IES86111B2 - An improved sill insulation system comprising improved sill insulation members - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention accordingly provides a sill insulation member for fitting into a window sill in order to provide effective insulation, the sill insulation member comprising a one piece integrally formed member adapted for use at windows in external insulation systems on buildings, the sill insulation member being formed of polymeric material having low thermal conductivity, and the sill insulation member having a sloped profile to facilitate water flow therefrom and having a shoulder at one end of the sloped profile so as to ensure water flow off the end of the sill insulation member.

Description

AN IMPROVED SILL INSULATION SYSTEM COMPRISING IMPROVED SILL INSULATION MEMBERS The present invention relates to an improved sill insulation system and the invention also concerns improvements in and relating to sill insulation members of the type used in external insulation systems.

In the United Kingdom and Ireland, houses tend to be built using concrete window sills. In external insulation systems which aim to provide effective insulation of the entire building envelope, the regions around windows, especially around window sills and doors, can be regions where insulation is poorer than in other areas. An oversill member is placed over the concrete window sill in order to extend the new sill past the new external wall insulation. However, the problem of thermal bridging occurs around windows and doors and gives rise to “cold bridging” as it is known in the UK and Ireland. The thermal bridge can result in an unacceptable risk of surface condensation and mould growth internally around windows and doors of buildings. Ψ (psi) VALUE The Ψ (psi) value is used to provide a measure of the effectiveness of insulation detailing at thermal bridges. The Ψ (psi) value, by definition, represents the extra heat flow through the linear thermal bridge over and above the heat flow through the adjoining plane elements.

In external insulation systems, the building is provided with insulation external to the structure of the building but the areas around windows and doors can then become the zones which reduce the overall thermal insulation of the building .

At present, External Insulation systems normally use powder coated profiled steel or aluminium oversills or GRC (Glass Reinforced Concrete) oversills. Metal and GRC oversills are not effective in addressing the problem of thermal bridging because metal and concrete have significantly higher thermal conductivity than the external wall insulation material. In some cases, none or very little thickness of insulation is provided between the metal or GRC oversill and the existing concrete sill below.

Furthermore, metal and GRC oversills, because of their thin profile are visually quite different in appearance from the typical Irish/UK concrete sill that they are covering. Thus the known metal and GRC oversills do not give the same impression of robustness and durability that a solid profile sill gives.

The present invention seeks to alleviate the disadvantages of the prior art.

The present invention accordingly provides an oversill insulation member for fitting onto a window sill in order to provide effective insulation, the oversill insulation member comprising a one piece integrally formed member adapted for use at windows in external insulation systems on buildings, the sill insulation member being formed of high strength polymeric material having low thermal conductivity, and the sill insulation member having a sloped profile to facilitate water flow therefrom and having a shoulder at one end of the sloped profile so as to ensure water flow off the end of the sill insulation member.

The oversill member is formed from resin coated, high strength polymeric material, for example, high density expanded polystyrene (EPS), of low thermal conductivity provides excellent resistance to thermal bridging at the window-to-sill junction.

The sill insulation members of the present invention are designed to prevent water ingress and incorporate a water proof polymer sealant used in conjunction with a uPVC trim along the lateral and posterior edges, to shed water clear of the ETICS system and ensure water does not flow underneath the sill.

The sill insulation member preferably comprises a drip profile under the front projection to shed water before reaching the external wall finish.

The sill insulation member is designed with a minimum 4° fall, but preferably 7° fall to ensure water drains off the sill.

In a first embodiment of the sill insulation member, the sill insulation member is adapted to be used in buildings under construction, as the window sill, and replaces entirely the traditional concrete window sill. In this embodiment, the sill insulation member also comprises a rear upstand which is adapted to engage with a window in a building under construction (“new build”).

The second embodiment of the sill insulation member is adapted to function as an oversill insulation member, that is that the sill insulation member in the second embodiment is adapted to be located and engage with a concrete window sill in a previously constructed building which is being retrofitted with an external insulation system.

Advantageously, the oversill insulation member of the present invention is provided with a resin based coating. The resin based coating provides durability and high impact resistance finish without cracking due to weathering including harsh weather conditions including frost and snow and from ladders during maintenance and window cleaning. The resin coating is bonded to the EPS and can form around corners, curves and the drip profile. The oversill insulation member has a design life of approximately 30 years, with a minimum of 10 years.

