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Cool in Summer, Warm in Winter in Central Otago

This stunning home in the rocky hillside of Bannockburn was designed by Threefold Architecture for an eco-conscious couple who were returning to Central Otago to retire. The pair wanted an energy-efficient home that could cope with the extreme temperatures of the region without too much reliance on heating.

To maximise thermal performance, careful attention was paid to the structure. “We had to get the structure right. That’s where the building wrap, insulation and concrete flooring were essential,” says homeowner, Mark.

The well-considered design effectively improves comfort and reduces the need for heating and cooling, with exposed concrete flooring absorbing and releasing heat, high R-value insulation and DuPont Tyvek building envelope products throughout. When needed, electric supply is provided through solar panels and underfloor heating is driven by energy-efficient heat pumps.

The choice to use the DuPont Tyvek system was an easy one for Mark, who drew on the construction expertise of Cook Brothers for the build. “The brand was key for me, the high reliability of the DuPont brand and Tyvek,” he says. “And then having the best specs and value that the brand provides in terms of guarantee.”

DuPont Tyvek HomeWrap — a breathable, fire retardant synthetic wall underlay — was used throughout to reduce air flow and optimise the performance of the insulation. DuPont Tyvek Homewrap has been used in residential and commercial projects for over 35 years, bringing the peace of mind of a tried and tested system. For the roof, DuPont Tyvek Supro roof underlay was installed to provide a strong weather-resistant barrier with excellent vapour permeability.

The construction team also took advantage of DuPont’s full range of compatible tapes including DuPont Flashing Tape, DuPont FlexWrap NF and DuPont Contractor Tape. DuPont products have been developed, tested and manufactured by DuPont with seamless control of quality and distribution, to ensure a straightforward build and trusted ongoing performance.

Installation was trouble-free and the DuPont team also provided support and expertise throughout the project: “DuPont were very good at providing technical support and advice so that really helped,” says Mark.

Having lived in the home for three years now, Mark is impressed with the thermal performance which has significantly reduced energy usage. “It’s performing extremely well,” he says. “It’s very warm in the winter and the energy we use is half what most other houses around here are using. And in summer we’re coping with 30+ degree days without air conditioning.”

“It still feels like a new home,” he adds. “We’re loving living in it and drawing on the benefits a modern newly constructed house brings.”

DuPont™, DuPont™ Tyvek®, DuPont™ FlexWrap™ and  DuPont™ Tyvek® HomeWrap® are registered trademarks of DuPont de Nemours, Inc.

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August 2021 EBOSSNOW Case Studies

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