landings
6.6.9 Guarding
6.6.10 Handrails
6.6.11 Timber staircases
6.6.12 Timber and wood-based products
6.6.13 Finished joinery
6.6.14 Concrete staircases
6.6.15 Steel staircases
6.6.16 Staircase units
6.6.17 Fixings
6.6.18 Protection
01
01
01
01
01
02
02
04
04
05
05
06
06
06
07
07
07
07
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Compliance 6.6.1
Staircases shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Staircases which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Layout of stairs.
Dimensions covering width, rise andgoing,
The length of time before formwork can be removed from
handrail height, etc.
Fixing details of stairs, treads, risers, strings, balustrades,

newel posts and handrails.
Curing times of grouted connections.
in-situ concrete stairs.
Fire precautions 6.6.3

Staircases shall provide the necessary means of escape in case of fire.
Timber staircases are acceptable in a single family home where there are no more than four storeys, excluding the basement.
Houses of three or more storeys, and flats in buildings of three or more storeys, should comply with the relevant building regulations.
Ventilation of staircases serving flats in buildings of three or more storeys should comply with BS 9999.
Lighting 6.6.4
Staircases shall have lighting provided to ensure safe use of the staircase.
6.6
Artificial light sources should be provided to all staircases and landings within homes and common areas, and be controlled by
two-way switching. In common areas, automatic light-sensitive controls may be used, provided lights can also be switched to
two-way manually.
Where staircases are lit by glazing, any glass below the minimum guarding height should be:
protected by a balustrade or railing
glass (toughened or laminated), or
constructed of glass blocks.

Staircases shall be properly supported and transmit loads to the supporting structure without undue
movement, deflection or deformation. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) staircase construction
b) differential movement.
Staircase construction
Stairs and staircases should comply with BS 5395 : Parts 1 and 2 and Table 1.
Table 1: Standards for stair construction

Type of staircase
Relevant standard
Timber staircases
(straight flights, or landings)
BS 585.
The method of fixing flights to the surrounding structure should be specified.
BS EN 1992-1-1 and Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement
Should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
BS EN 1993-1-1.
Reinforced concrete staircases

Steel staircases
Proprietary staircases
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Differential movement
When considering differential movement in relation to setting out, levels and finishes, allowances should be made for:
casting tolerances
deflection under load
foundation settlement
creep and shrinkage
storey height.
Headroom and width 6.6.6

Staircases shall ensure adequate provision for:
a) headroom
b) minimum unobstructed width.
Headroom
Stairs should have a minimum 2m clear head room (H) over the
entire length and width of the stairway and landing, as measured
vertically from the pitch line.
The overall floor opening should be checked:
for size to accept the stairs
to allow for sufficient headroom.
landing
pitch line
6.6
Minimum unobstructed width

In Northern Ireland and Scotland, stair widths should be in accordance with building regulations.
Where staircases form part of a means of escape, reference should be made to the relevant building regulations.
Design of steps 6.6.7
Also see: BS 5395
Steps shall be constructed to allow the safe use of the staircase. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) pitch
b) steps
c) tapered treads and winders.
Pitch
The maximum angle of pitch of a stairway should not exceed:
42 for private stairs
38 for common or access stairs.
pitch line
The dimensions for maximum rise and minimum going should be

as in Table 2.
angle of pitch
Table 2: Maximum rise and going

Type of stairs
Maximum rise (mm)
Minimum going (mm)
Private stairs
220
220
Common stairs (not Scotland)
190
250
Access stairs (Scotland)
190
250
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Staircases should be accurately located and fixed with the string at the correct angle to ensure all treads are level.
Stairs should be dimensioned so that the rise (R) and the going (G) is between 550mm and 700mm when using the equation:
2R + G (see Chart 1).
Chart 1: Dimensions for rise and going

220
244
210
200
198
243
190
187
180
Rise (mm)
170
160
150
140
130
120
110
100
220
230
240
250
260
270
280
290
300 310
Going (mm)
320
330
340
350
360
370
380
6.6
private and common stairs

private stairs
Steps
In each flight:
the tread should be level
the rise and going should be consistent
the thicknesses of screeds and floor finishes should be

taken into account to ensure that all risers are equal
the treads should overlap by a minimum of 16mm,

where the riser is open.
unequal rises
do not comply
16mm overlap min
stair finish
Gaps 100mm max.
all risers
equal
floor finish
Where stairs are open to the weather, or may otherwise become wet, one of the following should be specified:
A non-slip finish.
A non-slip insert to each tread.
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Tapered treads and winders

The rise of tapered treads should be the same as that of
adjacent parallel treads. The going should be:
equal
spacing
uniform and no less than the going of the associated straight
centre line
flight, measured from the centre line of the straight flight
a minimum of 50mm at the narrowest point.
Landings
centre line
6.6.8
Landings shall allow safe use of the staircase.

Landings should be:
bottom landing
provided at the top and bottom of every flight
at least the same depth and width as the width of the stair.
400mm min.
Door swings should not obstruct landings. A door may open

across the bottom landing of private stairs where the:
home is not over two storeys high
the swing is a minimum of 400mm from the first tread.

Pivot windows should not obstruct the landing area or stair flight when they are opened.
Guarding 6.6.9
6.6
Staircases shall have guarding to prevent accidents by falling.

Guarding:
is required where the drop is more than 600mm at any point

along the open sides of stairs and landings
is not required where the rise is less than 600mm and the
stair or landing is not a means of escape
may be required where a stair abuts anopening window,

to comply with relevant building regulations.
Where required, guarding should be:
provided along the full length of the flight, including landings
capable of resisting a horizontal force of 0.36kN/m at its
a solid wall or balustrading
minimum required height
Table 3: Guarding height

Type of stairs
Flights minimum guarding height (mm)
Landings minimum guarding height (mm)
Private stairs (England, Wales,

Northern Ireland and Isle of Man)
900
900
Private stairs (Scotland)
840
900
Common stairs
900
1100
Balustrading should:
100mm diameter spheres cannot pass through
be fixed securely
not be climbed easily by children
not have openings larger than 100mm in diameter.

Where guardrails or balustrades are long, newel posts may not
be sufficient to transfer the horizontal forces to the structure, and
intermediate posts may be required. The method of fixing newels
should be specified, e.g. through-bolted to joists.
100mm diameter spheres
should not pass through
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Where glazing forms part of the guarding it should:
be toughened, laminated or glass blocks
not be wired glass.
Handrails 6.6.10
Handrails and balustrading shall be correctly located and fixed to provide a safe handhold, and constructed to
reduce the risk of being climbed or fallen through.
A handrail is required for flights of stairs that rise over 600mm.
The handrail (throughout the full length) should:
be securely fixed and located in accordance with

the design
be a vertical distance of 900mm-1000mm (or

840mm-1000mm in Scotland), above the pitch line
have a 25mm minimum clearance from any surface
ensure a firm handhold
ensure that trapping or injuring is prevented
have ends shaped or returned to the wall
be continuous, smooth and unobstructed.
25mm
min.
In Northern Ireland, where winders are used, building regulations require a handrail to be fitted on the side where tapered treads
have the longest going.
Fixings
Fixing methods for balustrading should allow for a degree of
tolerance. It may be preferable to take measurements from the
completed staircase before manufacture. This should ensure
that the fixings are positioned correctly and allow for variations in
the surrounding structure.
6.6
Design information on the spacing of bolt fixings for balustrades

or handrails should be followed. Balustrading for concrete
staircases may be:
grouted into preformed holes or pockets
bolted or screwed into predrilled holes
bolted to brackets cast into the concrete.

Care should be taken when using expanding fixings near the
edges of concrete.
dimensions should be
sufficient to avoid fracture
Timber staircases 6.6.11

Timber staircases shall be securely fixed to the supporting structure and have secure component parts.
The top nosing should be:
level with the floor decking

Strings should be:
glued to newel posts
secured with dowels or screws.
fixed firmly.
nosing securely seated and
fixed level with floor decking
Landings should be framed to provide full support and solid

fixings for the tops of flights, nosings, newels, apron linings, etc.
Newel posts should be plumb, and all components, including
strings, treads and risers, newel posts, balustrading and
handrails, be fixed securely. Particular attention should be given
to fixing winders.
string securely
fixed to wall
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Timber and wood-based products 6.6.12

Staircases shall use timber and wood-based materials of sufficient quality and durability.
Timber for joinery should:
comply with BS 1186 : Part 1
be class 3 or better
be free of resinous knots, splits, shakes and wanes.
The following should meet BS 1186 : Part 2:
fits of joints
construction of joints
moving parts
gluing
laminating
construction of finger joints
surface finish.
Materials should be in accordance with the guidance given in Table 4.
Table 4: Materials for staircases

Material
Requirements
Plywood should be used for risers only
BS EN 636
Chipboard
BS EN 312 Type 5
BS EN 300 OSB3
Fibre building boards
BS 1142 : Part 2
Glued laminated timber structural members
BS 4169
Timber which is to be exposed to the weather should be:
naturally durable, or
pretreated with preservative against fungal attack in

accordance with Chapter 3.3 Timber preservation.
Staircases shall have finished joinery free from unsightly blemishes.

Finished joinery should be free from splits, knocks and other damage which would impair its structural performance or finish.
Nails should be punched below the surface of the wood and stopped.
Handrails should:
have a smooth finish and be free from rough edges
not have any sharp edges, including brackets or

screw heads.
Concrete staircases 6.6.14
Concrete staircases shall be suitably constructed using appropriate materials to provide

satisfactory performance.
Precast construction
Account should be taken of:
workmanship, particularly at the top and bottom of eachflight
accurate locationand levelling of units.
In-situ construction
Guidance for in-situ concrete can be found in Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement.
Shuttering for concrete elements or connections should be constructed to ensure a consistent rise and going.
Chairs or spacing blocks should be used to provide cover to reinforcement in accordance with Table 5.
Table 5: Cover for reinforcement used in concrete stairs

Location
Minimum cover (mm)
Internal staircases
25
Staircases open to the weather
50
6.6
Finished joinery 6.6.13
Staircases 2016
CHAPTER 6.6
Formwork should be struck in accordance with the design information. This is normally:
after 28 days for soffit and support formwork.
after 24 hours for side formwork

Floor Finishes
For both precast and in-situ staircases, allowance should be made for:
the thickness of finish at the top and bottom of flights
preformed nosings or non-slip finishes, where specified.
Steel staircases 6.6.15

Steel staircases and the supporting structure shall be set out and constructed in accordance with the
For steel staircases:
the manufacturers assembly and erection instructions

should be available and followed
the supporting structure should be constructed within

relevant tolerance limits set for the steel staircase
treads should be checked for level
correct fixings should be used.
Staircase units 6.6.16

Proprietary staircases and associated components shall comply with the design.
Proprietary staircases and associated components should:
be as detailed in the design information
be suitable for their intended location
comply with Technical Requirement R3.
Manufacturers of staircases and balustrading, etc. should:
be sent all relevant drawings and other information to ensure

their products meet the design requirements
make allowance for tolerances or actual site dimensions
use accurate floor-to-floor dimensions
account for floor finishes to structural floors and

staircase treads.
6.6
Fixings 6.6.17
Staircases shall have fixings of adequate strength and durability, and comply with the design.
Fixings should be in accordance with the design and the manufacturers reccomendations, including:
timber and steel staircases
newel posts
handrails
guarding and balustrading.
Protection 6.6.18
On completion, staircases shall be undamaged.
When storing staircases, they should be:
stacked on bearers
suitably protected from the weather.

Timber staircases should be fixed in place only when the
building is weathertight.
Staircases, stair treads, nosings, balustrades and handrails may
be protected with timber strips, plywood or building paper.
treads and nosing protected
Doors, windows and glazing

CHAPTER 6.7
Technical Requirements for doors, windows and glazing,
including where coupled door and window frame
assemblies are contained within a single storey.
Coupled door and window frame assemblies
(including spandrel panels) which are:
one storey or more in height, or
not contained between a structural floor and ceiling

should be designed in accordance with
Chapter 6.9 Curtain walling and cladding.
6.7.1 Compliance
6.7.2
6.7.3
In service performance
6.7.4 Installation
6.7.5
Non-timber windows and doors
6.7.6
Timber doors and windows
6.7.7 Glazing
6.7.8 Security
6.7.9 Ironmongery
6.7.10 Material storage and protection
6.7.11 Completed work
01
01
01
02
03
04
05
07
08
09
09
Doors, windows and glazing 2016

CHAPTER 6.7
Compliance 6.7.1
Doors, windows and glazing shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Doors, windows and glazing which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Design and specification information should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers.
In-service performance 6.7.3

Doors, windows and glazing shall be designed and specified to ensure adequate in-service performance.
a) weathertightness
b) fire safety
c) thermal break
d) strength
e) resistance to movement, shrinkage and the
effects of moisture.
Weathertightness
Doors and windows should be installed correctly to ensure adequate in-service performance. Windows and external doors exposed
to wind-driven rain should be constructed and detailed to ensure they remain weathertight, including at interfaces with
the structure.
BS 6375 contains recommendations for the classification of window components according to their resistance under test to air and
water penetration, and wind pressure.
Joints between multiple door and window frame assemblies should be:
part of an engineered system
formed using suitable materials in accordance with the

6.7
Vertical and horizontal DPCs should be provided around the frame in accordance with Chapter 6.1 External masonry walls and
Chapter 6.2 External timber framed walls.
DPCs should:
be correctly installed
extend approximately25mm into the cavity
be continuous for the full height of the frame.

When placing frames for external elements in openings, ensure:
the headof the frame is protected by the lintel
throatings in sill members are notobstructed by the
water bar and weatherboard

provided for external doors
wall face.
Additional precautions include:
setting the frame back from the facade
building a projecting porch
providing a rain check groove to inward opening
throating clear
wall face
sealant
throating clear
wall face
external door frames
fixing weatherboards and water bars toexternal doors,

but ensuring the threshold isaccessible where appropriate.
DPC turned up at back

and ends of sills
sealant

CHAPTER 6.7
In Scotland, Northern Ireland and areas of very severe
exposure, check reveals should be used, and an appropriate
sealant applied between door/window frames and the structure.
3D
12mm min.
overlap
to frame
sealant
sealant
25mm
rebated or check reveal in
areas of very severe exposure
Fire safety
model 15
Fire-resisting doors and positive self-closing devices should be fitted where they are required by building regulations.
Thermal break
Metal windows should incorporate a thermal break.
Strength
Door frames, windows and their fittings should be adequate to withstand operational loads.
Structural loads should be carried on lintels, beams or appropriate structural elements. Where frames are required to carry
structural loads, they should be designed accordingly.
Resistance to movement, shrinkage and the effects of moisture

Doors and windows should be designed to:
avoid significant distortion,such as twisting and bowing
be moisture resistant, including window boards.
Installation 6.7.4
Doors and windows shall be correctly located and securely fixed. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) workmanship and fixing
b) hanging doors and opening lights
c) general ironmongery
d) door hinges
e) window boards
f) bay windows.
Workmanship and fixing

Window and door frames should be fixed:
solidly, level and plumb
using door/window cramps, orplugged and screwed
at maximum spacing of 600mm and within 150mm of the top

and bottom (alternative locations andfixings are acceptable
where they provide the same structural stability)
using packers atfixing points where required.

full architrave
Internal door frames and linings should:
match the thickness of the wall, partitions and finishes
be blocked off walls wherever possible, to allow for
be securely fixed, to prevent curling.
full architraves
Timber trim should be:
sufficiently wide to mask joints
fixed to minimise movement andshrinkage.
Architraves should be:
parallel to frames and linings
accurately mitred, or scribed, to fit neatly and tightly
fixed with an equal margin to eachframe member
fixed securely.
When fixing components:
nails should be punched below the surfaceof the timber with
damage should be avoided.
holes stopped
6.7
during use
take account of timber shrinkage

CHAPTER 6.7
Hanging doors and opening lights
Opening lights and door leaves should:
hang square within the frame or lining
fit neatly with minimum gaps.
A ventilation grille, or a gap at the bottom of the door may be required for ventilation, in accordance with building regulations.
Where a standard flush door is reduced in height, the bottom rail should be replaced where necessary.
General ironmongery
Hinges and other ironmongery should be:
housed neatly andflush with the surface
supplied with a full set of matching screws.
Locks should:
turn easily
not be fitted in mortises too tightly
have keyholes which are properly aligned
allow a minimum 25mm clearance between the door handle

and the door stop.
Door hinges
To reduce twisting, doors should be hung on hinges in accordance with Table 1.
Table 1: Door hinges

Type of door
Hinges
External
1 pairs x 100mm
Internal door
1 pair x 75mm
Fire door
In accordance with the door manufacturers recommendations
Airing or cylinder cupboard
1 pairs x 75mm
Window boards
Window boards should:
6.7
have a flat and level top surface
be fixed close to the frame and adequately secured against
be of a moisture resistant grade where MDF is used.
twisting and other movement, particularly any back slope

towards the frame
Bay windows
Bay windows should be:
adequatelysupported and secured to the structure,
properly linked toDPCs at reveals.
to prevent sagging or twisting
Non-timber windows and doors 6.7.5

Doors and windows of materials other than timber shall be in accordance with the appropriate standards.
Relevant standards include the following:
BS 4873
Specification for aluminium alloy windows.
BS 6510
Specification for steel windows, window boards and doors.
BS 7412
Plastics windows made from PVC-U extruded hollow profiles.
BS 7413
White PVC-U extruded hollow profiles with heat welded corner joints for plastics windows: materials type A.
BS 7414
White PVC-U extruded hollow profiles with heat welded corner joints for plastics windows: materials type B.

CHAPTER 6.7
Timber doors and windows 6.7.6
Timber and wood-based materials shall be of suitable quality and be naturally durable or suitably treated.
a) classification and use
b) drying shrinkage
c) preparation and finish.
Classification and use

Timber windows should:
comply with BS 644
have a minimum 15mm rebate where double glazed units

are to be installed.
Timber and wood-based materials should comply with the relevant requirements of BS EN 942 as follows:
Glazing beads
European
Casements and sash windows
J classes
All other elements
Table 1 of BS EN 942
In England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, planted stops are not permitted on frames to external doors.
External doors should be 42.5mm minimum (44mm nominal) in thickness.
Drying shrinkage
To minimise drying shrinkage, the moisture content of joinery, when fixed, should not exceed the value given in Table 2.
Table 2: Moisture content of joinery

Joinery items
Moisture content (%)
Windows and frames
17
Intermittent heating.
Continuous heating.
In close proximity to a heat source.
15
12
9
6.7
Internal joinery:
On delivery, the moisture content should be within +/-2% of the values specified.
Preparation and finish

The following elements of timber doors and windows should be of naturally durable timber or timber pretreated against
fungal decay:
External door frames.
Windows.
Timber surrounds to metal windows.
External doors, other than flush doors.
Where material is:
to be painted, it should be primedbefore fixing
to be stained, it should have the first coat applied before

delivery to site.
Compatibility between preservative treatment or primer, with glazing compounds, sealants and finishes, should be checked with the
relevant manufacturers.
Prefabricated items should comply with the relevant parts of BS 1186 : Part 2, including:
the fit and construction of jointsand moving parts
the construction of finger joints
gluing and laminating
surface finishes.

CHAPTER 6.7
Glazing 6.7.7
Glass and the method of glazing shall be installed in accordance with the design and to ensure adequate
in-service performance. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) standards
b) glazing compounds
c) glazing systems
d) insulating glass units
e) condition before installation

f) sizing
g) rebates
h) bead glazing.
Standards
Where there is a high risk of accidental breakage, glazing should be designed and selected to comply with the relevant safety
recommendations as follows:
England, Wales and the Isle of Man
Approved Document N
Northern Ireland
Technical Booklet V
Scotland
BS 6262
Where there is a particular risk (such as door side panels or low level glazing) and where fully glazed panels can be mistaken
for doors, toughened or laminated glass, or other materials such as acrylic or polycarbonate, may be required.
The glass supplier should provide documentation to confirm:
the properties of the glass used
compliance with the appropriate British Standards.
Glazed materials and units should be:
compatible withthe levels of safety and security that

are required
identified as safety glass with a permanent marking

(includesglazed shower/bath screens).
Glazing should ensure adequate in-service performance. The quality and thickness of normal window glass should:
be specified to suit the design wind loads for the location
comply with BS 6262 and relevantdata sheets issued by the

Glass and Glazing Federation.
Glazing and materials should comply with appropriate British Standards, including:
6.7
BS 5516
Code of practice for patent glazing
BS 6262
Code of practice for glazing of buildings
BS EN 1279
Glass in buildings-insulating glass units
BS EN 572
Annealed glass
BS EN 14449
Laminated glass
BS EN 12150
Toughened glass
BS EN 572
Wired glass
BS EN 1096
Low-e coated glasses, including hard and soft coated
Glazing compounds
Glazing compounds should:
be compatiblewith the frame finishes
be in accordance with the manufacturersrecommendations.
Linseed oil based putty should not be used in the installation of laminated glass or insulating glass units.
Glazing systems
Drained and vented systems
Drained and vented systems should be used for site fixed insulating glass units and where units greater than 1m2 are used, to allow
moisture that enters the glazing channel between the frame and the edge seal of the insulating glass unit to drain away and prevent
long-term moisture contact with the edge seal. Drained and vented systems should have:
a minimum 5mm gap between the frames lower rebate and

the edge seal of the insulating glass unit
adequate drainage and ventilation through holes,

slots or channels
the edge seal of the insulating glass unit

adequately protected.

CHAPTER 6.7
Fully bedded systems

Fully bedded systems are acceptable for factory glazing only where the insulated unit is less than 1m2, and should:
comply with the relevant parts of BS 8000,

BS 6262 and BRE Digest 453
not have gaps around the perimeter of the insulating

glass unit.
Partially bedded insulating glass units may be fixed on site where bedded at the top and sides, providing the rebate platform is
drained and vented.
Site glazed systems

Where doors and windows of materials other than timber are delivered to thesite unglazed, all glazing should becarried out in
accordance with themanufacturers instructions.
Appropriate fixing and sealing systemsshould include:
distance pieces, unless load-bearing tapes are used
setting blocks
location blocks, where required
appropriate beads
suitable glazing compounds, sealants,

gaskets and/or capping.
Beads
In external situations, the bottom beadshould:
project slightly over the rebateedge
be fixed to the rebate platform.
Insulating glass units

Insulating glass units should:
carry a CE mark to BS EN 1279 and have third-party

certification, e.g. BSI Kitemark
be checked to ensure they comply with the design, including

glass type, gas filling, edge seal type anddimensions
have a dual seal or a single seal of hot melt butyl and

desiccant in at least one long and one short section of the
spacer bar.
Condition before installation
water accumulating between sheets,which may cause
edge damage or scratching.
internal surfaces to become marked

Insulating glass units should be adequately protected when stored prior to installation.
Sizing
To account for thermal expansion, the following gaps should be provided:
3mm gap between the glass edge and the frame
5mm gap at the bottom bead fordrained systems.
Insulating glass units should not be cut orpunctured on site.
Rebates
Rebates for glass should be:
the correct size for the glazing
primed where timber
rigid and true.
Insulating glass units should be:
protected from sunlight at the edges by the frame
positioned to ensure the spacer bar is below the level of

theframes sightline.
Setting and location blocks should be ofa suitable and resilient material.
In drained and ventilated frames:
dimensions of holes and slots should be checked to ensure

that effective drainage can occur
drainagechannels in the rebate should be free from

obstructions that could prevent effective drainage.
Bead glazing
Beads and linings should be used for:
internal glazing
locations where shock absorption is required.
Beads should be fixed at a maximum of 150mm centres.
6.7
Glass and insulating glass units should beinspected for both visual defects and thosewhich could lead to premature failure.
Defects can be caused by:

CHAPTER 6.7
Security 6.7.8
Doors, door frames, windows and locks shall be designed and specified to improve their resistance to
unauthorised entry. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) locking functionality of main entrance doors
b) locking functionality of secondary access doors
c) opening limitation device
d) view outside
e) glazing
f) framed wall construction
g) door and frame connections
h) windows.
Locking functionality main entrance doors

All homes
Entrance doors of individual homes should be fitted with securely fixed locks or a multi point locking system, which:
has at least 1000 differs
if burst open, would notpull out without breaking the door
has a hardened steel bolt, or inserts, toprevent sawing
has a latch and deadlocking facility.
or its frame
Locking devices fitted to main entrance doors should permit emergency egress without the use of a key when the home
is occupied.
Homes with an alternative means of escape via a door
The door should be held closed on a latch.
Deadlocking should be operated by a key externally and

a handle or thumb turn internally (BS 8621 locks and
PAS 8621 multi point locks meet these requirements).
Enhanced security can be achieved by providing the facility

to deadlock the internal thumb turn when leaving the home
unoccupied (BS 10621 locks and PAS 10621 multi point
locks meet these requirements).
Homes opening directly to the outside without an alternative means of escapevia a door
The door should be held closed on a latch.

a handle or thumb turn internally (BS 8621 locks and
PAS 8621 multi point locks meet these requirements).
6.7
Homes opening onto a communalaccess without an alternative means ofescape
The door should be held closed with a roller bolt or a latch

operated by a handle internally and externally.
a handle or thumb turn internally (BS 8621 locks and PAS

8621 multi point locks meet these requirements).
Locking functionality secondary access doors

Side hung doors should:
be held closed on a latch operated by a handle

bothinternally and externally
have a deadlocking facility which can be operated by a key

both internally and externally; alternatively, a thumb turn may
be used internally (BS 3621 or BS 8621 (thumb turn) locks
and PAS 3621 or PAS 8621 (thumb turn) multi point locks
meet these requirements)
have bolts securely fixed at both the top and bottom of the
door on the internal opening edge (where multi point locking
systems are used, bolts may be omitted).
Sliding doors should:
be secured by way of a multi point locking system

with a minimum of three locking points, incorporating
mushroom-headed bolts, hook bolts or shoot bolts that
engage into the jamb or head, and sill of the door frame
have an anti-lift device fitted so that doors cannot be lifted

from their frame from the outside.
Opening limitation device

The main entrance door of individual homes should be fitted with a securely fixed opening limitation device.
In sheltered accommodation, openinglimitation devices should not inhibit emergency access. Alternative methodsfor residents to
identify and communicate with visitors without opening their door should be considered.

CHAPTER 6.7
View outside
There should be a means of giving a wideangle view of the area immediately outside the main entrance door of individual homes.
Acceptable methods include:
a through-door viewer
closed-circuit camera and displays (not connected to a TV).
clear glazing either to part of the door or a

convenient window
Glazing
Any glazing which, if broken, would permit release of the internal handle or thumb turn byhand or arm entry should be laminated.
Framed wall construction

Lightweight timber or steel framed walls next to doors fitted with locks operated internally with a handle or thumb turn should
incorporate either timber sheathing (minimum 9mm thick) or expanded metal, 600mm wide and the full height of the door.
Door and frame connections

Connections between door and/or frame components which can be easily released from the outside should not be used.
This includes accessible screw connections.
Windows
Opening lights on ground floor windows and others which are readily accessible from the outside may be fitted with lockable devices
which cannot be released without a key.
Ironmongery 6.7.9
Ironmongery shall be suitable for the intended use.
Ironmongery should be provided in accordance with the design. Materials used for critical functions should comply with the
appropriate standards, including:
Building hardware. Single-axis hinges. Requirements and test methods.
BS 3621
Thief resistant lock assembly. Key egress.
BS 8621
Thief resistant lock assembly. Keyless egress.
BS 10621
Thief resistant dual-mode lock assembly.
BS 4951
Specification for builders hardware: lock and latch furniture(doors).
BS 5872
Specification for locks and latches for doors in buildings.
BS EN 1154
Building hardware. Controlled door closing devices. Requirements and test methods.
6.7
BS EN 1935
Ironmongery for windows should besupplied as follows:
Hinges and fastenings of opening lights of windows should

be of a type which prevents them from being opened from
the outside when in the closed position.
Where the windows are required by building regulations to

have background ventilation, they may be fitted with trickle
vents or some other means of providing ventilation which
is controllable and located to avoid undue draughts.
Windows with night vent positions are not accepted
as meeting this requirement.
Where doors to rooms containing a bath or WC have a securing device, it should be of a type capable of being opened from the
outside in an emergency.
In sheltered accommodation, additional special provisions may be needed for all door locks, limiters and other fasteners, to enable
wardens to gain access when necessary.

CHAPTER 6.7
Material storage and protection 6.7.10

Joinery, door and window components shall be adequately protected against damp and decay. Issues to be
a) storage
b) cut ends.
Storage
Where joinery is stored on site, precautionsshould include:
avoiding wetting during unloading
stacking external joinery on bearersoff the ground and

covering withwaterproof material
storing internal joinery in a weather protectedcondition.
Cut ends
Where pretreated joinery is cut or adjusted on site, the affected
surfaces should be retreated with appropriate preservative in
accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
6.7
Completed work 6.7.11

Completed work shall be free from damage.
Work should be to an appropriate level of finishfor other trades. Finishing trades should not be relied upon to correct untidy work.
Completed work should be protected as follows:
Internal doors should be kept covered with polyethylene or

original wrapping.
Door frames and linings should be protected with timber

strips or plywood by a minimum of 1m above skirting level.
Thresholds and window sills should be covered.
Scaffolding and walkways should be kept away from frames.
Joinery should be protected from paint splashes and

other damage.
Temporary coverings should be removed after all other work

has been completed and before handover.
Fireplaces, chimneys and flues

CHAPTER 6.8
Technical Requirements for fireplaces,
chimneys and flues.
6.8.1 Compliance
6.8.2
6.8.3
Solid fuel fireplaces and hearths
6.8.4
Solid fuel combustion air
6.8.5
Solid fuel flue pipes
6.8.6
Solid fuel chimneys
6.8.7 Solid fuel terminals and outlets
6.8.8
Gas fireplaces and hearths
6.8.9
Gas combustion air
6.8.10 Gas flue pipes
6.8.11 Gas chimneys
6.8.12 Gas outlets and terminals
6.8.13 Oil fireplaces and hearths
6.8.14 Oil combustion air
6.8.15 Oil flue pipes
6.8.16 Oil chimneys
6.8.17 Oil outlets and terminals
6.8.18 All fireplaces and hearths
6.8.19 All fireplace surrounds
6.8.20 All flue pipes
6.8.21 All flue liners
6.8.22 All flues
6.8.23 All chimneys
6.8.24 Masonry
6.8.25 Mortar
6.8.26 DPC
6.8.27 Flashings
6.8.28 Terminals
6.8.29 Flue testing
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07
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Fireplaces, chimneys and flues 2016

CHAPTER 6.8
Introduction
In this chapter, the following terms are used:
ridge terminal
flue and chimney terminal
flue and chimney terminal
flue pipe in roof space

separating wall
flue
flue lining
roof space
roof space
roof space
gas flue blocks
as part of the wall
masonry chimney
containing a flue
masonry chimney
containing a flue
first floor
first floor
first floor
gas appliance
flue pipe
free standing
solid fuel
appliance
open hearth
6.8
party wall
external wall
Compliance 6.8.1
external wall
Fireplaces, chimneys and flues shall comply with the TechnicalRequirements, and be designed to
ensure efficient operation of the appliance, an adequate supply of combustion air and protection for the
building fabric.
Fireplaces, chimneys and flues which comply with the guidance in this chapter willgenerally be acceptable.
Installations should be provided with an adequate supply of combustion air:
as stipulated by statutory requirements and

building regulations
Where a chimney or flue is provided:
it should be continuous from the hearth orappliance to the

outside air
to ensuresatisfactory combustion of fuel and theefficient

working of flues and chimneys.
a notice plate containing safety information about any

hearths and flues should be securely fixed in an unobtrusive
but obvious position within the home.
The design of homes which incorporate chimneys and flues should ensure that all details of the associated elements are considered
and appropriate provisions made. This should include the following:
Fire risk and separation.
Hearths and the constructions adjacent to hearths and flues.
Chimneys and flues, including projections through

the building.
Terminals and outlets.
Limitations on the appliance oropen fire which can

be installed, and fuel which can be used.

CHAPTER 6.8
Good workmanship and effective supervision during construction areessential to ensure that fireplaces,chimneys and flues function
correctly in use.
Fireplaces, chimneys and flues should be designed and installed to minimise the risk of the building catching fire. The design of
timber frame construction should ensure that combustible material is:
suitably separated from heat sources,or
shielded, where permitted.

Position and size of hearths, fireplaces, chimneys and flues.
Position and proximity of combustiblematerials.
Position and details of flue terminals oroutlets.
Position of DPCs and flashings.
Construction details of fireplaceopenings and
Details of materials to be used.
Limitations of the type of appliance oropen fire that can be

installed and fuel that can be used.
Details of the tests required on chimneysand flues,

including who is responsible for carrying them out.
chimney connections.
Solid fuel fireplaces and hearths 6.8.3

Fireplaces and hearthsshall safely accommodate the fire orappliance for which they are designed.
a) provision of hearths and recesses
b) separation of hearths from walls.
Where appliances are not provided, it isimportant to construct fireplaces and hearthsto suit the appliance most likely to be fitted.
Constructional hearths should be:
6.8
Provision of hearths and recesses

plan view
provided for open fires or closed combustion appliances in
150mm
min.
accordance with building regulations and the

a minimum of 840mm in any direction for

freestanding appliances
The adjacent diagram shows the minimum dimensions from

the appliance to the edge of the hearth.
225mm min.
for closed
appliances
300mm
min.*
*applies to open and closed appliances which
can be used when the appliance door is open
Recesses for open fires or closed combustionappliances:
should be provided to comply withbuilding regulations and
where the opening is less than 500mm x 550mm,
the manufacturersrecommendations
should be lined with a fire back or firebricks
should have a 200mm diameter flue (or square section flue

ofan equivalent area)
where the opening is larger than 500mm x 550mm,

should have a flue equivalent to 15% ofthe recess opening.

CHAPTER 6.8
Separation of hearths from walls
Walls near appliances and theirhearths should be:
located to minimise therisk of fire
non-combustible, or the appliance shouldnot be positioned

closer to the wall than asshown in the following diagram.
300mm
min.
1.2m
min
150mm
min.
150mm
min.
hearth
appliance
75mm min. solid non-combustible material
t = thickness of solid non-combustible material as follows:

x less than 50mm = t (200mm min.)
x more than 50mm = t (75mm min.)
Solid fuel combustion air 6.8.4

Installations shall be provided with an adequate supply of combustion air.
Solid fuel appliances should have an air supply from external air, either directly or indirectly, to comply with statutory requirements
and the manufacturers recommendations. Full details of ventilation requirements for all types of appliances are contained in relevant
Table 1: Combustion air to solid fuel appliances

Solid fuel up to 45kW output
Open
6.8
England, Wales and the Isle of Man 50% of throat area(1)
Closed appliance(2)
Above 5kW rating, 550mm2/kW
Scotland
For fireplaces up to 450mm wide

Above 5kW rating, 550mm2/kW
(measured between fire bricks), 1500mm2
For fireplaces wider than 450mm,
manufacturers details should be followed
Northern Ireland
50% of throat area(1)
Up to 6kW rating, 550mm2

Over 6kW, add 550mm2 for each kW above 6kW
Notes
1 Where the fire has a canopy, the open air vents should be 50% of the flue area.
2 Where closed appliances use a flue fitted with a draught stabiliser, the total free area should be increased to 300mm2/kW for the first 5kwplus 850mm2/kW for the
balance of the appliance output.
Solid fuel flue pipes 6.8.5

Flue pipes shall be correctly designed to connect an appliance to a flue safely. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) size, direction and jointing
b) separation from combustible materials.
Size, direction and jointing

Flue pipes should have a cross-section which is equal to the outlet of the appliance they serve and should not be inclined more than
45 from vertical. A horizontal section no longer than 150mm may be used to connect a back outlet appliance to a flue.
Socket joints should be fitted socket up.
Separation from combustible materials

Flue pipes should be separated from combustible materials in accordance with building regulations, and:
by a minimum 200mm of non-combustible material
by an air space which is a minimum of 4xD, or
be shielded by a non-combustible shield at least 4xD

in width, and extended at least 1.5xD either side of the
flue pipe; the shield should be at least 12mm from the
combustible material, and the flue pipe at least 1.5xD from
the combustible material.

CHAPTER 6.8
plan view
plan view
12mm min.
1.5xD
3xD
non-combustible
shield
non-combustible
shield
D
min.
4xD
flue pipe
flue pipe
requirement in Northern Ireland
requirement elsewhere
(D = external diameter of the flue pipe)
Chimneys solid fuel 6.8.6

Chimneys shall incorporate flues capable of safely conducting products of combustion to the external air.
The structure shall be capable of supporting the flue lining and shall provide adequate protection to the
adjacent structure. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) separation from adjacent spaces and materials
b) flue liners
c) resistance to frost attack

d) resistance to weather.
Flues for solid fuel appliances should:
gases from the open fire or appliance they serve
where possible, be vertical (where this cannot be achieved

there should not be more than two bends; bends should not
be more than 45 from vertical)
be a minimum of 4.5m high (measured above the

fireplace opening).
Where a chimney is not directly over anappliance or opening, an accessible soot box should be formed.
Factory-made insulated chimneys should:
be designed in accordance with BS 4543 and BS EN1859
have a minimum operating life of 30 years
be installed in accordance with BS 7566 or be assessed in

Separation from adjacent spaces and materials

Combustible materials close to any brickwork or blockwork chimney (not applicable to floorboards, skirting, dado or picture rails,
mantelshelves or architraves) should be:
a minimum of 200mm from the inside surfaceof the flue, or
in all areas except Scotland, 40mm from the face of

the chimney.
Where the home is of timber frame construction, full details of the separation proposal should be included in the design.
Materials used for chimneys shouldbe capable of resisting fluctuatingtemperatures up to 1100C.
Flues should be formed within masonry walls. The walls should be:
a minimum of 100mm thick, or
a minimum of 200mm thick where separating the flue from

another compartment of the same building, another building
or another home.
Where there is more than one flue in a chimney, the flues should be separated by a minimum of 100mm of masonry.
Flue liners
Flue liners should:
have rebated or socketed joints installed with the socket or

internal rebate facing uppermost
be installed in accordance with the

be non-combustible
be properly jointed at their junctions with the starter block,

or lintel, and the outlet terminal
be reasonably smooth on the inside
be correctly jointed with mortar (the space between the

liners and the brickwork should be filled with weak insulating
concrete unless the manufacturer recommends
an alternative)
have any changes in direction formed using purpose-made

bends (cut pipes are not acceptable).
6.8
not serve more than one appliance
be of a sufficient cross-section to remove all combustion

CHAPTER 6.8
Resistance to frost attack
Where clay brick chimneys are above roof level and are not protected by a capping with an adequate overhang and drip (see Clause
6.8.7c), the chimney should be constructed using F2,S1 or F2,S2 bricks to BS EN 771. They should be bedded in mortar, either:
1::4 to 4, cement:lime:sand, or
1:3 or 4, cement:sand with plasticiser.
Where external chimneys built with clay bricks of F2,S1 designation are rendered, sulfate-resistant cement should be used.
In Scotland, external facingbrickwork should be constructed using frost-resistant bricks.
Resistance to weather
In areas of severe or very severe exposure, cavities should be continuous up to roof level. This applies to:
cavities below roof level where the stack forms part of an

external cavity wall
the complete chimney structure, including the

fireplace recess.
In areas of severe or very severe exposure, and where the chimney breast is gathered in, the lower projecting masonry should be
protected against damp penetration with a suitable capping and cavity trays (see Clause 6.8.28b).
Above the roof:
chimney DPCs should link with flashings; where the roof is

steeply pitched (where the difference in level between the
lower and higher intersection of the chimney with the roof will
be more than 450mm) two DPCs should be used at
suitable levels
plastic DPCs are not suitable
face brickwork should not have recessed joints
where lead trays are in contact with mortar, they should be

protected with a thick coat of bitumen or bitumen paint
where chimneys are to be rendered, render should be in

accordance with Chapter 6.1 External Masonry Walls.
Solid fuel outlets and terminals 6.8.7

Outlets and terminals shall be adequately separated from combustible material and other parts of the home,
enable the satisfactory discharge offlue gases and prevent the ingress of damp. Issues to be taken into
account include:
6.8
a) outlet position
b) terminals
c) chimney cappings.
Outlet position
The flue will generally functionmore effectively where the outlet
is in a low pressure zone, taking account of prevailing winds.
A low pressure zone generally occurs:
on the lee side and at the ridge of a pitchedroof
close to the windward side of a flat roof.

Where the efficiency of the flue may be affected by adjacent
trees or buildings in the low pressure zone, the design
should account for their effects.
Where down draughts occur, e.g. on hillsides or near tall trees
and buildings, the height of the flue outlet may have to be
increased or a fan-assisted flue installed.

CHAPTER 6.8
Table 2: Positions of outlets for solid fuel appliances

Point where flue passes through weather surface(1 & 2)
Minimum clearance from the flue outlet
A Up to 600mm from ridge
Over 600mm above the ridge
B Elsewhere on a roof (whether pitched or flat)
A minimum of 2.3m horizontally from the nearest point on the

weather surface and:
a minimum of 1m above the highest point of intersection of the

chimney and the weather surface, or
as high as the ridge
C Below (on a pitched roof) or within 2.3m horizontally from

an openable rooflight, dormer window or other opening(3)
A minimum of 1m from the top of the opening
D A minimum of 2.3m to adjoining or adjacent building,

whether or not beyond the boundary(3)
A minimum of 600mm above the adjacent building
Notes
1 The weather surface is the buildings external surface, such as its roof, tiles or external walls.
2 A flat roof has a pitch less than 10.
3 The c learance given for A or B, as appropriate, will also apply.
Terminals
Terminals should be:
purpose-made components
built into the top of the masonry to a minimum of 125mm or
sealed to the flue liner.
0.25x the length of the terminal, whichever is the greater

An acceptable terminal can be achieved where the top flue liner projects a minimum of 20mm above the chimney capping.
Chimney cappings
Chimney cappings should:
be weathered, monolithic slabs
be designed to protect the masonry below
project a minimum of 50mm, and have a drip to shed water

clear of the masonry.
6.8
purpose-made
chimney
cappings
min.
50mm
Cappings may be designed as a cover slab supported on piers

(to reduce rain penetration into the top of the flue). The height of
the supporting piers should be sufficient to allow a free opening
equivalent to a minimum of 2x the area of the flue outlet.
flue lining acting as flue terminal
Brick chimneys which do not have this type of capping should be

constructed using frost-resistant masonry.
Gas fireplaces and hearths 6.8.8

Fireplaces and hearths shall safely accommodate the fire orappliance for which they are designed. Issues to
a) separation from combustible materials
b) provision of hearths and recesses.
Gas appliances should be:
fitted by a Gas Safe Register (GSR) installer, and
comply with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use)

Regulations 1998.
Separation fromcombustible materials

Appliances should not be closer than 75mmto combustible material. This applies to:
theback, sides and top of the appliance
draught-diverters.
It does not apply:
where a 25mm thick non-combustible shield is used, or
the appliance complies with the appropriate parts of

BS 5258 or BS 5386.