The oversill insulation member of the present invention will be finished with a suitable exterior grade paint or render allowing the colour to be chosen by the owner to match either the existing sill or whatever colour choice they wish. This option of choice is not so readily available with metal sills.

The oversill insulation member of the present invention gives the same appearance of a solid existing concrete sill, but with the low thermal bridging advantages of EPS insulation. Once finished, it is difficult to distinguish visually between the oversil! of the present invention and the existing concrete sill underneath. However, the differences in thermal conductivity achieved by use of the oversill insulation member are hugely significant.

In another aspect, the present invention also provides a sill insulation system comprising the oversill insulation member and a weathertightness beading profile section. The beading profile is preferably of uPVC.

Thus, the oversill insulation member is one component of a complete sill system which includes its own specifically designed weathertightness details. The purpose-designed weathertightness beading profile sections ensure that if any water makes it past the wall render finish at the reveals then this water cannot move further into the wall substrate or that any water cannot get below the oversill at the window frame junction and reveal. The beading profile sections are joined together with a sealed mitre joint at each corner ensuring a continuous water barrier around the oversill perimeter.

The thin profile of the oversill insulation member of the present invention allows the 5 existing window frame drainage holes to be retained wherever possible.

Preferably, the resin coating which is applied on the surface of the sill insulation member has the following composition: - polymer binder - 30% % 7W - quartz fillers - 50% % 7W - dolomite fillers - 11 % % w/w - chemical additives (humidifier, preserving agents, thickeners) - 3% % w/w Preferably, the polymer binder comprises a styrene acrylic polymer binder.

The resin coating provided on the insulated oversill member is designed for manual or machine coating of polystyrene profiles. The resin coating may be used indoors or outdoors.

The properties of the coating include the following: - The coating is a “ready to use” (i.e. pre-made in a factory) styrene acrylic base; - Preferably, the coating composition includes cellulose fibres which provide strength and reinforcement in the final coating when applied to the insulated oversill member; - The coating binds well to substrates, i.e. high adhesive properties to the substrate insulated oversill member of the present invention; - The coating can be overcoated with exterior paints (excludes silicate based paints); and - The coating is weatherproof.

The preferred coating is supplied by Atlas SP Z.O.O. of SW Teresy 105, 91-222 Lodz, Poland and is referred to by Atlas as “Base of moulding mass for profile covering. EcoOversill Limited has the exclusive rights to use the resin coating in Ireland and the UK. The oversill coating is supplied ready to use by Atlas. It is not recommended to add external components to thin or to thicken the coating as provided by Atlas. It is recommended to stir for uniform consistency prior to use. The preferred coating “base of moulding mass for profile covering” coating as supplied by Atlas comprises a mixture of liquid dispersion of synthetic resins, aggregates, sand calcium (calcium magnesium carbonate) sand, methyl cellulose, thinner, disperants and titanium dioxide.

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR THE COATING: - Work to be carried out in temperatures between +5°C to +30°C.

- Tools to be cleaned with water immediately after use.

- To be transported and stored in tightly closed containers, on pallets and in temperatures between 0°C and +30°C. Must be used within 12 months of date of production.

TECHNICAL PARAMETERS OF THE COATING: - density 1,7-1.8 g/cm3 - bonding strength > 0,3 MPa - consumption - 6 kg / m2 - curing time: 24 hours The sill insulation member of the present invention will now be described more particularly with reference to the accompanying drawings in which are shown a number of embodiments of the sill insulation member in accordance with the present invention.

