1970s Bungalow Surpasses EnerPHit standards
Barry McCarron, Chair of the Passive House Association of Ireland, and his family retrofitted a 1970s bungalow to meet the EnerPHit standard, ultimately surpassing it to achieve the full Passive House standard.
The focus was on retaining much of the existing structure to minimise embodied carbon. The rear wall, two gable ends, foundations, and floor were preserved, while the front elevation was demolished for improved layout. Pro Clima products ensured airtightness, including window sealing tapes and the Intello Plus membrane. Gutex woodfibre boards were used for their thermal performance, while cellulose insulation, made from recycled newspaper, filled irregular spaces and provided thermal mass. A mechanical heat recovery system now maintains indoor air quality, with CO₂ levels averaging around 500 ppm. The airtightness level exceeds current regulations and addresses previous issues with condensation.