CHAPTER 6.8
Provision of hearths and recesses
Solid fuel effect appliances
Hearths and recesses for solid fuel effectappliances should be:
in accordance with BS 6714 or BS 5871
in accordance with the requirements for solid fuel appliances
where the appliance has beentested by an approved

authority, in accordance with the manufacturersinstructions.
(see Clause 6.8.3), or
Back boilers
Hearths for back boilers should beconstructed of solid non-combustible materials, a minimum of:
125mm thick, or
25mm thick and placed on non-combustiblesupports which

are a minimum of 25mm high.
Other gas appliances
plan view
150mm min.
Hearths for other types of applianceshould beconstructed of

non-combustible materials which:
150mm
min
are a minimum of 12mm thick
comply with the plan dimensions for back boilers.
appliance
In some cases, the provision of a hearth is not required,

e.g. where the flame or incandescent material is at least 225mm
above the floor.
For all forms of gas appliances the hearths should be marked at
the edges to:
front of
appliance
providea warning to the home owner
discourage combustible floor finishes, suchas carpet,
225mm min.
from front
of appliance
hearth for back boiler
from being laid too close to theappliance (this can be

achieved by introducing a change in level).
6.8
Gas combustion air 6.8.9

Table 3: Combustion air to gas appliances

Gas(1) up to 70kW input
England, Wales and the Isle of Man Over 7kW input, 500mm2/kW
Scotland
As BS 5440-2 (as England and Wales)
Northern Ireland
Up to 8kW rating, 450mm2

Over 8kw, add 450mm2 for each kW above 8kW
Notes
1 Decorative fuel effect gas appliances should have a provision for combustion air complying with the relevant part of BS 5871 and relevant building regulations.
(Generally, a minimum of 10,000mm2 of purpose-provided ventilation is required. Air vents should be direct to the external air or to an adjacent room or internal space,
which has an air vent or vents to the external air of at least the same free area. Air vents should have an aperture dimension no smaller than 5mm).
Gas flue pipes 6.8.10

Flue pipes shall safely connect an appliance to a chimney, or a flue to a terminal. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) size, direction and jointing
b) separation from combustible materials.
Size, direction and jointing

Gas flue pipes should:
not haveadjustable draught control
have a free area which is at least the same size as the outlet
be fixed in accordance with the manufacturers
of the appliance
not be horizontal (does not apply to balanced flues)
be vertical where possible (where this is not possible,

pipes should not be more than 45 from vertical)
be fixed socket up and correctly aligned
where the pipes are long, have support directly below each
recommendations
socket, with a maximum spacing of 1.8m.

CHAPTER 6.8
When connecting flue pipes to flue blocks and ridge terminals,

purpose-made connections should be used.
support beneath each socket
1.8m max.
support beneath each socket
flue pipe serving a gas appliance
Separation from combustible materials

Single wall flue pipes should be separatedfrom combustible materials by:
a minimum of 25mm
a non-combustible casing material with at least half the fire
a non-combustible sleeve with a minimum 25mm air space

around thepipe, where it passes through a wall,floor or roof.
resistance of the separating wall or floor, where they pass

through a compartment wall or compartment floor, or
Where double-walled pipes are used, the 25mm separation distance may be measured from the outside of the inner pipe.
Gas chimneys 6.8.11

Chimneys shall incorporate flues capable of safely conducting products of combustion from an appliance to
the external air. The structure shall be capable of supporting the flue and providing adequate protection to
adjacent materials. Issues to be taken into account include:
b) chimneys.
6.8
a) flues and flue liners
Flues and flue liners

Flue blocks for use with gas appliancesshould comply with BS1289-1 (Concrete) or Part 2 (Clay).
Table 4: Gas flue sizes

Non fan-assisted
individually flued gas
burning appliances up
to 70kW input, excluding
balanced flue
Inset live or decorative
gas fuel effect appliances
Serving
Minimum flue size
Gas fire
Either:
acircular flue with a minimum 12000mm2 cross-sectional area

(125mm diameter), or
a rectangular flue with a minimum 16,500mm2 cross-sectional

area and a minimum dimension of 90mm
Any other
At least the cross-sectional area of the outlet from the appliance
Open fire within a fireplace
Either a circular or rectangular flue with a minimum dimension

opening up to 500mm x 550mm
of 175mm
Flue liners should comply with BS 715 or be as described in Clause 6.8.6. Flexible flue liners are notacceptable in a new build.
Chimneys
Chimneys for gas appliances must notincorporate an adjustable draught control.
Masonry chimneys
Flues within masonry chimneys should be in accordance with the requirements relevant to flues for solid fuel appliances
(see Clause 6.8.6b).
Brickwork or blockwork chimneys for gas appliances should, at minimum, have the same level of fireresistance as each
compartment wall or floor which it forms part of, or passes through. The compartment wall may form the chimney wall where it is a
masonry material.

CHAPTER 6.8
Terminals to masonry chimneys should:
ridge terminal
where proprietary, comply with BS 715, BS EN 1858 and the

appliance manufacturers recommendations
where proprietary products are not used, have a free opening

area a minimum of 2x the area of the flue; there should be
openings (6-25mm in diameter) distributed uniformly around
the terminal or on two opposite faces.
Flue block chimneys
alternative outlet
position
twin wall flue pipe
with support at
1.8m centres
450 max.
offset transfer block
roof space
Flue block chimneys can only be used for certain types of gas
appliances and should be:
compliant with BS EN 1858 or BS EN 1806 with a minimum

performance class of FB4 N2
constructed using units suitable for the appliance
constructed, jointed and weatherproofed in accordance with

the design and the manufacturers instructions
correctly bonded to the flanking masonry
clean and sealed
checked for suitability, before connecting anyappliance.

Connections between flue blocks and ridgeterminals should
be made:
using the correct fittings andsupports as specified by the

manufacturers of the flue blocks, flue pipe and ridge terminal.
plain block
first floor
450 max.
lateral offset
block
lintel block
may be oneor two-piece set
starter block
ground floor
Gas flue blocks are at least 140mm wide. Where this is wider
than the wall leaf:
6.8
the extrathickness should be incorporated by increasing the

overall width of thecavity
the flue block should be installed flush with theinside of the

cavity and project intothe room as a false chimney breast, or
where the cavity is reduced, the flue block should be

protected by a vertical DPM supported by a layer of
non-combustible insulation, in accordance with the
ridge tile adaptor

line of ridge tiles
support brackets at
max.1.8m centres
flue pipe
offset transfer block
vertical DPM
non-combustible insulation
(not polystyrene)
plasterboard on dabs
cavity wall with insulation and vertical DPM
full or partial fill

non-combustible insulation
(not polystyrene)
false breast
Flue blocks should not be:
built intoseparating walls unless it can be shown thatthe

wall has adequate sound resistance
plastered; a plasterboard lining with anair space or

non-combustible insulationbehind it should be provided
(insulated dry lining may be unsuitable in this situation
unless separated from the flue block).

CHAPTER 6.8
10
Factory-made insulated chimneys

be assembled, erected, anchored and protected in
BS 715 andinstalled in accordance with BS 5440.
accordance with the manufacturers instructions
comply with BS 4543 and be installed in accordance

with BS 6461, or
Gas outlets and terminals 6.8.12

Outlets and terminals shall be adequately separated from combustible material and other parts of the home,
and prevent the ingress of damp.
Table 5: Minimum separation distances for gas outlets (mm)

Balanced flue
Open flue
Natural draught
A Below an opening(1)
Fanned draught
Appliance rated
heat input (net)
0-7kW
>7-14kW
>14-32kW
>32kW
Natural draught
Fanned
draught
300
(3)
300
300
600
1500
2000
B Above an opening(1)
0-32kW
>32kW
300
600
300
(3)
300
C Horizontally to an opening(1)
0-7kW
>7-14kW
>14kW
300
400
600
300
(3)
300
D Below gutters, soil pipes or drain pipes
300
75
(3)
75
E Below eaves
300
200
(3)
200
F Below a balcony or car port roof
600
200
(3)
200
G From a vertical drainpipe or soil pipe
300
150
(3)
150
H From an internal or external corner, or to a

boundary alongside the terminal(2)
600
300
(3)
200
Above ground, roof or balcony level
300
300
(3)
300
From a surface or a boundary facing the

terminal(2)
600
600
(3)
600
600
1200
(3)
1200
L From an opening in the car port into the

building
1200
1200
(3)
1200
M Vertically from a terminal on the same wall
1200
1500
(3)
1500
N Horizontally from a terminal on the same wall
300
300
(3)
300
P From a structure on the roof
N/A
N/A
1500 (for a ridge terminal)

2000 (for any other terminal,
as given in BS 5440-1)
N/A
Q Above the highest point of intersection with

the roof
N/A
Site in accordance Site in accordance with

with manufacturers BS 5440-1:2000
instructions
K From a terminal facing the terminal
(4)
150
Notes
1 An opening here means an openable element, such as an openable window, or a fixed opening, such as an air vent. However, in addition, the 1 outlet should not be
nearer than 150mm (fanned draught) or 300mm (natural draught) to an opening into the building fabric formed for the purpose of accommodating a built-in element,
such as a window frame.
2 Boundary as defined in paragraph 0.4. of Approved Document J: smaller separations to the boundary may be acceptable for appliances that 2 have been shown to
operate safely with such separations from surfaces adjacent to, or opposite, the flue outlet.
3 Should not be used.
4 This dimension may be reduced to 75mm for appliances of up to 5kW input (net).
Where a flue outlet is not serving a balanced flue appliance, it should be:
situated at roof level, so that air canpass freely across it

at all times
a minimum of 600mm from openings
fitted with a flue terminal where the flue diameter is less than
170mm (larger diameter flues should be fitted with a terminal
where required by Building Regulations).
6.8
Location
11

CHAPTER 6.8
flues should not

penetrate this area
600mm
600mm
2000mm
Q
D,E
Q
N
M
C
boundary
F
H
K
Precautions should be taken, where appropriate, to prevent damp penetration in accordance with the requirements for resistance to
frost attack and weathering for solid fuel appliances (see Clause 6.8.6).
Balanced flues which bridge the cavity of an external wall should have a means of preventing moisture crossing the cavity,
e.g. a moisture drip collar set in the centre of the cavity.
moisture drip collar
6.8
appliance
circular flues
sheet metal plate

sloping at 450 across
the cavity, located on top
of the flue assembly
and extending approx.
25mm each side
appliance
rectangular flues
Oil fireplaces and hearths 6.8.13

Fireplaces and hearths shall safely accommodate the fire or appliance and be suitably separated from
combustible materials.
Where the temperature of the hearth below the appliance is:
likely to exceed 100C, or the temperature is not known,

precautions should be in accordance with the requirements
for hearths for solid fuel appliances (see Clause 6.8.3).
unlikely to exceed 100C, the appliance may stand on a

rigid, non-combustible imperforate sheet of material without
a constructional hearth.
Where appliances are likely to have back orside temperatures exceeding 100C, hearths and shielding should be in accordance
with the requirements for gas appliances (see Clause 6.8.8).

CHAPTER 6.8
12
Oil combustion air 6.8.14

Table 6: Combustion air to oil appliances

Oil up to 45kW output
England, Wales and the Isle of Man 550mm2/kW above 5kW rating for an appliance in a room or space
Scotland
Northern Ireland
Up to 6kW rating, 550mm2. Over 6kW, add 550mm2 for each kW above 6kW
Oil flue pipes 6.8.15

Flue pipes shall safely connectan appliance to a chimney.
Flue pipes should:
of the appliance
be vertical where possible, or no more than 45 from vertical;

a horizontal section, less than 150mm, long may be used
toconnect a back outlet appliance to a flue.
Oil chimneys 6.8.16

Chimneys shall incorporate flues capable of safely conducting products of combustion from an open fire
or other appliance to the external air. The structure shall be capable of supporting the flue lining and shall
provide adequate protection to adjacent materials. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) stability, size and direction
b) separation from adjacent spaces, materials and
combustible materials
c) flue liners
d) resistance to frost/chemical attack
e) resistance to weather.
Flue pipes should:
of the appliance
where possible, be vertical (where this cannot be achieved,

there should be no more than two bends, which should not
be more than 45 from vertical).
be designed in accordance with BS 4543 : Part 1 to

Part 3 and BS EN 1859 and installed in accordance with
BS 7566 : Part 2, or be assessed inaccordance with
have a minimum operating life of 30 years
where they are part of a component system, comply with

BS 715 and installed in accordance with BS 5440.
Separation from adjacent spaces, materials and combustible materials

Table 7: Protecting buildings from hot flues for flue gas temperatures not more than 250C
Flue within:
Protection measures
Connecting fluepipe
Flues should be a minimum of 25mm from any combustible material. This is measured
from the outer surface of the flue wall and the inner wall of multi-walled products.
Where flues pass through a combustible wall, floor or roof (other than a compartment wall,
floor or roof) separation can be achieved through the use of a non-combustible sleeve
around the fluepipe or chimney with a 25mm air space to the relevant flue wall.
The air space could be wholly, or partially, filled with non-combustible insulating material.
Factory-made chimney complying

with BS 715:1993
Factory-made chimney complying with: Refer to appropriate British Standards and manufacturersrecommendations.
BS 4543-1 (withdrawn April 2000
partially superseded by
BS 4543-2
BS 4543-3
Masonry chimney
Provide a minimum of 25mm of masonry between flues and any combustible material.
Flue block chimney
Provide flue block wallsa minimum of 25mm thick.
Flue assemblies for

roomed-sealed appliances
Flues passing through combustible walls should be surrounded by a minimum

of 50mm insulating material.
Provide a minimum clearance of 50mm from the edgeof the flue outlet to any combustible
wall cladding.
6.8
Stability, size and direction

CHAPTER 6.8
13
Flue liners
As for gas flue pipes where the flue gases are unlikely to exceed a temperature of 250C (see Clause 6.8.10). As for solid fuel flue
pipes where the flue gases are likely to exceed a temperature of 250C or the temperature is not known (see Clause 6.8.5).
Flexible flue liners are notacceptable for new build.
Resistance to frost/chemical attack

Resistance to frost attackas for solid fuel (see clause 6.8.6).
Resistance to weather
Resistance to weather as for solid fuel (see clause 6.8.6).
Oil outlets and terminals 6.8.17

Outlets and terminals shall be adequately separated from combustible material and other parts of the home.
Balanced flue terminals should bepositioned to allow free intake of air to theappliance.
Where terminals are of masonry construction, they should be in accordance with the requirements for solid fuel appliances
(see Clause 6.8.7b), otherwise they should be in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Table 8: Minimum separation distances for oil terminals

Location of outlet(1)
Appliance with Appliance with

pressure jet
vaporising
burner (mm)
burner (mm)
A Below an opening(2 & 3)

B Horizontally to an opening
600
(2 & 3)
C Below a plastic/painted gutter, drainage pipe or eaves, where combustible

material protected(4)
600
75
6.8
D Below a balcony or a plastic/painted gutter, drainage pipe or eaves without protection to

combustible material
600
E From vertical sanitary pipework
300
F From an external or internal corner, or from a surface or boundary alongside the terminal
300
G Above ground or balcony level
300
H From a surface or boundary facing the terminal

J
From a terminal facing the terminal
K Vertically from a terminal on the same wall
Should not be used
600
1200
1500
L Horizontally from a terminal on the same wall
750
M Above the highest point of an intersection with the roof
600(6)
1000(5)
N From a vertical structure to the side of the terminal
750
2300
O Above a vertical structure which is less than 750mm (pressure jet burner) or 2,300mm
(vaporising burner) horizontally from the side of the terminal
600(6)
P From a ridge terminal to a vertical structure on the roof
1500
(6)
1000(5)
Should not be used
Notes
1 Terminals should only be positioned on walls where appliances have been approved for such configurations when tested in accordance with BS EN 303-1
or OFTEC standards OFS A100 or OFS A101.
2 An opening means an openable element, such as an openable window, or a permanently open air vent.
3 Not withstanding the dimensions above, a terminal should be at least 300mm from 3 combustible material, e.g. a window frame.
4 To provide protection to combustible material, fit a heat shield at least 4 750mm wide.
5 Where a terminal is used with a vaporising burner, the terminal should be at least 2.3m horizontally from the roof.
6 Outlets for vertical balanced flues in locations M, N and O should be in accordance with 6 manufacturers instructions.

CHAPTER 6.8
14
All fireplaces and hearths 6.8.18

Fireplaces and hearths shall safely accommodate the appliances forwhich they are designed.
Combustible material should not be placedunder a
constructional hearth unless it is:
to support the edges of the hearth
at least 250mm from the material to thetop of the hearth, or
separated from the underside of thehearth by an air space of

at least 50mm.
Fireplace recesses should be constructedof solid
non-combustible material as follows (dimensions in the diagrams
are based on a 125mm concrete hearth below an open fire).
The space between a fire back and masonry forming the recess
should be filled with vermiculite concrete (1:4, lime:vermiculite
with water).
500mm
min.
hearth
50mm min.
150mm min.
100mm
min.
internal wall
external wall
200mm
min.
external wall
6.8
200mm
min.
vermiculite
concrete
approx.
1.1m
690mm-840mm
350mm
appliance recess with raft lintel:

suitable for free-standing room heater
690mm-840mm
350mm
fire place recess for inset open fire (without boiler unit)
Fireplace surrounds 6.8.19

Fireplace surrounds and their fixings shall be designed, specified and installed to ensure adequate in-service
performance and durability.
The fixing and support should safely accommodate the proposed type of fireplace surround (which could be manufactured in one
or a number of pieces), taking into account its size and weight. The walls and floors of the building should safely accommodate the
additional load of the proposed fireplace surround.
Fireplace surrounds should be installed by competent operatives, strictly in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations
and fixing specification, and fixed to the structure using mechanical fixings, giving full consideration to:
the type of material used to manufacture the surround
the configuration of the surround
the size and weight of the surround
the potential for overturning of the surround or parts thereof
the type of supporting walls and floors, including the

structure (e.g. framed or solid structure) and its finish
(e.g. wallboard or wet finish)
the type, material, number and location of fixings.
15

CHAPTER 6.8
Fixings should be of durable material and be appropriate for the type of surround and the supporting wall or floor to which the
surround is to be fixed. Fixings should generally be of stainless steel to BS EN ISO 3506 Mechanical properties of
corrosion-resistant stainless steel fasteners and be specified to provide suitable strength and durability. Materials that
comply with recognised standards which provide equal or better performance are also acceptable.
Methods that rely solely on adhesive for fixing fireplace surrounds to the structure are not acceptable.
More information on the installation of all types of natural and artificial stone fireplace surrounds can be found in the Stone
Federation Great Britain Fireplace Surrounds data sheet (www.stonefed.org.uk).
All flue pipes 6.8.20

Flue pipes and terminals shall be suitable for their purpose and provide unrestricted passage for combustion gases
between the fireplace, or appliance, and the outlet.
The connection between a fireplace, or appliance, and the flue should be correctly constructed.
flue pipe
flue liner
reinforced concrete
raft lintel
non-combustible rope
fireplace surround
clamping ring
150mm deep concrete
blanking panel built
into jambs
fireplace side
throat unit connection to lintel
appliance side
flue pipe connection to raft lintel
socketed flue pipe
Where the bottom of the flue is not directly over an appliance, it should be provided with a meansof access for cleaning
and inspection.
6.8
Adjustable flue draught control units are notpermitted where gas burning appliancesare installed. Where adjustable throat units
are specified, they should be fitted in accordance withthe manufacturers instructions.
Flue pipes should be jointed in accordancewith the manufacturers instructions, fixed socket upand correctly aligned.
Table 9: Acceptable standards for flue pipes

Flue material
Guidance
Flue pipes for gas appliances
BS 715
Cast iron flue pipes
BS 41
Mild steel flue pipes
BS 1449 (minimum 3mm wall thickness)
Stainless steel flue pipes
BS EN 10088 (minimum 1mm thick) and be one of the

following grades: 1.4401, 1.4404, 1.4432 or 1.4436
Vitreous enamelled flue pipes
BS 6999, low carbon steel coated internally and externally with acid-resisting enamel
All flue liners 6.8.21

Flue liners shall be unaffected by flue gases and suitable for their purpose.
To produce a suitable flue path, appropriate components should
beselected to keep cutting and joints to a minimum. At changes
in direction, including bends, offsets and tees, purpose-made
components should be used.
bend
45 max.
offset using
prefabricated bends
weak insulating
concrete
bend
chimney with flue liner suitable for solid fuel

CHAPTER 6.8
16
Flue liners should be:
clay or purpose-made concrete, as specified in the design
handled carefully to prevent chipping or cracking
installed in accordance with the manufacturers instructions

and the design
sealed at their joint with the starter block or throat unit

(no cavity should be formed between thelinings and the
starter elements)
placed with the sockets or rebate ends facing up.
Liners suitable for solid fuel appliances, and generally suitable for other fuels,include liners whose performance is at least equal to
the designation T450 N2 S D 3, as described in BS EN 1443: 1999, such as:
clay flue liners with rebates or sockets for jointing meeting

the requirements for class A1 N2 or class A1 N1 as
described in BS EN 1457
concrete flue liners meeting the requirements for the

classification type A1, type A2, type B1 or type B2 as
described in prEN 1857(e18) January 2001, or
other products that are independently assessed in

Alternatively, imperforate clay pipes with sockets for jointing as described in BS 65:1991 are acceptable.
Joints should be made in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations, generally using:
fire cement, or
refractory mortar
Joints should be fully filled, and surplus material cleared from the inside ofeach joint as the flue is built.
Spaces betweenthe lining and the surrounding masonry should be:
filled with weakinsulating concrete, or
in accordance with the manufacturersrecommendations,

with the specified materialproviding adequate protection.
Ordinary concrete should not be used to fill the space between the lining and the surrounding masonry.
Suitable mixtures for weak insulating concrete include:
lightweight expanded clay aggregate, minimally wetted
one part ordinary Portland cement to six parts vermiculite, or
one part ordinary Portland cement to 10 parts perlite.
All flues 6.8.22

Flues shall besuitable for their purpose and adequately separated from combustible materials.
Flues should be:
suitable for the type and size of appliance which they serve
constructed in accordance with the design and the
tested in accordance with this chapter.
Combustible materials close to any brickwork or blockwork chimney should be:
200mm minimum from a flue
40mm from the face of the chimney, in Scotland, and
metal fixings in contact with combustible materials should be

a minimum of 50mm from the flue.
This does not apply to a floorboard, skirting, dado or picture rail, mantel shelfor architrave.
Twin wall flue systems should comply with:
BS 715, or
be assessed in accordance withTechnical Requirement R3.
6.8
one part ordinary Portland cement to 20 parts suitable
17

CHAPTER 6.8
All chimneys 6.8.23
Chimneys shall provide fire protective casing for flues, and shall be capable of adequately supporting the
flue liner, while resisting damp penetration and the products of combustion. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) construction of chimneys
b) typical construction details
c) damp penetration and weatherproofing

d) coring and drying.
Construction of chimneys
Masonry chimneys should be properlybonded to, or supported by, the adjoining wallsof the building.
Foundations to a chimney should:
bethe same depth as adjacent wall foundations
bedesigned to avoid uneven settlement
where the chimney forms part of the wall, be a minimum of

100mmwider than the chimney base.
Height (H) of an unrestrained chimneyshould:
not exceed 4.5x the smallestdimension on plan of the
chimney (W) (where the density of themasonry is a minimum

of 1500kg/m3), or
be designed by an engineer in accordancewith

Chimneys which:
are of block, brick or stone shouldhave a minimum wall
form part of a compartment wall, and are not back to back
thickness of 100mm,excluding the lining thickness
are built in a cavity separating wallshould form two leaves,

each a minimum of 100mm, between the flue and
adjoining building
with an adjacent chimney, should have a minimum wall

thickness of 200mm separating it from the other building
or home.
6.8
Factory-made insulated chimneysshould be assembled, erected, anchoredand protected in accordance withthe

Masonry for chimneys:
below roof level may be constructed using the same bricks
should be frost resistant abovethe roof unless protected
and mortar as used for the generalbrickwork
constructed with hollow or cellular blocks should be suitable

for theconstruction of chimneys and filled with concrete
asthe work proceeds
by a cappingprojecting by a minimum of 50mm

(in Scotland, frost-resistant bricks should be used for all
facing brickwork).
Connections between flue blocks and ridgeterminals should be made:
as detailed inthe design
using the correct fittings and supports as specified by

the manufacturers of the flue blocks, flue pipe and
ridge terminal.
Typical construction details

External fireplace recess and chimney
mineral wool
firestop between
frame and chimney
floor joist
above
40mm min. air space
where non-combustible
material is less than
200mm thick
200mm
min.
100mm
min.
plan of recess
plan of chimney at upper floor level

CHAPTER 6.8
Timber chimney frame construction
18
External chimney breast with masonry inner leaf
40mm min. air space where

chimney is less than 200mm
cripple studs to lintel,

gap to be filled with
mineral wool
timber lintel 300mm min.

from face of flue recess
cavity maintained
around chimney
with cavity wall
ties as required
hearth min.
125mm thick
movement gap between timber and

masonry to be filled with mineral wool
for brick capping see Detail C
joists on hangers
In Scotland, joists, etc. should be min. 200mm from the inner surface
of the flue; brickwork or blockwork in chimney construction should
be min. 100mm thick with a min. density of 1 600 kg/m3;
aircrete blocks should be min. 150mm thick.
6.8
for brick capping see Detail B
cavity
cavity tray
prefabricated
throating
Other alternatives may be suitable, provided they meet the appropriateperformance standards.
see Detail A
Damp penetration and weatherproofing

Where chimneys exit close to theridge of a pitched roof, occasional damp penetration may occur below roof level. In this situation:
the roof space should be well ventilated
anydampness penetrating downwards should not reach the

living areas.
Where chimneys exit close to the eaves of a pitched roof or through a flat roof, trays and flashings should be installed in the chimney
so that all damp penetration is prevented.
DPCs, flashings and guttersshould be provided at the intersection point of the chimney with the surface of the roof through which
the chimney passes. DPCs to the main walls should be carried through the base ofchimneys.
Flashings should be made from compatible non-ferrous metal. Lead trays should be bitumencoated where in contact with cement.
In areas of severe and very severe exposure, the following details should be used. Inlower exposure zones, the tray upturn may be
on the outside of the flue liner. All other details are the same.
19

CHAPTER 6.8
stepped flashing
turned in at joints
(min. 25mm)
cover flashing
overlapping back
gutter flashing
DPC at front
apron level
turned up
at three sides
cover flashing
overlapping back
gutter flashing
saddle
flashing
one-piece tray
turned down on
four sides
tray turned
up at two sides
stepped side
flashing
apron
flashing
chimney stack at ridge
combined with DPC tray and flashing

chimney on outside wall
Coring and drying

Where a core (e.g. a sack full of loose straw, orsimilar) is used to prevent mortar dropping into the flue liner during construction,
the builder should ensure that it is removed oncompletion of the chimney.
A chimney should be allowed to drynaturally for a minimum period of 14 days before use.
Masonry 6.8.24
Masonry shall be capable ofsupporting intended loads and haveappropriate resistance to the adverseeffects
of frost and sulfates.
Masonry, including bricks, blocks, stone for masonry and reconstructed stone, should:
be in accordancewith BS 6461 and BS EN 771
where clay bricks are used in external chimney stacks,
6.8
be of durability rating F2,S1 (asdescribed in BS EN 771) or

protected bya projecting capping
where blocks are used, have a minimum block density of

1500 kg/m3 unless designed by an engineer in accordance
with Technical Requirement R5.
InScotland:
frost-resistant bricks should beused for all external

facing brickwork
where 100mm blocks are used for chimney construction,

they should have aminimum density of 1,500 kg/m3.
Mortar 6.8.25
Mortar shall be batched andmixed to achieve adequate strength anddurability.

Mortar should be in accordance with Chapter 6.1 External masonry walls, and include sulfate-resisting cement where flue gases
are liable toaffect the masonry, e.g. above roof level.
DPC 6.8.26
Materials for damp-proofing shall adequately resist the passage ofmoisture into the building.
The following are acceptable for use as DPCs:
Bitumen to BS 6398.
Polyethylene to BS 6515 (not to be used in the chimney
Proprietary materials assessed in accordance with

stack above roof level).
Flashings 6.8.27
Flashings and trays shall becapable of adequately resisting theentry of moisture into the building.
Suitable materials for flashings and trays include:
milled sheet lead (minimum code 4)to BS EN 12588
aluminium and aluminium alloysto BS 1470

(0.6-0.9mm thick)
zinc alloy complying to BS 6561 and0.6mm thick.

CHAPTER 6.8
20
Terminals 6.8.28
Flue terminals shall be suitablefor their purpose and assist thefunctioning of the flue. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) draught improvement
b) chimney capping.
Relevant standards for flue terminals

BS 1181
Terminals in clay flue pipes
BS EN 1858
Terminals in chimneys serving gas appliances
BS 715
Terminals in flue pipes for gas appliances
Terminals should be:
purpose-made or formed by extending the flue lining a
the same cross-sectional area as the flue (solid fuel has a
minimum of 20mm above the head of the chimney
embedded a minimum of 125mm into the chimney,

excluding any flaunching, or 0.25x the length of the terminal,
whichever is the greater
minimum requirement of a 200mm diameter).
flaunching
purpose-made
chimney cappings
freeze-/thawresistant
(F2,S1) bricks
min.
50mm
chimney pot
The terminal of a masonry flue should be jointed to the flue lining with cementmortar to form a seal.
Draught improvement
Where downdraughts may occur, terminals designed to increase updraught should be fitted. However, a terminal will not
overcome problems caused by high pressure zones. Where relevant, the Solid Fuel Association or other authoritative body
should be consulted.
Chimney capping
Where a chimney is to be capped:
a single unjointed concrete or stone capping should be used
it should project andbe throated to cast water away from the
the slab should project 50mm beyond the sides of the
face of the chimney
chimney, and the withes between flues should be carried to

the underside of the slab.
Decorative brick cappings should becarefully constructed to avoid rainpenetration and frost damage. The use of frost-resistant
bricks may be required.
In Scotland, bricks used for facing brickwork should be frost-resistant.
6.8
chimney details with brick capping
21

CHAPTER 6.8
Flue testing 6.8.29
Installations shall be testedbefore use.
Flues should be checked duringconstruction to ensure:
there are noobstructions in the flue
mortaror other blockages are removed
when theflue is complete, a visual checkshould be made

and obstructionscleared.
Coring ball test for solid fuel appliances

When a visual test cannot be conducted, oris inconclusive, the coring ball test should be conducted as follows:
A suitable concrete or metal ball should be attached to a

strong cord or rope.
The ball should be slowly lowered from the flue outlet to the
bottom of the flue (the fireplace recess or the
appliance connection).
Where a blockage or obstruction is found, it must be

removed and the test repeated until the flue iscompletely
clear of obstruction.
Smoke test for solid fuel appliances

This test is designed to show that a flue draws adequately and that there are no leaks between the appliance and the terminal.
It must be conducted when neither the flue to be tested or adjacent flues are in use. The test should be conducted as follows:
The flue should be warmed for 10 minutes with a heat
The whole structure forming the flueshould be inspected

source such as ablow lamp. Where an appliance is fitted,
externally for smoke leakage. This should include the top of
all doors, including flue access doors, should be closed.
cavity wallsand any other possible smoke paths, eventhose
terminating some distance from the flue.
Two purpose-made smoke pellets should be placed in the

appliance firebox or inthe bottom of the flue and ignited,
The test should be continued for a minimum of five minutes.

then, closed or sealed off andthe smoke allowed to rise.
When smokeappears at the top of the flue, the outlet should

be sealed with a blow-up rubberball or other airtight
closing system.
Flues for gas appliances

For gas appliances, more sophisticated flue tests may berequired and should be conducted by theappliance installer.
6.8
Flues for oil appliances

Flues for oil fired appliances shouldbe tested as required by the appliancemanufacturer.
Approved Document Part J Heat producing appliances
Building Standards (Scotland) Regulations
Building Regulations (Northern Ireland) Technical Booklet L

Combustion appliances and fuel storage systems
Institution of Gas Engineers publications: Guide for gas

installation in timber framed housing and Specification for
flues for Class II appliances in timber framed housing.
Curtain walling and cladding

CHAPTER 6.9
Technical Requirements for curtain walling
and cladding.
6.9.1 Compliance
6.9.2
6.9.3
Certification
6.9.4 Loads
6.9.5
Support and fixings
6.9.6 Durability
6.9.7 Interfaces
6.9.8 Insulation
6.9.9
Damp proofing and vapour control
6.9.10 Installation, and tolerances
6.9.11 Electrical continuity and earth bonding
6.9.12 Maintenance
6.9.13 Glazing, gaskets and sealants
6.9.14 Cavity barriers andfirestops
6.9.15 Ventilation screens
6.9.16 Handling and storage
6.9.17 Curtain walling
6.9.18 Rainscreen cladding
6.9.19 Insulated render and brick slip cladding
03
03
03
03
04
05
05
05
06
07
07
07
08
08
08
08
09
11
12
Curtain walling and cladding 2016

CHAPTER 6.9
Introduction
This chapter gives guidance on the forms of curtain walling and cladding acceptable to NHBC. Curtain walling and
cladding systems that do not conform to the descriptions in this chapter will not generally be acceptable.
Conservatories are not covered by this chapter.
Guidance on the use of other types of cladding, including brickwork, rendered masonry, vertical tile and slate cladding and
timber cladding, is given in Chapter 6.1 External masonry walls and Chapter 6.2 External timber framed walls.
Curtain walling
3D
Rainscreen cladding
3D
Insulated render
3D
Brick slip cladding
3D
Comprising a prefabricated or site assembled support framework

with infill panels and/or wallsections with glazing systems
whichinclude:
structural silicone glazing
mechanically fixed structural glazing
slope glazing, excluding patent glazing
coupled door and window frame assemblies

(including spandrel panels) which are one storey or more
in height, or not contained between a floor and ceiling.
Comprising:
an outer skin of panels which have unsealed, open, baffled or

labyrinth (rebated) joints
a minimum 50mm pressure equalised air gap between the

insulation and the panels
an insulated and airtight backing wall.
6.9
Comprising insulated render systems fixed to a backing wall.
Comprising brick slip cladding fixed to a backing wall.
Stone and precast concrete cladding
Stone and precast units should be designed as curtain walling or rainscreen cladding in accordance with this chapter.

CHAPTER 6.9

Air barrier
A continuous layer that limits air leakagethrough the backing wall.
Air cushion
Balancing external and internal air pressure to create a cushion within the air gap.
Air gap
The space between the back of thecladding panels and the external face ofthe insulation in a
rainscreen system.
Backing wall
A framed or masonry wall to which the system is fixed.
Brick slip cladding

system
A brick slip system fixed to masonry orframed backing walls, generally supported by a
proprietary carrier.
Cavity
The space between the cladding systemand the backing wall. The cavity should beadequately
drained, and ventilated where required.
Cladding panels
The outer units of a rainscreen claddingsystem which provide some protection.
Compartmentation
The provision of baffles and cavity closersto form compartments within the air gapof a rainscreen
cladding system to equalise pressure.
Curtain walling
A form of enclosurethat supports no load other than its ownweight and the environmental forces
thatact upon it, e.g. wind, water and solar.
CWCT
The Centre for Window and Cladding Technology at Bath University.
CWCT Standard
The current Centre for Window and CladdingTechnology Standard for systemised
building envelopes.
Design life
The period for which materials, productsand systems should be designed to bedurable,
assuming routine inspection and maintenance.
DPC/DPM
Prevents the passage ofmoisture. In curtain walling terminology, aDPC is often referred to as a DPM.
Faade
The external facing part of the building envelope.
Fire and smoke

stopping
Prevention of the transmission of fire andsmoke through voids or cavities.
Fixing
Componentry used to attach or secure other components, e.g. curtain walling or a cladding system,
to the structure.
Gasket
A compressible material used to form anairtight and/or watertight seal.
In-service performance The manner or quality of functioning of a material, product or system.

Insulated render
system
A cladding system applied externally to an insulating layer which is fixed to a backing wall.
Interstitial
condensation
Condensation caused by vapour from within the buildingcondensing on colder surfaces within the
wall construction, often occurring due to a cold bridge.
Negative pressure
Where the air pressure on the internal face of the system is greater than that on theexternal face.
Positive pressure
Where the air pressure on the external face of the system is greater than that onthe internal face.
Primary components
Componentsand parts of the system that are not easily replaceable. These may include:
claddingpanels
insulation
fixings
vapour controllayers
framing
weathering components.
Pressure equalisation
The creation of an air cushion within the cavity to reduce the amount of water passing through the
joints of a rainscreen. Compartmentation and adequately large joints are required to achieve
pressure equalisation.
Rainscreen
The part of the assembly, generally the outermost, that prevents the majority ofrain from penetrating
the wall. Some water may pass through the jointsof a rainscreen, but this should be limited by
appropriate detailing of open joints or the provision of baffled orlabyrinth joints.
Rainscreen cladding
system
A faade that provides a barrier to wind and rain and which typically includes a vapour control layer,
air barrier, supporting framework and fixings, insulation, breather membrane, cavity/air gap
and cladding panels. Traditional tile hanging and timber cladding are not classed as rainscreen
claddingsystems under the definitions of this chapter.
Replaceable
components
Those which are readily replaceable without compromising the design and durability of the building
or the need for progressive dismantling of the envelope. Where this cannot be achieved, components
should be designed as primary components. A method statement should be provided to demonstrate
how components will be replaced with specific reference to accessibility as detailed in this chapter.
Secondary components Components and parts of the systemthat are easily replaceable. These may include:
cladding panels
internal linings
external finishes
seals and sealant
glazing and gaskets
window and door furniture.
6.9
Curtain walling system The vertical building enclosure system,including frames, brackets, fixings,flashings, gutters, copings,
glass, panels,gaskets and sealant, that forms the assembly.

CHAPTER 6.9
Separating floors
and walls
Floors and walls designed to provide separation between homes.
Slope glazing
A drained and ventilated sloped roofingsystem.
Systems
For the purposes of this chapter, this term refers to acceptable forms of curtain walling,
rainscreen cladding, insulated render systems and brick slip cladding systems.
Spandrel panel
A panel used in place of glazing units to hide the edges of floor slabs, ceiling details, insulation, and
other building elements.
Test pressure
The pressure at which testing is conducted.
Vapour control layer
A layer used to restrict the passage of water vapour into the construction to reduce the risk of
interstitial condensation.
Compliance 6.9.1
Curtain walling and cladding systems shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Curtain walling and cladding that comply with the guidance in this chapter willgenerally be acceptable.

A full set of drawings.
A schedule of revisions.
Manufacturers specification.
Specific details of all interfaces.
Fixing schedules.
Manufacturers recommendationsfor proprietary items.
Details of the on-site testing regime.
6.9
Certification 6.9.3
Curtain walling and cladding systems shall be adequately tested, certified and designed in accordance with
appropriate standards.
Curtain walling and cladding systems should have certification confirming satisfactory assessment, undertaken by an independent
technical authority. Where applicable, certification should be in accordance with CWCT Standard for systemised building envelopes
(or a suitable alternative acceptable to NHBC). Independent technical approvals authorities acceptable to NHBC include:
British Board of Agrment (BBA)
Building Research Establishment (BRE), or
certification bodies considered by NHBC to be a

suitable alternative.
Certification and test documentation should be:
made available to NHBC before work begins on site
used as reference to ensure compliance.
The use of the system should be within the scope of the certification and test documentation.
Loads 6.9.4
Curtain walling and cladding systems, including brackets and fixings, shall allow movement without causing
damage or deformation, and safely transfer loads to the building.
Dead loads and live loads should:
be transferredsafely to the buildings structure

without undue permanent deformation or deflection of
any component
be calculated in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-1 and

BS EN 1991-1-4, and take account of internal and external
pressures, the location, shape and size of the building.
The following should be accommodated without any reduction inperformance:
Thermal-induced loads due to differential stresses caused by

temperature gradients within materials or components.
Stresses in componentsand materials (these should not

exceed the permissible values recommended by the
product manufacturer).
Movement within the curtain walling or cladding.

CHAPTER 6.9
Causes of movement include:
dead and live loads
changes in temperature
changes in the moisture content of components
freezing of retained moisture
creep.
Allowance for movement should be provided in accordance with the design.
Support and fixings 6.9.5

Curtain walling and cladding systems shall be securely fixed with suitably durable fixings to ensure adequate
in-service performance.
The cladding system and associated fixings should be correctly located and securely fixed in accordance with the design and the
manufacturers recommendations. Fixings and supports, including the type, size and positioning of anchors, fixing rails, frames,
fixings, fasteners and bracketry, should be in accordance with the design, and:
accommodate specified loads
account for packing of brackets to achieve surfacetolerance,
be installed ensuring dissimilar metals are separated to
be accurately set out
generally be stainless steel, suitable non-ferrous metal or

appropriate plastics
be installed ensuring aluminium components are separated
avoid bimetallic corrosion

from direct contact with cementitious surfaces.
Mechanically fixed systems should be in accordance with themanufacturers recommendations, and fixings should:
have the correct embedding, spacing and edgedistances
be installed to the correct torque settings
have suitable locking nuts andwashers.
Fixings should be manufactured from:
phosphor bronze
silicon bronze
BS EN ISO 3506stainless steel
mild steel with coatings to BS EN 12329, BS EN 12330,
BS EN 573 and BS EN 755 aluminium alloy
appropriate plastics
materials assessed in accordance with

6.9
BS EN 1461, or other appropriate treatment in accordance

with BS EN ISO 12944 or BS EN ISO 14713
Materials that comply with recognisedstandards and which provide equal or betterperformance to those above will generally be
acceptable to NHBC.
Pull-out or destructive testing of anchorsand fixings should:
comply with BS 5080
comply with the Construction Fixings AssociationGuidance
be carried out inaccordance with the design
carried out at a frequency agreed withNHBC.
Note Procedure for Site TestingConstruction Fixings

The test report should be madeavailable to NHBC.
Adhesive-fixed systems should be installed to a suitably prepared backing wall, providing:
an assessment of the backing wallis available to
it is used in accordance with the design.
confirm suitability
Adhesive fixing of rails, frames, fixings and fasteners should:
only be specified where there is no suitable alternative

Timber should only be used where it is:
easily inspected and replaced without disturbing the

curtainwalling system
treated in accordance with Chapter 3.3 Timber preservation

(natural solid timber).

CHAPTER 6.9
Durability 6.9.6
Curtain walling and cladding systems shallprovide satisfactory durability (subject to routine inspection
and maintenance). Timber shall be either naturally durable or preservative treated to provide adequate
protection against rot and insect attack.
The system should be designed to avoid the need fordisproportionate work when repairing orreplacing individual components.
In addition:
primary components should provide satisfactory
secondary components should provide satisfactory in-service

in-serviceperformance for the design life ofthe building
performance for a minimum of 25 years.
The curtain walling system should be constructed with corrosion resistant or adequately protected materials. The risk of bimetallic
corrosion should be avoided by the isolation of dissimilar metals.
Systems should not include materials liable to infestation by micro-organisms, fungi, insects or vermin.
Interfaces 6.9.7
Curtain walling and cladding systems shall have suitable interfaces and resist the penetration of water
and wind.
The design should indicate the contractor responsible for constructing interfaces.
Interfaces, including those between curtain walling and cladding systems, and those between curtain walling and cladding systems
and other elements of the building (e.g. walls, roof, doors and windows), should be carefully designed and detailed to be weather
resistant, and prevent moisture reaching parts of the wall that it could adversely affect.
The design should take account of:
differing profile characteristics
movement
continuity of insulation, vapour barriersand
tolerances and deviation
the erection sequence
planned maintenance.
breather membranes
6.9
Insulation 6.9.8
Insulation shall be suitable for the intended use.
in accordance with the design and the manufacturers
securely fixed to the support frame or backing wall with
recommendations
installed correctly to minimise the risk of thermal bridging,

surface and interstitial condensation
appropriate fixings and/or adhesive in accordance with the

returned into window and door openings, and continuous

around penetrations through the wall
neatly cut around fixings and brackets.
Insulation materials should:
be inert, durable, rot and vermin proof
not be adversely affected by moisture
be one of the materials listed in Table 1.
Table 1: Materials for insulation

Insulation type
Relevant standard
Mineral wool
BS EN 13162
FR grade (flame retardant) expandedpolystyrene
BS EN 13163
FR grade (flame retardant) extrudedpolystyrene
BS EN 13164
Rigid polyurethane foam andpolyisocyanurate
BS EN 13165
Phenolic foam
BS EN 13166
Cellular glass
BS EN 13167
Other materials
Reference should be made to BRE document BR135 2003 Fire performance of external thermal insulation for walls of multi-storey
buildings when specifying the type of insulation system to be installed.