In the drawings: Figure 1 is a side view of a first embodiment of a sill insulation member in accordance with 25 the present invention; Figure 2 is a cross sectional view of the sill insulation member of Figure 1 in use (new building embodiment of sill insulation member); Figure 3 is a side view of a sill insulation member in a second embodiment of the present invention (oversill for use with existing buildings); Figure 4 is a cross sectional view of the sill insulation member shown in Figure 3 in use; Figure 4a is an exploded view of a weathertightness beading profile shown in use; Figure 5 is a side view ofthe weathertightness beading profile shown by itself; Figure 6 is a vertical cross sectional view of window reveal including the oversill in the 5 second embodiment and also showing the window beading profile of Figures 4a and 5 also showing a generally H-shaped profile frame sealing closure trim; Figure 6a is an exploded view of a portion of Figure 6; and Figure 7 is a plan cross sectional view of the window reveal to oversill junction at the top of oversill level; Figure 8 is a graphical representation of modelling of the sill insulation member in the first embodiment i.e. a new build cavity wall, with full EPS sill and external insulation applied to achieve an overall U value of 0.21 W/m2K; in particular Figure 8 is a vertical section through the sill member; Figure 9 is a vertical section through the sill member showing the temperature isotherms; Figure 10 is a vertical section through a metal sill of the prior art (shown for comparison purposes); Figure 11 is a vertical section through the prior art metal sill showing temperature isotherms (shown for comparison purposes); Figure 12 is a graphical representation of modeling of the sill insulation member in the second embodiment i.e. a retrofit cavity wall, with full EPS sill and external insulation applied to achieve an overall U value of 0.21 W/m2K; and Figure 13 is a vertical section showing the temperature isotherms; Referring now to the drawings, a number of embodiments of the insulated oversill members ofthe present invention will be described.

Referring initially to Figures 1 and 2, a first embodiment of an oversill insulation member is shown and is indicated generally by reference numeral 100. The insulated oversill member 100 is adapted for use in new buildings under construction, i.e. the oversill insulation member 100 can be included in the building during its construction.

The following reference numerals are used to indicate the following features in the drawings: Figure 1 100 - General reference numeral of oversill insulation member in the first embodiment 101 - Sloping shoulder of oversill insulation member 100 102-Drip detail 103 - Body of the insulation member 100 comprising hydrophobic expanded polystyrene, EPS 150 - EPS having a compression strength of 150 N/mm2. 105 - Resin coating 106 - Approved external finishing 106 applied over the resin coating 105 The resin coating 105 is approximately 6.5mm in thickness. 107 - Continuous layer of AVAL KT55 adhesive or similar approved adhesive applied over the horizontal contact area of the masonry block work with the EPS sill insulation member. 108 - Continuous bead of polymer based sealant applied along the length of the sill insulation member 100 (the sealant may preferably be Sintex™ sealant). 109 - External insulation build-up layer of the external insulation system.

Referring now to Figures 3, 4 and 5, a second embodiment of an oversill insulation member is shown and is indicated generally by reference number 200. The oversill insulation oversill member is adapted for use in insulating previously constructed buildings which are being retro-fitted with external insulation to the building.

The following reference numerals are used to indicate the following features in the drawings: Like numerals are used to refer to like features of sill insulation member 100.

Figures 2 to 5 ES - Existing window sill of previously constructed building: ES made of concrete. 200 - General reference number of oversill insulation member in the first embodiment. 201 - Sloping shoulder of oversill insulation member 100. 202 - Drip detail. 203 - Body of the insulation member 100 comprising hydrophobic expanded polystyrene, EPS 150 - Compression strength of EPS is 150 N/mm2 15 205 - Resin coating. 206 - Approved external paint finish 206 applied over the resin coating 205.

The resin coating 205 is approximately 6.5mm in thickness. 207 - Continuous layer of AVAL ™ KT55 adhesive or similar approved adhesive applied over whole sloped and vertical contact area with the oversill insulation member 200. 208 - Continuous bead of sealant applied along the length of the sill insulation member 200 (the sealant may preferably be Sintex ™ sealant). 209 - External insulation build-up layer of the external insulation system. 209a - At 209a, the external insulation 209 fits around the existing sill (ES) and the external insulation 209 is cut to fit around the existing sill (ES). 210 - Window weep hole which must be kept clear to allow water vapour or water droplets to escape through the weep hole. 300 - Beading profile. 308 - Polymeric elastomeric sealant used to bond the beading profile 300 to the oversill insulation member 200 and to the window frame.

Figures 6 and 6a - Vertical section through window reveal Existing concrete sill (ES) Existing wall substrate 200 - EPS oversill 300 - uPVC beading profile bonded to the existing wall substrate and top of sill insulation member 200 using Sintex ™ MS-35 polymeric elastomeric sealant or similar approved sealant. 400 - uPVC frame seal closure trim. 405 - Resin coating finished with paint. 409 - Reveal insulation. 410- Render coat. 411 - Adhesive.

