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Real-World Energy Savings from Optimised Façade Design

⚡ Real-World Energy Savings from Optimised Façade Design

Modern buildings don’t just need to look good—they need to perform. At NFEStructural, we’ve seen firsthand how smart façade design can deliver real, measurable energy savings. This blog breaks down what’s possible when performance is prioritised early—and how our engineering input has helped unlock long-term value for clients.

🧪 What Does "Optimised" Mean?

Optimisation isn’t just about ticking boxes on Part L. It means tailoring the façade system to:

  • Maximise insulation
  • Minimise thermal bridging
  • Improve airtightness
  • Integrate shading and solar control
  • Use materials that perform, not just look good

📊 Project Snapshot 1: Curtain Wall, Optimised Junctions

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Project Type: Mixed-use commercial tower
Façade System: Unitised curtain wall
Location: London
Challenge: Complex slab-to-slab junctions causing high Psi-values

🔧 NFE Solution:

  • Thermal break analysis using THERM
  • Re-detailed brackets and floor slab interfaces
  • Custom isolators used at anchor points

✅ Results:

  • Psi-value reduced from 0.25 to 0.05 W/m·K
  • Annual heating demand dropped by 18%
  • Helped achieve BREEAM “Excellent” rating

🪟 Project Snapshot 2: Brick Cladding + Thermal Bridging Fixes

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Project Type: Residential block
Façade System: Brick cladding on support frame
Challenge: High Y-value affecting SAP score

🔧 NFE Solution:

  • Reviewed all facade junctions
  • Introduced continuous insulation at slab edges
  • Replaced metal shelf angles with thermally broken alternatives

✅ Results:

  • Y-value reduced from 0.15 to 0.06 W/m²·K
  • SAP score improved from 82 to 91
  • Energy cost savings: ~£250 per unit/year

🌡️ Project Snapshot 3: Glazed Façade + Shading Integration

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Project Type: Office refurbishment
Façade System: Stick-built curtain wall with spandrel glazing
Challenge: Excessive solar gain and overheating risk

🔧 NFE Solution:

  • Installed horizontal shading fins at critical orientations
  • Used solar-control glazing with g-value < 0.4
  • Coordinated with MEP team to optimise HVAC sizing

✅ Results:

  • Peak cooling loads reduced by 25%
  • Energy savings of 6,200 kWh/year
  • Improved occupant comfort and daylighting

💡 What This Tells Us

Across these examples, one thing is clear:
The earlier façade optimisation starts, the greater the return.

Whether it’s:

  • Lower heating/cooling bills
  • Easier regulatory compliance
  • Higher BREEAM/SAP ratings
  • Better comfort for users

... façade engineering is an investment that pays off.

🚀 NFE's Process for Performance

We integrate:

  • 2D/3D thermal modelling
  • Junction detailing reviews
  • Product and material analysis
  • Façade U-value and Psi-value calculations
  • Collaboration with architects, MEP, and sustainability consultants

All to make sure your building envelope works as hard as the people inside it.

Ready to Save on Energy?

📩 Let NFEStructural assess your facade design before it goes to tender.
We’ll show you where performance can be gained—without compromising design.

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