CHAPTER 6.9
Rainscreen cladding
The backing wall should be adequately insulated, particularly at exposed areas. Where open joints are used, a continuous and
durable breather membrane should be providedover the outer face of the insulation.
Where the insulation is fixed to the backing wall, a minimum of one non-combustible fixing per 1m2 or per insulation batt,
whichever is the lesser, should be provided in addition to the other fixings.
insulation neatly fitted

between support frame
Insulated render
A minimum of one non-combustible fixing per 1m2 or per
insulation batt, whichever provides the greater number,
should be provided in addition to the other fixings.
Non-combustible fixings shouldbe fixed through the
mesh reinforcement.
6.9
Insulation should be suitable to receive the

render finish, and keyed where appropriate.
each layer cut

to fit neatly
around flue outlet
Brick slip cladding

Where the insulation is fixed to the backing wall, a minimum
of one non-combustible fixing per 1m2 or per insulation batt,
whichever is the lesser, should be provided in addition to the
other fixings.
insualtion and carrier

neatly cut
around openings
Damp proofing and vapour control 6.9.9

Curtain walling and cladding systems, including damp proofing materials and breather membranes,
shall adequately resist the passage of water into the building and allow watervapour to pass outwards.
Damp proofing should:
be installed correctly to provide aphysical barrier to the
use DPCs/DPMs where necessary, including the junction
passage of water, and to ensure water is directed to

the outside
include cavity trays with stop ends at the base of the system,
above openings, above cavity barriers, interfaces and
other interruptions to the cavity where necessary
between the system and any other component

or systems
use only appropriate tapes and sealant (but not solely rely
on sealant) in accordance with the design and the
For curtain walling systems, the DPC/DPM should extendthe full height of the system and have appropriate details ateach interface
(including floors, walls, roofs,balconies and terraces).

CHAPTER 6.9
DPCs/DPMs and flexible cavity trays
Damp proofing should be:
formed from materials which are compatible with
constructed from preformed components at
adjoining components
the correct dimensions to suit thedetailed design
complicated junctions.
The following materials are acceptable foruse as DPCs/DPMs:
BS 6515polyethylene.
EPDM.
Neoprene.
Materials assessed in accordance with

Flashings
The following materials are acceptable as flashings:
BS EN 12588 rolled lead sheet (minimum Code 4).
BS EN 485 and BS EN 573 aluminium and aluminium alloys.
BS EN 988 zinc alloys.
Stainless steel.
Breather membranes
Breather membranes should:
comply with BS 4016
be in accordance withTechnical Requirement R3.
(Type 1 in areas of very severe exposure), or
Installation and tolerances 6.9.10
Curtain walling and cladding systems shall:
a) be installed by competentoperatives
b) be installed to achievedesign tolerances and established standards.
Installation
Systems should be installed by operativeswho:
6.9
are competent
are familiar with the system beinginstalled
hold a certificate confirming that theyhave been trained by

the systemmanufacturer, supplier or installer.
Tolerances
Systems should be completed, within reasonable tolerances, in accordance with the design, and allowing for the line, level, plumb
and plane of the completed wall to be within reasonable tolerances for the materials involved.
Electrical continuity and earth bonding 6.9.11

Curtain walling and cladding systems shall ensure electrical continuity and earth bonding.
Curtain walling and rainscreen cladding should comply with:
BS 7671
IET Wiring Regulations Requirements for Electrical Installations, formerly IEE Wiring Regulations.
BS EN 62305
Protectionagainst lightning. General principles.
BS EN 62305-3
Physical damage to structures and life hazard.
Maintenance 6.9.12
Curtain walling and cladding systems shall have appropriate access arrangements for the purposes
of cleaning, inspection, maintenance and repair.
Provision should be made for safe future access to the faade. Access should generally be provided from a safe working platform,
such as a cradle or mobile elevating platform.
Appropriate arrangements should be made for the replacement of failed insulating glass units without incurring excessive costs for
gaining access.

CHAPTER 6.9
Glazing, gaskets and sealants 6.9.13

Glazing shall be carried out in accordance with relevant standards. Materials used for glazing, gaskets and
sealants shall provide satisfactory performance.
Glazing, including insulating glass units, should be inaccordance with Chapter 6.7 Doors, windows and glazing.
Extruded rubber gaskets should complywith BS 4255 or assessed in accordance withTechnical Requirement R3.
Sealant and tapes should be selected and applied inaccordance with:
BS 6213
BS EN ISO11600.
Sealant used in locations wheredifferential movement may be expected,e.g. interfaces between the faade and thestructure,
should be one of the following:
One or two part polysulphide.
One part silicone.
One or two part polyurethane.
Materials assessed in accordance with

Cavity barriers andfirestops 6.9.14

Materials used for cavitybarriers and firestops shall be capableof producing adequate resistance to fire
and smoke.
Materials are acceptable where they are:
specified in building regulations
assessed in accordance withTechnical Requirement R3.
Systems incorporating proprietaryintumescent materials should follow theguidance provided by:
the IntumescentFire Seals Association (IFSA)
the Association for Specialist Fire Protection(ASFP).
Ventilation screens 6.9.15

Where openings are larger than 10mm, a screento prevent birds and animals entering the cavity should be provided:
at the topand bottom of the rainscreen
atpenetrations through the cladding.
Handling and storage 6.9.16

Materials, products and systems shall be protected and stored in a satisfactory manner to prevent damage,
distortion, uneven weathering and degradation.
The handling and storage of curtain walling or cladding systemshould ensure:
components are transported, lifted, handledand stored in

accordance with themanufacturers recommendations
insulated glass units are carefullystored and protected in a

sheltered dryarea.
Practical steps should be taken to avoidthe risk of damage to the curtain walling orcladding system during construction.
6.9
Ventilation openings shall beprotected from the entry of birds and animals.

CHAPTER 6.9
Curtain walling 6.9.17
Curtain walling shall ensure adequate in-service performance. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) acoustic performance
b) weather resistance
c) thermal bridging condensation
d) air infiltration
e) opening doors and lights
f) off-site testing
g) site testing.
Acoustic performance
Noise from the curtain walling systemcaused by loads, movements and changesin the environmental conditions should be
accommodated without being intrusive.
The curtain walling system should be designed to resist the passage of airborneand impact sound within the building. To reduce
flanking transmission, precautions may be required at the:
edges of separating floors
outer ends of separating walls
outer ends of partition walls
junctions with roof constructionsand parapets.
Weather resistance
Curtain walling systems should have:
external and internal air and water seals with a drained and
ventilated cavity at each interface
drained and ventilated glazing rebates including gaskets

and seals.
Figure 1: Curtain walling to insulated render system:

horizontal section
3D
internal DPC/DPM
internal seal
The following illustrations show typical interfaces and

generaldesign principles:
external DPC/DPM
6.9
external seal
Figure 2: Curtain walling to balcony/terrace: vertical section
Figure 3: Curtain walling to conventional brick and block wall:

horizontal section
internal seal
internal
DPC/DPM
external
DPC/DPM
linked to
roofing
membrane
roofing
membrane
DPC/DPM
external
seal

CHAPTER 6.9
Figure 4: Curtain walling to soffit: vertical section
10
Figure 5: Curtain walling to roof, includingcoping detail:

vertical section
external DPC/DPM
linked to
roofing membrane
external seal
internal
DPC/DPM
external
DPC/DPM
roofing membrane
Thermal bridging and condensation

The design and construction of curtain walls should:
ensure interfaces are adequately insulated and installed
ensure thermal bridging is controlled so that no part of the
inaccordance with the design
minimise the risk of surface and interstitial condensation

by providing thermal breaks and a continuous and
durable vapour control layer in accordance with
the design
curtain wall is moreat risk from surface condensation than

the glazing.
Air infiltration
Curtain walling systems should be sealed with preformed
factory-moulded pictureframe type vulcanised EPDM or
siliconeinternal gaskets. Gaskets and sealants should:
picture frame
gasket
surface of thecurtain walling system
comply with BS 6213 and be used in accordance with

manufacturersrecommendations.
typical profile
Particular attention should be given to the interfaces between

the curtain walling system and the walls, roof, doors,
windows and cladding system.
Opening doors and lights

Opening doors and lights should:
hang squarewithin the curtain wall frame
fit neatly and with minimal gaps to ensure

effectiveweatherproofing.
Off-site testing
Air and water testing of the prototype curtain walling system should be carried out in accordance with, and pass, the CWCT
Standard (test sequence A or B), when tested at a test pressure of 600 pascals. Panels tested should be of a similar size and
configuration to those to be used on the building.
Where the maximum calculated design wind pressure is above 2400 pascals, the test pressure should be increased to 0.25 x the
design wind pressure.
The prototype should remain watertight during and after the test.
At a test pressure of 600 pascals, an air infiltration rate no higher than 1.5m3/hr/m2 for fixed glazed panels is permissible,
provided there is no evidence of concentrated leakage.
Wind resistance, serviceability and safety testing should be carried out in accordance with the CWCT Standard.
6.9
be used to resist the flow of air from theoutside to the interior
11

CHAPTER 6.9
Site testing
Site testing should:
be conducted to determine resistance to water penetration,
ensure a minimum of 5% of the completed curtainwalling
including joints and interfaces which are intended to be

permanently closed andwatertight
ensure a representative sample of the finished installation is

hose tested in accordance with the current CWCT Standard
for curtain walling
system is tested, especially in vulnerable areas suchas

joints and interfaces.
Other testing may be acceptable where itis considered to be a suitablealternative by NHBC.

The results of the test should be made available to NHBC.
Rainscreen cladding 6.9.18

Rainscreen cladding systems shall ensure adequate in-service performance. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) acoustic performance
b) weather resistance
c) thermal bridging and condensation
d) air infiltration
e) compartmentation
f) certification
g) site testing.
Acoustic performance
Noise from the rainscreen cladding systemcaused by rain striking the outer surface ofpanels should be accommodated without
being intrusive through the use of material that is:
noise absorbing, or
anti-drumming.
6.9
Weather resistance
To ensure moisture is directed to the outside, DPC/DPM arrangements should be correctly formed with suitable upstands and stop
ends, including at the junction between the rainscreen cladding and any other component or system. External and internal air and
water seals and a drained cavity should be provided at all interfaces.
The air gap between the face of theinsulation and the back of the panels should be of sufficient width and have suitably sized
drainage, allowing any water passing the joints to:
rundown the back of the rainscreen panels
be discharged externally withoutwetting the insulation or the

backing wall.
Free drainage
Air gaps should be adequately ventilated and the following
minimum widthsmaintained behind all rainscreen panels:
Open, baffled or labyrinth (rebated)joints should have a

minimum 10mm opening, unless specified otherwise.
10mm
min.
10mm
min.
50mm for panels with open joints, or
38mm for panels with baffled or labyrinth(rebated) joints.
open joint
baffled joint
10mm
min.
labyrinth (rebated)
joint
The system should:
be designed to minimise the risk of thermalbridging,

be assessed using a BS 5250 condensation risk analysis
generally include a vapour control layer fixed to the warm

side of the wall insulation.

CHAPTER 6.9
12
Air infiltration
Before installation of the system, the backing wall should be reasonably airtight with:
masonry walls jointed to a high standard, i.e. each joint filled
framed walls, including a rigid sheathing onthe cavity face,

with each joint taped or sealed.
Where reasonable airtightness cannot be achieved:
a separate continuous vapour permeable air barrier should
joints should be taped or sealed.
be provided on the outer face of the backing wall
Compartmentation
Rainscreen cladding systems that have open joints between the
panels should be designed to be pressure equalised. The cavity
should be compartmented by:
1.5m max.
6.0m max.
a horizontal cavity closer at each floor level
vertical cavity closers at centres not exceeding 6m
vertical cavity closers at centres not exceeding 1.5m within

6m of an internal or external corner
horizontal cavity
closer at each
floor level
a vertical cavity closer as close as possible to an external

corner, generally within 300mm.
The NHBC Standard for compartmentation is in additionto building regulations (to controlthe spread of smoke and fire), but may be
used for the same purpose.
Cavity closers should:
be rigid and installed in accordance with the

enable ventilation and drainage to be maintained in

Rainscreen cladding systems, including panels, should have current certification confirming satisfactory assessment by an
appropriate independent technical approvals authority accepted by NHBC.
Site testing
On-site hose or sparge bar testing shouldbe carried out with emphasison interfaces that are designed to bepermanently closed
and watertight.
The building should remain watertightduring and after the test.
Insulated render and brick slip cladding 6.9.19
Insulated render and brick slip cladding shall be designed and installed to ensure adequate
in-service performance. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) weather resistance
b) thermal bridging and condensation
c) air infiltration
d) insulated render: reinforcement and render
e) brick slip cladding: slips, carriers and joints.
6.9
Certification
13

CHAPTER 6.9
Weather resistance
Timber and steel framed backing walls should have a cavity
between the wall and the insulation which is:
15mm min. drained

and vented cavity
15mm min.
drained cavity
a minimum of 15mm wide
drained and ventilated (for timber frame)
drained (for steel frame).

A cavity can increase the risk of damage from impact, especially
at low level, around balconies and where cradle systems etc.
can come into contact with the faade. Suitable precautions to
resist impact damageshould be provided e.g. by the provision of
a rigid board behind theinsulation whilst maintaining the cavity.
timber frame
steel frame
The following illustrations show typical interfaces and general design principles:
Figure 6: Insulated render system to
Figure 7: Penetration of gas flue through
windows and doors:

horizontal section
Figure 8: Brick slip cladding to
insulated render system on

light gauge steel frame:
horizontal section
insulated render system:

horizontal section
internal seal
DPC/DPM
external
seal
external
seal
external
seal
6.9
external seal
Movement joints in the backing wall shouldbe:
continued through the insulated rendersystem
formed in accordance with the


The system should:
be designed to minimise the risk of thermal bridging,

be assessed using a suitable condensation risk analysis
generally include a vapour control layer, fixed to the warm

side of the wall insulation.
Air infiltration
Before installation of the system, the backing wall should be reasonably airtight with:
masonry walls jointed to a high standard,i.e. each joint filled
each joint taped or sealed on framed walls, including a rigid

sheathing on the cavity face.

CHAPTER 6.9
14
Insulated render: reinforcement and render

Reinforcement should:
be detailed in the design and be in accordance with the
additional reinforcement
at points of increased stress
be formed with appropriate trim at openings, corners, angles,

interfaces and movement joints
include additional mesh where there may be increased stress

in the render system, i.e. at the corners of window or
door openings
be lapped to a minimum of 100mm.
reinforcement continuous
across face of insulation
Render should:
not be applied where the surface has contamination,
be mixed to ensure colour consistency where coloured
dust or loose particles
have the appropriate number and thickness ofcoats in

accordance with the manufacturersrecommendations
be specified and used with the appropriate trims to form
pigments are specified

corners, returns and features in accordance with the
Brick slip cladding: slips, carriers and joints

Brick slip systems, including proprietary carriers forming an
integral part of the system, should:
be specified and fixed in accordance with the design and the
Mortars, proprietary mortars and groutsshould be specified:
to enable each joint to be adequately filled and
6.9
manufacturers recommendations, taking account of relevant

height restrictions
be set out and designed to ensure that excessive cutting of

brick slips is avoided, i.e. in the storey heights, at corners and
around openings
have coursing arranged to suit lintel heights.

insulation (carrier) neatly cut
around openings and positioned
to avoid excess cutting of slips
appropriately struck
in accordance with the system

Light steel framed

walls and floors
CHAPTER 6.10
Technical Requirements for light steel framed
walls and floors and:
applies specifically to warm frame construction

using 0.45-3.2mm thick framing
does not apply to light steelframed walls used

in basements.
6.10.1 Compliance
6.10.2 Provision of information
6.10.3 Certification
6.10.4 Load-bearing walls and floors
6.10.5 Control of fire
6.10.6 Acoustic performance
6.10.7 Steel and fixings
6.10.8 Detailing of steel joists
6.10.9 Restraint
6.10.10 Fixing floor decking and ceilings
6.10.11 Moisture control
6.10.12 Insulation
6.10.13 Vapour control layers
6.10.14 Breather membranes
6.10.15 Construction of load-bearing walls

and external infill walls
6.10.16 Construction of non load-bearing walls
6.10.17 Panels, cladding and boards
6.10.18 Wall tiles
6.10.19 Services
01
01
01
02
04
05
05
06
08
08
08
09
10
10
10
11
12
13
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Light steel framed walls and floors 2016

CHAPTER 6.10
Compliance 6.10.1
Light steel framed walls and floors shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Light steel framed walls (including external and internalwalls) and floors that comply with the guidance in this chapter willgenerally
be acceptable.
For the purpose of this chapter, non load-bearing walls are those not designed to carry the principal dead and imposed loads or
provide the overall stability for the building. In some circumstances (e.g. external infill walls), they will carry wind loads.
Constructionshould be warm frame with sufficientinsulation outside the steel envelopeto ensure that condensation does notoccur
within the depth of the light steel members.
Where light steel framing is not of a type shown in this chapter,it should be assessed inaccordance with Technical Requirement R3.

Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers, and include:
Relevant drawings and material specification.
Fixing schedules and details of each connection that is to be

made on site.
Manufacturers recommendationsrelating to
proprietary items.
Details of how wall panels are to be fixed to the substructure,

adjacent panels and floor and roof framing.
The number and spacing of bolts, screws and rivets.
The size and type of each fixing, including

corrosion protection.
Certification 6.10.3
Also see: technical@nhbc.co.uk
Design of the superstructure shall be checked by an NHBC steel framecertifier.
6.10
Homes with load-bearing light steel framed walls or floors require two-stagecertification confirming that both the system and the
project have been checked. The project-specific design check should be undertaken by an NHBC approved steel frame certifier.
Stage 1 system certification

NHBC requires manufacturers of steelframe systems, which form load-bearing walls or floor panels, to submit a system manual to
the SteelConstruction Institute (SCI) for assessment.
The manufacturer is the company whichassembles the steel frame sections to form the wall and/or floor panels. If in doubt,
consult NHBC Standards and Technical.
The manual should contain the information described in Table 1 (though SCI may ask for additional information).
Table 1: Items considered in the system manual

Topic
Description
Description of system
Key features
Usage, e.g. maximum number of storeys and type of cladding
Confirmation that minimum design life is 60 years
Grade of steel
Corrosion protection
Supplementary protection
Structural design philosophy (including codes of practice referenced and test reports)
Grade of steel (traceability)
Section properties
Loading
Ultimate limit state
Serviceability limit state
Resistance to overturning
Racking resistance
Holding down
Connections
Structural integrity
Positions and sizes of holes through members
Application
Durability
Strength and stability

CHAPTER 6.10
Table 1 (continued): Items considered in the system manual

Topic
Description
Claddings
Acceptable claddings
Provision of cavity
Type of wall ties
Necessary internal linings
Fire stops and cavity barriers
Type, thickness and location of insulation material
Confirmation that the specification complies with building regulations/Robust Details
Specific design considerations
Other information of relevance to the designer and steel frame certifier
Behaviour in relation to fire

Condensation risk
Sound insulation
Balconies, terraces and parapets
Other
Where there are choices (e.g. types of claddings), the manufacturer will need to specify which options the SCI is to consider in
its assessment. Upon satisfactory completion, SCI will approve themanufacturers system manual and issue a numbered
system certificate which includes:
a detailed description of the system
details of usage limitations
information for reference by the designer and steel frame

project certifier.
Stage 2 project certification

NHBC requires the builder to appoint asteel frame certifier to check the design for the home and the site.
The steel frame certifier should:
check supporting details and calculations
ensure that the proposals are in accordance with the

manufacturers system certificate (issued by SCI)
this chapter
provide confirmation that the requirements have been

satisfied for each project
issue a project certificate tothe builder.
The certificate should be available on site for inspection by NHBC.
6.10
Project certificates can only be issued by steel frame certifiers who have been approved by NHBC. Applications to become a steel
frame certifier should be made to NHBC.
Load-bearing walls and floors 6.10.4

Walls and floors shall be designed to support and transferloads safely and without undue movement.
a) structural walls
b) resistance to racking forces
c) structural floors.
Structural walls
The structural design of the building should ensure adequate resistance toloadings including dead loads, imposed loads, wind loads
and snow loads, in accordance with:
BS EN 1991-1-1
BS EN 1991-1-3
BS EN 1991-1-4.
Individual studs should generally:
be a minimum of 36mm wide
have a maximum spacing of 600mm.
Alternative stud arrangements should be agreed with NHBC.

Lintels should be:
provided to any opening in load-bearing panels where one or

more studs is cut or displaced to form the opening, but are
not required where an opening falls between studs
securely fixed to supporting studs to ensure that loads are

fully transferred.
At openings, additional studs may be required to provide support
or fixing points for cladding, and wall linings.
Multiple studs should be included tosupport multiple joists,
unless otherwisespecified by the designer.

CHAPTER 6.10
Where panels are diagonally braced witha flat strip, the brace should be fixed to each stud atthe intersection to minimise bowing in
thebracing member.
Account should be taken of uplift forces, and proper holding-downdevices should be provided to resist uplift where necessary.
The anchorage for holding-down devices should have sufficient mass to resist theuplift forces (See Clause 6.10.15).
Timber wall plates should be:
fixed to thehead rail of wall panels onto which timberroof
sized (including the head rail), to permit singletimber trusses
trusses bear
to be positioned at anypoint between studs.
Movement joints should:
preventload transfer onto a chimney or flue (a joint should
not be bridged by non load-bearing walls.
be constructed between the frame and any chimney or flue)
Resistance to racking forces

Methods to resist racking forces should comply with:
design to BS EN 1993-1-1, or
be tested to BSEN 594.
Plywood sheathing should:
have performance characteristics determined in accordance

with BS EN13986 Table 7
be suitable for use in humid conditions to BSEN 636
be at least 5.5mm thick
be appropriate to the exposure of thebuilding.
Cement bonded particle board sheathingshould be in accordance with BS EN 634and BS EN 13986.

Oriented strand board should be OSB3 toBS EN 300 and have a minimum thickness of 8mm. Proprietary sheathing materials
should be in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Wall panels may provide resistance toracking forces using one or more of the following techniques:
external lining board
rigid frame action.
internal bracing
crossed flat bracing
internal sheathing board
6.10
Structural floors
Floors should:
be designed to resist loading in accordance with

BS EN 1991-1-1
have a maximum joist spacing of 600mm centres
have suitably sized trimmers around floor openings.
Light steel joists should be fixed tosupporting walls by either:
web cleats
direct attachment to wall studs, or
bearing onto the supporting structure (bearing stiffeners may

be required).
The in-service performance of light steel joists should be controlled by the following fourserviceability criteria.
Static criteria for the maximum permissible deflection of a single joistdue to:
imposed load, limited to(span/450).
dead and imposed loads, limited to the lesser of (span/350)

or 15mm.
Dynamic criteria:
The natural frequency of the floorshould be limited to 8Hz
The deflection of the floor (i.e. a series of joists plus the floor
for dead load plus 0.2 x imposed load. This can be achieved
by limiting the deflection of asingle joist to 5mm for the
given loading.
decking) when subject to a 1kN point load should belimited

to the values in Table 2.
Table 2: Deflection with point loads of 1kN

Span (m)
Maximum deflection (mm)
3.5
1.7
3.8
1.6
4.2
1.5
4.6
1.4
5.3
1.3
6.2
1.2

CHAPTER 6.10
The deflection of a single joist isdependent on the:
overall floorconstruction
number of effective joists that are deemed to share the

applied 1kN point load (typical values are given in Table 3).
Table 3: Typical values

Floor configuration
Number of effectivejoists
400mm joist centres
600mm joist centres
Chipboard, plywood or oriented strand board 2.5
2.35
Built-up acoustic floor
3.5
Ground floor construction

Provision should be made to prevent ground moisture affecting light steel floors. This can be achieved by either:
50mm concrete or 50mm fine aggregate on a polyethylene
100mm concrete.
membrane laid on 50mm sand blinding, or

Where necessary, oversite concrete should be protected against sulfate attack by the use of a polyethylene sheet DPM, not less
than 1200 gauge (0.3mm) or 1000 gauge where assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3, properly lapped.
Floors should have a 150mm minimum void below the floor which is ventilated by:
openings on at least two opposite sides
1500mm2 per metre run of external wall or 500mm2 per m2

of floor area (whichever provides the largest area).
Where there is shrinkable soil, heave can occur. The minimum underfloor void ventilationrequirement should be increased
as follows:
High potential 150mm (300mm total)
Medium potential 100mm (250mm total)
Low potential 50mm (200mm total)
Walls and floors shall resist and control the spread of fire. Structural elements, fire stops and cavity barriers
should have adequate resistance to fireand smoke. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) walls, floors and ceilings
b) cavity barriers and fire stops
c) materials suitable for fire stopping.
Walls, floors and ceilings

Fire resistance should be in accordance with:
relevant building regulations
the design.
Ceilings should provide the necessary fire protection to floors constructed with light steel joists. This requires one or two layers of
plasterboard, with at least one being fire-rated. Where two layers of board are used:
joints should be staggered between layers
they shouldbe attached using self-drilling,

self-tapping screws.
Cavity barriers and fire stops

Service penetrations in floors between homes should be fire stopped and thereshould be no holes or gaps for smoke topenetrate
once the fire stopping has been installed.
Horizontal cavity barriers should be protected by:
a DPC tray with a 100mm minimum upstand
a polyethylene-encased cavity barrier with a 100mm
the eaves.
minimum upstand, or
Materials suitable for fire stopping

Materials for fire stopping are acceptable where they are:
specified in supporting documents to building regulations
6.10
Control of fire 6.10.5

CHAPTER 6.10
Acoustic performance 6.10.6
Walls and floors shall have adequate resistance to the passage of sound.
Internal walls and floors should be in accordance withrelevant building regulations.
Separating walls
Separating walls should be in accordance with the design. Gaps should be avoided in the:
fire stopping.
mineral wool quilt or batts
wallboard layers
Services in, or adjacent to, separating wallsshould be installed in accordance with thedesign.
Separating floors
The floating part of a floor should beseparated from the mainstructure and surrounding walls by a resilient layer.
Where boards are laid loose over insulation without battens, joints should be glued.
Steel and fixings 6.10.7

Steel and fixings shall be suitable for the intended use. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) steel grade
b) protection against corrosion
c) connections and fixings
d) holes and notches.
Steel grade
Steel should be grade:
S280 to BS EN 10326
S350 to BS EN 10326, or
S390 steel with a nominal yield strength of 390N/mm2

(when compliant with BSEN 10326).
Protection against corrosion
6.10
Steel should be pre-galvanisedin accordance with BS EN 10326 (minimum 275 g/m2 zinc coating). Joists should not be altered
without the approval of the designer. Welded or flamecut edges should be cleaned and treated with a zinc-rich paint to
prevent corrosion.
The junction between the ground floor joists and their support should be designed to maintain the durability of the floor. Light steel
floor joists and ring beams in ground floors should be galvanised to 450g/m2. Alternatively, they can be galvanised to 275 g/m2
with additional protection of a two-coat bitumen based coating to BS 1070, BS 3416 or BS 6949, or have a two-coat liquid asphaltic
composition applied. Ring beams to ground floors should be totally protected, and joists protected for 300mm adjacent to an external
wall support or ring beam.
Connections and fixings

Where two metals are to be joined, theyshould either be:
compatible and not causebimetallic corrosion, or
isolated from each other.
Connections should be:
properly installed
securely made by clinching, crimping or by one of the
justified in accordance with BS EN1993-1-3 or a test method

acceptable to NHBC.
methods detailed in Table 4
Table 4: Types of connections

Type of connection
Relevant standard
Cleats
BS EN 1993-1-1
Countersunk bolts (tightened to thecorrect torque)
BS 4933
Ring shank nails
BS EN 10263
Rivets including self-piercing rivets
Manufacturers recommendations
Screws
BS 5427
Welded connections
BS 5135 (using weldingwire to BS 2901)
Zinc-plated bolts
BS 4190

CHAPTER 6.10
Holding-down devices
Holding-down devices should be suitable for the environment they will beexposed to, and manufactured from:
stainless steel to BS EN 10095

(suitable for most environments).
mild steel with zinccoating to BS 729 or BS 706
Holes and notches

Joists should not be altered without the approval of the designer.
Drilling or punching through the web should be carried out within
recognised limits.
Unstiffened holes through the web should:
grommets to
all punched holes
have a minimum spacing equal to the depth of the member,

and be a minimum of 1.5x the depth from the end of
the member
have rectangular holes not exceeding 40% of the overall

depth of the member; the length of the hole should not
exceed 3x the depth of thehole
limit the diameter of circular holes to a maximum 60% of the

depth of the member.
reinforced
service hole
elongated service
hole
End notching of light steel joistsmay be required for the

interconnection of trimming joists and should be in accordance
with the design. Notcheselsewhere in the span are
not acceptable.
unacceptable
notch
Also see Clause 6.10.19.
Steel joists, fixings and connections shall be suitably detailed and provide satisfactory performance. Issues to
a) installation details
b) support cleats
c) prevention of roll.
Installation details
Joists should be:
spaced as shown in the design
accurately cut to lengthin the factory to ensure a tight fit
joined with thecorrect type, size and number of fixings.
Where light steel joists are supported bysteel joists, cleats or web stiffeners shouldbe used in accordance with the design.
Joists may be doubled up to supportpartitions or to form trimmers.
Ends of floor joists directly supported on walls should be stiffened. Continuous joists on load-bearing intermediate walls should be
reinforced as required by the design.
6.10
Detailing of steel joist 6.10.8

CHAPTER 6.10
Where joists overlap on load-bearing intermediate walls should
be fixed together with bolts or screws. This is to prevent the floor
decking being pushed up, or the ceiling being cracked, when the
cantilevered part of the joist moves upwards.
Support cleats
Joist support cleats should:
be of the correct type
be fitted in the specifiedlocation
use fixings as specified in the design.
Where required, web stiffeners should beproperly fitted.
6.10
bolted web to web connection
Where joists are fitted directly to light steel wall studs, pre drilled holes should be correctly aligned before making the
final connection.
Fixing holes should not be enlarged, and additional holes should not be cut withoutpriorapproval of the designer.
Prevention of roll
Bridging and blocking should be provided in accordance with the
design to prevent roll.
Floors constructed using joists with an asymmetric web,
e.g. of C or Sigma profile, can cause the floor to roll. To avoid
roll, unless otherwise specified in the design, one of the following
alternatives should be used where the span exceeds 3.5m for
C joists, or 4.2m for Sigma joists:
A continuous line, or lines, of proprietary steel herringbone

struts provided between the joists. The pairs of strutsshould
have a physical gap between them so that they do not rub
against each other at the cross-over point and create noise.
Solid blocking provided to every third pair of joists with ties

between them.
Joists alternately reversed and tied together in pairs.
Joists alternately reversed and continuous ties

(e.g. resilient bar) fixed to the joist flanges.
Where joists bear onto steelwork or are supported by cleats,
blocking is not necessary adjacent to the supports.

CHAPTER 6.10
Restraint 6.10.9
Restraint strapping shall be provided in accordance with the design.
Where external walls, not constructed from light steel framing, are to be stabilised by a connection to the floor, straps may
be required. Straps will generally be fixed to the web of the joist, to suit the masonry courses.
Where joists run parallel to the wall, straps should be supported on noggings fixed between the joists. Straps should be placed at a
maximum of 2m apart and carried over three joists. Packing should be provided between the wall and the first joist.
Straps should be fixed with suitable bolts, screws or rivets and should bear on the centre of bricks or blocks, not across
mortar joints.
Fixing floor decking and ceilings 6.10.10
Floor decking and ceilings shall be adequately fixed using a material of adequate strength and
moisture resistance.
Joist spacing and decking thickness should be compatible. Material standards and minimum board thicknesses for domestic loads
(imposed load of1.5kN/m2) are shown in Table 5.
Table 5: Joist spacing and decking type

Material
Standard
Thickness of decking (mm)

400mm joist centres
600mm joist centres
Chipboard
BS EN 312 moisture-resistant type P5
18
22
Plywood
Oriented strand board type OSB3
BS EN 636
BS EN 300
15
15
18/19
18/19
Decking materials not listed should comply with Technical Requirement R3.
Oriented strand board should be laid with the stronger axis at right angles to the supports.
6.10
In England and Wales, the thicknesses listed above may not achieve the 15 kg/m2 mass required to meet sound
insulation requirements.
Fixings and supports should be as recommended by the manufacturer.
Flooring should be fixed at maximum 300mm centres using the following:
Self-drilling or self-tapping screws.
Ring shank nails, or
Other approved fixings.
Tongue and grove joints should beglued.

Plasterboard should be fixed in accordance with Chapter 9.2 Wall and ceiling finishes, using self-drilling, self-tapping screws.
Moisture control 6.10.11

The structure should be adequately protectedfrom the effects of moisture. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) cavities in external walls
b) DPCs, DPMs and cavity trays.
Cavities in external walls

A clear cavity should be provided to reducethe risk of rain
penetrating the frame.
The minimum cavity widths (measured between the claddings
and sheathings) to suit the cladding type should be provided in
accordance with Table 6.
150mm
min overlap.

CHAPTER 6.10
Table 6: Minimum cavity widths
Cladding
Cavity width
Masonry
50mm nominal
Render on backed lathing
25mm nominal
Vertical tile hanging without underlay
No vertical cavity required where abreather membrane is provided
Other cladding(1)
15mm nominal
Notes
1 See Chapter 6.9 Curtain walling and cladding
The cavity should:
extend at least 150mm below the DPC
be kept clear to allow drainage
be provided with weep holes or other suitable means of

drainage where necessary.
DPCs, DPMs and cavity trays

DPCs, DPMs and cavity trays should:
be provided at openings to prevent rain penetration
be installed underneath the full width of the lowest section of
be wide enough to lap with theDPM.
framing, e.g. all ground floor walls andinternal partitions, to

protect the steel from corrosion due to moisture
Materials acceptable for use asDPCs include:
BS 6515 polyethylene
BS 6398 bitumen
Insulation 6.10.12
materials assessed in accordance with

Also see: BRE Report Thermal insulation:avoiding risks
Insulation materials shall be correctly installed, be ofa suitable thickness to comply with building regulations
and reduce the risk of interstitial condensation.
6.10
Insulation should:
be inert, durable, rot and vermin proof and shouldnot be
extend 150mm belowthe bottom rail to minimisethermal
adversely affected by moisture or vapour
cover the whole external face of the wall
be tightly butted with joints of rigid board isulation taped,
bridging and maintain a warm frame

where required by the design.
Foil-faced insulation boards with an integral facing on one side only should be fixed with the foil face on the cavity side.
Table 7: Acceptable insulation material

Material
Relevant standard
Mineral wool
BS EN 13162
FR (flame retardant) grade expanded polystyrene
BS EN 13163
FR (flame retardant) grade extruded polystyrene
BS EN 13164
Rigid polyurethane foam andpolyisocyanurate
BS EN 13165
Phenolic foam
BS EN 13166
Cellular glass
BS EN 13167
Other insulation materials
In England and Wales, account should be taken of Accredited Construction Details for Part L.

CHAPTER 6.10
10
Vapour control layers 6.10.13

Vapour control layers shall restrict the passage of vapour from within the home to the steel frame and be
correctly installed.
Vapour control layers should be provided, unless a condensation risk analysis in accordance with BS 5250 shows it is not necessary.
Where they are provided, vapour control layers should be:
500g polyethylene sheet, vapour control plasterboard,
placed to cover the external wall, including base rails,
or material assessed in accordance with

fixed on the warm side of thewall insulation and frame
overlaping the base rail
fully sealed and punctures made good.
head rails, studs, lintels and window reveals
Where polyethylene sheet is used:
each joint in the vapour control layer should be located on

studs or noggings and lapped by 100mm minimum
double-sided tape or adhesive should be used as a

temporary fixingbefore the wall board is fixed.
Where vapour control plasterboard is used:
joints between sheets should be positionedon studs

or noggings
care should be takennot to displace the vapour control

material when cutting vapourcontrol plasterboard.
Breather membranes 6.10.14

Breather membranes shall be capable of allowing vapour to pass into thecavity, and provided to protect the
sheathing andframe from external moisture.
installed so that each joint is protected and moisture
BS 3177 test at 25C and 75% relative humidity)
capable of resisting water penetration
self-extinguishing
durable
adequately strong when wet to resistsite damage
drains outwards
lapped to a minimum of 100mm at horizontal joints and a

minimum of 150mm at vertical joints
Type 1 to BS 4016 when in areas of very severe exposure.
Construction of load-bearing walls andexternal infill walls 6.10.15

Construction of load-bearing walls and external infill walls shall ensure adequate stability. Issues to be taken
a) preparation
b) anchoring
c) panels, cladding and boards.
Preparation
The following should be in accordance with the design:
The setting out of the structure onto which the light steel
frame is to be erected.
The transfer of loads from the light steel frame.

The supporting structure may have local deviations in level along
its length, and some packing will be required to achieve the
required tolerances and to provide for effective load transfer.
12mm max.
12mm max. from edge

with ledge protected
6.10
Breather membranes should be:
vapour resistant to less than 0.6MNs/g (according to a
11

CHAPTER 6.10
Table 8: Acceptable methods of packing under frames
Gap under base rail
Acceptable packing
Less than 10mm
Provide shims under each stud position.
10-20mm
Provide shims under each stud position, and grout under the whole length of the base rail with cement:
sand mortar.
More than 20mm
Obtain advice from the framedesigner/manufacturer.

Remedial work to thesubstructure may be requiredbefore erection commences.
Shims should:
be of pre-galvanised steel
not be of plastic or timber.
Wall frames should be checked to ensure that they are dimensionally accurate before erection commences.
Light steel framing should be correctlypositioned, square and
plumb, and within the following tolerances:
nominal line
of frame
line of
frame
The vertical position of members should be within +/-5mm per

storey relative to the base.
The horizontal position of base rails should not vary in
5mm max.
alignment by more than 5mm in 10m.
10m
Anchoring
The frame should be anchored to resistboth lateral movement and uplift in accordance with the design.
anchor fixed
to studs
6.10
chemical anchor
20 from vertical
anchor fixed
to studs
bolt down bracket
Anchoring should ensure:
that appropriate edge details are provided to avoid spalling

of masonry slabs or slabs
fixings into masonry are into solid concrete blocks with a

minimum crushing strengthof 7.3N/mm2 and positioned to
receive fixings.
Where the design incorporates gas membranes (methane or radon), fixings should not puncture them, but where this is unavoidable,
the penetration should be sealed.
Construction of non load-bearing walls 6.10.16

Non load-bearing walls shall be suitably constructed.
Acceptable construction includes light steel partitions using studs, and head and base rails, from a minimum section
of 43mm x 32mm x 0.45mm, with:
9.5mm plasterboard with studs spaced at a maximum of

450mm, or
12.5mm or thicker plasterboard with studs spaced at a

maximum of 600mm.

CHAPTER 6.10
12
Noggings or straps should be providedas required to support fittings, such asradiators, wall-mounted boilers, sanitary fittings,
kitchen units, etc. Non load-bearing partitions should not be wedged against floor joists, ceiling joists or roof trusses.
Allowance should be made for the floor joists, ceiling joists or roof trusses to deflect so that the partition does not become
load-bearing. They should be:
constructed in accordance with the design
correctly positioned, square and plumb
supported on a structural floor, but not a floating floor that

incorporates a compressible layer, unless specifically
designed for that purpose
fixed to the floor at the head, to each other and to

abutting walls
provided with extra studs at openings where required
finished in accordance with Chapter 9.2

Wall and ceiling finishes.
channel fixed to
structure over
head rail should not be
connected to top rack
extra stud to
support
partition
Panels, cladding and boards 6.10.17

Panels, cladding and boards shall be compatible with the steel frame, be of a suitable thickness for the
intended use, and be adequately fixed and installed.
In external walls, a clear cavity should be provided betweenthe sheathing and the cladding. The cavity should:
is not fully maintained, e.g. at cavity barriers
be kept clean, free ofobstructions and capable of

draining freely
have drainage at the base of the cladding system equivalent

to 500mm2 /m run, e.g. for masonry, one open perpend
every 1.5m
have drainage openings placed to prevent the ingress

of rain.
Wall panels should be:
fixed in accordance with the design
securely fixed togetherand to floors.
Masonry cladding
Masonry cladding should:
not besupported by the light steel framed wallsunless
be constructedin accordance with Chapter 6.1
shown in the design
be tied to the lightsteel framed walls with flexible wall

tiesfixed through to the studs
be provided with soft joints to allow fordifferential movement.
To allow for movement, a 1mm gap per metre of masonry should be provided at openings and soffits.
Lightweight cladding
Lightweight cladding should be supported by:
the light steel framed walls on battens,or
other suitable means.
Wallboards
Wallboards should be:
fixed in accordance with the design and the
attached to light steel studs using self-drilling,
self-tappingscrews at a maximum of 300mm centres.
In addition to the general guidance for wallboards, plasterboard should:
be fire-rated where used to provide fire resistance
comply with BS 1230 and be in accordance with
be a minimum of 9.5mm for stud spacings up to 450mm
be a minimum of 12.5mm for stud spacing up to 600mm.
Chapter 9.2 Wall and ceiling finishes
6.10
be drained
have cavitytrays and weep holes installed where the cavity
13

CHAPTER 6.10
Wall ties 6.10.18
Wall ties shall be suitable to connect the steel frame to the cladding.
Generally, wall ties should be:
fixed to the studs and not the sheathing
inclined away from light steel framing
austenitic stainless steel and of a type which accommodates
3D
the differential movement between the light steel frame and

the cladding, or assessed in accordance with
Wall ties for masonry cladding should be:
installed at a minimum density of 3.7 ties/m2, e.g. spaced at a

maximum of 600mm horizontally and 450mm vertically
spaced at jambs of openings, a maximum of 300mm vertically

within 225mm of the masonry reveal (additional studs may be
needed to achieve this)
kept clean and free from mortar droppings.
compressible joint should

be 1mm thick per metre
of masonry to allow
for vertical movement
6.10
Services 6.10.19
Services shall be adequately protected from damage.
Service mains and service outlets should be:
designed to ensure the fire resistance of walls and floors is

not impaired
installed in accordance with the design
on the warm side of theinsulation.
Light steel studs should not be notched to accommodate services. Holing of structural light steel members should be carried out
in accordance with this chapter. On-site hole cutting should be avoided, as badly cut edges can have an adverse effect on the
durability of the frame and may cause damage to pipes and cables.
Grommets should be used around the edge of service holes to protect electrical cables and reduce the risk of bimetallic corrosion
between the light steel framing and copper pipes. Swaged holes for electric cables and plastic piping do not require grommets.
In Scotland, services are not permitted within:
framed separating walls
The Steel Construction Institute (SCI), Silwood Park, Ascot,

Berkshire, SL5 7QN
separating wall cavities.
Flat roofs and balconies

CHAPTER 7.1
Technical Requirements for flat roofs and balconies.
Waterproofing using profile sheet is outside the
scope of this chapter.
7.1.1 Compliance
7.1.2
7.1.3
Flat roof and balcony design
7.1.4
Timber and timber decks
7.1.5
Profiled metal decks
7.1.6
Concrete decks
7.1.7 Thermal insulationand vapour control
7.1.8
Waterproofing and surface treatments
7.1.9
Green and proprietaryroofs
7.1.10 Detailing of flat roofs
7.1.11 Accessible thresholds
7.1.12 Drainage
7.1.13 Guarding to balconies
01
01
01
02
04
04
05
05
07
09
11
12
14
Flat roofs and balconies 2016

CHAPTER 7.1
For the purposes of this chapter, the following definitions apply:
Flat roof
A roof with a maximumslope of 10 from the horizontal. Systems may be used at a greater pitch where
they meet the requirements of this chapter, and materials are adequately held in place.
Deck
The structural substrate of theflat roof.
Decking
The upper trafficked surface of the balcony.
Warm roof
Insulated above the deck.
Cold roof
Insulated below the deck.
Inverted warm roof
Insulated above the waterproofing.
Intensive green roof
Vegetation contained within soil.
Extensive green roof
Vegetation contained in the sedum.
Compliance 7.1.1
Flat roofs and balconies shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Flat roofs and balconies which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable to NHBC.
Other sources of information include:
BS 6229 Flat roofs with continuously supported coverings.

Code of practice
National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC)
Mastic Asphalt Council (MAC)
Single Ply Roofing Association (SPRA)
Liquid Roofing and Waterproofing Association (LRWA).
Where the flat roof or balcony is a terrace above another home, it should provide satisfactory acoustic performance in accordance
with relavant building regulations.