Figure 7 - Plan section of reveal to oversill junction at top of oversill WF - Window frame 400 - uPVC frame seal closure trim. 409 - Reveal insulation. 410 - Internal piaster finish. 412 - uPVC beading bonded to substrate and oversill insulation member 200. 420 - 45° chamfer ends where beading 300 joins and is finished with sealant. 300 - uPVC beading profile 300 bonded to the window frame (WF) and to the sill insulation member 200.

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS: In use, the purpose-made, ultra high density expanded polystyrene insulated oversill members with resin coating, are installed in accordance with the manufacturers instructions.

The sill insulation members of the present invention are designed to prevent water ingress and incorporate a water proof polymer sealant used in conjunction with a uPVC trim along the lateral and posterior edges, to shed water clear of the ETICS system and ensure water does not flow underneath the sill.

The sill insulation member is designed with a minimum 4° fall, but preferably 7° fall to ensure water drains off the sill. The front of the sill extension should project a minimum of 60mm beyond the facade and no more than 100mm at each side of the reveal.

Installation of sill extensions should be made in temperatures ranging between +5° and +30°C. Joint sealing can be achieved using Sintex ™ MS-35 polymer or similar approved sealant. This joint sealant may be applied in temperatures ranging between +5° and +50°C.

FIXING THE OVERSILL INSULATION MEMBERS TO EXISTING SILL: Standard and custom sill extension lengths may be provided. Fix sill extensions prior to insulating window reveals; the reveal insulation will overlap the lateral edge to allow for thermal expansion. 1. Measure necessary sill extension length (between the window reveals, with an a maximum of 100mm projections at each side) and depth (the window frame to the edge of the facade with at least a 60mm overhang). The lateral edge of the sill extension should not butt too tightly against a plastered reveal, leave a 3-5mm gap for both the placement of the trim and for expansion. Linear extensibility due to weather conditions will cause the outer edge to press against the walls and may cause a fracture in the reveal plaster. 2. Transfer measurements to provided sill extension. Mark outline and score with a utility knife. Using a hand saw, cut sill to specified length and depth. Note there will be end notching due to the side overhangs at the front of the sill. 3. Existing concrete sills can either be cut flush to the substrate wall or left as is. Loose concrete and paint should be removed with a wire brush. A primer coating is used which is preferably AVAL ™ KT-17 to prime the existing sill. 4. AVAL ™ KT-55 or AVAL ™ KT-85 should be used to fix sill extension on top of the original pre-cast concrete window sill and both the top and side of the externa! wall insulation around the pre-cast sill. Follow manufacturer's instructions for mixing adhesive. Adhesive should be evenly distributed with a notched float on the whole surface (underside of sill and inside of front overhang) of the panel to ensure a 25mm layer after fixing. When the adhesive has been applied, the sill should be immediately placed on the original sill. Use firm (vertical) pressure to ensure sill is securely stuck to concrete sill. This ensures good distribution of the adhesive.

. Joints at the lateral and posterior of the extension sill will be sealed using the supplied uPVC trim and Sintex ™ MS-35 polymer (see manufacturer's instructions for application of polymer). All joints, including under the sill extension where the sill meets the fagade shall be sealed using Sintex ™ MS-35 polymer. Bonding surfaces must be clean and dry. 6. The lateral face of the side projections must be coated on onsite using Atlas oversill coating, supplied by the ETICS system supplier. 7. The over sill surface must be primed using a primer coating, preferably AVAL ™ KT-16. Sill extensions may be painted using a weather proof outdoor paint, such as AVAL ™ KT-44 or the sill extensions can be rendered using AVAL ™ KT-77 mosaic render.

THERMAL BRIDGING AND THERMAL MODELLING: The effectiveness of the insulation sill member system of the present invention at solving the problem of thermal bridging in the regions around windows and doors can be seen using thermal modelling as will be explained herein below: THERMAL BRIDGES: Thermal bridges occur within the building fabric where, because of the geometry or the presence of high conductivity materials, heat flows are two or three dimensional. For many situations simple calculations are no longer sufficient to correctly determine thermal performance and it is necessary to analyse the construction using numerical modelling. A number of software packages are available where these specify the geometry, materials and boundary conditions of the model in 2 or 3 dimensions as appropriate. The following modelling is generated using the software HEAT 3 ™, a Swedish developed software that is in common use worldwide.

