Technical Guide
Building Performance Measurement Explained
Design models and compliance calculations provide an indication of performance, but they do not show how a building behaves in use. Measured data does.
Across housing, retrofit and new build, there is increasing recognition that the gap between predicted and actual performance needs to be understood and managed. Building performance measurement provides the evidence needed to do that.
Why building performance measurement matters
Evidence from across the sector shows that:
- Building's energy use rarely matches predictions
- Heat loss differs from design assumptions more than more often than not
- Airtightness varies depending on construction quality and detailing
- Ventilation systems do not always deliver intended air flow rates
These factors directly affect energy use, occupant comfort and system performance. Without measurement, they remain assumptions.
Learn how to address building performance concerns
Building performance measurement supports a more informed approach to design, retrofit and asset management. It enables you to understand actual performance, make better decisions, demonstrate outcomes and reduce risk.
The role of building performance measurement
Building performance is influenced by multiple factors and no single metric tells the full story. Measurement provides visibility across key areas, including whole-building heat loss, airtightness, fabric performance and ventilation
Together, these measurements provide a more complete and accurate understanding of how a building operates.
Building performance is the result of multiple interacting factors:
Understanding these together provides a more complete picture of performance and enables better outcomes.
Build Test Solutions - the building performance experts
By providing a range of technologies designed to measure building performance in real-world conditions, the BTS team is ideally placed to support you with all your measurement needs.
Whether you are looking to invest in the equipment, increase your competency through training or need some consultancy, we can help.
Where do you want to take your business? Explore the opportunity
Why test?
Whether you are a tester, a landlord or a property manager, building performance measurement should be high up your list of priorities.
Ready to enhance your services? Talk to our experts today!
Talk to us about measuring building performance
Find out how Build Test Solutions can support your projects, programmes or portfolio with practical, evidence-based measurement.