Extent and direction of falls, and positionof rainwater outlets.
Sections through the construction,indicating how falls are

formed and ventilation is provided.
7.1
Size, specification and position of the components,

including treatments for durability and the position of the
vapour control layer, insulation andwaterproofing layers.
Details at criticaljunctions.
Details of fixings and fixing methods, including those

forinsulation and surfacing.
Specification for intensive, orextensive green roofs.
Details and fixing methods of balcony support and

guarding components.
Flat roof and balcony design 7.1.3

Flat roofs and balconies shall support and transmit loads safely tothe structure.
The structural design of flat roofs and balconies should:
be produced by an engineer in accordance with
have adequate provision for movement in larger roofs,
Technical Requirement R5, and be in accordance with

BS EN1991-1-1, BS EN 1991-1-3 and BS EN 1991-1-4
resist wind upliftby either being of sufficient self-weight or

by being anchored tothe main structure where required,
holding-downstraps should be provided at a maximum
spacing of 2m
have adequate provision for the additional loads where a

flat roof is to act as a roofterrace, roof garden or
car parking area
particularly where the span of the roof deck changes,

e.g. in L-shaped buildings; joints should be continuous
through thevertical upstands, walls and edges of
the building
include supportsteelwork and purlins which are square,

true and free from twists or sagging.
Where joists and concrete roof elements are used to provide lateral restraint, they should:
have a minimum bearing of 90mm, or
have restraint straps at 2m centres (maximum) where joists

or concrete beams are parallel to walls.

CHAPTER 7.1
Timber and timber decks 7.1.4

Timber flat roofs and balconies shall be of adequate strength and durability, and be installed to form a
satisfactory substrate for the waterproofing system. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) structure and durability
b) joist hangers, straps and strutting
c) installing timber substrates.
Structure and durability

Timber should be:
surface
treatment
checked for conformity with the design upon delivery
rejected where excessively wet, damaged or not of a suitable
waterproofing
quality or shape
stored under cover to prevent wetting
preservative treated or naturally durable, in accordance with

Chapter 3.3 Timber preservation (natural solid timber)
retreated along the cut edges with a coloured preservative,

where preservative treated timber has been cut.
insulation
vapour control layer
deck
joist and firring
ceiling
finish
falls can be created by

firrings or tapered insulation
Timber decks should:
be in accordance BS EN 1995-1-1 or appropriate load/span

tables published by TRADA in support of building regulations
be from regularised timber, dry graded to BS 4978 and

marked DRY or KD where softwood is used internally
have I-joists or metal web joists specified in accordance with

the manufacturers recommendations and not used where
any part of the joist is exposed to external conditions
have joists which are sized and spaced in accordance with

the design and at a maximum of 600mm centres
be temporarily covered to prevent wetting, unless the

waterproofing is to be installed immediately
be level and, where necessary, using hard packing such as

tiles or slates bedded in mortar to adjust joists (loose or soft
packing, including timber, should not be used)
formed with one of the materials listed in Table 1.
Table 1: Materials used for decking

Thickness of deck (mm)
450mm joist centres
600mm joist centres
Plywood to BS EN 636, Class 3
15
18
Oriented strand board, type OSB3
15
18
Pretreated timber planking, tongue and grooved (close boarded timber)

Maximum board width 100mm
19
19
Technical Requirement R3 states that the structure shall, unless specifically agreed otherwise in writing with NHBC, have a life of at
least 60 years.
Timber in balconies should belimited to elements which are supported by materials other thantimber. Timber should not be
used for:
gallows brackets supporting a balcony
posts or columns supporting a balcony
guardrails or their support.
Timber can be used in the followingsituations, provided it has adequate durability:
Cantilevered solid timber joist balconies with a waterproof
Balustrading.
membrane above the joists.
Open balcony constructions with timberdecking.

The decking may be supported on solid timber joists
which in turn are supported by materials or
componentsother than timber.
7.1
Material

CHAPTER 7.1
Joist hangers, straps and strutting
Masonry carrying joisthangers should be level and at the correctheight.
Mild steel straps and fixings should beprotected against corrosion in accordancewith BS EN 845-1.
Joist hangers should be:
in accordance with BS EN 845
the correct size for the timber joist or trimmer
fixed in accordance with the design.
Where holding-down straps are required to prevent the roof from lifting from thesupporting structure, they should be:
spaced at a maximum of 2m centres
fixed with a minimum of four hardened nails 4mm in diameter
fixed with the lowest fixing secured within 150mm of the

bottom of the vertical strap
x 75mm long, or No 12. wood screws x 50mm long,

into plugs (where fixed to masonry)
30mm x 2.5mm and 1m long
predrilled for fixings.
gap between joist and

hanger is 6mm max.
strap with 30x2.5mm

cross section and
min. 1000mm long
min 4 screw
fixings per
strap
no gap between
the hanger
and the wall
lowest fixing max. 150mm

from bottom of strap
notched to keep
ceiling line level
Strutting should be provided to prevent excessive movement, and::
be either herringbone type (timber 38mm x38mm),
notprevent cross ventilation in cold deck roofs.
solid blocking (38mm thick timber x 0.75depth of joist)

or proprietary steel strutting
Table 2: Spacing for strutting
7.1
Joistspan(m)
Rows of strutting
Up to 2.5
None needed
2.5-4.5
One (at centre of span)
Over 4.5
Equally spaced along the span at maximum 2.5m centres
Installing timber substrates

When installing timber substrates:
conditions should be dry, and materials protected from
joints insheet materials which are precovered orcoated
wettinguntil the roof is complete
the area of deck installed should be of a size which can be

quickly covered in the event of rain
materials thathave been damaged or adversely affected by
should be sealed immediately afterfixing

moisture should bediscarded.
Plywood and oriented strand board should:
have tongued and grooved boards installed with the long
be supported on noggings where the edges of boards
edge at right angles to the joists, and short edges supported

on a joist or nogging
have a maximum movement gap between boards of 3mm for

square edge boards
have a minimum movement gap of 10mm where boards abut

a rigid upstand
situated along the roof perimeterdo not coincide with joists
be fixed at a maximum of 100mm centres (unless the design

specifies closer)
be fixed with flat-headed ring shanknails (50mm long x 3mm

for plywood, 3mm x 2.5 x board thickness for OSB).

CHAPTER 7.1
OSB should be:
installed over supports in the direction indicated on the

boards, with the stronger axis installed at right angles to the
supporting joists
fixed a minimum of 9mm from the edgeof the board.
for square edge

boards, 3mm for
OSB and plywood
10mm where OSB

or plywood abut
a rigid upstand
Softwood tongued and grooved boarding should be:
closely clamped together with end joints staggered
fixed with two ring shank nails to each joist or firring, with nail
heads punched below the timber surface.
Profiled metal decks 7.1.5

Profiled metal flat roofs and balconies shall form a satisfactory substrate for the waterproofing system.
Profiled metal flat roofs should:
be constructed to ensure they achieve the required strength

and durability, and be checked for conformity with the design
upon delivery
be suitably stored to prevent damage
comply with the manufacturers load and span tables and the
relevant applied safetyfactor
resist loads in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-4 and be fixed

in accordance with the manufacturers instructions
be galvanised steel to BS EN 10147 or aluminium to BS EN

485-2 and used in accordance with BS EN 1993-1-3
surface
treatment
have a crown which is a minimum of 50% of the profile width

(for bonded systems)
have a crown which is a minimum of 45% of the profile width

(for mechanically fixed systems)
be side stitched to ensure itperforms as a continuous plane

layer (unless the manufacturer recommends otherwise)
be fixed and installed in accordance with the design and

variations approved by the designer
be adequately protected from construction loads
be of suitable quality and finish before the waterproofingand

insulation system is installed.
crown width
waterproofing
insulation
profiled metal deck
plaster or
plasterboard
profile width
7.1

firrings or tapered insulation
Concrete decks 7.1.6

Concrete flat roofs and balconies shall form a satisfactorysubstrate for the waterproofing system.
Concrete flat roofs should be constructed to ensure they achieve therequired design, strength and durability, and be in accordance
with BS EN 1992-1-1 and Chapter 3.1 Concrete andits reinforcement.
In-situ reinforced concrete decks should:
be formed using a mix which has low

shrinkage characteristics
have accurately constructed and suitably

supported formwork
Precast concrete decks should:
be protected until adequately cured and dried

(permanent waterproofing should not be installed until the
deck has fully dried).
surface
treatment
waterproofing
be installed on an even and true supporting structure
have a minimum 90mm bearing (unless the design specifies a
insulation
smaller dimension)
screed to falls
have allowance for continuity or anti-crack reinforcement
have allowance for movement approximately every 15m
concrete deck
plaster or
plasterboard
and at abutments
be installed to provide an even surface
be grouted, as specified in the design.

screed or tapered insulation

CHAPTER 7.1
Thermal insulationand vapour control 7.1.7
Also see: BRE Report Thermal insulation: avoiding risks and BS 5250
Thermal insulation, vapour control and ventilation shall ensure satisfactory performance, and prevent the
formation of condensation which could adversely affect the construction.
bonded ormechanically fixed in accordance with

themanufacturers recommendations; where mechanically
fixed, it should be installed using fixings of sufficient length
toensure adequate penetrationinto the supporting structure
kept dry and installed in quantities which can be quickly

covered if it rains (to aid bondingand to avoid
trapping moisture).
Cold flat roofs are difficult to detail correctly but, where used, they should be in accordance with BS 5250 and have:
an effective vapour control layer atceiling level
an unobstructed 50mm ventilation space above
adequate cross ventilation (openings at both ends of

each joist void).
the insulation
Composite decks should:
have two beads of sealantalong each board joint at the foil
two continuous beads

of sealant beneath
each board
underface (to maintain theintegrity of the vapour

control layer).
ensure adequate
bearing area for
composite deck
noggings are required
to support all cross joints
Insulation for inverted roofs should be:
either extruded polystyrene (XPS)or extruded polystyrene
suitable for the weight of the ballast and able to withstand
with a cementitious surface
suitable for external use
anticipated traffic
protected by a geo-textile layer to prevent fines from

reaching the membrane surface.
Vapour control layers should be provided to warm roofs, and:
include at least one layer of bitumen roofing membrane
7.1
(S2P3) below the insulation, fully bonded or mechanically

fixed to the structural deck as appropriate, or a suitable
self-adhesive or torch-on membrane.
sealed at laps to the waterproofing, atthe perimeter and at

each penetration, e.g. at outlets and pipes (where the roof
is a single-ply system, the vapour control is generally not
sealed to thewaterproofing).
where a mechanically fixed system is used, the vapour

control layer should consist of suitable polyethylene sheet
sealed at all laps.
Waterproofing and surface treatments 7.1.8

Flat roofs, and balconies forming roofs, shall adequately resist the passage of water to the inside of the
building. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) installation of waterproofing
b) waterproofing systems
c) surface treatments.
Installation of waterproofing
Prior to the waterproofing being installed:
the structure and receiving surface should be checked
the surface should be even and dry and nails should be
andapproved by the waterproofing contractor
the manufacturers recommendations for preparation,

including priming upstands, roof outlets, etc.
should be followed to achieve a satisfactory bond with
the waterproofing
punched below the surface
the manufacturers recommendations for conditioning,

and unrolling in advance of laying, should be followed
concrete and screed surfaces should be adequately dry.

CHAPTER 7.1
Environmental conditions should be suitable for installing
waterproofing. Issues to be taken into account include
the following:
ballast
filter layer
insulation
waterproofing
Sheet membranes should not be installed or handled

when the air temperature is 5C or less (unless otherwise
agreed with the manufacturer).
Self-adhesive reinforced bitumen membranes should

not be installed below 10C, and the manufacturers
recommendations should be followed.
Membranes should not be installed on damp or frosted

surfaces or when any rain, sleet or snow is falling.
screed to falls
concrete deck
plaster or
plasterboard
Waterproofing should be:
installed in accordance with the design and the
checked by the contractor to ensure that the deck and
installed by a specialist roofing contractor approved by the

manufacturer, where a proprietary system is used
installed by the same contractor who installs the vapour

control layer, insulation and surface finish
insulation boards are waterproofed at the end of each day,

and before inclement weather
installed so that membrane laps near outlets do not

impede drainage
installed so that successive layers do not trap water.
Inverted roofs should:
not be used for slopes greater than 10
be designed to support the loads, particularly from ballast

needed to retain the insulation material
be ballasted to the depth specified in the design
be ballasted using paving slabs or minimum 19mm diameter

rounded pebbles.
Waterproofing systems
Reinforced bitumen membrane
Reinforced bitumen membrane should be high performance and reinforced with polyester reinforcement, e.g. type 5U, 5B/180,
5E/250 to BS 747 (type 5 reinforced bitumen membranes are colour-coded blue for identification).
Table 3: Reinforced bitumen membrane used in warm roof construction

Insulation material
First/preparatory layer
Rigid urethane foam

(RUF) boards
polyurethane (PU) and
polyisocyanurate (PIR).
Type 3G perforated layer S2P3

(loose laid and lapped, to
produce partial bonding). Elastomeric underlay
achieving S2P3
Second layer/underlay Final layer/cap sheet

S5P5 with either integral mineral finish or
separate solar protection.
Compressed cork, rock

fibre or glass fibre
boards, cellular glass
slabs, perlite boards or
composite products.
S2P3 (fully bonded in

accordance with
BS 8217).
S2P3

Elastomeric underlay
achieving S2P3
Elastomeric capsheet achieving S2P3,

mineral surfaced where exposed.
Table 4: Reinforced bitumen membrane for an inverted warm roof

Deck material
First/preparatory layer
Second layer/underlay Final layer/cap sheet
Concrete, or concrete
Type 3G perforated layer S2P3
with sand/cement screed. (loose laid and lapped, to
produce partial bonding). Elastomeric underlay
achieving S2P3

Torching onto insulation boards, except rockwool or perlite, is not acceptable.

Elastomeric (i.e. SBS polymer-modified) bitumen membranes offer increased extensibility and flexibility, especially at low
temperatures, and can provide a longer service life.
Mastic asphalt
Mastic asphalt should be:
to BS 6925, type 988 T25, 20mm thick on the flat and

installed on black sheathing felt
(for green roofs) 3 x 10mm layers on horizontal surfaces and

2 x 10mm layers on vertical surfaces, for green roofs.
Polymer modified asphalt should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
7.1


CHAPTER 7.1
Thermoplastic single-ply membranes
Thermoplastic single-ply membranes, including materials such as PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and TPO (thermoplastic polyolefine)
should be:
either bonded to the insulation, mechanicallyfixed to the
welded at laps using either hot air or a specific solvent

deck or loose-laid, and sealed and ballasted in accordance
assessed in accordance with TechnicalRequirement R3.

with the manufacturers recommendations
Surface treatments
Surface treatments should be in accordance with Table 5.
Table 5: Surface treatments for flat roofs

Access for maintenance only roofs up to 10
Access roof, walkway or terrace deck
Reinforced bitumen
Mineral surfaced capsheets (e.g. type S5P5).
Precast semi-porous concrete tiles bedded in

membranes
bitumen or approved adhesive.
Reflective stone chippings(1), bedded in a

dressing compound.
Precast concrete proprietary paving slabs on

supports or sand/cement blinding(2).
A suitable thickness of washed, rounded 20-40mm

shingle ballast laid loose.
Proprietary timber decking systems(3).

Mastic asphalt
Thermoplastic
single-ply
membranes
Reflective stone chippings(1), bedded in a bitumen

based compound.
A solar reflective paint approved by the MAC.
Precast semi-porous concrete tiles bedded in

bitumen or approved adhesive.

supports or sand/cement blinding(2).
Supplementary solar reflective coatings or other

finishes not required.
Where laid loose, membranes can be ballasted

with a suitable thickness of washed, rounded
20-40mm shingle installed on a non-woven
polymeric protection layer.
Cold applied liquid

Products generally do not require supplementary
roofing membranes
solar reflective coatings or other finishes.
Proprietary flexible, non-slip walkway sheets or

tiles, compatible with the membrane product.
adjustable supports or suitable non-woven

Proprietary timber decking systems with bearers

set on an additional membrane or suitable
non-woven polymeric protection layer.
Proprietary surface treatments compatible with the

membrane product.
Proprietary flexible, non-slip walkway tiles,

compatible with the membrane product.
supports on a suitable non-woven polymeric

protection layer.
Proprietary timber decking systems with bearers

set on additional pads on a suitable non-woven
7.1
Hot melt rubberised

Use in inverted/buried roof membrane applications or in roof garden/green roofs.
bitumen systems
Must be protected with a substantial reinforced bitumen membrane protection sheet.
All upstands/details where the membrane becomes exposed need a protective membrane to be applied to
prevent UV degradation.
Notes
1 Loose surface finishes should be prevented from being removed by weather and discharged into gutters and drain pipes. Chippings shouldbe a minimum of 12.5mm
limestone or white spar, not pea gravel.
2 Cement/sand blinding should be installed on two layers of waterproof building paper or two layers of 1000 gauge polyethylene separatingmembrane.
Slabs should be kept back 75mm at perimeters and a 25mm movement gap incorporated for every 9m2 of paving.
3 Timber decking systems should only use compatible preservative treatments. The undersides of the bearers should have large, smoothcontact areas, with no sharp
edges or corners.
Green and proprietaryroofs 7.1.9

Green roofs and proprietary roofing systems shall be suitable fortheir intended use.
Green roofs should:
be clearly defined by the supplier as a complete system
have supporting data to demonstrate compliance with
include waterproofing suitable for use in the green

roof system.
relevant standards
Rainwater outlets should be accessible and have a visible inspection hatch.
Green roof systems that do not comply with the principles of this chapter should be assessed in accordance with

CHAPTER 7.1
The complete green roof should be installed by a contractor trained and approved by the system supplier.
Waterproofing for green roofs should be either:
reinforced bitumen membrane
mastic asphalt
single-ply membrane, or
a liquid applied system.
The system should be installed in accordance with the design and the membrane manufacturers recommendations.
Before covering:
the membrane should be visually inspected and

electronically tested for waterproofingintegrity, faults
rectified, and retested before further layers are placed: the
results should be madeavailable to NHBC
any damage to the vapour control layer should be repaired,

using a fullwidth section of membrane.
Other issues that should be taken into account when installing green roofs include the:
provision of root barriers
height of upstands in relation to soilheight and flashings
protection, reservoir and filter layers
moisture control of the soil.
Table 6: Principles for green roofs

Intensive
Extensive
soil and vegetation
drainage/reservoir layer
filter layer
sedum blanket and

growing medium
protection layer
root barrier
waterproofing
insulation
screed to falls
filter layer
root barrier
waterproofing
insulation
screed to falls
concrete deck or
profiled metal
deck, depending
on loadings
ceiling finish
concrete deck
ceiling finish
Features
Provides a normal garden environment.
Uses natural topsoil 150mm deep and
Requires minimal maintenance,
normal plants.
Requires regular intensive maintenance,

i.e. similar to a normal garden.
Requires protection of the waterproofing

membrane from possible damage during
maintenance of the garden, e.g. from
weeding/planting.
A sedum blanket contains the plants.
Structure
20 maximum roof pitch, accounting for full
45 maximum roof pitch deck (profiled metal
Drainage falls
1:60min.
Irrigation system may be required.
Can be designed to retainsome water in order to maintain the vegetation and to reduce run off.
Fully bonded polyester-reinforced RBM (S2P3), a suitable self-adhesive membrane or torch-on membrane.
Moisture control
Vapour control
layer
weight of wet soil (generally supported by a

concrete deck).
7.1
i.e. annual attention.
decks may be an alternative to concrete,

depending on loadings).
Insulation
Insulation material should have adequate compressive strength to withstand likely applied loads.
Roots
A root resistant element, such as a copper foil or Preventol treatment, is required above the
Protection and
filter layers
A protection layer (or board) should be placed
Where the insulation is above the weatherproofing, only extruded polystyrene (XPS) should be used.
waterproofing membrane. Alternatively, an approved root resistant waterproofing membrane can be used.
above the waterproofing membrane.
A filter layer should be placed above the

reservoir layer.
In accordance with the

CHAPTER 7.1
Detailing of flat roofs 7.1.10
Flat roofs shall be detailed to ensure satisfactory performance.
The following illustrations are intended as a guide to demonstrate the general principles of flat roof detailing commonly used on
warm flat roofs and balconies. Where indicated, the principles are applicable to other types of roof construction. Further information
on specific waterproofing systems may be obtained from BS 6229 and BS 8217.
Concrete decks
Upstands
Skirting to rooflights or ventilator kerb
Upstands may be fixed to the wall.

Upstands should be a minimum of 150mm high.
Similar details apply to inverted roofs with concrete decks.
Similar details apply to inverted roofs.

Allow for thickness of ballast to achieve a minimum
150mm upstand.
Preformed
coping
(e.g.GRP)
preformed
kerb
OSB or plywood
capping
surface treatment
(where required)
min.
150mm
surface treatment
(where required)
waterproof membrane
insulation
min.
150mm
screed
waterproof membrane
insulation
concrete deck
concrete deck
upstand
screed
Twin-kerb expansion joint
Handrail fixing
Similar details apply to inverted roofs.
An upstand should be formed in concrete roofs.
OSB or plywood mineral surfaced top layer

capping fixed to to upstand and over
expansion joint
one kerb only
metal flashing
waterproof membrane
waterproof membrane
insulation
screed
insulation
surface treatment
concrete deck
vapour barrier
screed
concrete deck
7.1
Timber decks
Mansard edge
Pitched roof abutment
Elements should be firmly fixed to prevent peelback

in high winds.
battens, tiles/slates
surface treatment
(where required)
surface treatment
(where required)
min.
150mm
waterproof membrane
waterproof membrane
insulation
metal flashing
battens, tiles/slates
insulation
tilting fillet
OSB or plywood
layboard

CHAPTER 7.1
Independent skirting detail
Verge detail
Upstand should be kept separate from wall, and allow

for movement. Upstand should be a minimum of 150mm high.
Similar details apply to cold deck timber roofs.
Similar details apply to inverted decks.
cavity
tray
surface treatment
(where required)
edge trim
built up timber kerb
insulation
metal cover
flashing
min.
150mm
min.
300mm
10
waterproof membrane
insulation
upstand of timber deck

insulation
board
Welted drip to external gutter
Pipe passing through roof
Inverted timber decks should be detailed to avoid insulation

being lifted by wind suction and an alternative detail used.
Vapour control layer should be bonded to the waterproofing.

Detailing of upstand and flashing is similar for all roofs.
surface treatment
(where required)
apron flashing bonded to pipe
waterproof membrane
insulation
sleeve around pipe

min.
150mm
waterproof membrane
insulation
Upstand to ventilator or rooflight kerb
Rainwater outlet
Similar details apply to cold and inverted roofs. Allow for

the thickness of ballast in inverted roofs, to achieve
upstand dimensions.
The opening should be properly trimmed.

The outlet should be at the lowest point in roof.
Ensure that the outlet is fixed securely to decking to prevent
displacement by thermal expansion of rainwater pipe.
Similar details apply to concrete roofs.
50mm
mineral
surfaced
top layer to
face of
timber kerb
min.
150mm
surface treatment
(where required)
vapour control
layer turned back
over insulation
surface treatment
(where required)
waterproof membrane
insulation
waterproof
membrane
50 x 50mm
triangular fillet
insulation around pipe

and outlet
7.1
insulation around pipe
11

CHAPTER 7.1
Accessible thresholds 7.1.11
Accessible thresholds shall be protected by adequate weatherproofing and drainage.
Accessible thresholds should:
be in accordance with the design specific fire,
have a minimum 45mmprojecting sill to shed rainwateraway
thermal andacoustic precautions may be required
have a maximum 15mm upstand(measuredat the door

position) at the door threshold; additional slopingtransition
elements, such as a small internalramp and external sill,
may be providedeither side of the upstand;
the maximumslope on ramps and sills should be 15degrees
from the interface with thewaterproofing layer
have a 75mm minimum balcony upstand below the

underside of the projecting sill, measured from thebalcony
drainage layer.
3D
finished
floor
level
projecting sill
and drip
(min. 45mm overhang)
overflow/warning pipe outlet

min. 25mm below the
underside of the door sill
raised and drained

decking or paving
on drained supports
min.
10mm
min. 150mm
splash zone
75mm min. upstand
supporting
slab
position of
waterproofing layer
for an inverted
balcony/roof
fall
position of drainage
layer or for an
inverted balcony/roof
position of
waterproofing layer
for a warm deck
balcony/roof
rainwater outlet
(hopper should not
pass through
accommodation below)
Note
The drainage layer is not necessarily the waterproofing layer (i.e. the top of the insulation of an inverted roof should be considered as the drainage layer).
3D
7.1
finished
floor
level
projecting sill
and drip
(min. 45mm overhang)
balustrading
min.
10mm
min. 150mm
splash zone
75mm min. upstand
supporting
slab
low kerb min. 25mm

below underside of
the door sill to
act as overflow
waterproofing layer
with falls to outlet
fall
raised and drained

decking or paving
on drained supports
fall
rainwater
outlet
alternative hopper
discharge

CHAPTER 7.1
12
Waterproofing layers should:
prevent ponding and associated stagnant water
generally fall a minimum of 1:80 away from the building to
be fully protected from direct trafficking
be capable of withstanding point loads from supports to
the rainwater outlet(s)
be subject to specific third-party assessment where falls are

zero degrees
be designed to ensure that where falls are towards or

parallel to the building, blockage of the outlet(s) cannot
cause flooding to the building
decking or paving
be UV resistant or fully protected from daylight.
Drainage arrangements should be effective and have a suitable overflow. The building should not flood where an outlet or downpipe
is blocked. This can be achieved by using:
at least one outlet and an overflow withthe capacity of

the outlet
at least one outlet chute and hopper (sized to serve both the
dischargeand overflow capacities)
two outletsconnected to independent downpipes, or
setting the balcony kerb a minimum of 25mm below the

doorthreshold.
Outletsbeneath decking or paving should be clearlyidentifiable and accessible for maintenance.

To ensure adequate drainage:
gaps should be provided between decking andpaving at

balcony perimeters
minimum 10mm gaps should be provided between

individual units of decking or paving and the threshold sill,
perimeter walls and kerbs
spacersand supports which raise decking or pavingshould

not obstruct the flow of rainwater tooutlet(s).
A splash barrier should be provided:
to ensure water does not reach any part of the wall that
could be adversely affected by the presence of moisture
to a minimum of 150mm above the decking or paving
using an impervious wall finish or cladding, or extending the

waterproofing layer to form an upstand with cover flashings
andcavity trays.
Drainage 7.1.12
Flat roofs and balconies shall have adequate and effective rainwater drainage to a suitable outfall. Issues to be
The principles for drainage given in Chapter 7.2 Pitched roofs are applicable to flat roofs and balconies.
Rainwater disposal from roofs and balconies 6m2 or less in area should be considered. Where run-off may cause damage or staining
to a faade, or damage to landscaping, then rainwater gutters and downpipes should be provided. The cumulative effect of water
discharging from multiple balconies in vertical alignment should be taken into account.
Open slatted balcony decking should drain away from the home.
Falls
Flat roofs and balconies should:
be designed with a fall no shallower than 1:40 to ensure a

finished fall of no less than 1:80, unless a detailed analysis
which includes overall and local deflection is used
as justification
have a minimum finished fall of 1:80 (green roofs 1:60),

unless it has a metal sheet covering
account for deflection in the structural design where falls are

achieved using screeds (particularly on large roofs).
outlet
fall
min.
150mm
overflow
Where decking or paving is installed above the waterproofing

and is less than 150mm below the sill, it should be of a type and
design that prevents a build-up of standing water.
fall no less than 1:40
(for design purposes)
fall away from door
7.1
a) falls
b) outlets.

CHAPTER 7.1
13
Where tapered insulation is used:
drainage should be designedby the insulation manufacturer,
it should be installed directly onto the vapour control layer,
with falls of no less than 1:60
construction should comply with the design and

the sequence of installation should ensure that boards are

waterproofed and theroof sealed at the end of each day,
or before the arrival of inclement weather
with the primary waterproofing above
cross falls should be formed with mitred joints
successive roof layers should be installed with a minimum

of delay, to avoid trapping waterduring construction.
Metal sheet roofs

Flat roofs with metal sheet roof coveringsshould be designed with a fall of no lessthan 1:30 to ensure a finished fall of no
less than 1:60.
Concrete roofs
Concrete roofs can be finished with sand/cement screed topping set to achieve the falls. Screed finishesshould be:
free from ridges and indentations
finished with a wooden float to provide a smooth, even
to the minimum thickness in Table 7 where a cement/sand

screed, 1:4 (cement:sand) is used
suitably dry and primed to receive the waterproofing system.
surface for the vapour control layer and waterproof finish
installed by specialist contractors where a lightweight

finish is used, and have a topping of 1:6 (cement:sand),
13mm thick
Table 7: Minimum screed thicknesses

Location of screed
Bonded monolithically to in-situ or precast concrete
Unbonded (on separating layer)
Nominal thickness (mm)

40 (25 minimum.)
70 (50 minimum.)
Timber roofs
Firring pieces should be:
used to form falls,unless the design specifies a sloping joist

or ceiling
of the sizes given in Table 8 where installed across the joists.
7.1
Table 8: Size of firring pieces used to form cross falls

Joist centres (mm)
Minimum width (mm)
Minimum depth (mm)
400 or 450
38
38
600
38
50
Rainwater outlets
Rainwater outlets should:
be of the size and number required to deal with the expected
be accessiblefor maintenance.
rainfall intensity in accordance with BS EN 12056-3
be recessed to facilitate the free flow of water

Where a flat roof or balcony has an upstand on all sides, drainage should consist of either two outlets or one outlet plus an overflow.
The overflow should be:
provided through parapet walls or perimeter upstands
sized and positioned to prevent water from entering

the building
of higher capacity than the combined capacity of the

other outlet(s).

CHAPTER 7.1
Guarding to balconies 7.1.13
14
Balconies, and flat roofs to which persons have regular access other than for maintenance, shall be
adequately guarded to minimise the risk of falling. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) guarding
b) stability of guarding
c) strength and movement of masonry balcony walls
d) durability and fixing of balustrading and guard rails
e) access for maintenance.
Guarding
Guarding should:
not be easily climbed
be to an adequate height
be toughened glass, laminated glass or glass blocks where

glazed balustrading is used
not be fixed through the waterproofing unless suitable

precautions are taken.
Stability of guarding
Guarding, including parapet walls, and balustrading used as guarding, should be designed in accordance with BS EN 1991-1-1
to resist horizontal loading and as required by the building regulations. Particular care is needed when the design incorporates
balustrading fixed to parapet walls to ensure stability and prevent overturning. End fixings or returns may be needed to
ensure stability.
In balcony walls (especially long balconies) the structural stability should be checked, as the DPC at the base of the wall can create
a slip plane that can seriously limit the ability of the wall to resist horizontal forces. In such cases, it may be necessary to incorporate
a ring beam or other support to ensure stability.
Strength and movement of masonry balcony walls

Masonry balcony walls should be built in accordance with Chapter 6.1 External masonry walls. In particular:
walls should incorporate strengthening as required by
movement joints should be provided in accordance with

the design
the design
copings should be firmly fixed.
Durability and fixing of balustrading and guard rails

Balustrading and guard rails should be of adequate durability and fixed securely. Also see Clause 7.1.4(a).
Provision should be made for safe future access to flat roofs for the purposes of maintenance.
7.1
Access for maintenance
Pitched roofs
CHAPTER 7.2
Technical Requirements for pitched roofs, including:
coverings
vertical tiling
fixings
ventilation
weatherproofing.
7.2.1 Compliance
7.2.2
7.2.3
Design of pitched roofs
7.2.4
Protection of trusses
7.2.5 Durability
7.2.6
Wall plates
7.2.7 Joints and connections
7.2.8 Restraint
7.2.9
Bracing for trussed rafter roofs
7.2.10 Strutting for attic trusses and cut roofs
that form a floor
7.2.11 Support for equipment
7.2.12 Access
7.2.13 Dormer construction
7.2.14 Underlay and sarking
7.2.15 Ventilation, vapour control and insulation
7.2.16 Firestopping and cavity barriers
7.2.17 Battens
7.2.18 Roof coverings
7.2.19 Fixing tiles and slates
7.2.20 Weatheringdetails
7.2.21 Valleys and hidden gutters
7.2.22 Drainage
7.2.23 Fascias and trim
01
01
01
03
04
04
05
06
06
09
09
09
10
10
11
14
14
15
16
18
21
21
22
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Compliance 7.2.1
Pitched roof structures and coverings shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Pitched roofs that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Roofs with a tile or slate covering should be in accordance with BS 5534.

Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers,
The layout of trusses and associated items.
Details of mono-pitch, lean-to roofs and roof intersections

(i.e. hips and valleys).
Details of girder trusses, multiple trusses and diminishing

trusses, including how they are to be fixed together and
supported on truss shoes, layboards or similar.
Details of bracing requirements.
Details of supports for equipment in the roof space.
The type and position of vapour control layers.
Details of restraint/holding-down strapping,

including coatings and fixings.
The position and thickness of insulation.
The means of providing eaves ventilation.
Details of firestopping at separating wall and boxed eaves.
Details of coverings and fixings, including number and type.
Details of flashing details at abutments, chimneys, etc.
Details of trimming around chimneys, access hatches, etc.
For trusses, the design should be provided to the manufacturer in accordance with PD 6693-1, which includes:
usage, height and location of building, referencing any

unusual wind conditions
rafter profile, referencing camber where required
spacing, span and pitches
method of support and position of supports
type and weight of coverings, includingsarking, insulation

and ceiling materials
eaves overhang and other eaves details
Design of pitched roofs 7.2.3
size and approximate position of water tanks or other

equipment to be supported
positions and dimensions of hatches, chimneys and

other openings
type of preservative treatment, where required
special timber sizes, where required to match

existing construction.
Also see: TRADA Eurocode 5 span tables (3rd edition) and BS 8103
7.2
The sizing and spacing of members shall ensure structural stability and provide restraint to the structure
without undue movementor distortion. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) trussed rafter roofs
b) traditional cut roofs.
The design of pitched roofs should:
have dead and imposed loads calculated in accordance with
ensure stability with the complete structure, including the
BS EN 1991-1-1, BS EN 1991-1-3 and BS EN 1991-1-4
be in accordance with PD 6693-1, and

Technical Requirement R5, where appropriate
be appropriate for the location, accounting for exposure and

wind uplift
ensure that the structure is coherent and that all forces

are resolved
connections and compatibility with the supporting structure

and adjacent elements
where trussed rafters and a cut roof are combined,

the designer should provide details of the complete roof
(particular care is needed in such circumstances).
Roofs should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5 where:
the roof is not a basic pitched roof
hips,valleys or otherspecial features are included in a

trussed rafter roof
the spans, sizes, spacing or strength classes of the timber

areoutside the scope of authoritative tables
trussed rafters support traditional cut roof members, or
it is a proprietary system (designs supplied by manufacturers

will generally be acceptable).
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Structural timber should be of a suitable grade and specified according to the strength classes in BS EN 338, e.g. C16,
C24 or TR26. When using the BS 4978 grading rules:
the timber specification should be in accordance with
the timber should be marked accordingly.
BS EN 1912, or the timber species and strength

class identified
Trussed rafter roofs

Trussed rafters should be:
installed in accordance with the design, and the structure or
vertical and suitably located (where necessary,
spacing should not be altered without prior consent from

the designer
fixed to the wall in accordance with the design (e.g. using

double skew nailing or truss clips)
temporary bracing should beused to maintain spacing

and to keep trusses vertical)
evenly spaced at maximum 600mm centres.
Where the maximum 600mm spacing cannot be achieved, e.g. toaccommodate hatch openings or chimneys, spacing may be
increased toa maximum of twice the nominal spacing, provided that the spacing X is less than, or equal to, 2A-B where:
X = distance between centres of trussed trimmed rafters and

the adjacent trussed rafter
Where multiple and reinforcing timbers to simple or multiple

trussed rafters are used, they should be:
A = design spacing of trussed rafters
B = nominal width of opening.
designed to be permanently fastened together
either fixed together during manufacture, or fully detailed

drawings and specifications showing the fixing method
should be supplied.
Hipped roofs constructed with trussed rafters typically require a
series of diminishing mono-pitched trussessupported by a
girder truss.
The bearing of mono-pitched trusses into shoes should be in
accordance with Table 1, unless designed by an engineer in
A
X
B
A
X
trussed trimmed rafters
Span
Minimum bearing length
Minimum thickness of trussed rafter
Less than 4m
50mm
35mm
4m or more
75mm
35mm
Ceiling finishes should be fixed according to the spacing of the support members and the thicknessof the sheet.
Plasterboard should be fixed as follows:
9.5mm plasterboard should be fixed at a maximum support

spacing of 450mm.
12.5-15mm plasterboard should be fixed at a maximum

support spacing of 600mm.
Additional members will generally be required to support

coverings and finishes where trusses are spaced
further apart.
Where the width of a gable ladder exceedsthat of the trussed rafter centres, noggings shouldbe used to reduce the span of the
roofing tile battens.
Traditional cut roofs

For traditional cut roofs:
the design should specify the details of each structural

member and the method of fixing or jointing
the roof should be in accordance with the design and

members accurately located
members should be fully supported and tied together where

necessary, particularly where the roof is not a simple triangle
temporary support to long span members should be used

until framing is complete
purlins and binders should be built in where necessary
framing should be completed before coverings are installed.
7.2
Table 1: Bearing length of mono-pitched trusses into shoes
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Table 2: Basic timber members
Member
Notes
Valley rafter
Provides support for loads from both sections of the roof and should:
be larger than ordinary rafters to take the additional load
provide full bearing for the splay cut of jack rafters
be provided with intermediate support where required.
Hip rafter
Provides spacing and fixing for jack rafters and should:
have a deeper sectionthan the other rafters to take the top cut of the jack rafters.
Purlins should be mitredat hips and lip cut to accept the bottom of the hip rafter.
Ceiling joist or ties
Provides support for the rafters and should:
stop the walls and roof spreading outwards
provide support to the ceiling finish and walkways, etc.
Ridge
Provides fixings and spacing for the tops of the rafters.
Purlin
Provides support to long span rafters to prevent deflection and increase stiffness.
Struts
Provides support to purlins to prevent deflection and to transfer roof loads to theload-bearing
structure below.
Collar
Ties the roof together at purlin level.
Ceiling binders and hangers
Provides support to long span ceiling joists.
Pole plates
Similar to purlins, but used where ceiling joists are above wall plate level.
ridge
purlin
pole plate
spanning between
load-bearing walls
collar
hanger
strut
binder
wall plate
load-bearing
wall
Generally sizes should be as Table 3, unless designed byan

jack
rafter
hip
rafter
valley
rafter
Table 3: Typical sizes for timber members
7.2
Member
Minimum size
Struts
Valleys
Ridges and hips
100mm x 50mm
32mm thick
Rafter cut + 25mm
Protection of trusses 7.2.4
Also see: International Truss Plate Association Technical Handbook
Trusses shall be protected from damage.

Where the trusses or timber members are damaged, they should be rejected and not repaired. To avoid distortionand to
prevent damage, trusses should be:
protected against weather to prevent the corrosion oftruss

plates and the deterioration of the timber
adequately ventilated during storage
stored clear of the ground
stored vertically and propped
stored with level bearers under the joints
carried upright (fasteners can loosen when carried flat).
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Durability 7.2.5
Timber shall be of suitable durability.
The following timber members should be naturally durable or treated in accordance with Chapter 3.3 Timber Preservation
(natural solid timber):
Porch posts.
Tiling battens.
Soffits.
Bargeboard.
Fascias and other trim.
Where the roof is to include a fully supported weatherproofing membrane, the following timber components should either be
naturally durable or suitably treated:
Rafters.
Purlins.
Ceiling joists.
Bracing.
Sarking.
Wall plates.
Battens for fixing vertical cladding.
Wall plates 7.2.6

Wall plates and the roof structure shall be bedded and fixed to distribute and transmit loads, and to
prevent uplift.
Trussed rafter roofs and traditional cut roofs should be
supported on timber wall plates. Trussed rafters should only be
supported at the junction between the ceiling tie and rafter,
unless specifically designed otherwise, e.g. as a cantilever.
rafter
Wall plates should be:
bedded to line and level
fixed using nails or straps
a minimum of 3m, extending over at least three joists,
ceiling tie
rafters or trusses
joined using half-lapped joints, including at corners.