A linear thermal bridge is essentially a 2D concept and can be modelled in 2D if possible. However, if the plane elements are not uniform in the third dimension i.e., they contain repeating thermal bridging such as steel studs then a 3D model must be used. Thermal modelling also allows the minimum internal surface temperature at the thermal bridge to be found and the temperature factor f to be calculated. This is necessary in order to check that the thermal bridge does not pose an unacceptable risk of surface condensation and mould growth. Ψ (psi) VALUE The Ψ (psi) value by definition represents the extra heat flow through the linear thermal bridge over and above the heat flow through the adjoining plane elements.

From the numerical modelling of a two-dimensional junction, L 2D is the thermal coupling coefficient between the internal and external environments and is calculated from: L 2D = Q / (Ti — Te) (W/mK) where: Q is the total heat flow from the internal to external environment and Ti and Te are the temperatures of the internal and external environments.

Hence, the linear thermal transmittance, Ψ, of the two dimensional junction is the residual heat flow from the internal to external environment after subtracting the one-dimensional heat flow through all flanking elements, expressed in W/mK and is determined from: L 2D is the thermal coupling coefficient U is the U-Value in W/m2K of the flanking element I is the length in metres over which U applies.

THERMAL MODELLING OF THE FIRST EMBODIMENT OF THE INSULATED OVERSILL MEMBER, I.E. NEW BUILD EPS SILL THERMAL MODELLING EXERCISE A new build cavity wall with full EPS sill and external insulation applied to achieve an overall U value of 0.21 W/m2K will be modelled and the psi value and temperature factor calculated, See Figure 8 and Figure 9.

Heat Flows: Set Q[W] q[W/m2] Tmin Tmax -0.2258-15.054 0.4478 0.757 8 -5.2861 -3.8346 0.1332 0.1626 13 0.2056 1.344 19.594 19.966 14 7.2405 4.6742 19.188 19.683 19 0.0143 0.4764 19.758 19.967 20 0.0042 0.2116 19.971 19.975 22 -0.0517-10.346 0.2717 0.4723 25 -0.6789-9.6987 0.2204 0.6408 28 -0.0231 -4,6105 0.0965 0.2754 31 -0.5548-7.9254 0.2169 0.4284 34 -0.019-3.7964 0.0539 0.192 37 -0.2074-5.9257 0.1999 0.2866 40 -0.0093-3.7347 0.1429 0.181 43 -0.2234 -3.191 0.0767 0.2042 46 -0.0062-1.2411 0.0153 0.062 49 -0.0814-1.3571 0.0324 0.0834 52 -0.0025-0.5049 0.0058 0.0251 55 -0.023 -0.3478 0.0029 0.0321 57 -0.0208-0.2004 0.0028 0.0116 59 -0.0124-4.1363 0.1605 0.1658 63 -0.0393 -0.701 0.005 0.1601 Heat flow through surfaces of BC type: 2: 7.259 W 2: T=20°C, R=0.13 m2 K/W 3: -7.4651 W 3: T=0°C, R=0.04 m2 K/W 4: 0.2056 W 4: T=20°C, R=0.17 m2 K/W Net heat flow through sets = -0.0004 W Ψ Value Calculation: Modelling U value of Wall, U'w = 0.198 W/m2K. Ψ = (7.4651 - 0.198 x 1.569 x 1x 20) / (20x1) = 0.063 W/mK 0.063W/mK < 0.149W/mK Target Ψ value from Table D2 of TGD L 2011 of Irish Building Regulations.

Therefore the EPS Sill is suitable for New Build.

Tmin = 19.188°C Temperature Factor = 19.188/20 = 0.959 > 0.75 minimum, OK . Therefore suitable for New Build situation.

CONCLUSIONS: The hydrophobic EPS new build sill gives a psi value less than half the target psi value required in Table D2 of TGD L 2011 and gives a very high temperature factor. Therefore the sill insulation member in the first embodiment of the present invention is a very good solution for reducing the thermal bridging at a new build sill detail.

TYPICAL INSULATED METAL OVERSILL ON CAVITY WALL SILL RETROFITTED TO U = 0.27 W/m2K.

