Right Steps for Energy Efficiency: Savings Start with the Building

Energy Efficiency in Buildings

Energy efficiency today is not only an environmental responsibility but also an economic necessity. For every new building, both legal regulations and user expectations demand lower energy consumption with higher comfort. At this point, energy efficiency becomes a process that must be carefully managed from the very first design stage to the final construction.

Proper Insulation from the Foundation

Preventing energy loss starts with the foundation of the building. In particular, basements and parking levels in contact with the ground can cause significant heat loss. For this reason, XPS or high-density stone wool boards are critical, thanks to their resistance to moisture and high pressure. This way, the cold effect coming from the ground is minimized.

Exterior Walls: The Heat Shield

The largest share of energy loss in a building occurs through exterior walls. That’s why insulation systems are the cornerstone of energy efficiency.

• EPS is preferred for its light weight and cost-effectiveness.

• Stone wool stands out for fire resistance and sound insulation.

The right material should be chosen based on the climate zone, building type, and architectural details. It must be remembered that even the best material becomes useless if applied incorrectly.

Windows and Frames

Windows are often the invisible source of energy loss. Double or triple glazing, tight sealing gaskets, and details that prevent thermal bridges ensure efficiency. On sun-exposed façades, using low-emission glass helps reduce both cooling costs in summer and heating costs in winter.

Roof Insulation: Stopping Losses from Above

Since hot air rises, the roof is one of the key points for energy savings. In pitched roofs, vapor barriers, thermal insulation, and waterproofing should be considered together; in flat roofs, inverted roof systems are preferred. Proper roof insulation is not only energy-efficient but also extends the life of the building.

The Importance of Proper Application

Application is just as important as material selection. Incorrectly applied boards, missing mesh, or poor detailing can cancel out efficiency gains. Therefore, working with skilled professionals and ensuring on-site supervision is essential.

Energy Performance Certificate: A Legal Requirement

In Türkiye, all new buildings must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This document shows the building’s energy class and directly affects its real estate value. With proper insulation and quality workmanship, it is possible to achieve an A or B class EPC.

The Benefits of Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient buildings provide users with lower bills and higher comfort while contributing to the environment with reduced carbon emissions. Investing in energy efficiency during construction may seem like a cost in the short term, but in the long term, it brings both economic and environmental gains.

References

• Republic of Türkiye, Ministry of Environment, Urbanization and Climate Change – Regulation on Energy Performance in Buildings

• Energy Efficiency Association (ENVER) – Publications and reports

• International Energy Agency (IEA). (2022). Energy Efficiency Report

• Türkiye İMSAD (Turkish Construction Material Industrialists Association) – Energy Efficient Buildings Report