In Scotland, wall plates should be in long lengths, butt-jointed
and fixed with nails appropriate to the size of the wall plate.
max. projection=
50mm or xS
whichever is larger
Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man
100mm x 38mm minimum
Scotland
100mm x 25mm minimum
Other areas
75mm x 50mm minimum
Fixings used to connect the roof structure to thewall plate should be specified according to theroof construction and exposure of
the site.
Where trussed rafter roofs are not subject touplift, a minimum of two 4.5mm x 100mm galvanized round wire nails, skew nailed,
one on each side of the trussed rafter, or truss clips (fixed in accordance with the manufacturers instructions) are acceptable.
Where the roof is required to resist uplift, skew nailing is unlikely to provide sufficient strength, and appropriate metal straps should
be used. Holding-down straps should be:
provided according to the geographical location and
a minimum cross section of 30mm x 2.5mm and spaced
construction type
provided where the self-weight of the roof is insufficient

against uplift
provided in accordance with the design
at a maximum of 2m centres (galvanised steel straps are

generally acceptable)
fixed to the wall, or turned into a bed joint.
Fixings for straps should be:
in accordance with the design, and the lowest fixing should

be within 150mm of the bottom of the vertical strap
of a material or finish which is compatible with the straps
where into masonry, hardened 4mm x 75mm nails or 50mm

long No 12 wood screws (into suitable plugs).
7.2
Table 4: Suitable sizes for wall plates
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Joints and connections 7.2.7
Joints and connections shall be designed to ensure structural stabilitywithout undue movement or distortion.
Members should:
be accurately cut to fit tightly
not be damaged or split.
The following joints should be used at the main connections of traditional cut roof members:
Rafters to ceiling joists using a nailed lapped joint
Rafter to purlin
The rafter should be birdsmouthed and skew nailed to the

wall plate.
A birdsmouth joint should be used generally the purlin is

fixed vertically.
rafters skew nailed

to wall plate
d
Purlin connections
Support should be provideddirectly under the joint or a scarf
joint used. Scarf joints should be made near to a strut so that the
joint supports the longer span.
halving joint in
purlin when directly
over strut
Scarf joint
Used to support the long span of the purlin.
scarf joint near

strut supporting
longer span
of purlin
wedges and
metal plate to
tighten joint
7.2
Hipped roof joints

Angle ties should be used at the corners of hipped roofs to
prevent the wall plates from spreading.
Where hip rafters are heavily loaded, e.g. carrying purlins,
they should be jointed using dragon ties, or similar, to prevent
the hip rafter spreading.
timber angle
tie prevents
wall plates
spreading
dragon tie
prevents
spread of
hip rafter
notch to fit over

angle tie
angle tie
steel tie
prevents
spread of
hip rafter
plywood angle
tie prevents
wall plates
spreading
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Restraint 7.2.8
Adequate restraint shall be provided to support the structure, distribute roof loads and prevent wind uplift.
Strapping shall be of adequate strength and durability, and fixed using appropriate fixings.
Restraint straps, or a restraining form of gable ladder, should be used where required to provide stability to walls, and installed in
Restraint straps should be:
ordered and supplied according to the design, i.e. the correct

length and number of bends andtwists
for homes up to and including three storeys (two storeys

in Scotland), fixed at a maximum spacing of 2m
for homes over four storeys, fixed at a maximum spacing

of 1.25m.
In framed roofs, as an alternative, purlins and pole plates can be used to provide restraint where the timber abuts a gable
construction. Where purlins are used to provide restraint, the maximum permissible spacing is 2m unless the design
shows otherwise.
Lateral restraint straps should be:
strap underneath solid noggings,

fixed with a minimum of four
fixings (at least one in the third rafter)
provided at rafter level on gable walls, where the home is of

masonry construction (larger or separating walls may require
restraint at ceiling level)
protected against corrosion in accordance with

BS EN 845 TablesA.1 and A.2
of sufficient length to be fixed to a minimum of three trusses
a minimum size of 30mm x 5mmand have a minimum

anchorage downturn of 100mm
fixed to solid noggings, with one fixingin the third rafter, using
four steel screws or four 75mm x 4mm (8 SWG) round nails
placed under rafters and over ceiling joists (joistsshould not

be notched to make the straps ush with the rafter)
fixed with the downturn on a substantial piece ofblockwork,

preferably fixed to the centre of an uncutblock
in accordance with BS EN 1995-1-1, where the home is of

timber frame construction.
block removed
for clarity
packing between
rafter and wall
strap held tightly
against block
inner leaf
nogging fixed horizontally to avoid

twisting the restraint strap
In Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man, sheradised straps or fixings are not acceptable.
there is blocking between the last trussed rafter and

theinner leaf (maximum 2m spacing)
Bracing fortrussedrafter roofs 7.2.9
the soffit board is cut carefully and then fixed securely to

restrain the outer leaf.
Also see: ITPA Technical Handbook BS 5268-3 (AMD.5931) Appendix A
Trussed rafters shall be suitably braced to support applied loads and self-weight without undue movement.
For the purposes of this chapter, the guidance and use of standard trussed rafter bracing does not apply to homes on or near
exposed sites, e.g. flat coastal fringes, fens, airfields and moorland. In such cases, bracing should be designed by an engineer in
Standard trussed rafter bracing, in accordance with Table 5, is generally acceptable, where the home:
has a rectangular roof (including hip ends) and is either a
does not have unsupported masonry spanning more
duo-pitched or a mono-pitch structure
is not taller than 8.4m (to the underside of the ceiling tie)
is braced in accordance with this chapter
is braced according to the conditions of the site and in

accordance with the design
does not have trusses which span more than 12m
has trusses which are only supported at each end
than 9m (between buttressing walls, piers orchimneys)
has a ceiling of plasterboard directly under each truss

(where there is no plasterboard, i.e. garages, additional
diagonal ceiling bracing and longitudinal binder bracing at
each ceiling node point is required.
7.2
Gable ladders can be used to providerestraint to the external wall where:
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Table 5: Location, height and span for standard bracing conditions
Type
Duo-pitch
Maximum pitch
35
Storeys
Mono-pitch
30
35
10.6 9.1
8.5
12
11.5 10.2 5.6
9.8
7.7
7.2
11.6 10.0 8.8
4.9
Areas north or west of Ullapool 8.6
7.2
6.0
10.6 8.7
7.5
Northern Ireland and the

Isle of Man
9.8
7.7
7.2
11.6 10.0 8.8
Areas north-east
of Londonderry
8.6
7.2
6.0
10.6 8.7
Maximum England and Wales

span (m) Scotland
Roof bracing should be:
7.5
30
3
4.5
4.3
6.6
5.8
5.1
8.1
7.2
6.4
4.2
3.6
5.8
5.0
4.4
7.3
6.4
5.6
4.3
3.6
3.0
5.1
4.4
3.7
6.5
5.6
4.5
4.9
4.2
3.6
5.8
5.0
4.4
7.3
6.4
5.6
4.3
3.6
3.0
5.1
4.4
3.7
6.5
5.6
4.5
binders abutted tightly

against gable and
separating walls
in accordance with this chapter or PD6693-1
in accordance with the design and not altered without prior
25
binders fixed to ceiling ties of

trussed rafters, where necessary
using two lap-jointed lengths
approval from the designer
appropriate for the site (where the site is in an exposed

location, the design should be checked for additional
requirements, and the bracing completed as specified
suitably fixed to the wall plate)
completed before the roofcovering is laid
provided using a minimum timber size of

100mm x 25mm (3mm tolerance)
nailed twice to each rafter it crosses; fixings should be

3.35mm x 65mm (10 gauge) galvanized round wire nails
where braces and binders are not continuous, they should be

lap jointed and nailed to a minimum of two trusses.
When bracing pitched roofs:
7.2
diagonal and longitudinal bracing should be provided at
longitudinal bracing members should extend the full
rafter level (this may be omitted where rigid sarking boards

areused, e.g. chipboard, plywood or OSB, which are fixed to
each trussed rafter with 3mm x 50mm galvanisedround wire
nails at 200mm spacing)
diagonal and chevron bracing should pass across each rafter

in the roof, however, small gaps, such as two trussedrafters
between sets of bracing, or one trussed rafter adjacent to
gable or separating walls, is permitted in themiddle of an
otherwise fully braced roof
length of the roof, tightly abut gable and party walls and
permitdiagonal bracing to pass (they may be lap-jointed
providing the overlap is nailed to a minimum of two
trussedrafters)
there should be a minimum of four diagonal rafter braces in

each roof; in narrow fronted roofs and mono-pitched roofs,
where the braces cross, the intersection detail (below)
should be used.
Diagonal rafter bracing

Applicable to all trussed rafter roofs unless rigid sarking, such as timber boarding or plywood, is used.
Diagonal rafter bracing should be approximately 45 to the rafters on plan.
Bracing for roofs that areapproximately square
truss span
truss span
Bracing for larger roofs
truss span
truss span
truss span
truss span
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Bracing for roofs less than 6.6m wide on detached or
staggered/stepped buildings
Bracing for mono-pitch trusses

intersection
detail
intersection
detail
intersection
detail
truss span
truss
span
truss
span
truss
span
truss
span
truss span
truss span
Intersection details should be formed by:
22mm x 97mm x 600mm timber splice plate
nailing, using a minimum of four 35mm x 65mm galvanised

round wire nails to each side of the intersection, with nails
driven through bracing and clenched over.
Longitudinal bracing member at ridge node point
Longitudinal bracing member at rafter node point
Applicable to all trussed rafter roofs. Not necessary where rigid

sarking, such as OSB, timber boarding or plywood sheeting,
is used.
Applicable to all rafter node points. Not necessary where:
spacing between braced nodes is less than 4.2m, or
rigid sarking, such as OSB, timberboarding or plywood

sheeting, is used.
less than 4.2m
Chevron bracing between webs
Applicable to all ceiling node points. Not necessarywhere the

spacing between braced nodes is lessthan 3.7m.
Where the span exceeds 8m. For mono-pitch roofs of any span
and duo-pitch roofs over 11m span, bracing should be designed
by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
It should be approximately 45 to the web members.
7.2
Longitudinal binders at ceiling node points
less than 3.7m

more than 8m
Diagonal bracing to end vertical of mono-pitch trusses

Applicable where the truss is not restrained by:
a masonry wall, or
cladding, i.e. plywood.
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Strutting for attic trussesand cut roofsthat form afloor 7.2.10
Strutting to attic trusses shall be provided to support the applied loads and self-weight without undue
movement or distortion.
Strutting should be provided:
where the span between the node points which form the
width of the floor of the attic truss exceeds 2.5m
where the span between the supports to a floor within a cut

roof exceeds 2.5m
using herringbone (38mm x 38mm timber) or solid strutting

(a minimum of 0.75x the depthof the oor and a minimum of
38mm thick).
Table 6: Provision of strutting

Span of floor
Rows of strutting
Under 2.5m
None required
2.5m-4.5m
One (at centre of span)
Over 4.5m
Two (at equal spacing)
Support for equipment 7.2.11

Permanent equipment in roof voids shall be adequately supported.
Where equipment (e.g. water tanks and MVHR fan units) is located in the roof void, the structure should be designed in accordance
with PD 6693-1 and the truss manufacturers recommendations, to support the additional load.
Access 7.2.12
Also see: Clause 7.2.15
Roof voids shall be provided with suitable access.

Access should:
be provided to the main roof space and voids which contain
7.2
cisterns and tanks etc. though it is not required to roof

spaces which contain only water pipes
permit the removal of permanent equipment (e.g. heating

and ventilation plant) located in the roof space
have a minimum opening width of 520mm in each direction
not be located directly over stairs or in other

hazardous locations
include securely fixed boarded walkways between the

opening and the cistern or other permanent equipment;
boarding should be securely fixed without compressing the
insulation; at each piece of permanent equipment or cistern,
a minimum 1m2 platform should be provided to
facilitate maintenance.
Access hatches should be in accordance with Clause 7.2.15. Where an access hatch is required to provide fire resistance,
the fire-resistance period should be supported by test evidence.
Dormer construction 7.2.13

Dormer constructions shall be of adequate structural stability.
dormer cheek
studs
layboard
lintel supports
dormer roof
plate
trimmer takes
load from
cut rafters
double rafter supports

dormer cheek studs and
load from the trimmer
double joist carrying
dormer cheek studs
dormer rafter where carrying

dormer cheek studs
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
10
For dormer roofs:
construction should be in accordance with the design
cheek studs should be supported by either a double rafter or

a double oor joist
where cheek frames do not extend to oor level, two fixed

rafters should be used to provide the necessary support
trimming members should be large enough to

support additional loads from the main roof members,
dormer framing and cladding
a suitable lintel should be provided over the opening
lintels should be structurally independent from the

window frame.
Underlay and sarking 7.2.14

Underlay and sarking shall be provided to resist the passage of moisture and condensation.
Underlay and sarking should:
be in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations
take account of the type and fixing of the roof covering
be used in accordance with relevant assessments.
In areas of severe exposure, a rigid sarking with underlay is recommended.
Table 7: Acceptable materials for use as underlay and sarking

Material
Standard
Tongued and grooved or square-edged boarding
BS 1297
Bitumen impregnated insulating board
BS 1142-3 (sarking and sheathing grade)
Exterior grade plywood
BS EN 636 service class 3
Chipboard (type P5)
BS EN 312
OSB (type OSB3)
BS EN 300
Felt
BS EN 13707
Proprietary products
Underlay should:
be provided to all tiled roofs
where it is above rigid sarking (fully supported), be of low
at vertical laps, be fixed only over rafters, and at horizontal
vapour resistance, i.e. less than 0.25MNs/g (where the

underlay is highly vapour-resistant, increased ventilation to
the roof space or between the underlay and sarking should
be provided as necessary)
where exposed at eaves level, be UV resistant or of type 5U

felt or a proprietary eaves guard used (type 1F may be used
for the remainder of the roof)
be supported by a continuous fillet or proprietary eaves

support tray to prevent sagging (which can form a water trap)
be securely fixed
be cut neatly, fit tightly and not be torn, i.e. where pipes
project through the underlay
be dressed into the gutter and cut neatly to fit tightlyaround

service penetrations
where traditional mortar pointing isused to bed ridge tiles,

extend over the ridge
continue over hips to form a 150mm minimum lap parallel

with the hip rafter
at abutments, be supported and turned up by a minimum

of 100mm.
Table 8: Horizontal laps for unsupported underlay

Pitch
Minimum horizontal laps
Less than 15o
225mm
15-34o
150mm
35 and above
100mm
At valleys:
the main roof underlay should be cut to the valley batten line
a strip of underlay should be laid under the main roof

underlay and held down by the valley battens (where used).
lapped to suit
pitch of roof
underlay supported
by tilting fillet and
dressed into gutter
7.2
laps, be held in place by battens (spaced at regular intervals)
11
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Ventilation, vapour control and insulation 7.2.15
Roofs shall have adequate precautions against condensation and cold. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) ventilation, vapour control and insulation
b) dormer construction
c) pipework.
Ventilation, vapour control and insulation

To provide adequate ventilation and to avoid condensation:
roof voids and pitched roofs that have insulation at ceiling
a spacer in the eaves should be used to allow insulation
level should be ventilated to the outside air
ventilation openings should prevent the entry ofbirds, etc.

(fabrications with 3mm-10mm openings are acceptable)
ventilation paths should remain clear, i.e. not blocked by

insulation or the structure
to be installed over and beyondthe wall plate to minimise

the cold bridge withoutblocking the ventilation path
(the spacer should beof sufficient length to maintain
ventilation abovethe insulation)
where proprietary eaves ventilators are used, they should be

fixed in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
Ridge or high-level ventilation (at the highest point of each roof slope) equivalent to a continuous openingof 5mm should be
provided in accordance with BS 5250 where:
unventilated cold roofs have insulation placed over a

horizontal ceiling and a vapour-permeable underlay
(type LR) is used
vapour permeable underlays are used on sloping roofs

withareas covered by non-permeable materials (e.g. at
roofed areasof mansard roofs)
5mm opening where
pitch exceeds 350 or
span exceeds 10m
the roof is covered with high water vapour resistant

(type HR) underlay and the pitch exceeds 35 or the span
exceeds 10m (this is in addition to eaves ventilation).
5mm continuous
high level ventilation
with LR underlay
10mm
opening
10mm
opening
7.2
roof pitch over 150
Where high water vapour-resistant (type HR) underlay (e.g. types 1F/5U felts) is used, eavesventilation should be provided on
opposite sides of the roof to permit cross ventilation, and:
where the roof pitch is 15or more, ventilation equivalent to

a10mm slot running the full length of the eaves should
be provided
where the ceiling follows the slope of a roof, regardless

of pitch, or where a cold roof has a pitch less than15,
ventilation equivalent to a 25mm slot running the full length
ofthe eaves should be provided (a nominal clearance of
50mm should be maintained between the insulation and the
roof underlay)
for mono-pitched roofs, cross ventilation should be in

accordance with BS 5250 and have ventilation equivalent
of a continuous high-level 5mm slot, in addition to
eaves ventilation.
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
clear airway
(min. 50mm)
5mm
opening
clear airway
(min. 50mm)
5mm
opening
10mm or 25mm
opening to suit pitch
mono-pitched roof
5mm
opening
25mm
opening
25mm
opening
room-in-roof (completely sloping ceiling)
room-in-roof (partially sloping ceiling)
25mm
opening
12
10mm or
25mm opening
to suit pitch
25mm
opening
roof pitch below 150
pitched roof dormer

25mm
opening
min. 50mm
clear airway
cold roof
spacer maintains
25mm clear airway
above insulation
5mm
opening
insultation above
cavity closer and
wall plate avoids
a cold bridge
min. 50mm
clear airway
5mm
opening
25mm
opening
7.2
ventilation
opening
25mm
opening
room in roof (flat roof dormer)
To reduce moist air entering the roof space:
gaps should be sealed where services pass through

the ceiling
where used, downlighters should be specified and sealed to

limit air leakage.
Vapour controllayers should be provided in accordance with the design, and where required should be:
placed on the warm side of insulation
used inroof constructions where the ceiling board is fixed to

the rafters.
Where the ceiling below a cold pitched roof includes a vapour control layer, the design should ensure adequate ventilation is
provided to prevent condensation problems in the home.
Access hatches to cold roof voids should have:
an air leakage rate not more than 1 M3/h at a pressure of

2 Pa when tested to BS EN 13141-1, or
a push-up cover with a minimum weight of 5.5 kg and

compress a closed cell seal or o-ring between the cover
and frame (clamps may also be required to ensure that the
cover compresses the seal).
13
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
The thermal performance of the access hatch should contribute
to the overall thermal performance of the ceiling or wall in which
the hatch is located, and avoid cold bridging.
Proprietary hatches should be fitted and sealed to the
surrounding construction in accordance with the
Insulation should be of sufficient thickness to meet the
requirements of Building Regulations, and laid over the whole
loft and wall plate.
ventilation
opening
loft hatch
draught stripped
gaps sealed
at services
Table 9: Suitable materials for roof insulation

Material
Standard
Mineral fibre mats
BS EN 13162
Blown mineral fibre
BS 5803-2
Blown cellulose fibre
BS 5803-3
Dormer construction
Ventilation to dormers should be provided from eaves to eaves or from eaves to ridge.
Pipework
To reduce the risk of freezing or condensation forming
on pipework, the following precautions should be taken:
pipes insulated
when above
loft insulation
Where possible, water pipes should be below the main
lap the tank

insulation
and the loft
insulation
roof insulation.
Water pipes should be insulated in accordance with

Chapter 8.1 Internal services.
Roof insulation should be placed above and around water

tanks, but not below them.
Cold rising pipework above ceiling level should be insulated,

even where it is below themain roof insulation.
rising main insulated

above ceiling level
In England and Wales, account should be taken of Accredited Construction Details.
7.2
Firestopping and cavity barriers 7.2.16
Pitched roofs shall be constructed to provide adequate fire resistance and separation.
Firestopping should be provided in accordance with building regulations, including:
at the junctions between a separating or compartment wall

and a roof
at the junctions between cavities

When providing firestopping:
gaps between compartments should be sealed
separating walls should stop approximately25mm below the

top of adjacent roof trusses, and a soft fire-resistant packing,
such as mineral wool, should be used to allow for movement
in roof timbers and prevent hogging of the tiles
a cavity barrier of fire-resisting boardor a wire reinforced

mineral wool blanket (50mm minimum) nailed to the rafter
and carefully cut to fully seal the boxed eaves should be
installed (ordinary mineral wool quilt is acceptable as
firestopping above separating walls)
a minimum 30min fire separation should be provided between

the home and an integral garage.
above separating walls
within the boxed eaves at separating walls.
3D
firestop between
batten and above
underlay
firestop
below underlay
cavity closed
at eaves
cavity barrier of mineral wool

or fire-resisting board in boxed eaves
Combustible material, such as roof timbers and sarking felt, should be kept away fromheat sources.
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
14
Battens 7.2.17
Battens and counter battens shall be adequately sized and spaced to support the roof covering.
Battens and counter battens should be:
in accordance with BS 5534, accompanied by a delivery

note and marked with the supplier, origin, grade and size
preservative treated
where cut ends are in contact with mortar,

treated with preservative
cut square, butt jointed over rafters and nailed to eachrafter

they span
fixed by skew driven nails on each side of the joint.
Counter battens should be fixed to the rafters and not only to sarking boards.
Battens should be:
a minimum of 1.2m long and span a minimum of

three rafters
set out in straight lines parallel to the ridge and to the gauge
required for the tile or slate (the lap should not be decreased
as this would reduce weathertightness)
set out so that the tiles project a minimum of 50mm over

the gutter
fixed through counter battens to rafters
where on rigid sarking boards, supported on counter battens
at verges, tile battens should finish 25mm-50mm from the

face of the protecting undercloak
sized in accordance with the roof covering manufacturers

recommendations, but not less than shown in Table 10.
Table 10: Suitable batten sizes

Double lap slates
Clay/concrete tiles
Natural: sized or random

Fibre cement or concrete
Double lap
Single lap
450mm span
25mm x 50mm
25mm x 38mm
25mm x 38mm
25mm x 38mm
600mm span
25mm x 50mm
25mm x 50mm
25mm x 38mm
25mm x 50mm
Notes
1 Actual size should be within +/3mm of the nominal size).
Battens should be set out to avoid joints occurring over the

same rafter. Where batten spacing is:
too many battens (in a group

of four) joined over the same rafter
more than 200mm, no morethan one batten in any group of
200mm
spacing
Batten fixings should be:
cut or wire nails inaccordance with BS 5534
a minimum of 3.35mm x 65mm long(10 gauge) and

a minimum of 30mm longer than the batten thickness
ring shank nails where specified (where themaximum basic

wind speed is over 26m/s (National Annex Figure NA.1 of
BS EN 1991-1-4), galvanized smooth round nails are not
acceptable and ring shank nails should be used)
hot dip galvanised steel or aluminium, when used in

coastal areas.
Roof coverings 7.2.18

Roof coverings shall be of a suitable quality and durability to protect the building from weather.
When covering a pitched roof:
coverings should be in accordance with the design and

established building practices
recovered materials may be used where prior approval

by NHBC has been granted (independent certification of
suitability may be required).
7.2
four should be joinedover any one truss or rafter
200mm or less, no more thanthree joints should be made

over any 12 consecutive battens.
15
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Table 11: Standards relevant to roof coverings
Material
Standard
Clay tiles and fittings
BS EN 1304
Concrete tiles and fittings
BS EN 490 and BS EN 491
Natural slates
BS EN 12326
Fibre cement slates and fittings
BS EN 492
Natural stone
Established practices
Lead sheet roofing
BS 6915
Rolled lead sheet
BS EN 12588
Thatch
Standards set by the Thatching Advisory Services or other

appropriate authority, in accordance with Technical Requirement R3
Shingles should be of western red cedar
Grade 1 to the Canadian Standards Association
Sheet metal roofing, including lead, copper and zinc
Proprietary roofs, roof lights, dry fixed systems and coverings Technical Requirement R3
Other roof coverings
CP 143
Where slates and concrete or clay tiles are designated AA to BS 476-3, they can beused without limitation on pitched roofs.
Table 12: Acceptable characteristics for natural slates

Characteristics
Grade (to BS EN 12326)
Water absorption less than 0.6%
A1
Thermal cycle
T1
Carbonate content less than 20%
S1
Fixing tiles and slates 7.2.19
Also see: BS 5534
Coverings shall be suitably fixed to protect the building from weather. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) eaves, ridge and hip tiles
b) verges
c) mortar
d) vertical tiling and slating.
Careful setting out will improve the finished appearance of the roof, help avoid problems such as unequal overhangs, and reduce
excessive tile cutting at abutments, chimneys and similar obstructions.
When installing coverings:
7.2
clay tiles that do not meet the dimensional and geometric
double tiles, tile-and-a-half or half tiles can be used when
requirements given in BS EN 1304 should not be laid at

pitches less than 40
joints between tiles and slates should be slightly open,

which provides some exibility in setting out and should
help to avoid tile cutting (single lap interlocking tiles have a
tolerance of approximately 3mm at the joint)
available from the manufacturer (to avoid the use of small

sections of cut tiles)
the bottom edges of double-lapped slate and plain tile roofs

should be finished with an under-eaves course.
Table 13: Pitch, gauge and lap

Type or tile
Gauge
Minimum headlap
Minimum permissible pitch ()
Plain (double lap)
Maximum 1/3 length lap
65mm generally for clay tiles

75mm in severe exposure conditions
35 (clay)
35 (plain concrete)
Concrete (single lap Comply with the manufacturers 75mm or to the manufacturers
interlocking)
recommendations
recommendations
Slates (double lap)
Maximum 1/3 length lap
54mm(1) minimum, increased with lower 20 subject to headlap

pitch and severe exposure conditions
Notes
1 For pitches greater than 45 in sheltered and moderate exposure zones only.
2 For pitches below 30, evidence shall be provided as to suitable performance.
30(2)
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
16
When fixing coverings to a pitched roof:
the fixing schedule should be produced by the tile
galvanized steel nails should not be used for slates and tiles
manufacturer; fixings for single and double lap tiles should

be in accordance with BS 5534 and BS EN 1994-1-4
(evidence of calculations in compliance with Technical
Requirements R3 and R5 may be required)
coverings should be fixed in accordance with the design and

the manufacturers recommendations
slates and tiles should be fixed using clout or slate nails

(these should be either silicon bronze, aluminium
to BS 1202-3 or copper to BS 1202-2).
(but are acceptable for fixing battens or underlay)
fixings should be a minimum of 38mm long, and penetrate a

minimum of 15mm into battens
tile clips should be of aluminium or stainless steel
slates should be fully nailed over the whole roof, and nailed
twice where centre nailed.
Eaves, ridge and hip tiles

At eaves:
tiles should project a minimum of 50mm across the gutter
when using slates or plain tiles,an under-eaves course

should be used
the height of the facia should maintain the tile pitch, in

accordance with the tile manufacturers recommendations.
coverings to project
a min. of 50mm
across the gutter
At ridges:
the underlay should extend over the ridge where

traditionalmortar pointing is used to bed ridge tiles.
underlay dressed
into gutter below
under-eaves tiles
At hips:
underlay should continue to form a 150mm minimum lap

parallel with the hip rafter
where wet bedded tiles are used, they should be supported

at the base by a galvanized hip iron and project to the centre
line of the gutter.
All ridge and hip tiles should be mechanically fixed with self-sealing non-ferrous fixings into timber battens, and have a nominal joint
thickness of 10mm where wet bedded.
7.2
Proprietary dry fixed systems should be assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
underlay
carried
over ridge
ridge tiles beddded

in mortar and
mechanically fixed
Verges
Unless a proprietary dry verge system or cloaked verge is used, tiles should be bedded into a 100mm wide bed of mortar on
an undercloak of cement-based board, plain tile or slate. Plain tiles should not be used as an undercloak below 30pitch or
on a bargeboard.
17
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Undercloak should be:
fixed in accordance with manufacturers recommendations
installed to a true line
installed at the correct level to ensure that the line ofthe

tiling is maintained where it passes over the wall
lapped over the roof underlay but should not tilt inwards
bedded on roofing mortar and struck off ush with the

external surface of the wall (alternatively, a suitable exterior
grade bedding sealant should be used inaccordance with
the manufacturers recommendations)
securely nailed to a true line where a bargeboard is used.

verge tiles bedded in
mortar on undercloak
underlay taken
over wall cavity
100mm
cut tiles
avoided
at verges
tile-and-a-half
tiles used
for correct
coursing
38-50mm
or
30-60mm
Where verge tiles and slates are wet bedded, it should be completed in oneoperation.
Verge clips should be in fullcontact with the tile to resist uplift, nailed twice tobattens and sized to ensure that they are in direct
contactwith the top surface of the verge tile.
Where plain tiles and slates are used at the verge:
they should project 38-50mm beyond the gable wall

or bargeboard
cut plain tiles are not acceptable, and purpose-made plain

tile-and-a-half tiles should be used
natural slate verges should be formed with full slates and

eitherslate-and-a-half or half slates that are a minimum of
150mm wide.
Where interlocking tiles are used at the verge:
they should project 30-60mmbeyond the gable wall

or bargeboard
small sections (less than a half tile width) ofcut interlocking

tiles should not be used.
Mortar
When bedding tiles or slates in mortar:
7.2
the mortar should be 1:3 cement:sand with plasticiser
the mortar should be a mix based on sharp sand with soft

sand added to achieve workability; the proportion of sharp
sand should not be less than one third of the total sand
content (proprietary mixes may be accepted by NHBC
where they are shown to have similar strength, durability
and workability)
bedding and pointing should be completed in one operation
tiles should bewetted on their contact surface, and surface

water allowed to drain away before fixing
concealed or decorative dentil tiles should be fully bedded

into joints in excess of 25mm thick.
Vertical tiling and slating

When fixing vertical tiling and slating:
a suitable moisture barrier should be used
where the wall structure is solid brickwork or blockwork,
at internal or external angles, purpose-made corner tiles or
the moisture barrier should be underfelt or equivalent
where the supporting structure is of timber construction, the

moisture barrier should be used with a breather membrane
batten sizes should be in accordance with this chapter
every tile or slate should be nailed twice and the bottom

edges should be finished with an under-course tile
where pitched roofs abut tiled walls, a stepped ashing
soakers should be used to form a weathertight joint

should be specified and turned in behind the tiles
at dormer cheeks, the tiles or slates should be specified to

be cut close to the slope of the roof and over aashing fixed
to the side of the dormer.
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Weatheringdetails 7.2.20
18
Weatherproofing shall be provided at abutments, flat roof intersections, changes in slopes and projections
to resist the passage of moisture to the inside of the building. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) abutments
b) flat roof intersection or changes in slope
c) projections through the roof

d) copings.
Flashing details should be appropriate for the roof and the type of roof covering used, in accordance with BS 5534. Where flashings
come into contact with metal, they should be formed using non-ferrous material.
Table 14: Suitable materials for flashings

Material
Standard
Additional information
Aluminium and alloys BS 1470
0.6-0.9mm thick, and protected from contact with mortar by a coating of

bituminous paint
Copper
BS 2870
Flashings, soakers and saddles should be:
fully annealed
0.55mm thick (0.7mm thick is suitable for gutters)
Rolled lead sheet
BS EN 12588
Flashings, gutter linings etc. should:
be a minimum of code 4, and soakers a minimum of code 3
sections should not exceed 1.5m in length
Zinc alloy
BS 6561
Should be a minimum of 0.6mm thick
Technical Requirement R3 Should be securely fixed in accordance with the

Abutments
At abutments:
flashings, soakers and gutters should be
flashings shouldbe tucked 25mm into a brick joint and
provided as necessary
lead flashings should have a minimum lap of 100mm
wedged in place at not more than 450mm centres, or a

minimum of one per step for stepped flashings
joints between the masonry and flashing should be pointed

with cement mortar or suitable exterior grade sealantin
Where a flat or pitched roof over an enclosed area abuts a wall, or a balcony abuts a wall, cavity trays should be linked to the
flashing to prevent water penetrating into an enclosed area. Horizontal flashings should provide weathering to a minimum of 75mm
above the intersection with the roof.
a stepped cavity traylinked to a stepped flashing

should be used
stepped flashings shouldbe cut from a strip a minimum of

150mm wide
3D
stepped flashings should be a minimum of 65mm wide
where slates, flat interlockingtiles or plain tiles are used,

soakers (or a secret gutter)should be installed.
3D
min.
75mm
lead flashing
wedged into joint
below wall DPC
min. 150mm
clip free edge of

flashing; method
depends on
exposure
soakers beneath
each tile; overlapped
flashing
stepped lead flashing

held in mortar joints
with lead wedges
underlay turned up
at abutment
underlay turned
up behind flashing
7.2
Where a pitched roof abuts the wall at an angle:
19
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
Flat roof intersection or changes in slope
Where there is a change in the slope, or an intersection with a flat roof and:
the change is 5 or more (e.g. at mansards and sprockets),

flashings or soakers should be used
a ridge meets the main roof, a saddle ashing should

be used where a ridge meets the main roof.
Where a at roof adjoins a pitched roof:
the waterproof membraneshould be carried up under the

tiling to a height of 150mm above theat roof, and lapped by
the roofing underlay
the lowest course oftiles or slates should not touch the

roof membrane
3D
where the at roof is over a dormer, the atroof should have

a fall to the front or sides.
underlay overlaps
weatherproofing
lead saddle flashing dressed

over GRP valley gutter
approx.
150mm
fall
min. 150mm
GRP valley gutter
Projections through the roof

Where there is a projection through the roof:
components should be installed according tothe

flashings should be provided (e.g. at chimneys)
where pipes penetrate tiling, a weathertightjoint should

be formed using a lead slate flashing and upstand or
a purpose-made one-piece accessory (supplied by the
roof coveringmanufacturer); where lead slates are used
theyshould be supported (e.g. using exteriorgrade plywood)
to prevent sagging.
7.2
3D
cover flashing
cover
flashing
min.
150mm
back gutter
flashing supported
by gutter boards
back gutter
flashing
upper DPC tray

stepped side
flashing
lower DPC tray
back gutter
front apron
flashing
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
20
Copings
Copings, including those manufactured from natural stone reconstituted stone, and GRP, should be securely fixed using suitably
durable fixings, and be weathertight.
To resist wind uplift and gravitational forces, L-shaped brackets should be used to secure stone copings to masonry walls.
The brackets should:
have dowel bars that fit into restraint holes in the copings
be manufactured from stainless steel
be fixed to a solid piece of masonry, with fixings of a

suitable length, gauge and durability.
(such as type 304 to BS EN 10088-2)

DPCs should be installed under the coping to ensure that the wall is weathertight. The DPC should:
be bitumen-based material to BS 6398, or other material

assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3
extend the full width of the wall
be fully bedded in mortar
be supported over the cavity.
Fixing methods that penetrate the DPC should be designed to ensure weathertightness. This can be achieved by extending the
lower DPC under the bracket, and installing the next section of the DPC over it to create a lap that covers the fixing point.
DPC
stainless steel
support brackets
DPC
clip
continuous
fixing strip
GRP coping
plywood plate
compression
seal
cavity closer
lead flashing
lead soakers
adjoining roof covering and

flashing omitted for clarity
DPC support
Where GRP copings are used, they should:
be fixed in accordance with the manufacturers instructions
include a DPC
allow for normal downward movement in the timber frame.
Valleys and hidden gutters 7.2.21

Valleys shall have suitable weathering details, including flashings, to resist the passage of moisture to the
inside of the building.
Valleys, and the components used, should:
have a finished pitch which complies with the minimum

recommended for the roof
be fixed in accordance with the

have a lead flashing (minimum code 4) or other suitable

saddle flashing, at the head of each valley
be formed using either preformed GRP, valley coursing tiles

(plain tiles), valley trough tiles (interlocking tiles), non-ferrous
metal or a proprietary system to Technical Requirement R3.
small cut tiles should be avoided

Where the roof covering is slate or plain tiles, the following may be used:
A laced valley.
A mitred valley with soakers.
A swept valley.
Valleys using valley tiles

Where valleys are formed using valley tiles:
purpose-made valley coursing tiles should be used where
adjacent coverings should be neatly cutto form a smooth
the roof uses plain tiles
purpose-made valley trough tiles should be supported by

gutter boards where the roof uses single lap interlocking tiles
they should be mechanically cut to the correct rake
junction, and preferably be cut from tile-and-a-half tiles
they should be bedded in mortar with a minimum 100mm

wide channel (minimum 125mm for pitches below 30).
7.2
Further guidance can be found in Chapter 6.2 External timber framed walls.
21
Pitched roofs 2016

CHAPTER 7.2
VLead-lined valleys
For lead-lined valleys, the tiles should be cut and bedded as for valley tiles,except that the mortar should be bedded on an
undercloak (to prevent direct contact between the lead and themortar). Mortar should not bridge the welt detail.
Lead should be:
either code 4 (colour-coded blue) or code 5

(colour-coded red)
supported on gutter boards of 19mm exterior grade ply, or as

specified in the design
laid in strips no longer than 1.5m
lapped by a minimum of 150mm, where pitches are

above 30.
Proprietary gutter or valley systems

Proprietary gutter or valley systems should be in accordance withthe manufacturers recommendations, and securely fixed to
suitable supports (exterior grade materials should be used).
Drainage 7.2.22
Roof drainage shall adequately carry rainwater to a suitable outlet.
Drainage should be:
provided where roofs are greater than 6m2; however,
fixed in accordance with the design, using the correct type of
consideration should be given to providing drainage to

smaller roofs such as dormer, porch roofs and balconies
(see Clause 7.1.12)
of a sufficient size to accommodate normal rainfall,

and sized to cope with concentrated ows, i.e. where
there are dormer roofs
designed and fitted to preventerosion of the lower surface,

where water from a large roof surface discharges onto
another surface
fittings for internal and external angles, outlets etc.to ensure

efficient drainage of the roof
supported and jointed in accordance with the

insulated when passing through a home, in accordance with

Chapter 8.1 Internal services
installed ensuring gutters are provided with stop ends,

and are laid with a sufficient fall towards the outlet,
unless designed to be at.
Where gutters are behind parapet walls, a suitably sized overflow should be provided.
Where a downpipe discharges above ground level, or above a drainage gully, the downpipe should be fitted with shoes.
Fascias and trim 7.2.23
Fascias, bargeboards and soffits shall be appropriately fixed and treated against decay.
Table 15: Materials acceptable for facia boards
7.2
Exterior grade plywood
BS EN 636 Class 3
High density fibre reinforced calcium silicate board
BS 3536
Glass fibre reinforced cement (GRC) board
BS 3536
When installing fascia boards and soffits:
timber for external feature work should be free from waney
where timber is to be painted, it should be knotted and
edges, large knots, resinous pockets, splits andother

unsightly defects
timber for fascias, bargeboards and soffits should be

pretreated with preservative
where preservative treated timber is cut or planed,

preservative should be applied to the cut edge
primed on all surfacesbefore fixing
where timber requires a stained finish, one coat of stain

should be applied before fixing
each joint should be cut and fixed neatly.
Fascia boards should be fixed:
twice to each rafter
with splayed butt joints.
Internal services
CHAPTER 8.1
the Technical Requirements for
internal services,including:
the supply of hot and cold water
plumbing
gas
electrical installations.
8.1.1 Compliance
8.1.2
8.1.3
Water services and supply
8.1.4
Cold water storage
8.1.5
Hot water service
8.1.6
Soil and waste systems
8.1.7 Electrical services and installations
8.1.8
Gas service installations
8.1.9 Meters
8.1.10 Space heating systems
8.1.11 Installation
8.1.12 Extract ducts
8.1.13 Testing and commissioning
01
01
01
03
03
04
05
06
06
07
07
09
10
Internal services 2016

CHAPTER 8.1
Compliance 8.1.1
Internal services shall comply with the Technical Requirements and take account of service entries, ground
hazards and chemical attack.
Internal services which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Adequateprecautions against ground hazards and the entry of gas i.e. radon or gas, from landfill sites, should be provided
as necessary. Further guidance can be found in BRE Report 211 Radon: guidance on protective measures for new dwellings,
and BRE Report 212 Construction of new buildings on gas-contaminated land.

Designs should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers, and include the following information:
Location of sanitary fittings.
Drainage runs.
Location and size of water storage cisterns and cylinders.
Hot and cold water pipe runs.
Central heating pipe runs.
Underfloor heating pipe runs.
Gas supply pipe runs.
Electrical outlets, switches and consumer units.
Water services and supply 8.1.3
Also see: water regulations and guides, BS EN 806
Water services shall be based on the pressures and flow rates supplied from the incoming main.
Components shall be selected and installed to ensure satisfactory service for the life of the system,
with suitable precautions taken against corrosion and damage. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) suitability of materials and components
b) adequate supply
c) durability
d) protection from the cold.
Suitability of materials and components

Relevant standards for materials and components used in domestic water systems include:
BS EN 806
Specifications forinstallations inside buildings conveying waterfor human consumption.
BS 7206
Specification for unventedhot water storage unitsand packages.
BS EN 1057 Copper and copper alloys. Seamless, round copper tubes for water and gas in sanitary and heating applications.
BS 1566
Copper indirect cylindersfor domestic purposes.
BS 3198
Specification for copperhot water storage combination units fordomestic purpose.
BS 7291
Thermoplastics pipes and fittings systems for hot and cold water for domestic purposes and heating installations
in buildings.
Adequate supply
The design and installation of the water services supply should:
8.1
be in accordance with building regulations, statutory
ensure that stop valves within the curtilage and outside the
requirements and the recommendations of the water supplier
ensure drinking water is provided at the kitchen sink direct

from the supply pipe or, where this is impracticable, from a
storage cistern containing an adequate supply of
drinking water
be based on a minimum 1.5 bar dynamic pressure at the

stop valve inside the home
ensure a minimum 20L/min flow rate is available at the stop

valve inside the home
account for pressure and flow rate reductions (a wider supply

pipe may be required inside the home)
account for pressure fluctuations and surges, which may

occur within the system and potentially damage fittings
(surge arresters may be required)
home are protected by a shaft or box
ensure service pipes are a minimum of 750mm below the

ground surface where this is not possible, adequate
precautions should be taken against frost and
mechanical damage
ensure that underground ducts are sealed at both ends to

prevent the entry of fluids, vermin and insects
be of materials which are safe and minimise the risk

of corrosion
be in accordance with the recommendations of the water

supplier, including compatibility of the supplywith the
materials and fittings.

CHAPTER 8.1
The water system should becapable of being drained (hot and cold services separately).
Durability
The hot and cold water service should be installed using corrosion resistant pipes and fittings.
In areas where pitting corrosion of copper cylinders occurs, it may be necessary to fit aluminium protector rods. These should be
fitted during manufacture in accordance with the relevant British Standard. Sacrificial anodes should be installed where required by
the water supplier.
Protection from the cold

To reduce the risk of freezing, water services should be located in the warm envelope of the home. Where they are located in
unheated spaces, they should be insulated and not affected by cold. Insulation should be provided:
around water services, including pipework (in accordance

with Tables 1 and 2), cisterns and vent pipes
(particular care is needed around bends and junctions,
especially near openings to the outside air, such as eaves)
as specified in the design (but not beneath a cold water tank)
on each side of raised tanks in unheated roof spaces
in accordance with BS 6700.
insulation
thickness
insulated
water pipes
cold air
Table 1: Minimum insulation thickness to delay freezing inside domestic premises for cold water systems
Outside pipe
diameter (mm)
Minimum insulation thickness (mm)

Thermal conductivity of material at 0C W/(mK)
0.025
0.030
0.035
0.040
15
30
45
70
91
22-28
12
15
19
24
The conditions assumed for the table are:
air temperature -6C
water temperature +7C
ice formation 50%.
Thermal conductivity W/(mK)
Material
Less than 0.020
Rigid phenolic foam.
0.020-0.025
Polyisocyanurate foam and rigidpolyurethane foam.
0.025-0.030
PVC foam.
0.030-0.035
Expanded polystyrene, extruded polystyrene, cross-linked polyethlene foam, expanded nitrile

rubber and improved polyethylene foam.
0.035-0.040
Standard polyethylene foam, expandedsynthetic rubber and cellular glass.
Where the floor is of suspended construction, the underfloor

water service should be insulated as it passes through the
ground and the ventilated space.
ventilated void
to suspended floor
min.
750mm
any distance
8.1
Table 2: Examples of insulating materials:

CHAPTER 8.1
Cold water storage 8.1.4
Cold water service shall be provided in accordance with statutory requirements and be adequate.
Cold water storage should be provided with suitable capacity and include primary feed cisterns where indirect waterheating systems
are installed. Cold water storage should be provided:
to supply an open vented hot water storage system
to supply cold water outlets (where not connected to the
(where required by the water supplier)
mains supply).
Cisterns should:
beaccessible for inspection and maintenance
be protected by a rigid close-fitting cover (non-airtight) that

also excludes light and insects
have holes neatly formed with a cutter in thepositions shown

in the design
be suitably supported.
BS 6700 provides the following recommendations:
Storage capacity for small homes only cold water
Storage capacity for small homes
fittings 100-150L.
supplying hot and cold outlets 200-300L.
Storage capacity for larger homes 100L per bedroom.
Warning and overflow pipes:
should be provided at each cold water cistern, to a suitable
should be situated25mm from the shut-off water level in
external discharge, unless permittedby water regulations

where it may beinternal if it is conspicuous
should be adequately sized (19mm minimum)
may dip below the waterlevel in accordance with water
thecistern
regulations, terminatevertically downwards or be fitted with
a horizontal tee where it discharges.
The cistern bottom should be continuously supported by materials such as:
softwood boarding
marine plywood
chipboard type P5 to BS EN 312
oriented strand board type OSB3 toBS EN 300, laid with

the stronger axis (as marked on board) at right angles to
the bearers.
Access should:
be provided to the main roof space and voids that contain

cisterns and tanks, etc. (not required to roof spaces
containing only water pipes)
be via an opening (access hatch) with a minimum width of

520mm in each direction
not be located directly over stairs or in other

hazardous locations
include a minimum 1m2 platform located for

maintenance purposes
include securely fixed boarded walkways between the

opening and the cistern or other permanent equipment
(boarding should be securely fixed without compressing
the insulation).
Hot water service 8.1.5
Also see: BS 6700
Hot water service shall be provided in accordance with statutory requirements and be adequate for the
demand and consumption.
Hot water services should be designed in accordance with Table 3, and:
8.1
the minimum flow rate should be in accordance with the

statutory requirements and generally be available; it may be
less where the pressure and flow rate of the incoming supply
falls below 1.5 bar
have the design flow rate available at each outlet when the
total demand does not exceed 0.3L/s (where simultaneous
discharge occurs, the flow rate at individual outlets should
not be less than the minimum rate).
Table 3: Flow rate and temperature requirements

Outlet
Design flow rate L/s
Minimumflow rate L/s
Supplytemperature C
Bath (from storage)
0.3
0.2
60
Bath (from combi)
0.2
0.15
40
Shower (excluding instantaneous electric showers)
0.2
0.1
40
Wash basin
0.15
0.1
40
Sink
0.2
0.1
60
Hot water storage should comply with the minimum capacity in Table 4 (based on a draw-off temperature of 60C), and where
appliances require greater volumes, the capacity should be increased accordingly.