Referring now to Figure 10 for the vertical section through a metal sill; and to Figure 11 for the temperature isotherms shown in the vertical section through the metal sill; Heat Flows: Set Q[W] q[W/ma] 5 -0.324 -36.005 -0.0748 -3.649 -6.4417 -4.784 -0.1191 -4.33 1.346 8.7975 12.994 9.2879 0.0847 2.824 0.0251 1.2562 22 -0.1812 -36.24 25 -2.0666-36.255 28 -0.1743-34.853 31 -1.8591 -32.617 34 -0.1508-30.168 Tmin Tmax 1.44 1,441 0.142 0.1545 0.1155 0.2116 0.1555 0.2118 17.72 19.797 17.593 19.272 18.572 19.806 19.827 19.849 1.4419 1.4735 1.3988 1.4855 1.3822 1.3997 1.219 1.3815 1.1786 1.2193 37 -1,4931 -26.194 0.9168 1.1771 40 -0.111 -22.199 0.8279 0.9171 43 -0.8994-15.779 0.4781 0.8255 45 -0.0864-3.6762 0.142 0.1549 51 -0.0107-3.5502 0.142 0.142 53 -0.0559-11.177 0.388 0.4781 56 -0.3994-5.7469 0.155 0,3854 Heat flow through surfaces of BC type: 2: 13.104 W 2: T=20°C, R=0.13 m2K/W 3: -14.447 W 3: T=0°C, R=0.04 m2K/W 4: 1.346 W 4: T=20°C, R=0.17 m2 K/W Net heat flow through sets = 0.0021 W Ψ Value Calculation: Modelling U value of Wall, U’w = 0.264 W/mzK. Ψ = (14.450 - 0.264 x 1.419 x 1x 20) / (20x1) = 0.348 W/mK Tmin = 17.593 °C This is just an example of the properties of a metal oversill by way of a comparison with the new oversill performance which follows: THERMAL MODELLING OF SECOND EMBODIMENT OF THE INSULATED OVERSILL MEMBER LE. RETROFIT OVERSILL DETAIL; MUNSTER GREEN HOMES INSULATED OVERSILL ON CAVITY WALL RETROFITTED TO U = 0.27 W/m2K See Figures 12 and 13; Heat Flows: Set Q[W] q[W/mz] Tmin Tmax 5 -0.235-15.664 0.5248 0.6994 8 -6.3967-5.1031 0.1894 0.3092 13 0.9123 5.963 18.46 · 19.862 14 10.472 7.4857 18.354 19.294 19 0.0576 1.9202 19.029 19.868 20 0.0171 0.8542 19.882 19.897 22 -0.0624-12.479 0.3679 0.8961 25 -1.6107 -23.01 0.5934 1.2665 28 -0.062-12.391 0.2604 0.7294 31 -1.493-21.328 0.6508 1.1168 34 -0.057-11.398 0.1634 0.5904 37 -0.6974-19.926 0.7022 0.9253 40 -0.0328-13.106 0.5243 0.6284 43 -0.5785-7.2318 0.0994 0.6811 46 -0.0082-1.6373 0.0205 0.0792 49 -0.0657-0.9957 0.0078 0.097 51 -0.0518-0.4979 0.0074 0.029 53 -0.0237-7.9104 0.3056 0.3196 57 -0.0829-1.4804 0.0112 0.3096 Heat flow through surfaces of BC type: 2: 10.547 W 2: T=20°C, R=0.13 m2-K/W 3: -11.458 W 3: T=0°C, R=0.04 m2K/W 4: 0.9123 W 4: T=20°C, R=0.17 m2-K/W Net heat flow through sets = 0.0019 W Ψ Value Calculation: Modelling U value of Wall, U’w = 0.264 W/m2K. Ψ = (11.4593 - 0.264 x 1.419 x 1x 20) / (20x1) = 0.198 W/mK Tmin = 18.354°C Temperature Factor = 18.354/20 = 0.92 > 0.75 minimum, OK . Therefore suitable for a retrofit situation.

CONCLUSIONS: The oversill insulation members and insulation oversill system of the present invention reduces the linear thermal transmittance value (Ψ) by 43% ie, the thermal bridging heat loss at the window sill junction has been decreased by 43% using the new purpose designed oversill in comparison to using a typical insulated metal oversill.