CHAPTER 8.1
Table 4: Minimum storage requirements

Shower only
Bath only
Bath and shower(s)(1)
Two baths
60L
120L
145L
180L
Note
1 Maximum of two showers (excludes instantaneous electric showers).
Where systems are heated by off-peak electricity, the storage capacity should be inaccordance with the recommendations ofthe
electricity supplier.
Where homes have one bathroom or shower room, the system should be able to provide adequate hot water:
immediately after the bath has been filled, for tasks such
for a second bath after 20 minutes.
as washing
Instantaneous systems (using combinationboilers) produce hot water ondemand (generally atlower flow rates than
storage systems), and should only be used where:
simultaneous demand for hot wateris limited. Where there

are three or more outlets, the design for simultaneous
discharge can omit the outlet at the kitchen sink
storage combination boilers have the capacity as required

in Table 4.
Where homes have two or more bathrooms, the system should be able to provide adequate hot water immediately after each of the
baths have been filled, for tasks such as washing.
Where a shower is installed, adequateprovision should be made to ensure thatthe outlet temperature of the water is
notsignificantly affected by the use of other hotor cold outlets in the home. This may beachieved by the provision of a
thermostaticshower mixing valve, the appropriate design ofpipe sizes or dedicated supplies.
Where boilers can control andprioritise hot water outputs:
storagecapacities can be less than the figures in Table 4
thestorage capacity should be in accordance with the

Storage systems provide higher flow ratesthan instantaneous systems, and:
requirea suitable space for the siting of thestorage vessel
where vented, should be provided with anexpansion pipe.
Unvented hot water storage systemsshould be:
assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3,
installed by competentinstallers.
or meet the requirements of BS 7206 and be the subject of

third-party certification, e.g. Kitemarking (applies to both the
assembled system and components)
Hot water cylinders should be:
supported in accordance with

installed vertically, unless designed otherwise
accessible for maintenance
insulated as specifiedin the design.
Where an immersion heater is fitted, it should be:
located to facilitate replacement
fitted with an on/off switch.
Soil and waste systems 8.1.6
Also see: BS EN 752 and BS EN 12056
Soil and waste systems shall be in accordance with relevant building regulations and installed to ensure that
effluent is removed without affecting health or creating unnecessary noise and smell.
Soil and waste systems should be:
in accordance with the requirements of the water supplier
adequately ventilated at the head of underground drains

(this may be by a soil pipe or separate ventilation pipe)
adequately ventilated at each branch
arranged to ensure foul air from the drainage system cannot
900mm
min.
openings
soil pipe or
ventilation
pipe
less than 3m
enter homes (e.g. ventilated to 900mm above openings when

within 3m)
fixed neatly and securely to provide the correct falls
fitted to prevent the entry of vermin.
8.1
appropriate for the type of watersupplied to the home
controlledby a thermostat

CHAPTER 8.1
Air admittance valves should:
be used to allow air to enter the drainage system (but do not
have free movement of air around them which can be
avoid the need to ventilate it adequately)
where used to terminate a soil pipe, comply with

BS EN 12380 or be assessed in accordance with
not be positioned in areas which are liable to freezing
achieved by ventilation grilles, discreet gaps around the

boxing or ventilation of the boxing into a ventilated roof void
(the ventilation area should be 2500mm2 minimum unless
otherwise specified by the manufacturer)
where positioned within the home, be accessible

for maintenance.
Sound insulation should be provided to soilpipes passing

through homes by:
timber framing
an encased boxing, using a minimum 15kg/m2

board material, or
wrapping the pipe with a minimum 25mm of unfaced

mineral fibre (the insulation should be continued through
the thickness of each sound-insulating floor).
either line the

enclosure or wrap
the pipe with 25mm
unfaced mineral fibre
the material of the enclosure
should have a mass of
15 kg/m2
Sanitary fittings should be:
installed with accessories, such as chains and plugs
secured using non-ferrous or stainless steel screws or fixings
fitted without using excessive packing
fitted to ensure WC lids and seats are stable when open.
appropriate to the weight of item being secured

Waste disposal units should be:
provided with adequatesupport
fitted with a tubular trap (not bottleor resealing)
connected to thedrainage system in accordance with

themanufacturers instructions.
The junctions of wall tiling with baths and showers should be made watertight using a flexible sealant to accommodate movement.
The manufacturers instructions should befollowed.
Electrical services and installations 8.1.7
Also see: BREreport Thermal insulation: avoiding risks
Electrical installations shall be provided in accordance with relevantregulations, codes and standards.
The installation shall ensure safe and satisfactory operation and be protected from chemical attack.
Electrical services and installations should:
comply with BS 7671 Requirements for

electrical installations
comply with BS 6004 Electric cables. PVC insulated and

PVC sheathed cables for voltages up to and including
300/500 V, for electric power and lighting.
have fittings and components located in accordance with

relevant building regulations
be installed in accordance with the

ensure cables are not placed under, againstor within thermal

insulation, unless they have been appropriately sized
and derated
ensure PVC covered cables are not in contact with

polystyrene insulation.
Rooms should be provided with the minimum number of 13A outlets listed in Table 5 (dual outlets count as two).
Table 5: Minimum number of outlets
8.1
Room
Outlets Notes
Kitchen/utility
Where homes have separate areas, the kitchen should have a minimum of four outlets and the
utility room four. Where appliances are provided, a minimum of three outlets should be free for
general use.
Living or family room
A minimum of two outlets near the TV aerial outlet.
Bedrooms
6 (4)
A minimum of six outlets for the main bedroom and a minimum of four outlets for other bedrooms.
Dining room
Landing
Hall

CHAPTER 8.1
Cables without special protection, suchas an earthed
metal conduit, should bepositioned:
vertically or horizontally from the outlet or switch being served
within the shaded zone in the diagram, or
a minimum of 50mm from the surface of a wall, or a minimum

of 50mm from the top or bottom of a timber joist, or batten in
a floor or ceiling.
vertically or horizontally
to switch or outlet
in shaded zone
150mm wide
Where the position of switches or sockets can be determined

from the reverse side of the wall or partition, the zone on one
side of the wall or partition applies to the reverse side.
Lighting outlets
Lighting outlets should be provided:
in each room, hall, landing and staircases
with two-way switching at each floor level in a staircase
in the common areas of homes and controlled by either

manual switching or automatic light-sensitive controls.
Cooking spaces
Cooking spaces should:
have a minimum 30A supply which is suitably switched

and terminated
have a 13A socket outlet where there is a gas supply
where provided, have cooker panels located to the side of

the cooker space.
Electrical supply to gas appliances

Where a gas appliance requires an electrical supply, a suitable fixed spur or socket outlet should be provided.
TV
Aerials are not required; however, one of the following should be provided:
a concealed, coaxial cable from the roof void to a terminal
a conduit and draw wire or suitable alternative.
outlet in the main living room
Gas service installations 8.1.8
Also see: Chapters 6.2, 6.8, BS 5482, BS 6400 and BS 6891
Gas service installations shall be adequate and comply with the gas safety regulations, and be in accordance
with relevant standards and codes to ensure safe and satisfactory operation.
where there is a gas supply, a gas point is provided at the

cooker space
where gas pipework is to be installed in timberframe,

allowance is made for differential movement.
Meters 8.1.9
Openings in walls for metercabinets shall be structurally adequateand prevent dampness entering the home.
Openings set into external walls should beprovided with:
cavity tray
DPCs and cavity trays
lintels (except for purpose-designed built-in meterboxes).

Meters and associated equipment should be located to be
reasonably accessible and not subject to damage.
Domestic meters may be of the following type:
Built-in (to the outer leaf of the wall).
Surface-mounted (on an external wall).
Semi-concealed (sunk into the ground adjacent to the

outer wall).
Individually purpose-made compartments in accordance with
meter box
the recommendations of BS 6400.
8.1
Gas service installations should ensure:
service pipework up to and including theemergency control

valve and meter is in accordance with the requirementsof
the gas transporter, gas supplier andprimary meter owner
installation of pipework and appliances complies with

relevantstandards and codes including thosepublished by
the Institution of Gas Engineers and Managers (IGEM) or
Gas Safe Register (GSR)

CHAPTER 8.1
Space heating systems 8.1.10
Where space heating is provided, it shall be in accordance with the relevant codes and standards, and ensure
safe operation.
Where appropriate, space heating systems should comply with the following:
BS 5410
Code of practice for oil firing.
BS 5449
Code of practice for central heating for domestic premises.
BS 8303
Installation of domestic heating and cooking appliances burning solid mineral fuels.
BS EN 12828
Heating systems in buildings. Design for water-based heating systems.
BSRIA guide BG 4/2011
Underfloor heating and cooling.
Space heating appliances, including all components and controls, should be of atype approved by the relevant authority,including:
Solid fuel Solid Fuel Association, Heating Equipment

Testing & Approval Scheme
Electricity British Electrotechnical Approvals Board
Oil OFTEC.
The provision of whole home or centralheating is discretionary. Where provided, it should be designed in accordance with Table 6,
recognised standards, and:
the number of air changes per hour from kitchens and
design temperatures should be verified by calculations and
bathrooms should account for any mechanical ventilation
where rooms contain open flued appliances, the rate of

air change used for the design should be increased in
accordance with BS EN 12828
not by performance tests
the main living room should have a heating appliance or a

heat output as part of a whole home heating system
temperature calculations should be based on

a -3C external temperature.
Table 6: Room temperatures and ventilation rates

Room
Room temperature C
Ventilation rate(air changes per hour)
Living room
21
1.5
Dining room
21
1.5
Bedroom
18
Hall and landing
18
1.5
Kitchen
18
Bathroom
22
Toilet
18
Installation 8.1.11
Internal services shall not adversely affect the stability of the home and be installed to ensure
satisfactory operation. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) fitting of pipes and cables
b) notching and drilling of joists
c) concealed services.
Fitting of pipes and cables
8.1
Services should:
comply with Chapter 5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing
not be located in the cavity of anexternal wall, except for
floors where they pass through the substructure
be protected by a sleeve, or ducted, when passing through

structural elementsand not solidly embedded
electricitymeter tails
not be buried in screeds unless permitted by relevant codes

of practice.
Where copper pipes are permitted in floor screeds, they should be:
sleeved or wrapped so that they can move freely along the
jointed with capillary joints.
length and at joints and bends

Pipes should:
be adequately securedwith suitable clips or brackets
be installed neatly with clips spaced toprevent sagging,

but not restrict thermalmovement
have adequatefalls (where appropriate)
be installed with adequate room for thermal expansion and

contractionto avoid damage and noise.

CHAPTER 8.1
Plastic pipework should be wrapped with metallic tape where it is in, or behind,wall surfaces, and would otherwise notbe located by
a metal detector or similarequipment.
Joints in pipes should be made:
strictlyin accordance with the manufacturersinstructions
using lead-free flux recommended by the pipe manufacturer,

with traces removed immediately after jointing.
Fire stopping should be provided around any services which penetrate fire-resisting floors, walls or partitions. Where a proprietary
system, such as an intumescent seal is used, it should be installed in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
Notching and drilling of joists

Notching, drilling and chasing to accommodate service pipes and cablesshould either:
comply with the clauses below, or
be designed by an engineer.
Solid timber and studs
Table 7: Limits for notching and drilling solid timber members

Location
Maximum size
Notching joists up to 250mm in depth
Top edge 0.1-0.2 x span
Drilling joists up to 250mm in depth
Centre line 0.25-0.4 x span
Drilling studs
Centre line 0.25-0.4 x height
0.25 x depth of stud

holes separated
by a min. 3 x
hole diameter
100mm min.
between notches
and holes
holes located on the centre line in a

zone (0.25-0.4 x span) from the end
and max. diameter = 2.5 x joist depth
notches located in a zone
(0.1-0.2 x span) from the end and
max. notch depth = 0.15 x joist depth
Where the structural strength is impaired by notching or drilling, the element should bereplaced or correctly repaired.
Holes should be spaced at a minimum of three times the hole diameter.
Notches and holes in the same joist should be separated by a minimum horizontal distance of 100mm.
Instructions should be obtained from the designer when notching anddrilling, where:
the joist is deeper than 250mm, or
the dimensions are not in accordance with Table 7, or
it is close to heavy loads, such asthose from partitions,

cisterns, cylindersand stair trimming.
I-joists
Preformed holes are provided,and additional holes and notches should not be cutwithout the approval of the manufacturer.
Metal web joists

Lightweight steel
Light weight steel should be used in accordance with Chapter 6.10 Light steel framed walls and floors.
Concealed services
Services concealed in walls or floors should be located so that significant cracking of the surface does not occur. Where chases in
walls are necessary, their depth should not exceed:
1/6 thickness of the single leaf for horizontal chases
1/3 thickness for vertical chases.
Hollow blocks should not be chased unlessspecifically permitted by the manufacturer.
8.1
Services should run inthe gaps between the metal webs. Conduits mayneed to be inserted before the joistsare fixed in position.

CHAPTER 8.1
Pipes under floor screeds should:
min. 25mm cover
be protected by wrapping or ducting
have adequate allowance for thermal expansion,
insulated pipe
within screed
particularly at changes of direction.

Screed cover should be a minimum of 25mm over pipes and
insulating material, and:
where pipes cross, it may be necessary to form aduct to

achieve adequate cover
for in-situ suspended concrete floors, the location and depth

of pipes should be approved by the designer.
Extract ducts 8.1.12
Ductwork to intermittent and continuously running mechanical extract ventilation systems shall ensure
satisfactory performance and durability. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) building integration
b) resistance to airflow
c) control of condensation
d) installation.
Building integration
Routing of ductwork should take account of other building elements. Ductwork passing through structural elements should not
adversely affect the structural or fire performance of the building. Where alterations to structural elements, such as I-joists,
are required, this should only be carried out in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations, or be designed by an
The fire requirements of the building should be in accordance with relevant building regulations and standards. Issues that should be
suitable detailing of components passing through other
the integrity of protected stairs and halls

elements of the building
the integrity of walls and floors.
the location and type of dampers and firestops to be used
Resistance to airflow
Ductwork systems should be designed to minimise the resistance to airflow, and be formed from compatible components.
Rigid duct is preferable to flexible, but where flexible duct is used, it should be restricted in length to ensure that the airflow
resistance does not prevent the designed ventilation rate from being achieved. Flexible duct should be installed:
straight
in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Bends should generally be formed with proprietary rigid components. Where flexible duct is used to form bends on an intermittent
extract system, they should be restricted to a maximum of:
two for systems up to 30 L/s
one for extract rates higher than 30 L/s.
Control of condensation
Where extract ductwork passes through unheated spaces, it should be continuously insulated to achieve a thermal resistance
equivalent to a minimum of 25mm of insulating material with a thermal conductivity of 0.04W/(mK). This can be achieved by using:
suitable pre-insulated ductwork, or
a proprietary insulation system.
8.1
Alternatively, the ductwork can be fitted with a condensate trap that discharges to the outside or installing the duct to slope to
the outside.
unheated
space
unheated
space
pipe to drain
condensate to eaves
condensate trap
duct sloping to
the outside

CHAPTER 8.1
10
Installation
Ductwork should be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner, be securely fixed, and have:
adequate support throughout its length
sealed mechanically fixed joints and connections.
Where ductwork passes through an external wall, it should be positioned to slope slightly outwards to prevent water entering
the building. Clips and supports for ductwork should be spaced at equal distances and in accordance with the ductwork
manufacturers recommendations. For rigid ductwork, they should not generally be more than 750mm apart.
Ductwork should not be in direct contact with other surfaces, such as plasterboard ceilings, that may transfer noise to the home.
Testing and commissioning 8.1.13

Services shall be tested and commissioned to ensure satisfactory operation.
Services should be tested:
in accordance with all relevant regulations and codes

of practice.
where pipes are located under screeds (including air or

water testing before and after the screed is laid)
to ensure leaks or other defects are made good prior to the

application of finish and handover of the home.
8.1
Before completion and handover of the building services should be commissioned in accordance with relevant regulations and
codes of practice.

CHAPTER 8.2
Technical Requirements for low or zero carbon
(LZC) technologies.
8.2.1 Compliance
8.2.2
8.2.3
Clean Air Act
8.2.4
System design
8.2.5 Access
8.2.6
Handling, storage and protection
8.2.7 Sequence of work
8.2.8 Location
8.2.9
8.2.10 Fixing
8.2.11 Electrical installation requirements
8.2.12 Pipes, insulation and protection from cold
8.2.13 Ground collectors
8.2.14 Fuel storage
8.2.15 Safe discharge
8.2.16 Testing and commissioning
8.2.17 Handover requirements
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Low or zero carbon technologies 2016

CHAPTER 8.2
Introduction
This chapter provides guidance on low or zero carbon (LZC) technologies acceptable to NHBC. Other systems that follow
the general principles of this chapter may also be acceptable, subject to specific agreement with NHBC.
Additional requirements for solid fuel and oil fired boilers are given in Chapter 6.8 Fireplaces, chimneys and flues.
Guidance on other internal services is given in Chapter 8.1 Internal services.
This chapter provides guidance on the following technologies:
Biomass boiler
Heat pump
Systems which burn wood pellets or chips for space and/or

water heating.
Systems which transfer heat from low energy sources. The most
common sources are ground, outdoor air and exhaust air.
input
compressor
output
condenser output
evaporator
expansion
vessel
pump
feed
biomass boiler
feed
hot water store
ground collector
expansion
valve
hot water store
Solar thermal water heating
Solar photovoltaics (PV)

Systems which convert solar radiation into electricity.
output
(demand)
generation
inverter meter
Systems which convert solar radiation energy to space and/or

water heating.
export
meter
pump
output
(export)
PV array
consumer
unit
solar
thermal
import
meter
output
expansion
vessel +
relief valve
AC mains supply
feed
boiler
discharge
storage
vessel
hot water store
Wind turbine
Systems which convert wind energy into electricity.
8.2
output
(demand)
inverter
generation
meter
export
meter
output
(export)
consumer
unit
import
meter
AC mains supply
The illustrations provided within the introduction are generic and do not indicate the only possible systems acceptable to NHBC.

CHAPTER 8.2

Controls
Controls are used to operate and/or regulate the system and may be electrical or mechanical.
Exclusion zone
An area where entry is restricted during periods when maintenance is in progress, to prevent risk of
injury or loss of life.
Ground collectors
The component of a ground source heat pump system which absorbs heat from the ground.
Collectors can be installed either horizontally or vertically in the ground. They may also be incorporated
into proprietary foundation systems.
Interstitial
condensation
Condensation occurring within, or between, the layers of the building envelope.
Inverter
A device that converts direct current into alternating current.
Islanding (island
mode operation)
Where an LZC technology feeds the network or local distribution system during a planned or
unscheduled loss of mains supply.
Low or zero carbon

(LZC) technologies
A term applied to renewable sources of energy, and also to technologies which are significantly more
efficient than traditional solutions, or which emit less carbon in providing heating, cooling or power.
Open loop
system stem
A heat pump system that extracts water from an underground source, pumps it through a heat
exchanger and returns it underground.
Parallel electrical
generation
A system in which building loads can be fed simultaneously from the national grid or electricity supply
grid and on-site sources such as wind turbines and photovoltaic panels.
Performance
The manner or quality of functioning for a material, product or system.
Refrigerant pipework
Carries refrigerant between the indoor and outdoor unit of a split system. Normally made of copper and
must be insulated and protected from damage.
Renewable energy
Energy from naturally available sources that can be replenished, including energy from the sun,
the wind and tides, and from replaceable matter such as wood or other plant material.
Split system
A type of heat pump in which the condenser is located indoors, the evaporator is located outdoors,
and the two are linked by refrigerant pipework.
Switchgear
The combination of electrical switches, fuses and/or circuit breakers used to isolate electrical equipment.
Compliance 8.2.1
Also see: Chapter 2.1 and www.microgenerationcertification.org
LZC technologies shall comply with the Technical Requirements. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) relevant standards
b) product certification
c) operative competency.
LZC technologies that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Relevant standards
BS EN 12975-1
Thermal solar systems and components. Solar collectors.
BS EN 12976-1
Thermal solar systems and components. Factory made systems.
BS EN 61215
Crystalline silicon terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules.
BS EN 61646
Thin film terrestrial photovoltaic (PV) modules.
EN 14511
Parts 1-4 Air conditioners, liquid chilling packages and heat pumps with electrically driven compressors for
space heating and cooling.
BS EN 61400-1
Wind turbines.
BS EN 61400-2
Wind turbines. Small wind turbines.
BS EN 14785
Residential space heating appliances fired by wood pellets.
BS EN 12809
Residential independent boilers fired by solid fuel.
BS EN 303-5
Heating boilers for solid fuels, hand and automatically fired, nominal heat output of up to 300kW.
Terminology, requirements, testing and marking.
8.2
LZC should comply with relevant standards including where applicable:

CHAPTER 8.2
Product certification
LZC technologies should have current certification confirming satisfactory assessment by an appropriate independent authority
acceptable to NHBC.
Systems, products and installations that are assessed through theMicrogeneration Certification Scheme (MCS) will generally be
acceptable to NHBC. Certification and test documentation should bemade available to NHBC upon request.
Other certification bodies or test documentation may be acceptable where they are considered by NHBC to be a suitable alternative.
Operative competency
LZC systems should be installed by operatives:
competent and familiar with the system being installed, and
certified to a standard acceptable to NHBC.
Installers who have been trained in accordance with the MCS installer standards will generally be acceptable to NHBC.

Indication of which manufacturer and/or installer is

responsible for each system and interface.
A full set of current drawings.
Manufacturers specifications.
Fixing schedule.
Interface details.
Specification for controls.
On-site testing requirements.
Commissioning schedule.
Clean Air Act 8.2.3

Biomass boilers installed in smoke controlled areas shall comply with relevant legislation.
Biomass boilers to be installed within a smoke controlled area should comply with the Clean Air Act 1993 or
Clean Air (Northern Ireland) Order 1981.
System design 8.2.4

LZC technologies shall be designed to ensure satisfactory performance. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) location
b) acoustics
c) systems
d) compatibility
e) performance.
8.2
LZC technologies should be designed in accordance with the manufacturersrecommendations, certification scheme requirements
and appropriate standards.
Location
The design and location of LZC technologies should take account of factors such asorientation, roof pitch and shading.
For stand-alone wind turbine systems, suitable exclusion zones should be provided in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations and geographical location.
Acoustics
Design and location should take account of:
internal and external noise
vibration
the effect on neighbouring properties, particularly the

positioning of the LZC technology in relation to openings.

CHAPTER 8.2
Systems
Each system should generally be supplied from one manufacturer as a package and not as individual components or materials.
However, where components from more than one manufacturer are used, they should be compatible to ensure
satisfactory performance.
Compatibility
LZC technologies should be installed soas not to adversely affect the performance of the building to which they are fixed, and in
Multiple systems should be compatible with each other.
Performance
LZC technologies designed to contribute towards space and water heating should be designed in accordance with the performance
requirements in Chapter 8.1 Internal services.
Access 8.2.5
Appropriate arrangements shall be provided for the purposes of cleaning, inspection, maintenance and repair
of LZC technologies.
Safe access should be provided to the LZC technologies, includingswitchgear, inverters, meters and controls. This is to
enable the cleaning, inspection, maintenance and repair of systems. Access should be provided in accordance with the
Handling, storage and protection 8.2.6

Materials, products and systems shall be handled, stored and protected in a satisfactory manner to
prevent damage, distortion, weathering and degradation.
LZC technologies should be:
transported, lifted, handled and stored in accordance with

delivered in sequence to avoid storage
protected to avoid the risk of damage.
Sequence of work 8.2.7

LZC technologies shall be installed in accordance with a suitable schedule.
To ensure performance, certain LZC systems and ancillary componentsshould be installed in a logical and timely sequence in
Location 8.2.8
LZC technologies shall be correctly located.
8.2
LZC technologies, including ancillary components should be located and identified in accordance with the
Building integration 8.2.9

LZC technologies shall be securely fixed and not adversely affect the weather resistance of the building.
Foundations and anchor points for stand-alone LZC technologies should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical
Requirement R5 to withstand the structural forces acting upon them.
The structure to which the LZC technology is attached should be assessed according to its ability to accept the loadings and prevent
detrimental effects arising from movement or vibration. The design of the structure should take account of:
the self-weight of the LZC components
snow loads
imposed loads
dynamic loading (where relevant).
wind loads

CHAPTER 8.2
Notching, drilling or chasing of structural components to
accommodate service pipes or cables should either comply with
Chapter 8.1 Internal services, or be designed by an engineer in
3D
mounted
integrated
Fixings, supports, bracketry and mounting frames should:
accommodate all static and dynamic loads in accordance with

be designed to take account of ventilation and drainage

requirements of the LZC technology
have adequate protection against corrosion.
3D
Where two metals are to be joined, they should either be

compatible or isolated, to prevent bimetallic corrosion.
Aluminium and aluminium alloys should not come into contact
with cementitious material.
flashing support
and head flashing
solar panel
flow in
seal with membrane
flow out
sill flashing
All interfaces between the LZC technology and the building should ensure adequate weather resistance, sealed to limit air leakage
and prevent moisture from reaching the interior or any part of the structure that could be adversely affected by its presence.
The envelope should be weatherproofed using appropriate flashings and fixings. Weatherproofing details that rely solely on sealant
are not acceptable. Flashings should be formed from the materials listed in Table 1.
Table 1: Materials for flashings

Flashing material
Guidance
Rolled lead sheet
Minimum code 4. BS EN 12588.
Aluminium and aluminium alloys
BS EN 485 and BS EN 573, 0.6-0.9mm thick and protected from contact with mortar by a
coating of bituminous paint.
Zinc alloys
BS EN 988 and 0.6mm thick.
Copper
BS EN 1172 0.55mm thick and fully annealed. Where two metals are to be joined, they
should be compatible and not cause bimetallic corrosion in that environment Alternatively,
they should be isolated from each other.
Proprietary flashing,
including plastic and composite.
Assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
To avoid potential surface or interstitial condensation, the design should take account of thermal bridging, particularly where any part
of the system, including fixings, penetrates the thermal envelope.
Fixing 8.2.10
LZC technologies shall be fixed using durable materials.
8.2
Fixings should comply with the types listed in Table 2.
Table 2: Materials suitable for fixings

Fixing material
Guidance
Phosphor bronze
NA
Silicon bronze
NA
Stainless steel
BS EN ISO 3506
Mild steel
Coatings to BS EN 12329, BS EN ISO 2082, BS EN 1461, or other appropriate treatment in accordance

with BS EN ISO 12944 or BS EN ISO 14713.
Aluminium alloy
BS EN 573 and BS EN 755
Stainless steel
BS EN 10088
Mild steel
BS EN 10346
Other materials
Assessed in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Materials that comply with recognised standards, which provide equal or better performance to those above, are also acceptable.

CHAPTER 8.2
The type, size, number, position and fitting tolerance of fixings should be in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
the provision of suitable locking nuts and washers
the isolation of dissimilar metals
the isolation of aluminium from cementitious material.
Electrical installation requirements 8.2.11

The electrical installation shall be in accordance with relevant regulations.
Electrical installations should comply with BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations.
Where parallel electrical generation occurs, inverters should have a current Engineering Recommendation G83/1 type test certificate
and comply with all other parts of ER G83/1 for standard installations. Larger installations should comply with ER G59/2.
The electrical installation should be capable of being isolated from all other electrical sources when required, for maintenance
or testing.
LZC technologies which generate electricity and are connected to the mainsshould automatically disconnect when there is a mains
power failure. This is to prevent them from feeding the network or local distribution system during a planned or unscheduled loss of
mains supply. This is known as islanding.
Pipes, insulation and protection from cold 8.2.12

All pipework and insulation, including refrigerant pipework, shall ensure adequate performance and be
designed to prevent freezing.
Materials used for pipes and insulation should be suitable for the intended purpose and provide satisfactory performance for the
life of the system. Pipes should comply with relevant codes and standards or be independently assessed for their intended use in
accordance with Technical Requirement R3. Insulation materials should be inert, and durable, and should not be adversely affected
by moisture or vapour. They should also comply with relevant codes and standards or be independently assessed for their intended
use in accordance with Technical Requirement R3.
Where there is a risk of pipes freezing, they should be insulated,
particularly when at, or close to, ground level.
internal unit
Refrigerant pipework connecting split systems should

be of refrigerant quality copper pipe or other material as
recommended by the manufacturer. The pipe should be
insulated, and the insulation should incorporate a vapour control
layer to prevent ice build-up.
external unit
insulated refrigerant
quality copper pipe
heat absorbed
from the
outside air
Ground collectors 8.2.13

The installation of ground collectors shall take structural and environmental factors into account.
The depth and layout of ground collectors should be specified to avoid freezing of adjacent ground. Where open loop systems are
proposed, consultation with the appropriate environment agency should be made and may require one or more of the following:
A licence to investigate groundwater.
An abstraction licence.
A discharge consent.
Excavations for the installation of ground collectors should not adversely affect aquifers, foundations, drainage, water supply pipes
and other services. Design should take account of local planning authority guidance, including excavations that are close to trees
and hedgerows.
Ground collectors should be protected and tested prior to backfilling.
8.2
Air source systems should incorporate an automatic defrost

cycle and suitable condensate drainage.
heat
provided
to space

CHAPTER 8.2
Fuel storage 8.2.14
Also see: The HVCA Guideto Good Practice Installation of Biofuel Heating (TR/38)
Fuel storage for biomass boilers shall be suitable for the installation.
Fuel stores should have appropriate:
access for delivery
fire detection and extinguishing equipment where elevated

dust levels are expected
volume to take account of peak load and period of demand
fire resistance and separation to prevent fire and gases

entering other parts of the building.
Safe discharge 8.2.15

Discharge from LZC technologies shall terminate safely.
Solar thermal water heating systems should discharge into a storage vessel. The discharge pipework and vessel should be suitable
to withstand high temperatures.
Testing and commissioning 8.2.16

LZC technologies shall be tested and commissioned in accordance with the commissioning schedule.
The installer should check that the system is in accordance with the certification requirements, the manufacturers recommendations
and the design. Issues to be taken into account include:
the safety of the system
the correct installation of the system
the correct operation of the system.
Upon completion, the installer should provide a certificate to confirm that the LZC technology has been installed, tested and
commissioned in accordance with the above.
Handover requirements 8.2.17

Detailed information and instructions shall be provided to the homeowner.
The pack of information provided to the homeowner should include:
user instructions for the systems installed
contact details for the manufacturer and installer
key components installed
a completed manufacturers certificate from an acceptable

independent assessment organisation,
MCS or suitable alternative
a completed installers certificate from an acceptable

independent assessment organisation,
MCS or suitable alternative
details of the fuel type and source
maintenance and servicing requirements
warranties and/or guarantees for the LZC technology.
8.2
BRE Digest 489
BRE Digest 495
British Wind Energy Association
BS EN 12975-2: 2006
BS EN ISO 14713: Part 1-4
CE72
CE131
ER G59/2
ER G83/1
Photovoltaics in buildings.
Mechanical ventilation
with heat recovery
CHAPTER 8.3
This chapter gives guidance on meeting the Technical
Requirements for mechanical ventilation with heat
recovery (MVHR) systems acceptable to NHBC.
8.3.1 Compliance
8.3.2
8.3.3
8.3.4 Noise
8.3.5
Design considerations
8.3.6
Access and operation
8.3.7 Ductwork
8.3.8
Fixing and jointing of ductwork
8.3.9
Commissioning and balancing
8.3.10 Handover requirements
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Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery 2016

CHAPTER 8.3
Air valve
(extract and supply)
Wall or ceiling mounted fittings used

to balance the flow rate of air between
rooms; may be referred to as grilles.
Exhaust ductwork
Carries air from the fan unit and

exhausts it to the external atmosphere.
Intake ductwork
Carries air from the external atmosphere

to the MVHR fan unit.
MVHR fan unit
Unit that contains the fan(s),

heat exchanger and filter(s).
Service ductwork
extract and supply
Carries air between the air valves and

the MVHR fan unit.
Terminal fittings
Located on the outside of the building to

finish the intake and exhaust ductwork.
Compliance 8.3.1
terminal (exhaust)
terminal (intake)
exhaust ductwork
intake ductwork
MVHR fan unit

service ductwork (extract)
service ductwork (supply)
air valve (extract)
air valve (supply)
Also see: Chapter 2.1, Approved Document F, Domestic Ventilation Compliance Guide, Section 3 of the
Technical Handbooks, Domestic Ventilation Guide in Scotland and Technical Booklets in Northern Ireland
MVHR design, materials and sitework shall comply with the Technical Requirements, and be installed by
competent operatives.
MVHR systems that comply with the guidance in this chapter and are in accordance with the relevant British Standards and
building regulations will generally be acceptable.
MVHR systems should be installed by operatives:
competent and familiar with thesystem being installed, and
trained in accordance with the BPEC installer scheme,

or other suitable scheme acceptable to NHBC.

Location of all ductwork runs, the fan unit and controls.
Type, size and position of ducts and terminals.
Direction of fall for horizontal ductwork.
Type and spacing of clips and fixings.
Type and location of ancillary components, including those

used for fire safety and acoustic purposes.
Designed airflow-balancing figures for the system.
Building integration 8.3.3
MVHR systems shall ensure compatibility with other building elements and not adversely affect the
performance of the building. Issues to be taken into account include:
8.3
a) weathertightness
b) fixing of fan units
c) firestopping.
Weathertightness
Proprietary roof terminals should be used to ensure the weathertightness of the roof covering.
Fixing of fan units

MVHR fan units should only be fixed to parts of the building capable of taking the load. Where MVHR fan units are supported by
framed structures, additional components such as noggings may be required to provide a secure fixing point.
Fan units should be located, orientated and fixed in accordance with the design, using the clips, brackets and fixings recommended
by the manufacturer.

CHAPTER 8.3
Firestopping
The MVHR system should not adversely affect the fire performance of the building. Issues to be taken into account include:
ensuring that the fire requirements of the building are in

accordance with relevant building regulations
suitable detailing of components passing through other

elements of the building
location and type of firestops to beused
integrity of protected stairs and halls
integrity of walls and floors.
Proprietary fire components should besuitably tested, and specified to take account of the test conditions.
Relevant standards include:
BS 476
Fire tests on building materials and structures.
BS EN 1365-2
Fire resistance tests for loadbearing elements. Floors and roofs.
BS EN 1366-3
Fire resistance tests for service installations. Penetration seals.
Noise 8.3.4
MVHR systems shall be designed to minimise disturbance caused by noise.
MVHR fan units should be sized to run at their optimum speed and to provide suitable performance whilst taking the resulting noise
and vibration into account. Specifying MVHR fan units that can provide the required airflow rates when running at less than full
speed can reduce unnecessary noise.
Ductwork should be sized to allow air to pass freely without causing excessive noisedisturbance. To reduce noise transfer
along ductwork, a short length of flexible duct can be installed adjacent to air valves and fan units. Other issues to be taken into
account include:
noise between habitable rooms
external noise
location of the MVHR fan unit
the type of mountings used to secure the MVHR fan unit.
Design considerations 8.3.5
MVHR systems shall ensure compatibility and satisfactory performance. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) performance
b) systemised approach
c) type and position of air valves and terminals
d) control of condensation
e) protection from cold.
Performance
The MVHR system should be designed to provide satisfactory performance and be installed according to the design and
manufacturers recommendations. Variations from the design should maintain the satisfactory performance of the system and be
approved by the designer.
and standards
fan capacity, accounting for airflow resistance of

the system
ensuring the even distribution of airflow, taking into account

airflow resistance, including from bends and fittings.
8.3
ventilation rates as set out in appropriate building regulations
Airflow resistance should be calculated using figures for air valves and terminals determined in accordance with BS EN 13141-2
and data supplied by the duct manufacturer. Ductwork should be as direct as possible to reduce the number of bends.
Allowance should be made for air transfer within the home. Where gaps between the underside of internal doors and the floor finish
are used for air transfer, the guidance in Chapter 9.1 A consistent approach to finishes should be considered.
Systemised approach
The MVHR system should be designed as a complete package, taking into account the performance of all components
and materials, to ensure compatibility and the performance requirements of the system.
Particular consideration should be given where components fromdifferent manufacturers are specified on the same system.

CHAPTER 8.3
Type and position of air valves and terminals

Air valves should be selectedaccording to location and function, ensuring appropriate specification for:
wall or ceiling location
the velocity of the system.
supply or extract function

To create cross-ventilation within a room and to ensure satisfactory operation, air valves on low velocity systems should be:
a minimum of 600mm (on plan) from hobs in kitchens

door openings
positioned to account for the likely location of tall furniture

and to avoid draughts over beds and seating areas
a minimum of 200mm from walls, where located on a ceiling
a maximum of 400mm from the ceiling, where located
lockable, where adjustable.

on a wall
positioned on the opposite side of the room from internal
To prevent cross-contamination, intake terminals should generally be separated from exhaust terminals and other potential sources
of pollution by a minimum of 1m measured on plan. Increased separation distances may be required between the intake and any:
soil and vent pipe terminal
biomass or solid fuel chimney terminal.
boiler flue outlet

Terminals should preventthe entry of birds and animals.
Control of condensation
Ductwork should be insulated to prevent condensation formation where:
carrying cold air through spaces that are within the insulated
the home, such as a roof void
parts of the home.
it passes through spaces outside the insulated parts of
This can be achieved by using suitable pre-insulated ductwork, or a proprietary insulation system with a thermal resistance
equivalent to a minimum of 25mm of insulating material, with a thermal conductivity of 0.04W/Mk.
Ductwork insulation, including that used for proprietary duct insulation systems and pre-insulated ducts should be:
installed in a neat and workmanlike manner to ensure that

there are no gaps

inert, durable and suitable for use with the ductwork system
continuous and vapour resistant
not adversely affected by moisture vapour
Where a vapour control layer is incorporated, thejoints should be sealed using appropriate tapes or sealants as recommended by
the manufacturer.
Table 1: Ductwork insulation

Type of duct
Ductwork continuously insulated

Ductwork located inside the insulated part Ductwork located outside the insulated part of
of the home
the home
Intake
Yes
Yes
Exhaust
Yes
Yes
Service (supply and extract)
No
Yes(1)
Notes
1 Additional insulation should be provided to protect the system from the cold.
8.3
Any condensate that forms within the fan unit or ductwork should be able to drain to a suitable outfall. Fan units should be located to
enable connection of the condensate drain to the soil and waste system via a dry trap.
Protection from cold

MVHR systems should be protected from the effects of cold. Issues to be taken into account include:
insulation of ductwork and other system components.
performance in relation to indoor air quality
the manufacturers recommendations where any parts are

located outside the insulated part of the home
To prevent damage to the components and ensure satisfactory operation, MVHR systems should be fitted with automatic
frost protection.

CHAPTER 8.3
Horizontal sections of service ductwork, outside the insulated
parts of the home, should be insulated to achieve a thermal
resistance equivalent to at least 150mm of insulating material
with a thermal conductivity of 0.04W/Mk. This may be
achieved by installing the ductwork between the layers
of horizontal insulation.
pre-insulated to achieve a thermal

performance equivalent to at least 25mm
of insulating material with a thermal
conductivity of 0.04W/Mk
Condensate drains located outside the insulated part of the

home should be insulated to prevent freezing.
loft insulation used to achieve a total thermal performance
equivalent to at least 150mm of insulating material with
a thermal conductivity of 0.04W/Mk
Access and operation 8.3.6

MVHR systems shall be designed and installed to ensure that the fan unit and associated controls are
easily accessible.
Table 2: Guidance for the suitable functioning of, and access to, the MVHR system
Access
Fan unit located inside the insulated part of

the home
Fan unit located outside the insulated part of

the home
Access should not be obstructed and panels should

be located and sized to enable routine servicing to be
carried out.
A safe means of access, including a suitable walkway

and a working platform 1m2 immediately adjacent to the
MVHR fan unit, should be provided. The walkway and
platform should be designed to ensure the continuity of
any insulation, and the supporting structure should be
designed to take account of the additional load.
Control and Where a boost function is provided, it should switch off automatically and be located in, or adjacent to, the room it
functionality serves. Where a summer bypass function is provided, it should operate automatically and divert the airflow around
the heat exchanger. The MVHR system should be capable of being isolated by a switched fused spur.
Indication
MVHR systems should include visual indicators showing maintenance and servicing requirements, and mode
and controls of operation. These should be visible from within the insulated envelope, not obscured from view,
and be simple to use.
Cleaning
To maintain operating performance, extract service ductwork and air valves should either be fitted with filters,
or ductwork should be accessible for cleaning.
Ductwork 8.3.7
Ductwork design and the materials used should be suitable for the intended purpose and not adversely affect
the performance of the building.
Ductwork should:
air valve
Bends, connections and junctions should be formed using proprietary components that are part of the ductwork system.
Flexible ducting should:
only be located adjacent to fan units or airvalves
not be more than 300mm in length
not be used to form bends.
Where ductwork routes require alterations tostructural elements, these should be in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations or in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Fixing and jointing of ductwork 8.3.8

MVHR ductwork and insulation shallbe installed to a satisfactory standard. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) fixing
b) jointing.
8.3
provide satisfactory performance for the life of the system
be routed as directly as practicable
be of a rigid or semi-rigidmaterial suitable for use in MVHR systems
be fixed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.

CHAPTER 8.3
Ductwork should be securely installed ina neat and workmanlike manner.
Fixing
Parallel ductwork runs should be positioned to maintain a reasonably even gap.
To prevent condensate collecting, horizontal ductwork should be to a suitable outfall in accordance withthe design, and installed to a
true line to avoid localised dips.
Where ductwork passes through an external wall, it should be positioned toslope slightly outwards to prevent water entering
the building.
Ductwork should be securely held in position by evenly spaced clips no more than 750mm apart, or in accordance with the ductwork
Ductwork should not be in direct contact with other surfaces, such as plasterboard ceilings, that may transfer noise to the home.
Jointing
The method and materials used for jointingductwork should be specified by the duct manufacturer, and be:
durable and airtight
securely fixed
sealed with purpose-designed connections in accordance

with the manufacturers recommendations.
Where tapes and sealants are used, they should be suitable for the intended purpose and be recommended by the
ductwork manufacturer. Issues to be taken into account in relation to the durability of the jointing method include:
thermal movement
moisture
temperature
compatibility with the duct material.
Tape should be installed in a neat and workmanlike manner, and surfaces should be dry and freefrom grease and dust
before applying. Excess sealant should not extrude to the inside of the duct.
Commissioning and balancing 8.3.9

MVHR design, materials and sitework shall be tested and commissioned in accordance with the
commissioning schedule.
Upon completion, the system:
including ductwork and filters, should be checked to ensure

it is clear from dirt and dust that may have accumulated
during construction
should be commissioned to confirm performance
should be adjusted by using the air valves and controls to

achieve the correct balancing and airflow rates.
Where the system cannot be balanced using the air valves and system controls, the complete system should be checked to ensure
that it complies with the design. Air valves should be locked in position after correctcommissioning and balancing.
Any changes from the design should be referred back to the designer. Adjusting the fan speed above the designed output may result
in noise disturbance, and should be avoided.
A copy of the commissioning certificate should be made available to NHBC upon request.
Handover requirements 8.3.10

8.3
MVHR systems shall be provided with clear and detailed information and instructions that are handed over to
the end user.
The pack of information should be in a format intended for a non-technical user and include:
the commissioning certificate
user instructions for the system and its controls
user-friendly description and explanation of the system,

including the location of components
details of routine maintenance, e.g. changing/cleaning

the filters
method of cleaning the ductwork, where required
guidance for the use of summer bypass and boost settings,

where installed
contact details of the manufacturer and installer
details of the installed system, including part numbers

for consumables
details of any maintenance and servicing agreements.

CHAPTER 9.1
Technical Requirements for finishes in new homes.
9.1.1 Compliance
9.1.2
External walls
9.1.3
Walls and ceilings
9.1.4
Doors and windows
9.1.5 Floors
9.1.6 Glazing
9.1.7 Ceramic, concrete, terrazzo
and similar tile finishes
9.1.8
Fitted furniture
9.1.9
Joint sealants
9.1.10 Other surfaces and finishes
9.1.11 External works
01
01
03
05
05
06
06
06
06
07
07
A consistent approach to finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.1
Compliance 9.1.1
Finishes shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Finishes that comply with the guidance in this chapter willgenerally be acceptable.
This guidance:
is intended to apply when the home is substantially complete
uses tolerances and finishes considered to be appropriate
and ready for NHBC pre-handover inspection
will be used by NHBC both during the construction process

and when conducting resolutions under section 2 of the
Buildmark insurance cover
should be considered in conjunction with relevant

performance standards and guidance contained elsewhere
within NHBC Standards
for the house-building industry and takes precedence over

other recommendations
is not intended to deal with every situation which may arise,

and discretion should be exercised.
Some elements may be subject to the effects of normal thermal or drying movement, and this may occur both before and
after completion.
Some materials are not uniform and are not intended to be; this includes reclaimed materials. Some colour and texture variation
is inevitable; this is often used as an aesthetic feature and should be recognised in appropriate tolerances or considered separately.
The nature and extent of work necessary to remedy minor variations from the tolerances andfinishes given should be proportionate
and appropriate to the circumstances.
External walls 9.1.2

External walls shall be built toappropriate tolerances and have an acceptable finished appearance. Issues to
a) fairfaced masonry
b) render
c) curtain walling
d) rainscreen cladding
e) brick slip cladding

f) timber cladding
g) tile hanging
h) cast stone sills.
Tolerances and appearance should be considered:
for the entire wall (e.g. panels and interfaces), and not
in daylight, and from a minimum distance of 10m.
for the individual elements of the construction, such as

bricks, or design features and details (e.g. quoins, soldier
courses and plinths)
Fairfaced masonry
Fairfaced masonry should:
be reasonably uniform in texture, finish and colour,

including mortar
not have excessive colour banding
not have significant cracks in the facing bricks or other

damage, such as chips and marks greater than
15mm in diameter
be within a maximum deviation of 4mm over 1m at

external reveals.
max. 4mm
deviation
1m straight edge
Where a fairfaced finish can only be achieved on one side (such

as half brick walls), the other faces should be left neat and tidy.
9.1
Also note:
Some mortar blemishes will occur on individual
Efflorescence occurs naturally in sometypes of masonry.
masonry units.
Some variation will occur in the texture, finish and colour of

mortar, in individual masonry units and generally over
the wall.
It is not harmful and generally disappears over time.
Some brick products have features or marks which may be

in excess of 15mm in diameter.
Some minor shrinkage cracking may occur between

masonry units (bricks and blocks) and mortar joints.

CHAPTER 9.1
Fairfaced masonry should be:
adequately straight on plan, with a 8mm maximum
a maximum of 8mm from plumb in any storey height
deviation in any length ofwall up to 5m
adequately straight in section, with a tolerance of 8mm per

storey height (approx. 2.5m)
(2.5m storey height)
a maximum of 8mm from plumb in total for walls up to 5m high
a maximum of 12mm from plumb in total for walls over 5m high.
masonry
line
5m
masonry line
25x25mm
spacing block
reference
line
nominal line of wall

with max. 8mm
deviation (17-33mm
from reference line)
plan
Example:
Using 25mm wide spacing blocks, the masonry line should be
17-33mm from the reference line.
25x25mm spacing block
50x50mm spacing block
reference line
plumb line
2.5m
storey height
with max. 8mm
deviation (17-33mm
from reference line)
Spacing block dimensions are a guide and final dimensions should

ensure reference line is kept clear of the wall face.
section
Example:
Using 25mm wide spacing blocks, the masonry
line should be 17-33mm from the reference line.
Spacing block dimensions are a guide and final
dimensions should ensure reference line is kept
clear of the wall face.
Bed joints should:
not have frequent variations in level
have a maximum deviation of 8mm, in walls 5m long (a pro
section
Example:
Using 50mm wide spacing block,
the plumb bob should be 42-58mm from the wall.
Note:
Spacing block dimensions are a guide and
final dimensions should ensure plumb line
is kept clear of the wall face.
5m
max.
deviation
max.
deviation
rata tolerance is applicable for walls less than 5m long),
have a maximum deviation of 12mm in walls more than

5m long.
horizontal
reference line
no frequent variations in
the level of the bed joints
line of
bed joint
The thickness of an individual bed jointshould not vary from the average of any eightsuccessive joints by a maximum of 5mm.
The vertical alignment of perpend jointsshould not deviate significantly from theperpendicular. As bricks can vary in length, not all
perpend joints will align; however, thereshould not be a cumulative displacementof the perpend joints in a wall.
Render
Render should:
equal spacing blocks
be reasonably consistent in texture, finish and colour
be flat, within a maximum 8mm vertical and horizontal

deviation in 5m, though this may increase where render is in
close proximity to features
not have crazing more than 0.2mm wide.

Also note:
reference line
5m
There may be some colour variation in appearance due to

with max. 8mm
deviation
9.1
differences in suction of the background and orientation

of the wall.
Daywork joints, patching and other repairs may be visible but

should not be unduly obtrusive.
Some hairline cracking and crazing is likely to occur in both

traditional render and proprietary render systems.
Such cracking and crazing should not impair the performance
of the render.
Areas of render in close proximity to features

(e.g. bell casts) are excluded from the tolerance.
Flatness is measured in a similar way to straightness on plan

and plumb of masonry.
section
Example:
Using 25mm wide spacing blocks, the masonry
line should be 17-33mm from the reference line.
Spacing block dimensions are a guide and final
dimensions should ensure plumb line is kept
clear of the wall face.

CHAPTER 9.1
Curtain walling
Curtain walling should be within:
reasonable tolerances and appearance for the materials
a maximum deviation of 2mm in any storey height or

structural bay width, and 5mm overall, unless otherwise
specified in the design.
Rainscreen cladding
Rainscreen cladding should be within:
a maximum deviation of 3mm in any storey height or

structural bay width, unless otherwise specified in
the design.
Brick slip cladding

Brick slip cladding should be within:
8mm maximum vertical and horizontal deviation from

flatness in 5m
a tolerance of 8mm maximum deviation for each 5m section

of wall for bed joints (a pro rata tolerance is applicable for
walls less than 5m long).
Timber cladding
Variation in colour may occur inuncoated timber exposed to the weather, and the rate and extent mayvary.
Also note:
The effects of normal weathering maycause certain

uncoated timber, over time, to develop a silver/grey colour.
Tile hanging
Panels should be reasonably uniform in appearance,particularly at abutments, and may vary in colour and size depending on the
manufacturing process.
Cast stone sills

Surface abrasions andchips which occur on site shouldbe removed in accordance with themanufacturers recommendations,
which may include filling, polishing out, resprayingor painting as appropriate.
Also note:
Cast stone is manufactured with naturalproducts and colour

variations areinevitable.
Efflorescence, fungicidal growth andcolour variation may

occur due toorientation, shading and pollution.
Walls and ceilings 9.1.3

Walls and ceilings shall be built to appropriate tolerances and have an acceptable finished appearance.
a) plastering and dry lining
b) blockwork walls in garages
c) skirtings.
For walls and ceilings:
surfaces should be reasonably uniform,although there may

be minor texturaldifferences around lights and otherfittings
there should be no visible gapsbetween fittings and the

surface (e.g.around switch plates)
jointing tape should be fully covered andunobtrusive in the

finished surface.
9.1
Plastering and dry lining

For plastered and dry lined surfaces:
board joints should be within a maximum 3mm deviation,
the finish should be a maximum 8mm from plumb for walls
measured using a 450mm straight edge with equal offsets
walls should be adequately flat and within a 5mm deviation

measured using a 2m straight edge with equal offsets
the finish should be a maximum 12mm of plumb for a
up to 2.5m
continuous wall height over 2.5m.

CHAPTER 9.1
max. 10mm
deviation in 2m
flatness of wall finish:
max. 5mm deviation
from a 2m straight edge
with equal offsets
(applies in all directions)
plumb of wall finish:

max. 8mm out of plumb
in a storey height of
up to 2.5m
in a continuous wall height
greater than 2.5m
2m
level of ceiling
5mm maximum deviation using
2m straightedge with equal offsets
2m
flatness of ceiling
Setting out of corners, duct casings, access covers and anyassociated framing should be:
square
neat and tidy
provided with an appropriate decorative finish.
max. 10mm
max. 10mm
5mm maximum
deviation in 250mm
10mm deviation in 500mm
5mm maximum
deviation in 250mm
10mm deviation of square in 500mm
Also note:
In plastered walls and ceilings, some toolingmarks may
Small cracks may occur in wall finishes which pass
be visible.
Some cracking (up to 2mm wide) may occur at wall,

floor and ceiling junctions, due to shrinkageand differential
movement of materials.
across floors (e.g. in staircase walls).
Where stair strings abut a wall, a crack of up to 4mm may

appear as a result of shrinkage of materials.
Blockwork walls in garages

Cracks, up to 2mm wide, in unplasteredblockwork walls may be evident due tothermal movement and shrinkage.
Skirtings
Where skirtings are installed:
bottom of theskirting should not exceed 5mm
joints should present a continuousappearance when viewed

from a distanceof 2m in daylight (some initial shrinkage of
the skirting may already be evident at completion of
the property).
Also note:
The gap between the floor finish and the skirting may
increase due to of normal drying out, shrinkage and/or
deflection, particularly in timber floors.
Gaps may appear at jointsand corners due to shrinkage,

and between the wall finishand skirting due to drying out,
shrinkageand fixing position.
9.1
the gap between the floor finish (withoutcoverings) and the

CHAPTER 9.1
Doors and windows 9.1.4
Doors and windows shall beinstalled to appropriate tolerances, including openings in walls, and external
openings viewed from the inside.
Openings in walls (including external openings viewed from
the inside) should:
be flat along the length of sills and window boards, with a

maximum deviation of 3mm in every 1m
be level within 3mm across the sill measured from the frame
(tiled sills may slope away from the window)
have level heads and sills, a maximum of 5mm from level for
openings up to 1.5m, and 8mm where larger
have plumb reveals, a maximum of 5mm for openings up to

1.5m, and 8mm where larger
be square within a 5mm maximum deviation for reveals up

to 250mm deep
Window frames should not be distorted in the opening, and a
maximum from plumb of:
5mm when up to 1.5m in height
8mm where larger.

Doors and frames should always be installed in accordance with
the manufacturers recommendations, not be distorted in the
opening, and:
frames should be within 8mm of plumb over the height of the

frame and not out of plumb in two directions
the gap between the door and head or jamb limited to a

maximum of 4mm (for double doors, the gap at the meeting
stiles should be within 4mm)
distortion across doors limited to a maximum 9mm in the

height, and 5mm in the width
the gap between the underside of the door and unfinished

floor limited to between 10-22mm (the covering should be
selected accordingly, or the door height adjusted; in England
and Wales, where a builder provides a floor finish, there
should be a gap of 10mm between the bottom of 760mm wide
doors and the floor finish).
head and sill: max. 5mm out of

level for openings up to
1.5m wide
max. 8mm out of level for
openings over 1.5m wide
5mm maximum deviation of
square for reveals up to
250mm deep
max. 3mm out of level across
reveal (measured from frame)*
reveals: max. 5mm out of plumb
for openings up to 1.5m high
for openings over 1.5m high
3mm maximum
deviation in 1m
flatness along
length of sills and
window boards
*tiled sills, in bathrooms for

example, may be intentionally
laid sloping away from
the window
5mm
window distortion:
max. 5mm out of
plumb for windows
less than 1.5m
max. 8mm out of
plumb for windows
over 1.5m
frames should not
be distorted in
the opening
over height of frame
(in one direction only)
5mm
5mm deviation of square into reveal up to 250mm deep
frames should
not be distorted
in the opening
door distortion:
max. 5mm
across width
max. 9mm
across height
The tolerances in this clause are without prejudice to satisfactory

performance for weathertightness, exclusion of draught and
fire resistance.
max. 4mm gap between

door and head or jamb
(for fire doors the
manufacturers
recommendations
should be used;
for double doors the
gap at the meeting stiles
should be
maximum 4mm
the gap between the
underside of an internal
door and unfinished floor
should be 10-22mm
Floors 9.1.5
The maximum gap should not exceed 22mm, however, homeowners

will need to choose a covering to suit or adjust the door height
accordingly.
Floors shall be built toappropriate tolerances.
In England and Wales, where the builder provides a floor finish there
should be a gap of 10mm between the bottom of the door and
floor finish (for a 760mm wide door)
Floors should be:
level within a 4mm deviation per 1m for floors up to 6m across
a maximum of 25mm out of level for floors over 6m across
the dimensions are without prejudice to satisfactory performance

in terms of weathertightness, draught exclusion and fire resistance
flat within a 5mm deviation, measured using a 2m straight

edge with equal offsets.
9.1
Underfloor service ducts should be constructed so that the cover is level with the adjacent floor finish. The selection of floor finish
should take into account that drying shrinkage of the floor may result in minor differences in level between the floor and duct cover,
which may become evident with some types of thin floor coverings.
Also note:
The effects of normal drying shrinkage on screeded floors

may cause minor cracking.
Timber floors and staircases naturally shrink as they dry.

As this drying occurs, it may result in squeaking components
as they move against each other. This is normal and to
be expected.

CHAPTER 9.1
Glazing 9.1.6
Glass shall be free of undue defects.
Glass should be checked in daylight, fromwithin the room and from a minimum distance of 2m (3m for toughened, laminatedor
coated glass). The following are acceptable where they arenot obtrusive or bunched:
Bubbles or blisters.
Hairlines or blobs.
Fine scratches not more than 25mm long.
Minute particles.
The above does not apply to areas within 6mmof the edge of the pane, where minorscratching may occur.
Ceramic, concrete, terrazzo and similar tile finishes 9.1.7

Ceramic, concrete, terrazzo and similar tile finishes shall have an appropriate appearance.
For ceramic, concrete, terrazzo and similar tile finishes:
joints should be straight and in alignment,unless the
should limit the effect of dimensional irregularities.
tiles are, by design, irregular in shape
wall tile joints should be a minimum of 1mm
floor tile joints should be a minimum of 3mm,

unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer
joints in floor tiles should generally not exceed the tile

thickness, although wider joints up to 10mm may be
necessary toaccommodate dimensional irregularities in
some tiles
Joints should be evened out to maintain a

regular appearance
the variation in surface level should be within 3mm

measured using a 2m straight edge with equal offsets
the variation between tiles and adjacent surfaces should be

within 1mm deviation for joints less than 6mm wide and 2mm
deviation for joints more than 6mm wide.
Fitted furniture 9.1.8

Fitted furniture shall have anappropriate appearance.
Fitted furniture, including doors and drawers, should:
be visually aligned (vertically,horizontally and in plan),
have uniform gaps between adjacent doors and/ordrawers
and there should not be significant differencesin level at the

intersection of adjacentworktops
operate asintended by the manufacturer
not have conspicuous abrasions or scratches on
where appropriate
factory-finished components when viewed in daylight from
a distance of 0.5m.
Also note:
No dimensional tolerance has been set for gaps between

adjacent doors and/or drawers or for their alignment,
because some variation will be necessary to take account of
adjustments as part of the fitting process.
No dimensional tolerance has been set for the abutment of

adjacent worktops due to the variety of materials available
and because minor variations, even with manufactured
products, are inevitable and small differences in height may
be unavoidable.
Fitted furniture should beviewed from a distance of 2m.
Conspicuous surface abrasions caused during installation

should be removed in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations which may includefilling, polishing out,
respraying or painting as appropriate.
In rooms or areas where there is no daylight, scratches

should be viewed in artificial light from fixed wall or ceiling
outlets and not from portable equipment.
Joint sealants 9.1.9

Joint sealants shall have aneat and tidy appearance.
remove blisters and irregularities
achieve acompact, smooth neat surface finish.
Also note:
Joints should be viewed from a distance of 2m, but may be

less, depending on the location (e.g. showers and baths).
9.1
Sealants should be tooled to:

CHAPTER 9.1
Other surfaces and finishes 9.1.10
Other surfaces and finishes shall have an appropriate appearance.
Other surfaces and finishes should:
be reasonably smooth and free from nail holes,

cracks and splits
have joints filled
be reasonably uniform in colour, texture and finish.
Where there are two or more adjacent socket, switch or service outlets, they should be aligned horizontally.
Where garage floors have not been sealed, dusting may occur.
Painted and varnished surfaces should be even in appearance andfree from conspicuous runs and prominentbrush marks.
Also note:
Surfaces should be viewed in daylight from a distance of

2m and not by shining artificial light on the surface.
Wall lights or uplighters should be switched off.
Timber surfaces may show limited raised grain, and the

colour and texture may alsovary.
Drying shrinkage of timber may cause cracking of the

paint finish, particularly where joints occur in plaster
and woodwork.
Where painted surfaces are touched up, minor colour

variations may occur.
External finishes will dull over time, depending on a number

of factors such as exposure to sunlight, rain and pollutants.
Resin is likely to exude from knots, causing discoloration of

paintwork, even though modern primers contain a compound
to limit this.
External works 9.1.11

External works (including drives, paths, decks, terraces andbalconies) shall have appropriate finishes.
Drives, paths, decks, terraces and balconies should be:
within a maximum 10mm deviation measured using a 2m

straight edge with equal offsets; however, localised falls into
gulleys and channels are acceptable
designed and constructed minimise the potential for

standing water.
One hour after rain has stopped, areas of temporary standing water should not be deeper than 5mm or exceed 1m.
Temporary standing water is not permitted adjacent to entrance doors.
Also note:
Displacement and variations in surface levels,

including scuffing and pitting, may arise due to settlement,
natural ground movement and traffic.
Drainage covers should:
align with the adjacent ground or surface finish (for channels,

the cover should be setbelow the adjacent ground)
9.1
the difference in heightbetween a cover and the adjacent

hard surfaces should allow forfuture settlement.

CHAPTER 9.2
Technical Requirements for internal wall and
ceiling finishes.
9.2.1 Compliance
9.2.2
9.2.3
Plastering
9.2.4
Dry lining
9.2.5
Ceramic wall tiling
01
01
01
02
05
Wall and ceiling finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.2
Compliance 9.2.1
Wall and ceiling finishes shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Wall and ceiling finishes that comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Schedule of finishes.
Plaster thickness, mix and specialrequirements.
Installation details of vapour checks behind drylining.
Fixing specification.
Extent and detail of tiled surfaces.
Location of services adjacent to tiledsurfaces.
Plastering 9.2.3
Plastering shall provide an adequate substrate for the decorative finish.

Materials for plastering should be in accordance with BS 8481 and those listed in Table 1.
Where plaster is intended to contributeto fire resistance or sound insulation, overall performance should be in accordance with the
Table 1: Materials for use in plastering

Plasters
BS EN 13279
Gypsum binders and gypsum plasters.
BS 5270-1
Specification for polyvinyl acetate (PVAC) emulsion bonding agents for

indoor use with gypsum building plasters.
Metal laths and beads BS 405
Specification for uncoated expanded metal carbon steel sheets for

general purposes.
BS EN 13658-1/2
Metal lath and beads. Definitions, requirements and test methods.
The background should be:
given an appropriate treatment before plastering,

in accordance with BS 8481
suitably finished to provide an adequate key
checked to ensure adequate and even suction
sufficiently even to provide a reasonably flat plaster finish

(excessive dubbing out should be avoided).
Mixed background materials and associated differential movement can lead to cracks and should be avoided. Suitable precautions
should be taken, e.g. using metal lathing.
Metal beads should be used to provideedge protection, and be fixed with zinc-plated fasteners, as recommended by
the manufacturer.
Table 2: Recommended treatments for substrates
9.2
Surface
Treatment
High-density clay, or concrete bricks and

blocks and dense concrete (including soffits)
Suitable bonding treatment,hacking,spatterdash,or stipple.
Mixed backgrounds,
e.g. concrete with bricks/blocks
May require expanded metal to provide key for plastering and to reduce the effects
of differential movement.
Lightweight concrete blocks
Plaster should not be stronger than recommended by the blockwork manufacturer.
Autoclaved aerated concrete blocks
Plastering should be conducted inaccordance with the manufacturers

recommendations, accounting for the moisture content of the blocks.
Normal clay brickwork and concrete block
May require raked joints or the use of keyed bricks.
Plasterboard
Guidance is contained in BS 8212.

CHAPTER 9.2
Where services are to be concealed by plaster, they should be:
completed and tested before plastering
protected against the adverse effects of chemical action or

thermal movement.
To avoid surface cracking; metal lathing or wire netting should be used where there is an insufficient depth of plaster.
The plaster mix should be:
as specified, or as recommended by the plaster
checked to ensure undercoats and finishing coats
manufacturer for the particular location and use
appropriate for the strength and surface characteristics of

the background
an appropriate quality for the intended finish
are compatible
applied by suitably trained operatives (specifically where

plastic compound finishes are used)
of a type that does not include Portland cement and gypsum

plaster in the same mix.
When plastering:
completed work, especially timber, chipboard and glazing,
avoid mixing excessive quantities of plaster (plaster should
should be protected from damp and damage
in cold weather, follow the guidance in chapter

3.2 Cold weather working (plasterwork damaged by frost
should be removed and replaced)
dubbing out should be conducted well in advance of the

application of the first coat
surfaces should be dry, clean and free from laitance, grease,

loose material or substances likely to prove
harmful to the bond or the intended finished appearance
of the plaster
ensure plaster is thoroughly mixed but avoid

prolonged mixing
not be retempered)
the background surface of each coat should be fully set

(the surface should not be overworked, and adequate time
should be left between coats to allowstrength and suction
to develop)
the number of coats should be sufficient to achieve a

reasonably plane finish
finished surfaces, reveals, soffits to openings,

external angles, etc. should be in accordance with
Chapter 9.1 A consistent approach to finishes
the plaster should be applied to a thickness,

excluding dubbing out, in accordance with Table 3.
Table 3: Plaster thickness

Walls
Ceilings
Surface to be plastered
Minimum number of coats
Thickness of plaster
Metal lathing
13mm (nominal from lathing)
Brickwork
13mm maximum
Blockwork
13mm maximum
Plasterboard or concrete
Sufficient to provide a
crack-free surface
Concrete
10mm maximum
Plasterboard
Skimcoat
Dry lining 9.2.4

Dry lining shall provide an adequate substrate for the decorative finish. Issues to be taken into
account include:
a) installation
b) vapour control
c) detailing and support
d) fixing.
Installation
provide performance in accordance with building regulations
substantially weatherproofed
be programmed so that finishes are applied as soon as

possible after completion
where it contributes to fire resistance
ensure that gap sealing is specified where necessary to

prevent draughts.
Table 4: Standards relevant to dry lining

BS 1230
Gypsum plasterboard
BS 8212
Code of practice for dry liningand partitioning using gypsumplasterboard
9.2
Dry lining should:
not be started until the building is

CHAPTER 9.2
Vapour control
Vapour control layers should be used to reduce the risk of interstitialcondensation, and be installed in accordance with:
Chapter 7.2 Pitched roofs.
Chapter 6.2 External timberframed walls
Chapter 7.1 Flat roofs, porches and balconies
Detailing and support

Support should be provided to plasterboard in accordance with Table 5.
Table 5: Frequency of support for plasterboard

Board thickness (mm)
Maximum timber support

centres (mm)
Intermediate noggings required Perimeter noggings required
9.5
400
No
Yes
450
Yes
Yes
400
No
Yes
450
No
Yes
600
Yes
Yes
600
No
No
12.5
15
When fixing boards:
damaged boards should not be used
they should be fixed face side out, appropriate for plastering

or directly applied finishes
cut edges should finish over a support or nogging

(though are permitted, where necessary, at perimeters)
additional intermediate noggings may be required where fire

resistance is necessary
there should be adequate support for light points,

socket outlets and other service installations
openings for services and electrical outlets should be

accurately cut (gaps in vapour control layers should be taped
and sealed)
ceiling boards should be staggered to minimise any risk

of cracking.
Joints between boards should be neatly formed, flush,

and suitably finished:
with scrim tape or paper tape, where boards are to

be plastered
with tape, and filled, where boards are not to be plastered

(tapered edge boards should be used for directly applied
finishes), or
as recommended by the manufacturer.
first layer
second layer
lines of noggings
at board edges
of second layer
Where double layers of plasterboard are used, they should:
be positioned so joints are staggered between layers
have the first layer fully fixed and have all cut
edges supported
have the second layer supported on all edges with noggings

provided to suit.
cut board
perimeter noggings
Dry lining should be:
completely taped and filled at board joints and at the

abutments to ceilings and internal walls
finished to an appropriate standard and in accordance with

Chapter 9.1 A consistent approach to finishes.
Fixing
Plasterboard should be fixed to:
9.2
timber using plasterboard nails or drywall screws
metal using dry wall screws, or
masonry using adhesive dabs.

top shelf
1500mm max.
above finished
floor level
Where insulated dry lining is used, nailable plugs shouldbe specified in accordance withthe manufacturers
min.recommendations,
300mm
total area of shelving
spacing
and at a minimum of two per board.
min. 0.5mm
Nails or screws should not projectabove the board surface and should be:
10mm minimum from paper-bound edges
13mm minimum from cut ends of boards

using full width and

depth of
airing cupboard
6mm minimum from edges of timber members.

CHAPTER 9.2
Table 6: Acceptable fixing centres and fixings

Fixing
Location and spacing
Coating
Nail
Walls and ceilings: approximately 150mm centres

(eight per linear metre)
Hot dip galvanised, zinc electroplated or sheradised steel
Screw
Ceilings: approximately 230mm centres

(eight per two linear metres)
Walls: approximately 300mm centres (five per linear metre)
Zinc electroplated or black phosphate

(or to the board manufacturers recommendations)
Table 7: Acceptable fixing lengths

Board thickness (mm)
Nail length (mm)
Screw length (mm) into timber Screw length (mm) into steel
9.5
30
32
22
12.5
40
36
22
15
40
36
25
Where dry lining is fixed with adhesive dabs, it should be:
securely fixed and filled at external and internal corners,

including door and window openings
filled with jointing compound where required, at gaps around

service points, electric sockets, light switches, etc.
installed with a continuous ribbon of adhesive to the

perimeter of external walls, and around openings and
services, to prevent air infiltration.
Adhesive dabs should be at 300mm centres measured vertically, and in accordance with Table 8.
Table 8: Dabs according to board dimensions

Thickness of wall board (mm)
Width of wall board (mm)
Dabs per board (rows)
9.5
900
9.5
1200
12.5
1200
Dry lining to receive ceramic wall tiling should be supported in accordance withTable 9 or the guidance given in BS 8212.
Table 9: Fixing guidance for surface to receive dry lining

Description
Board thickness
(mm)
Support centres Additional support

(mm)
Timber frame
(including stud walling)
12.5, 15
400-450
600
No
3 600
Timber noggings 600mm
3 600
centres (measured vertically)
Timber battens
12.5, 15
400
Battens at head, base and

intermediate positions not
exceeding 1200mm centres
Direct bond
9.5
450 dabs of
Horizontal dabs at
adhesive in rows mid-storey height
3 600
Independent steel
stud lining, 48mm or 60mm
2 x 12.5
400
3 000
15
2 x 12.5 each side,
or 2 x 15 each side
70mm metal stud partitions 15
2 x 12.5 each side,
or 2 x 15 each side
146mm metal stud partitions 2 x 15 each side
Mid-point support
400
400
400
400
600
Additional stud at 300mm up

to tile height
3 600
Complete at
least 10 days
before tiling
2 700
3 600
3 600
3 600
3 600
9.2
48mm metal stud partitions
Maximum
Comments
height (mm)

CHAPTER 9.2
Ceramic wall tiling 9.2.5
Ceramic wall tiling shall provide a surface adequate for its location and intended use (including appearance
and durability).
Where a fixed shower or showerhead fixing is provided over a bath, at a height that will permit persons to stand under it:
a screen or other suitable means of containing the water
surfaces which will become regally wetted should be tiled or
should be provided
have an appropriate alternative water-resistant finish.
Backing surfaces for tiling should:
be in accordance with Table 9 and BS 8212
be strong enough to support the weight of the adhesive and

tiling (where separate coats are used, they should be
well bonded)
provide an adequatemechanical key
be sufficiently even to achieve an even and plane

tiled surface
provide adequate and reasonably consistent suction
avoid differential movement; where this may occur,

precautions should be taken, e.g. metal lathing or wire
netting fixed across junctions
be moisture resistant, where frequent wetting occurs
be dry, clean and free from laitance, grease, loose material

or any substance likely to affect the bond or finish
be reasonably even (i.e. not have gaps greater than 3mm

for thin bed adhesives or 6mm for thick bed adhesives,
when using a 2m straight edge).
Where the backing surface contains soluble salts, and where cement mortar is used as an adhesive, precautions should be taken,
such as the use of mortar with sulfate-resisting cement.
Gypsum plasters should not be used where:
repeated or persistent heating occurs, e.g.on flues or near
repeated or persistent wetting mayoccur.
heat sources
Backgrounds may beimproved by:
raking out masonry joints
hacking and scratching
applying a bonding agent (particularly on very smooth and

dense surfaces).
Tiles should be appropriate for their location and intended use. When specifying tiles, consideration should be given to:
surface finish
size and thickness
colour
edge shape
fittings (coves, skirtings, etc.)
accessories (soap tray, paper holder,hooks, etc.).
Tiles should be:
fixed in accordance with manufacturers instructions
suitable for the location, intended use and background; their
solidly bedded in water-resistant adhesive on a

moisture-resistant background, where frequent
wetting occurs.
weight on lightweight plaster should not exceed 20kg/m2
fixed according to the background, using cement mortar or

proprietary adhesive
Table 10: Standards for tiling

BS EN 14411
Ceramic tiles. Definitions, classification, characteristics and marking.
BS EN 12004
Adhesives for tiles. Definitions and specifications.
BS EN 13888
Grouts for tiles. Definitions and specifications.
When tiling:
courses should be straight and even to form a plane and
9.2
regular surface, especially around fittings and fixtures
there should be no cut or unfinished tilesat exposed edges

or external corners
joints should be even and cut neatly
spacing should besufficient to allow for expansion
up to sanitary fittings and fixings, the sealing method should

be in accordance with the design and account for movement
proprietary water-resistant grouting shouldbe used in

accordance with the manufacturersrecommendations.
Appropriately designed movement joints should be:
built into tiling at centres at a maximum of 4.5m,
located at junctions where there are variations in surfaces
vertically and horizontally
provided at vertical corners in large tiled areas
1-2mm where tiles are without spacer lugs.
or backgrounds
Grouting should be:
as specified in the design, including mix and colour
cement-based epoxy resin or aproprietary product

waterproof in and around shower enclosures and where tiling

can be saturated.
Floor finishes
CHAPTER 9.3
Technical Requirements for floor finishes, including:
integral insulation
screeds
ceramic, concrete and similar tiles
flexible sheet and tiles
woodblock
asphalt.
9.3.1
Compliance
9.3.2
9.3.3
Insulation
9.3.4
Screed
9.3.5 Ceramic, concrete, terrazzo
and similar tile finishes
9.3.6
Wood finishes
9.3.7
Flexible sheet and tile finishes
9.3.8
Asphalt finishes
9.3.9 Staircase finishes
01
01
01
01
03
04
05
06
06
Floor finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.3
Compliance 9.3.1
Floor finishes shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Floor finishes which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable (structural floors should be in accordance
with the relevant Standards chapter).

Schedule of finishes.
Screed thickness and mix.
Details of sound insulating floors.
Extent and detail of tiled surfaces.
Location of services adjacent to tiled surfaces.
Details of staircase finishes.
Insulation 9.3.3
Thermal and acoustic insulation shall provide appropriate performance, and be suitable for the intended
location and use.
Materials and constructions which are in accordance with buildingregulations are generally acceptable.
Suitable sound insulation materials include:
flexible material
mineral fibre quilt insulation
board material for use under screeds (e.g. impact sound duty
proprietary products which have been assessed in

(ISD) grade pre compressed expanded polystyrene)
Table 1: Thermal insulation materials

Material
Standard
Grade or description
EPS (expanded polystyrene)

PUR (rigid polyurethane)
PIR (rigid polyisocyanurate)
Fibre building board
Proprietary material
BS EN 13163
BS 4841
70
For use under screeds
BS 1142 Part 3
Insulating board (softboard)
Screed 9.3.4
Floor screeds shall be adequate for the location and intended use, and provide a suitable background for
floor finishes. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) installation
b) screed thickness
c) screed over insulation.
Installation
Before screeding, background surfaces should be:
clean and free of debris (e.g. dust and gypsum removed);

concrete should be wetted and brushed
suitably prepared to provide an adequate mechanical key,
9.3
where bonded screeds are required, cement grouting

or a bonding agent should be specified to provide
adequate adhesion.
Damp proofing should be completed before screeding starts.

Screeding should not take place in weather conditions which could adverselyaffect the finished construction, and:
should be scheduled to allow suitable drying time before

following trades
in hot or dry weather, precautions should be taken to prevent

the screed surface drying out too quickly
in cold weather, screeds should not be installed

(screed damaged by cold should be removed and replaced).
Floor finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.3
Screed should be:
installed to the specifiedthickness and provide an even
(where the floor is to include a monolithic slab) installed
surface, suitable for the intended finish in accordance with

the relevant British Standardsand the floor finish
of a suitable sand cement mix (generally between 1:3 and

1:4 cement:sand). Where deeper than 40mm, concrete
may be used
within three hours of the concrete sub-floor being poured.
mixed using only proprietary additives that have been

assessed in accordance with TechnicalRequirement R3
thoroughly compacted, where required by the design, using

either a heavy tamper, mechanicalcompactor or vibrator.
Proprietary screeds should be installed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.

Surface sealers or hardeners should only be used in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
Where services are bedded in the screed:
there should be a minimum 25mm of cover over the highest
pipes should be protected against chemical attack
point of pipes and insulation
provision should be made for the thermal movement of

water pipes
(e.g. by using purpose-made sleevesor ducts).
Screeds over underfloor heating should:
be sub-divided into bays not exceeding40m2, with a
have expansion joints which are consistent with those in
maximum lengthof 8m, or installed per room
the slab.
Where concrete floor slabs are to serve directly as a wearingsurface without anadditional topping, they should be in accordance
with BS 8204-2 and power floated.
Completed floor finishes should be protected against damage from traffic.
Standards relevant to screeding include:
BS 8204
Screeds, bases and in-situ floorings. Code of practice.
BS 8201
Code of practice for installation of flooring of wood and wood-based panels.
BS 8203
Code of practice for installation of resilient floor coverings.
BS 5385
Wall and floor tiling.
Screed thickness
Thickness of cement and sand screeds should be in accordance with with Table 2.
Table 2: Thickness of screed

Method of laying
Minimum thickness at any point (mm)
Installed monolithically with base
12
Installed on, and bonded to, a set and hardened base
20
Installed on a separating membrane (e.g. 1000g polyethylene)
50
Installed on resilient slabs or quilts (screed reinforced with galvanised wire mesh)
65
Above services, reinforcement or insulation to services
25
For concrete ground-bearing floors, a maximum 20mm monolithic screedmay be acceptable as part of the requiredthickness.
Screed over insulation

Where screed is to be installed over insulation, the screed
should be reinforced, and the insulation should:
screed reinforced
as specified in
the design
provideadequate compressive strength to supportwet
to prevent cold bridging
be separated from the screed by a membrane (the membrane
perimeter
membrane
turned up
at perimeter
separating membrane
between resilient
insulation and screed
should be compatible with the insulation, and have joints

lapped and taped, and be turned up at the perimeter).
Sound insulating floating floors should be in accordance with
9.3
construction screeds and floor loads
be tightly butted and, where required, turned up at perimeters
Floor finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.3
Ceramic, concrete, terrazzo and similar tile finishes 9.3.5
Tile flooring shall provide a suitable wearing surface for the location and intended use.
Before tiling is started:
ensure that the substrate is sufficiently dry

(generally, six weeks for concrete bases and threeweeks
for screed is adequate)
ensure the substrate is reasonably true and level

(3mm using a 3m straight edge), and installed to falls
where required
differences in level should be dubbed out
the surface should be clean and free from laitance, dirt, dust,
grease and materials incompatible with the adhesive.
When installing tiles to floors:
they should be bedded on a solidbed of mortar or

proprietary adhesive, ofa thickness appropriate
for the material
the manufacturersrecommendations should be followed

where proprietary adhesives are used
they should be arranged to minimisecutting and to provide

joints which are straight, neat, and of even width
accessories, such as covings and skirtings, should match the

tile pattern, andbe fixed so that joints are aligned with those
in the floor.
Where tiles are to be fixed to a wood-based substrate:
the floor should be designed to take theadditional loads of

tiles, and any other materials (e.g. overlays)
they should besuitable for laying over a timber base
they should be bedded with deformable(flexible)

tile adhesive, e.g. C2S1, and grouted in accordance with
they should be installed with minimum 3mm joints,

unless otherwise specified by the manufacturer
(movement joints should be provided at rigid abutments,
where tiled areas exceed 2m in length).
Timber floor decking should be:
plywood for use in exterior conditions (minimum 15mm for

joists at 400/450mm centres and minimum 18mm for joists at
600mm centres) screwed to the joists at 300mm centres with
all square edges supported on joists or noggings (plywood
should be installed with a 1.5-2mm movement gap between
boards and at abutments, and be acclimatised to the room
conditions and sealed on the underside and square edges,
before laying, with a suitable sealer such as polyurethane
varnish) or
chipboard floor decking overlaid with minimum 10mm

plywood suitable for exterior conditions, acclimatised,
sealed and fixed as previously indicated, or proprietary
separating/decoupling layers, tile backer boards or tile
bedding reinforcement sheets used in accordance with the
Movement joints should be:
provided around the floor perimeter and at rigid upstands,

where tiled areas are wider than 2m
used to separate bays at 8-10m centres
a minimum of 3mm wide unless otherwise specified by

the manufacturer.
Grout should be:
cement-based epoxy resin or a proprietary product
water resistant, where tiles may become saturated.
Standards relevant to floor finishes include:

BS 8204-3
Screeds, bases and in-situ floorings. Polymer modified cementitious levelling screeds and wearing screeds.
Code of practice.
BS 13748-1
Terrazzo tiles for internal use.
BS 14411
Ceramic tiles. Definitions, classification, characteristics, evaluation of conformity and marking.
9.3
Floor finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.3
Wood finishes 9.3.6
Also see: BS 5250 and BRE Report Thermal insulation: avoiding risks
Wood and wood-based flooring shall provide a suitable wearing surface for the location and intended use.
a) thermal insulation and DPMs
b) sound insulation
c) condition of the substrate
d) directly applied finishes
e) indirectly applied finishes.
Wood and wood-based flooring should be installed ensuring that:
services beneath thefloor finish are tested before the floor
wood finishes are conditioned tothe appropriate
is installed
underfloor heating is kept on, before and during the

floor laying
where required, DPMs are incorporated, in accordance with
moisture content
manufacturers recommendations and the design.
Standards relevant to wood floor finishes include:

BS 8201
Code of practice for installation of flooring of wood and wood-based panels.
BS 1187
Specification for wood blocksfor floors.
BS 4050
Specification for mosaicparquet panels.
BS 1202
Specification for nails.
BS 1297
Specification for tongued and grooved.
Thermal insulation and DPMs

Methods of providing insulation include:
insulation positioned above in-situ concrete slab

(DPM required)
insulation positioned above dry, precast system

(DPM not required).
(under wood-based floors)
floor finish
insulation
DPM
ground-bearing slab
floor finish
insulation
precast floor
ventilated void
Proprietary insulated flooring should be in accordance with:
TechnicalRequirement R3
manufacturers recommendations on vapour control layers

and DPMs.
Sound insulation
Floating floor finishes should be designed and constructed to:
isolate the floor finish from thesupporting floor and walls
avoid excessive movement or squeaking
avoid the use of fixings which penetratethe insulation layer
ensure there are no airpaths, especially at the perimeter.
Where flooring is to be installed on a resilientmaterial on a separating floor, edges should be isolated fromwalls and skirtings by a
resilient layer.
Where a floor relies on a soft floorcovering to provide the minimum standardof sound insulation, the covering should befixed
permanently in position.
Screeds or concrete to receive wood flooring should be dry. The floor should:
be tested and the moisture content suitable, in accordance
have a DPM or vapour control layer incorporated in the floor
with BS 8201
be allowed to cure for a sufficient period of time

(generally two months for 50mm screed, and six months for
concrete slabs), or
construction to protect the wood finishes (moisture should

not be trapped between the layers).
9.3
Condition of the substrate
Floor finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.3
Screeds or concrete to receive woodflooring should:
be free from high spots, nibs and major irregularities
have differences in level dubbedout.
Directly applied finishes (wood blocks, parquet, wood mosaic, etc.)

Directly applied finishes should be installed:
using the correct adhesives, e.g. bitumen rubber emulsion in
using evenly spread adhesives
according to the specified pattern, and leaving gaps around
accordance with BS 8201 or proprietary adhesives assessed

the perimeter for movement.
Screeds or concrete surfaces should be treated with a suitable primerin accordance with the adhesive
Indirectly applied finishes (softwood boarding, wood-based panel products)

Indirectly applied finishes should be installed with:
vapour control layers where required
preservative treatedbattens, in accordance with Chapter 3.3
battens fixed to preventexcessive movement
battens spaced in accordance with Table 3.
Timberpreservation (natural solid timber)
provision made to support heavy items, such as

storage heaters and boilers
Table 3: Spacing of battens for indirectly applied floor finishes

Chipboard (type P5)
Plywood
Oriented strand board (type OSB3)
Other types of floor
Thickness of finish(mm)
Maximum batten centres(mm)
18/19
450
22
600
15
450
18
600
15
450
18/19
600
In accordance with the manufacturers instructions.
Chipboard and oriented strand board should be fixed to battens:
with flathead ring shank nails or screws
with fixings 2.5 x the thickness of the board
at 200mm-300mm centres at perimeters
at 400mm centres on intermediate supports.
Plywood should be fixed to battens:
with 10 gauge nailsor screws
a minimum of 10mm fromthe edges of boards
Flexible sheet and tilefinishes 9.3.7
at 150mm centres at perimeters
at 300mm centres on intermediatesupports.

Also see: BS 5250 and BRE Report Thermal insulation: avoiding risks
Flexible sheet and tile finishes shall provide a suitable wearing surface for the location andintended use.
Flexible sheet and tile finishes should be:
installedin accordancewith the manufacturers
reasonably leveland smooth, particularly at doorways
recommendations, and generally be fully bonded
installed on a backing surface which is even and without high

spots or cracks; where necessary, using a levelling underlay
of a type and thickness recommended by the flooring
manufacturer or in accordance with Table 4
and junctions
fitted with skirtings, coves, coverstrips and other preformed

components, where required, and in accordance with the
9.3
Table 4: Acceptable types of underlay for boarded surfaces

Type of underlay
Minimum thickness(mm)
Hardboard
3.2
Plywood
Chipboard
Floor finishes 2016

CHAPTER 9.3
Chipboard and oriented strand board underlay should be fixed to battens:
with flathead ring shank nails or screws
with fixings 2.5 x the thickness of the board
at 200mm-300mmcentres (9mm from edges)
across the boards, at 400mm centres.
Plywood or hardboard underlay should be fixed:
with ring shank nails or staples
with nails/screws at least 10mm from the edge of the panel
around perimeters, at 100mmcentres (12mmfrom edges)
across the sheets, at 150mm centres.
Flexible sheet flooring materialsshould:
be stored in a clean and ventilatedplace
not be stored in cold conditions, unless permitted by
not be exposed to temperatures less than 18C for a period

of 24 hours before, or during, laying.
the manufacturer
The substrate should be sufficiently dry toprevent adverse effects on the flooring, and where:
there is a risk of trapping moistureor interstitial

condensation,permeable finishes should be used
flexible sheet or tile flooring is installedon ground bearing

concrete floors, a DPMshould be incorporated to prevent
risingmoisture adversely affecting floor finishes.
When installing flexible sheet or tile flooring:
ensure underfloor services are not damaged
it should be cut so that it fits neatly aroundfittings, pipes, etc.
adhesives should be spreadevenly and leftfor the correct
surplus adhesive should beremoved
welded joints should be providedin accordance withthe
period of time to ensure fullbonding
the surface should be pressed downfirmly, loaded or rolled

as necessary to preventcurling, lifting or bubbling
adjustment afterinitial contraction or expansion should
bemade where necessary.
Standards relevant to flexible sheet and tile finishes include:

BS EN ISO 10581
Resilient floor coverings. Homogeneous poly(vinyl chloride) floor covering
BS EN ISO 10595
Resilient floor coverings. Semi-flexible/vinylcomposition (VCT) poly(vinyl chloride) floor tiles
BS EN 650
Resilient floor coverings. Polyvinyl chloride floor coverings on jute backing or on polyester felt backing or on
a polyester felt with a polyvinyl chloride backing
BS EN 651
Resilient floor coverings. Polyvinyl chloride floorcoverings with foam layer
BS EN 12104
Resilient floor coverings. Cork floor tiles
BS 8203
Code of practice for installation of resilient floor coverings.
Asphalt finishes 9.3.8

Asphalt finishes shall be suitable for the location andintended use.
Asphalt should be:
in accordance with BS 6925 (limestoneaggregate)
Grade I or II and 15-20mm thick (which applies to the floor

finishes and underlay)
applied as one coat when used as underlay for other finishes
in accordance with the floor manufacturers

recommendations when used with a suspended
floor system.
Staircase finishes 9.3.9
Staircase finishes shall permit safe usage and besuitable for their intended use.
The rise and going should remain uniformafter application of the staircase finish, including at the topand bottom of the flight.
fixed in accordance with the

9.3
For communal stairs (e.g. in escaperoutes in blocks of flats), non-slip nosingsor inserts should be:
provided wherespecified
Finishings and fitments

CHAPTER 9.4
TechnicalRequirements for finishings and fitments
(including cupboards and internal trim).
9.4.1
Compliance
9.4.2
9.4.3
General provisions cupboards and fitments
9.4.4
Finishings and internal trim
9.4.5
Joinery
9.4.6 Airing cupboards, cupboards,
worktops and fitments
9.4.7 Ironmongery, prefabricated items
and other materials
9.4.8
Protection and handover
01
01
01
01
02
02
02
03
Finishings and fitments 2016

CHAPTER 9.4
Compliance 9.4.1
Finishings and fitments shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Finishings and fitments which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers.
General provisions cupboards and fitments 9.4.3

The builder shall provide fixed and built-in fitments in accordance withthe specification.
In kitchens, the specification should allow for:
preparation and cooking of food
washing up, drying and storage ofdishes and utensils
storage of dry foods
storage of perishable foods
laundering
storage of domestic cleaningappliances (part of which

should be suitable for brooms, upright cleaners and
similar equipment)
1m circulation space in front of all work surfaces,

cupboards and appliances.
A depth of 600mm can be assumed for appliances (where intended but not provided).
Space or facilities for laundering andcleaning items may be provided outside the kitchen area.
Space should be provided for general storage, clothes, linen and bedding. Airing cupboards are required in homeswhich do not
have central or whole homeheating.
Shelving supports should be fixed securely and so that shelves are level.
Finishings andinternal trim 9.4.4
Finishings and internal trim shall be suitable for their location and intended use, securely fixed, and finished
to established standards of workmanship.
When fixing trim and components:
they should be in accordance with the specification
fireplace surrounds, panelling and features should be

complete and suitably joined to the adjacent surfaces
nails should be punched below the surfaceof timber,

and holes filled
damage should be avoided (where damage does occur,

it should be made good).
Trim and finishings should be:
sufficiently wide to mask joints around built in fitments,

etc. allowing for movement and shrinkage
fixed in accordance with building regulations (e.g. with

minimum separation distances where near heat sources)
selected and installed to give a neat appearance

Architraves should be:
parallel to frames and linings
accurately mitred, or scribed, to fit tightlyand neatly
fixed with an equal margin to each frame member
securely fixed to prevent curling.
Skirting should:
9.4
be mitred and scribed at external andinternal angles,

as appropriate
tightly abut architraves
run level and scribed to floors.
Proprietary trim, skirting and architraves should be fixed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.