The oversill insulation member in the first embodiment of the present invention also provides a sill profile that can be used for new build construction that meets the maximum Ψ value requirements of TGD Part L 2011 of the Irish Building Regulations and that of future versions of the regulations where the allowable heat loss due to thermal bridging is predicted to be further reduced in line with the Governments aims to reduce carbon emissions due to home heating.

It is to be understood that the invention is not limited to the specific details described herein which are given by way of example only and that various modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims (6)

1. A sill insulation member comprising a one piece integrally formed member adapted for use at windows in external insulation systems on buildings, the sill insulation member being formed of polymeric material having low thermal conductivity, and the sill insulation member having a sloped profile to facilitate water flow there from and having a shoulder at one end of the sloped profile so as to ensure water flow off the end of the sill insulation member; optionally wherein the sill insulation member is formed from high density expanded polystyrene (EPS) or other insulation material of low thermal conductivity and provides excellent resistance to thermal bridging at the window-to-sill junction; optionally wherein the sill insulation member is designed with a slope of a minimum of 4°, preferably with a slope of 7° to ensure water drains off the sill and that water does not flow underneath the sill; and wherein preferably, the slope is 7° and wherein most preferably, the minimum slope is 4° optionally wherein the sill insulation member is adapted to prevent water ingress; optionally wherein the sill insulation member incorporates a water proof polymer sealant used in conjunction with a uPVC trim along the lateral and posterior edges, to shed water clear of the external insulation system and ensure that water does not flow underneath the sill insulation member; optionally wherein the sill insulation member comprises a drip profile adapted to ensure that any water droplets drip from the underside of the sill insulation member; optionally wherein the sill insulation member is finished with a suitable exterior grade paint that does not require a primer or render allowing the colour to be chosen to match either the existing sill or whatever colour is desired; whereby the sill insulation member may be adapted to be used in buildings under construction, as a window sill; and wherein the sill insulation member comprises a rear upstand portion which is adapted to engage with a window in a building under construction or whereby the sill insulation member may be adapted to function as an oversill insulation member, that is the sill insulation member is adapted to be located and engage with a concrete window sill in a previously constructed building which is being retrofitted with an external insulation system.

2. A sill insulation member as claimed in claim 1 wherein the sill insulation member is provided with a resin based coating; wherein the resin based coating provides durability and high impact resistance finish without cracking due to weathering including harsh weather conditions including frost and snow and loads due to maintenance and window cleaning; optionally wherein the resin coating is bonded to the EPS has high adhesion properties and can form around corners, curves and the drip profile and the resin material is also water resistant; optionally wherein the resin coating which is applied on the surface of the sill insulation member has the following composition: polymer binder - 30% % w /w quartz fillers - 50% % w /w dolomite fillers - 11 % % w / w and chemical additives (humidifier, preserving agents, thickeners) - 3% % w / w ; preferably wherein the polymer binder comprises a styrene acrylic polymer binder; and preferably wherein the coating composition includes cellulose fibres which provide strength and reinforcement in the final coating when applied to the sill insulation member; and optionally wherein the coating can be overcoated with exterior paints without the need for a primer (excludes silicate based paints); optionally wherein the resin coating is anti-microbial, algae resistant and self cleaning; optionally wherein the resin coating is resistant to atmospheric rain and pollution; optionally wherein the resin coating is easily repairable; and optionally wherein the resin coating is flexible and can expand and contract with temperature changes without damage.

3. A sill insulation system comprising the oversill insulation member as claimed in claim 1 or claim 2; together with a weathertightness beading profile section adapted to ensure that if any water makes it past the wall render finish at the reveals then this water cannot move further into the wall substrate or that any water cannot get below the oversill at the window frame junction and reveal; optionally wherein the beading profile is formed of uPVC; optionally wherein the beading profile sections are joined together with a sealed mitre joint at each comer ensuring a continuous water barrier around the oversill perimeter; optionally wherein the oversill is adhesively fixed only to the existing sill and wall insulation in a single operation with no mechanical fixing being required; optionally wherein the sill is lightweight and easily handled on site and quick to install compared to other oversills.

4. A sill insulation member adapted for use in an external insulation system of a 5 building, substantially in accordance with any of the embodiments herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.

5. A sill insulation system for use in an external insulation system of a building, the sill insulation system comprising a sill insulation member in any of the embodiments

6. 10 herein described with reference to and as shown in the accompanying drawings.