CHAPTER 9.4
Joinery 9.4.5
Wood and wood-based materials shall be of the quality and dimensions required by the design.
Joinery and the materials used should be installed to established standards of workmanship, and have no visible defects after the
finish has been applied. Issues that should be taken into account include:
fit and construction of joints (including finger joints)
gluing and laminating
construction of moving parts
surface finishes.
Relevant standards include:

BS EN 942
Timber in joinery. General requirements
BS EN 312
Particleboards
BS 1186
Timber for and workmanship in joinery.
Airing cupboards, cupboards, worktops andfitments 9.4.6

Airing cupboards, cupboards, worktops and fitments shall be installed to provide satisfactory appearance
and performance. The builder shall provide fixed and built-in fitments in accordance with the design.
Cupboards, worktops and fitments should be:
checked to ensure they are undamaged before they
installed as shown in the design (worktops spanning
are installed
between units may require additional support)
plumb, level and scribed to wall faces, where necessary.

Cupboards should be installed ensuring that:
doors operate freely and fit openings closely and evenly
drawers run smoothly, and locks and catches

properly engage.
Cupboards (including wall-hung units) should be securely fixed, using:
fixings of an appropriate size, and in accordance with the

manufacturers instructions (generally, plugs and screws to
masonry and screws to timber)
the predrilled holes in units and bracketsprovided by

the manufacturer.
Where worktops or unit panels are cut, edges should be sealed using a metal or plastic strip glued to the edge with
waterproof adhesive. Alternatively, an appropriate waterproof joint may be used. Sinks and hob units which are inset in worktops,
and vanity units, should be sealed with a waterproof joint.
Where appropriate, gaps between fitments and wall tiling should be sealed with a waterproof joint and brought to a smooth finish.
Wardrobes should be fitted with hanging rails, and intermediate supports used where necessary to avoid bending.
Internal doors (including airing cupboard doors) should be fitted in accordance with Chapter 6.7 Doors, windows and glazing.
Airing cupboards should:
be separated from other storage
have a minimum 0.5m2 of easily reachedshelving suitable for

top shelf
1.5m max.
above finished
floor level
total area of shelving
min. 0.5m2 using
full width and depth
of airing cupboard
min. 300mm
spacing
Ironmongery, prefabricated itemsand other materials 9.4.7

Ironmongery, prefabricated Items and other similar materials shall be suitable for the intended use.
Relavant standards include:
BS EN 1935 Building hardware. Single-axis hinges.

Requirements and test methods.
9.4
the airing of clothes
have a 300mm minimum spacing between shelves
have a suitable heat source, such as a hot water cylinder
not have shelving higher than 1.5m.

CHAPTER 9.4
Protection and handover 9.4.8
Finishings and fitments shall be suitably protected during construction, and be undamaged at handover.
Appropriate protection should be provided to finishings and fitments (including to doors, trim, balustrades, fireplace surrounds,
panelling and other special features) to ensure they are not damaged. Kitchens, including cupboards, doors, fittings and worktops,
should be suitably protected.
Prior to completion and handover:
work should be left in a clean state
decorating should be completed in accordance with

chapter 9.5 Painting and decorating
9.4
temporary coverings and protection should be removed,

and the fitments and finishings cleaned and dusted.

CHAPTER 9.5
This chapter provides guidance on meeting the
Technical Requirements for painting and decorating.
9.5.1 Compliance
9.5.2
9.5.3 Storage
9.5.4
Conditions for painting and decorating
9.5.5 Timber
9.5.6 Steel
9.5.7 Walls
9.5.8 Wallpapering
9.5.9
Other surfaces
9.5.10 Completed painting and decorating
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Painting and decorating 2016

CHAPTER 9.5
Compliance 9.5.1
Painting and decorating shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Painting and decorating that complies with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
Paint finishes should beselected and applied in accordance withBS 6150 Painting of buildings. Code of practice.
Chapter 9.1 A consistent approach to finishes provides further guidance on the quality of painting and decorating finishes.

Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers, and include:
specification of preparatory work
schedule of finishes
details of specialist finishes.
Storage 9.5.3
Materials for painting and decorating shall beadequately protected from the cold.
Painting and decorating materials should:
be protected against frost beforeuse
not be used where they have been damaged by frost.
Conditions for painting and decorating 9.5.4

Painting and decorating shall take account of the climatic and building conditions to ensure a suitable finish.
The painting and decoration of external surfaces should not be undertaken where:
weather conditions may adversely affect the completed work
frost occurs, or is due to occur, beforethe paint has been
surfaces are moist
rain is expected before the paint dries.
applied or has dried

When decorating internal walls:
coldsurfaces may cause problems withwater-borne paints,

even though the air temperature may be above freezing
paintwork should not be adversely effected by dust
surfaces should be free from condensation before applying

paint and coatings; they should not be applied until the
moisture has evaporated from the surface.
Timber 9.5.5
The painting and decorating of timber and timber-based materials shall be compatible with the
species of timber, provide adequate protection and be suitable for the intended useand location.
Prefabricated components and joinery shall be finished to asuitable quality, and protected.
When painting or decorating timber, the moisture content should be a minimum of 18%.
Paintand paint systems should be used in accordance withthe manufacturers recommendations, and be compatiblewith the
surface to be decorated.
Preparation should ensure:
door and window furniture is removed
unsound wood, loose or highly resinousknots, etc.
9.5
are cut out, replaced andmade good
raised grains, tool and machine marks are removed
surfaces are refinished withfillers and glasspaper

as appropriate
nail holes, splits and other imperfectionsare stopped
sharp arrises arerubbed down (to enable an even coating)
surfaces are free fromdirt, dust and moisture
where there is deterioration ofthe primer or seal coat,

surfaces are rubbed downand a second coat applied
where joinery is delivered preprimed, priming meets the

requirements in this chapter
where joinery is prefabricated, the firstcoat of paint or stain

is applied before fixing.
Knotting should:
comply with BS 1336 Specification for Knotting (this may

not be effective against heavy exudation of resin)
be applied using a brush, or as part of the priming process

for joinery.

CHAPTER 9.5
One full round coat of primer should be applied to all surfaces to be painted, including:
hidden surfaces of external woodwork
cut ends of external woodwork
rebates for glazing and backs of glazing beads.
Relevant standards for primer include:
BS 4756 Specification for ready-mixed aluminium priming
BS 5358 Specification for solvent-bornepriming paints
paints for woodwork
BS 5082 Specification for water-borne priming paints

for woodwork
for woodwork.
Paint or stain should be applied to external timber to provide protection and stability, even where the timber has been preservative
treated (unless the preservative treatment manufacturer confirms otherwise). Primer, paint and stain finishes should be compatible
with preservative treatment.
Undercoat and gloss should be applied ensuring that it provides a satisfactory finish, and:
it is not thinned (unless recommended by the manufacturer)
each application is a full round coat and surfaces are lightly

rubbed down with glasspaperbetween coats
a minimum of one priming coat, one undercoat and

one finishing coat are used (unless an alternative
recommendation is made by the manufacturer)
each coat is applied within one month ofthe previous.
Stain and varnishes should be:
applied as recommended by themanufacturer to provide

appropriate cover
applied to surfaces which have been suitably prepared to

provide adequate adhesionand an acceptable appearance
applied whenthe substrate is dry
suitablefor the species of timber.
Varnish should be applied with a minimum of three coats on interior surfaces. On exterior surfaces, varnish should be suitable for the
conditions (yacht or high gloss) and applied with a minimum of four coats. Surfaces should be sanded
between coats.
Stain should:
be a two-coat system or be in accordance with the
not be applied to door or windowrebates which are to be
glazed with linseed-oil putty.
BS 6952 provides guidance on exterior wood coating systems.

Prefabricated joinery and components should be:
protected from damage
supplied with, or given, a coat of primer before fixing
stored under cover and primed, where supplied untreated,

as soon as possible after delivery
reprimed where primer is damaged.
Steel 9.5.6
Steelwork shall be coated to provide adequate protection and be suitable for the intended useand location.
Decorative finishes may be applied to galvanised steel following suitable preparation with a mordant wash.
Decorative finishes applied to steelwork that has been protected by coatings (including intumescent paint for fire resistance) in
accordance with Chapter 6.5 Steelwork, must be compatible with the protective coating. The manufacturers recommendations
should be followed. Any damage to the protective coatings should be made good prior to decorative finishes being applied.
Walls 9.5.7
a) external masonry and rendering
b) plaster and plasterboard surfaces.
External masonry and rendering

Paint or decorative finishes to external masonry and rendering should:
be appropriate for the substrate, and be in accordance with
not be applied to external brickwork or render where they
be applied to surfaces which are clean, free from dust and

loose deposits
could trap moisture in the construction and cause frost

damage, sulfate attack or other detrimental effects.
9.5
Walls shall be finished to provide an even and consistent appearance, to established levels of workmanship.

CHAPTER 9.5
Where bricks have no upper limit on their soluble salt content, the brick manufacturers writtenagreement to the application of a
finish should be obtained.
Where the decorative system is part of the weather resistance of the rendering, it should be assessed in accordance with
Where surfaces have varying suction, they should be stabilised with a treatment recommended by themanufacturer.
Plaster and plasterboard surfaces

A sealing coat should be applied to dry lining, and surfacesprepared for decoration, in accordance withthe manufacturers
recommendations.
Plaster and plasterboard surfacesshould be prepared in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations and the design.
Where plaster and skim coat is applied to plasterboard:
surfaces should be visibly sound, without signs of powdering

or crumbling
joints should be completed and cracks, nail holes and

surface imperfections filled
the surface should be rubbed down with glasspaper

and dusted, where necessary
surfaces should be stabilised, either with a coat of thinned

paint or with a sealant as recommended by the manufacturer
a minimum of two coats of paint should be applied.
Where building boards are used, coatings should be accordance with the board manufacturers recommendations.
Wallpapering 9.5.8
Wallpapering shall be finished to provide an even and consistent appearance, to established levels
of workmanship.
Where wallpaper or coverings are used:
surfaces should be dry, even and smooth before wallpaper

is applied
surfaces should be sized or sealed as necessary
adhesives should be in accordance with the wallpaper

they should be properly aligned and neatly fixed
electrical switch plates should be temporarily removed and

the papering accurately trimmed so that it will tuck behind
the fitting upon completion.
Other surfaces 9.5.9

Surfaces shall be finished to provide an even and consistent appearance, to established levels
of workmanship.
For glazing rebates in windows and doorstreated with stains:
linseed-oil putty should not be specified
appropriate sealants should be used in accordance with the

The insides of metal gutters (other thanaluminium) should be painted with asuitable protective paint.
Non-ferrous pipework (e.g. copper pipes) should be painted withthe normal decorative finishes.
Completed painting and decorating 9.5.10

Completed paintwork shall be to established levels of workmanship and suitably protected.
Painting and decorating should be complete, and:
surfaces that are not intended to be painted should be free
9.5
of paintmarks
evenly applied, free from conspicuous runs or prominent

brush marks, and the background or undercoat should not
be visible
where ironmongery has been removed, it should be

correctly replaced
removed and reapplied where spilt, splashed or

badly applied
protected against dirt and damage until handover.
Garages
CHAPTER 10.1
the Technical Requirements for integral,
attached and detached garages.
10.1.1 Compliance
10.1.3 Garage foundations
10.1.4 Garage floors
10.1.5 Garage walls
10.1.6 Resistance to fire spread
10.1.7 Security
10.1.8 Doors and windows
10.1.9 Garage roofs
10.1.10 Permanent prefabricated garages
and carports
10.1.11 Services
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Garages 2016
CHAPTER 10.1
Compliance 10.1.1
Garages shall comply with the Technical Requirements.

Garages which comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.

Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers,
Location of garages.
Relevant levels, in relation to an agreed reference point.
Details of foundations.
Waterproofing arrangements.
Construction details of the roof structure and coverings.
Construction details for walls.
External and internal finishes.
Services, where applicable.
Garage foundations 10.1.3

Garage foundations shall transmit all loads to the ground safely and without undue movement. Issues to be
a) hazardous ground
b) type of foundation required for
integral/attached garages
c) type of foundation required for detached garages
and blocks of garages
d) adjacent structures
e) underground services
f) provision for movement.
Garage foundations should adequately support the imposed loads, taking account of ground conditions.
Further guidance is given in Chapter 4.3 Strip and trench fill foundations.
Hazardous ground
For foundations on hazardous ground, the following chapters are relevant:
4.1 Land quality managing ground conditions.
4.2 Building near trees.
4.4 Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations.
Any existing fill on the site of the garage should be examined and identified. Where any potential health hazard or risk of damage is
indicated, appropriate precautions should be taken, as described in the following chapters:
4.1 Land quality managing ground conditions.
5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing floors.
Type of foundation required for integral/attached garages

Foundations for integral or attached garages should be the same as those for the home, unless proper consideration is given to
each foundation, and the possibility of differential movement between them.
Type of foundation required for detached garages and blocks of garages

Foundations for detached individual garages or blocks of garages should avoid damage caused by differential loads and
uneven settlement.
Where the ground is uniform and provides a satisfactory foundation bearing, an unreinforced edge thickened concrete slab may
be used.
Unreinforced concrete slabs should:
ground level
have a minimum thickness of 100mm
have a minimum downstand thickening of 350mm below
10.1
ground level around the whole perimeter of the slab
have a minimum width of edge thickening of 300mm
be constructed on 100mm minimum of properly

compacted hardcore
have dimensions not exceeding 6m in any direction

for dimensions greater than this, movement joints
should be provided.
min. 100mm
min. 100mm
hardcore
min. 350mm
min. 300mm
Garages 2016
CHAPTER 10.1
Adjacent structures
Foundations for garages should not impair the stability of the home or any other adjacent structure.
Underground services
Garage foundations that are to be above or near services should be constructed so that no excessive settlement of foundations or
damage to services occurs (see Chapter 5.3 Drainage below ground).
Provision for movement

Movement joints in foundations should be provided:
between homes and attached garages where there is a

change of foundation type or depth
at 6m intervals where unreinforced concrete slab foundations

are used.
Garage floors 10.1.4

Garage floors shall transmit all loads to either the foundations or the ground safely and without
undue movement. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) bearing capacity of the ground
b) resistance of the floor to moisture from the ground
c) thickness of floor slabs
d) floor drainage
e) structural topping.
Garage floors will be acceptable where they are in accordance with:
Chapter 5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing floors
Chapter 5.2 Suspended ground floors
the guidance given in this chapter.
Unless ventilation is specifically required, the void beneath a garage floor which is suspended precast concrete may be
unventilated where:
the floor has adequate durability
the ground beneath is well drained
there is unlikely to be a build-up of soil gases.
Bearing capacity of the ground

Where the depth of fill exceeds 600mm, concrete floors should be in accordance with Chapter 5.2 Suspended ground floors
and BS 8103-4.
Supporting fill should comply with the requirements in Chapter 5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing floors.
Where protection is needed to prevent attack by sulfates in either the ground, ground water or fill below the slab, an impervious
isolating membrane should be provided between the concrete and the ground.
Resistance of the floor to moisture from the ground

Generally, a DPM is unnecessary, except where:
it is needed to prevent dampness entering the home, or
the floor has to be protected against chemical attack from

the ground.
Where no DPM is provided, the floor may show signs of dampness.

Where the floor is below ground level, precautions should be taken to prevent the entry of ground water, and tanking may
be required.
Thickness of floor slabs

Ground-bearing floors, where provided, should not be less than 100mm thick, including a float finish.
Floor drainage
When practicable, garage floors should to be laid to falls to ensure that water or spillage is directed out of the garage via the
vehicle doorway.
Structural topping
10.1
Where reinforced screeds are to be incorporated as structural topping, they should be designed by an engineer in accordance with
Garages 2016
CHAPTER 10.1
Garage walls 10.1.5
Walls for garages shall transmit all loads to foundations safely and without undue movement. Issues to be
a) stability of walls above ground
b) stability of walls retaining ground
c) provision for movement

d) adequate resistance to rain and ground water.
Garage walls will be acceptable where they are in accordance with:
Chapter 5.1 Substructure and ground-bearing floors
the guidance given below.
Chapter 6.1 External masonry walls
Stability of walls above ground

Walls for detached garages and external walls for attached garages should:
in the case of walls up to 200mm thick, have piers at the

corners (unless buttressed by a return) and at intermediate
centres not exceeding 3m.
be not less than 90mm thick
have adequate lateral restraint against wind loading
Stability of walls retaining ground

Garage walls retaining ground should be:
suitable for the ground conditions
structurally adequate.
Where garage walls act as retaining walls, they should be designed in accordance with Chapter 5.1 Substructure and
ground-bearing floors or by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Provision for movement

Movement joints in garage walls, as described in BS EN 1996-2, should be provided:
between homes and attached garages
where there are movement joints in foundations.
Adequate resistance to rain and ground water

To protect the wall from rising ground moisture, a DPC should be provided at a level at least 150mm above the level of
adjacent ground.
Garage walls constructed from a single leaf of masonry, such as brickwork or blockwork approximately 100mm thick, will not be
impervious to wind-driven rain and consequently could become damp.
In areas of severe exposure, single leaf walls may require a high standard of workmanship and possibly surface treatment to prevent
an unacceptable level of rain penetration.
Where a garage is integral or attached, the design should ensure that dampness cannot enter the home.
Where a wall is below ground level, precautions should be taken to prevent the entry of ground water by:
tanking (see Chapter 5.4 Waterproofing of basements and

other below ground structures)
the use of DPCs and DPMs
drainage of ground behind the wall.
Resistance to fire spread 10.1.6

Garages shall be constructed so as to prevent fire spread to the home from the garage.
Fire resistance between homes and integral or attached garages, may be provided by:
a wall in brickwork, blockwork or fire-resisting studwork up to

the underside of the roof covering
a half-hour fire-resisting floor or ceiling
10.1
constructions where nominal half-hour fire resistance can

be proven.
Garages 2016
CHAPTER 10.1
home
fire-resisting
wall
fire-resisting
partition
insulation required where

floor is fire resisting
garage
garage
home
home
garage
fire-resisting ceiling or floor
Security 10.1.7
Garages shall be constructed to provide reasonable security against unauthorised entry, in particular where
garages are linked.
Where garages of different ownership are linked, walls should prevent direct access from one garage to another.
Doors and windows 10.1.8

Garage doors and windows shall be adequate for their purpose. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) robustness
b) ease of operation.
Doors and windows will be acceptable where they are in accordance with Chapter 6.7 Doors, windows and glazing.
Robustness
Frames should be selected and fixed having taken into account the type and weight of the garage door.
Ease of operation
Proprietary doors and door gear should be installed in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.
Care should be taken to ensure that garage doors are in proper working order at handover.
Garage roofs 10.1.9

Garage roofs shall satisfactorily resist the passage of rain and snow to the inside of the building, support
applied loads and self-weight, and transmit the loads to the walls safely and without undue movement.
a) holding down
b) bracing
c) detailing at abutments
d) movement
e) adequate disposal of rainwater.
Garage roofs will be acceptable where they are in accordance with:
Chapter 7.1 Flat roofs, porches and balconies, or
Chapter 7.2 Pitched roofs.
Holding down
To prevent uplift, flat roofs and, where necessary, pitched roofs should be provided with holding-down straps at not more than 2m
centres where the roof members bear on the supporting wall. Straps should have a minimum cross-section of 30mm x 2.5mm,
be at least 1m long and have three fixings to the wall.
Bracing
All timber bracing to trussed rafters should be at least 100mm x 25mm in section and nailed twice to each trussed rafter.
Nailing should be 3.35mm (10 gauge) x 65mm long galvanized round wire nails.
10.1
The building designer should specify all bracing. Trussed rafter roofs should be braced in accordance with Chapter 7.2
Pitched roofs, unless the roof is designed and braced in accordance with PD 6693-1.
Garages 2016
CHAPTER 10.1
Detailing at abutments
Precautions should be taken at abutments between a garage roof and the main building or between stepped garages, including:
flashings and weatherproofing that allow for
cavity trays that divert water from inside the cavity to the
differential movement
cover flashings formed from metal or other

approved material
external surface of the roof.
Movement
Movement joints in foundations and the structure should be continued through roof coverings and be provided with appropriate
weather protection.
Adequate disposal of rainwater

The provision of rainwater should be in accordance with building regulations.
Individual roofs, or combinations of roofs that drain from one to another, with a total area greater than 6m2, should have a rainwater
drainage system.
Where rainwater from a large roof surface discharges onto a garage roof, precautions should be taken to prevent premature erosion
of the lower surface.
Rainwater should not discharge from the roof directly to a drive or path.
For details on the design of rainwater disposal systems, reference should be made to the following chapters, as appropriate:
7.1 Flat roofs, porches and balconies
7.2 Pitched roofs.
Permanent prefabricated garages and carports 10.1.10

Permanent prefabricated garages and carports shall be suitable for their intended purpose.
Permanent prefabricated garages and carports should:
have appropriate foundations
be structurally adequate
provide appropriate weathertightness
provide adequate separation between linked garages of

different ownership.
Prefabricated garages should be erected in accordance with the manufacturers recommendations.

Particular care should be taken to ensure adequate holding down of carports and other light structures against wind action.
Services 10.1.11
The provision of any service or appliance within a garage shall be in accordance with relevant regulations.
a) protection of water services against frost
b) provision of electricity
c) risk of fire or explosion.
Where services or appliances are provided in garages, they should comply with the guidance below and with the following chapters,
as appropriate:
5.3 Drainage below ground
8.1 Internal services.
Protection of water services against frost

A rising main should not be located within a garage.
A water supply or outlet in a garage should have adequate provision for isolating and draining down.
Pipes should be insulated and located so as to minimise the risk of freezing.
Provision of electricity
The provision of electric lighting and socket outlets in a garage is at the discretion of the builder.
All electrical installations should comply with BS 7671 Requirements for Electrical Installations. IET Wiring Regulations.
Risk of fire or explosion
10.1
Installation in a garage of an oil or gas burning boiler or heating appliance should be in accordance with any relevant
statutory regulations.

CHAPTER 10.2
This chapter provides guidance on meeting
the Technical Requirements for drives,
paths and landscaping, including:
private roads
shared private drives
private drives
car parking areas.

10.2.1 Compliance
10.2.3 Stability
10.2.4 Freestanding walls and retaining structures
10.2.5 Guarding and steps
10.2.6 Drives, paths and landscaping
10.2.7 Materials
10.2.8 Garden areas
10.2.9 Waterlogging
10.2.10 Timber decking
10.2.11 Landscaping
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CHAPTER 10.2
Compliance 10.2.1
Drives, paths and landscaping shall comply with the Technical Requirements.
Drives, paths and landscapingthat comply with the guidance in this chapter will generally be acceptable.
In this chapter home includes a house, bungalow, flat or maisonette. The garden area is the land within the curtilage up to 20m
from the habitable parts of the home (i.e. not garages/outbuildings). This distance is measured from the external walls.
All works should be completed in accordance with:
the design, and
the ground remediation statement (where applicable).
Formation levels should be set out in accordance with the design.

All works relating to drives, paths and landscaping should be fully specified.
Designs and specifications should be issued to site supervisors, relevant specialist subcontractors and suppliers.
Stability 10.2.3
Precautions shall be taken to ensure stability of theground.
Where the ground may become surcharged during construction, precautions should be taken to ensure stability.
Gabion and timber structures should not be used to provide support to homes, garages, roads, drives, car parking areas or
drainage systems.
Retaining structures that give support to the foundations of a home should be completed before work starts on the construction of
the foundations of the home.
Freestanding walls andretaining structures 10.2.4

Freestanding walls and retaining structures shall beadequate for their intended purpose.
Freestanding walls should be in accordance with:
BS EN 1996-1 Design of masonry structures
BRE Good Building Guide 14.
Retaining structures should be in accordance with:

BS EN 1992
BS EN 1996
Design of masonry structures.
BS EN 1997-2
Geotechnical design. Ground investigation and testing.
BRE Good Building Guide 27
Building brickwork and blockwork retaining walls.
All retaining structures, more than 600mm high, should be designed by an engineer in accordance with Technical Requirement R5.
Where timber structures more than 600mm high are used for retaining ground in boundary situations, they should be designed with
a desired service life of 60 years.
Where planters are provided, they should be designed to support the volume of retained soil and the plant species.
Guarding and steps 10.2.5

Retaining structures and stepsshall be adequately guarded and allow safe use.
Guarding should be provided where:
structures are retaining land more than 600mm high to which
10.2
people have access
a retaining structure is more than 600mm high and the

dimension from the top of the retaining wall to the higher
ground level is less than 300mm, or
a path is adjacent to a vertical difference in level of more

than 600mm (including where ground adjacent to the path
falls away at an angle of more than 30 from the horizontal).

CHAPTER 10.2
The guarding should:
be a minimum of 1100mmhigh
not be readily climbable by children
not allow a 100mm diameter sphere to pass through.
guarding may be required

where the top of a retaining
wall is more than 600mm
from the lower ground level
(even where it is retaining
less than 600mm of land)
1100mm
External steps that are not considered under building

regulations should:
<300mm
have a maximum rise of 220mm
have a minimum going of 220mm
be reasonably uniform.
>600mm
A handrail should be provided where the total rise of a flight of

garden steps is more than 600mm and the going of individual
steps is less than 600mm.
Guidance for the provision of handrails to steps that form an
accessible approach can be found in supporting documents to
Drives, paths and landscaping 10.2.6

Appropriate access (including private roads, shared private drives, private drives, car parking and paths)
shall be provided to and around the home. Issues to be taken into account include:
a) general construction considerations
b) drainage
c) construction details
d) minimum sub-base thickness
e) house paths and patios.
Homes should be provided with suitable access through the provision ofprivate roads, shared private drives, private drives,
car parking areas and paths,as appropriate.
General construction considerations

Private roads, shared private drives, private drives, car parking areas and paths should comply with relevant building regulations.
Where abutting the home, they should be at least 150mm below the DPC, and laid to falls away from the home (unless a channel or
other suitable means of collection and disposal is provided).
All vegetable matter should be removed from the area of the proposed works.
Only suitable fill material comprising clean, well-consolidated crushed rock, hardcore, slag or concrete should be used to make
up levels.
Sub-bases should be mechanically consolidated in layers not exceeding 225mm.
Finished ground levels should becompatible with:
DPC levels
cover levels of drainage access points
depth of underground services (gas,electricity,

water and drains)
adjacent surfaces.
Private roads, shared private drives and private drives should:
500mm 500mm
be appropriate for the loads
provide reasonable access to and from a garage or car

500mm 500mm
ramp
10.2
parking area
have a maximum gradient of 1:6
where the gradient is more than 1:10 and the gradient

changes, have suitable transition lengths to reduce the risk of
vehicles grounding.

CHAPTER 10.2
Underground drainage or services that are below a private road, shared privatedrive, private drive, car parking area, path or patio
should be protected against damage, as described in Chapter 5.3 Drainage below ground.
Edge restraint or kerbing should have a profile and foundation, which is suitable to form a permanent supporting edge for the
expected vehicle loads on the road or drive.
Pedestrian access should be provided within the curtilage of each home to the main entrance and thesecondary entrance
where present:
Where entry to the home can begained directly from a

garage, a path to a secondary access door is not required.
Where the secondary entrance is to a mid-terrace home

or ground floor flat, a path to a secondary access door is
notrequired.
Where a garage, carport or car parking areais provided

within the curtilage, a pathshould be provided to it from
the home.
Where appropriate, a drive can beregarded as a path for the provision of access.
Paths should have a maximum slope of 1:6. On steeper sloping ground, stepsmay be required.
Table 1: Suitable path widths

Location and use
Minimum width (mm)
Within curtilage to main entrance, or any entrance designated by Building Regulations.
900
Paths used for the removal of refuse to the collection point.
900
Paths adjoining a home.
700
Paths 100mm or morefrom the wall of a home.
600
All other cases.
600
Drainage
Private roads, shared private drives andprivate drives should have adequate rainwater drainage and disposal.
Paved areas should:
have vertical alignment, finished levels,

transition arrangements and gradients in accordance
with the design
have surfaces with adequate falls, cross-falls and drainage

toensure that surface water is suitably drained
have sub-base levels with the samelongitudinal gradient

and cross-fall as the finished level
have surfaces not flatter than 1:40 or have a camber of 1:40

where no fall is available to avoid flat spots
have surfaces with a minimum finished fall of 1:80

where they form private drives and paths
drain away from the home (and garage), or drain to a

channel or other suitable means of collection and disposal
adjacent to the home
not drain surface water from private areas onto

adopted areas
not be within 2m of a soakaway.
Where paving slabs are laid abutting drainage channels and gully grates, etc., the upper surface of the paving slab should be set
approximately 5mm above the grating.
Where it is intended to use porous orpermeable surfaces as part, or all, of the rainwater drainage system, reference should be
made to CIRIA report C522 Sustainable urban drainage systems design manual for England and Wales.
10.2

CHAPTER 10.2
Construction details
The construction of private roads, shared private drives, private drives and car parking areas should be constructed in accordance
with the tables below, or anequivalent alternative.
Table 2a: Private road having frequent use by commercial vehicles

Construction(1)
Road type
Road
(bituminous
macadam)
Road
(block pavers)
Footpath
(bituminous
macadam)
Sub-base
Granular sub-base material type 1 to

clause 803 table 8/2 MCHW Volume 1
Series 800(2)
Table 3
Where California Bearing

Ratio (CBR) is 5% or less
= 150(3)
Where CBR is greater than
5% = Table 3
225(3)
Base
(road base)
Dense bituminous macadam (100/150 pen

paving grade bitumen) with crushed rock
aggregate to BS 4987 (group 1 mix)
100 (0/32mm size

to clause 5.2)
N/A
N/A
Concrete designation (BS 8500-2 table 7)
N/A
N/A
N/A

paving grade bitumen) with crushed rock
60 (0/20mm size
to clause 6.5)
60 (0/20mm size to
clause 6.5)
60 (0/20mm
size to
clause 6.5)
Surface course
(wearing course) paving grade bitumen) with crushed rock
30 (0/10mm size
to clause 7.4)
N/A
20 (0/6mm
size to
clause 7.5)
Hot rolled asphalt to BS 594-1
40 (designation
30% 0/14)
N/A
N/A
Mastic asphalt to BS 1447
30 (grade S 40% N/A

0/10mm size)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Bedding course
Sharp sand to BS 7533-3 category II of

annex D
N/A
50
N/A
Pavers
Block pavers to BS 6717 of class markings

W2, A2 and S3 (weathering, abrasion and
slip/skid classes)(6)
N/A
80
N/A
Binder course
(base course)
Table 2b: Shared parking and associated access areas having frequent use by commercial vehicles
Construction(1)
Road type
Bituminous macadam
Block pavers
Sub-base
Granular sub-base material type 1 to clause 803 table 8/2 MCHW Table 3
Volume 1 Series 800(2)
Table 3
Base
(road base)
Dense bituminous macadam (100/150 pen paving grade bitumen) 80 (0/32mm size to
with crushed rock aggregate to BS 4987 (group 1 mix)
clause 5.2)
N/A
100 grade GEN2(4)
N/A
with crushed rock aggregate to BS 4987 (group 3 mix)
clause 6.5)
N/A
Surface course
(wearing course) with crushed rock aggregate to BS 4987 (group 2 mix)
clause 7.4)
N/A
Binder course
(base course)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Bedding course
Sharp sand to BS 7533-3 category II of annex D
N/A
50
Pavers
Block pavers to BS 6717 of class markings W2, A2 and S3

(weathering, abrasion and slip/skid classes)(6)
N/A
80
10.2

CHAPTER 10.2
Table 2c: Shared drives having infrequent use by commercial vehicles
Construction(1)
Road type
Bituminous macadam Concrete
Block Gravel
pavers
Sub-base
Granular sub-base material type 1 to clause 803

table 8/2 MCHW Volume 1 Series 800(2)
Table 3
Table 3
Table 3 Table 3
Base
(road base)
Dense bituminous macadam (100/150 pen paving

grade bitumen) with crushed rock aggregate to
BS 4987 (group 1 mix)
(5)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A

80 (0/32mm size to
N/A
clause 6.4) or (0/20mm
size to clause 6.5)
N/A
N/A
30 (0/10mm size to
clause 7.4)
N/A
N/A
(7)
40 (designation
30% 0/14)
N/A
N/A
N/A
30 (grade S 40%
0/10mm size)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
150 grade
PAV2
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
50
N/A
Block pavers to BS 6717 of class markings W2, A2 and N/A

S3 (weathering, abrasion and slip/skid classes)(6)
N/A
80
N/A
Binder course
(base course)
Surface course Dense bituminous macadam (100/150 pen paving

(wearing
course)
Bedding course Sharp sand to BS 7533-3 category II of annex D

Pavers
Table 2d: Private drives and parking areas having use by cars and light vehicles
Construction(1)
Road type
Bituminous macadam Concrete
Block Gravel
pavers
Sub-base
Granular sub-base material type 1 to clause 803 table

8/2 MCHW Volume 1 Series 800(2)
Table 3
Table 3
Table 3 Table 3
Base
(road base)

N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A

60 (0/20 mm size to
clause 6.5)
N/A
N/A
N/A
20 (0/6mm size to
clause 7.5)
N/A
N/A
(7)
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
100 grade
PAV 1
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
N/A
Block pavers to BS 6717 of class markings W2, A2 and N/A

S3 (weathering, abrasion and slip/skid classes)(6)
N/A
N/A
N/A
Binder course
(base course)
Surface course Dense bituminous macadam (100/150 pen paving

(wearing
course)
Bedding course Sharp sand to BS 7533-3 category II of annex D

Pavers
10.2
Notes
1 In the first column, European harmonised names are used and UK names are in brackets.
2 Where a capping layer is specified, sub-base thickness can be reduced. DMRB Volume 7 Section 2 Part 2 HD 25/95 Foundations Chapter 3 Capping and Sub-base
gives guidance on capping and sub-base thickness design based on CBR values with and without a capping layer.
3 Thickness is based on the provision of a geotextile membrane underneath the sub-base. Where no geotextile membrane is provided, see Table 3.
4 Bond and tack coat should be provided for bituminous mixtures in accordance with BS 4987-2 or BS 594-2.
5 Asphalt-based materials can be used as a partial replacement of a full thickness granular sub-base type 1 material.
6 Where laid to either a 90 or 45 degree herringbone pattern, the edge perimeter should be laid with one single row of stretcher bond set parallel to the edge restraint.
Where block pavers are laid abutting drainage channels, gulley grates, etc. the upper surface of the block pavers should be set 3-6mm above the grating.
Manufacturers declared value markings W3 and S4 are acceptable. Where W3 is 1.0 kg/m2 or less and S4 is 45 or more based on C scale unit (for abrasion,
class A2 = maximum result is 23mm, class A1 = no performance determined).
7 A 38mm thickness of graded 15/20mm unbound aggregate to BS EN 13242 (gravel), well rolled and compacted, should be used.
8 Thicknesses are in mm.
9 Reference to clauses are in relation to the relevant British Standards.

CHAPTER 10.2
Minimum sub-base thickness

The thickness of any required capping layer and the sub-base should be determined after investigations and on-site tests have been
carried out, with consideration to the:
CBR value
frost susceptibility of the sub-grade; where susceptible

to frost, a suitable capping layer should be included below
the sub-base to a depth to ensure that construction will not
be affected by frost heave.
Table 3: Minimum sub-base thickness for paved areas

CBR values
Minimum thickness (mm) of sub-base

(consolidated in accordance with MCHW Volume 1 clause 801, table 8/1)
Without geotextile underneath
With geotextile underneath
Less than 2%
N/A
300
2-3%
325
225
3-5%
250
150
5-7%
150
N/A
7-20%
100
N/A
House paths and patios

The following construction will be generally acceptable for house paths and patios:
The sub-base comprising of a 100mm thickness of clean,

well consolidated crushed rock, hardcore (maximum size
75mm), slag or concrete, the surface of which is blinded with
25mm of sand.
Paving slabs fully bedded in 25mm 1:4 cement:sand mortar

or a suitable alternative.
Concrete paths and patios should be not less than 75mm thick and have a tamped or textured finish. The concrete mix should be
suitable to give a durable and frost resistant surface, as described in Chapter 3.1 Concrete and its reinforcement. Movement joints,
not less than 10mm wide, should be provided across the full width of the path at not more than 4m centres. A movement joint is not
required at the abutment with a wall unless the opposite edge of the concrete is also restrained.
Materials 10.2.7
Materials shall be suitable for their intended use. Concrete shall be of a mix design which will achieve
sufficient strength for its purpose and be sufficiently durable to remain unaffected by chemical or frost action.
Sub-base material should be type 1 to clause 803 Table 8/2, MCHW Volume I Series 800.
Hot rolled and mastic asphalts and macadam should comply with relevantstandards, including:
BS EN 13108-1
Bituminous mixtures. Material specifications. Asphalt Concrete.
BS EN 13108-4
Bituminous mixtures. Material specifications. Hot Rolled Asphalt.
Aggregates used in asphalt and macadam mixtures and unbound aggregate (graded 15/20mm gravel) for surfacing should comply
with relevant standards, including:
BS EN 13043
Aggregates for bituminous mixtures and surface treatments for roads, airfields and other
trafficked areas.
PD 6682-2
Guidance on the use of BS EN 13043.
BS EN 13242
Aggregates for unbound and hydraulically bound materials.
PD 6682-6
Guidance on the use of BS EN 13242.
Blocks, slabs, pavers, edgings, etc. should comply with relevant standards, including:
BS EN 771
Specification for masonry units.
BS EN 1344
Clay pavers. Requirements and test methods.
BS EN 1339
Concrete paving flags. Requirements and test methods.
BS 7533
Pavements constructed with clay natural stone or concrete pavers.
10.2
Topsoil should be of a quality that will not present a hazard to users of the garden area. BS 3882 and the Contaminated Land
Exposure Assessment (CLEA) guidelines provide advice on determining the suitability of topsoil.

CHAPTER 10.2
Garden areas 10.2.8
Garden areas shall be provided with reasonable access. The ground shall be stable, free from obstructions
beneath the surface and adequately prepared for cultivation.
The stability of new or existing slopes in garden areas should be determined by an engineer in accordance with
Technical Requirement R5. Alternatively, the following maximumgradients should apply:
Unsupported granular soil should be 5less than its natural
Unsupported cohesive soil should notexceed 9 (1:6).
angle of repose.
Garden areas should be suitable for the intended purpose, and:
old foundations, concrete bases andsimilar obstructions

within 300mm of the finished ground surfaceshould
be removed
appropriate action should be taken to restore the

drainage characteristics of soil, that has been compacted
during construction, within 3m of the home
where ground is disturbed during construction, it should be

regraded to conform to the general shape of the
adjacent ground
topsoil should be provided to a minimum thickness

of 100mm
topsoil should not contain contaminants which may present a

hazard to the occupants
where topsoil is disturbed, it should be reinstated
subsoil should not be placed over topsoil
construction rubbish and debris should be removed from the

garden and other areasaround the home.
Access is not required to small isolated garden areas, such as narrowstrips of land at the top or bottom ofretaining walls, but should
be provided to other areas, where appropriate by steps, or other suitable means.
Waterlogging 10.2.9
Areas up to 3m from the habitable parts of the home shall not bewaterlogged.
Waterlogging of garden areas within 3m of the habitable part of the home should be prevented by drainage or other suitable means.
Timber decking 10.2.10
Patios and decking shall be suitable for their purpose.

Timber decking, including support, should be naturally durable or treated with preservative.
Decking that is more than 600mm above ground level should be:
in accordance with guidance published by the

Timber Decking Association, or

Landscaping 10.2.11
Planting shall be completedin a manner appropriate for the siteconditions and layout. Possible future damage
to the home caused by planting shall be minimised.
Where trees or shrubs have been removed, are to be retained or are to be planted by the builder, precautions should be taken to
reduce the risk of future damage to homes and services in accordance with Chapter 4.2 Building near trees.
10.2

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Chapter 5.4 Waterproofing of basements and other below-ground structures.

Chapter 8.3 Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (previously contained

The Standards and Technical Requirements

Concrete and its reinforcement

Land quality managing ground conditions

Substructure, ground floors, drainage and basements Part 5

Substructure and ground bearing floors

Superstructure (excluding roofs) Part 6

Flat roofs and balconies

A consistent approach to finishes

External works Part 10

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Designed and produced by NHBC

Whats changed? 2016

Chapter 5.4: Waterproofing of basements and other below-ground structures.

Chapter 8.3: Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.

Minor technical changes

Clause 6.1.18a New guidance for the positioning of wall

Clause 7.2.20d New standards for fixing for coping stones

ties at the top of masonry gable walls.

Clause 6.5.3 New guidance for protective coatings

Chapter 7.1 New guidance for liquid applied

Clause 8.1.12 New standards for the installation of

The Standards and Technical Requirements

Concrete and its reinforcement

Cold weather working

Timber preservation (natural solid timber)

Strip and trench fill foundations

Raft, pile, pier and beam foundations

Vibratory ground improvement techniques

Low or zero carbon technologies

Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery

A consistent approach to finishes

Wall and ceiling finishes

Finishes and fitments

Painting and decorating

Drives, paths and landscaping

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The Standards and

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The Standards and Technical Requirements 2016

health and safety matters relating to building operations

planning matters except where specifically referred to in

Such matters are covered by statutory requirements.

Designed and produced by NHBC

The Standards and Technical Requirements 2016

a) The land quality, including:

Designed and produced by NHBC

Standards and codesof practice

The Standards and Technical Requirements 2016

durability of both the structure and individual components

position on the site

Chapter 8.3 Mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (previously contained

a) The land quality, including:

a) MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS USED FOR CRITICAL FUNCTIONS

b) MATERIALS AND PRODUCTS USED FOR NON-CRITICAL FUNCTIONS