Sustainable Construction
SHAPING THE FUTURE OF SUSTAINABLE CONSTRUCTION: MKM AND TERRY HUGGETT DEVELOPMENTS COMPLETE AWARD-WINNING PASSIVHAUS PROJECT IN SOUTH YORKSHIRE MKM, the UK’s proper independent builder’s merchant, is leading the charge in sustainable construction practices through its involvement in the awardwinning Sort Trae Passivhaus project in South Yorkshire.
To date, Terry Huggett Developments has completed six Passivhaus projects in South Yorkshire with MKM’s support. Their work has significantly contributed to the region’s transformation into a modern, eco-friendly landscape.
Passivhaus buildings, such as Sort Trae, deliver up to 90% energy savings compared to traditional homes, making them an appealing option for those looking to cut down on energy costs while maintaining high environmental standards (Passivhaus Trust).
Huggett advises those considering a Passivhaus to understand its five principles: no thermal bridging, superior windows, mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, quality insulation, and airtight construction. “Think long term,” he says, “and enjoy the process – it’s a joy to live in a Passivhaus and see your heating bills nearly disappear.”
In collaboration with Terry Huggett Developments, MKM Sheffield North sourced the specialist architect specified materials required to meet the rigorous Passivhaus standards – a benchmark in eco-luxury living and energy efficiency that is seeing growing adoption across the UK. With over 1,500 certified Passivhaus buildings in the UK and at least as many in development, the demand for low-energy, high-performance homes is accelerating as homeowners and developers seek solutions to reduce their carbon footprint (Passivhaus Trust).
Sourcing specialist materials for a sustainable future MKM Sheffield North played a pivotal role in sourcing carefully selected materials for Sort Trae, including Steico Insulation, Pro-Clima Membranes, Tescon Tapes & Sprimer, Soudal SWS Expanding Foam, Contega Tapes, SmartPly OSB 18mm, and the LG Heat Rectory System. These materials are essential in ensuring optimal insulation, airtightness, and energy efficiency, all crucial components of Passivhaus design.
MKM’s contributions to Sort Trae are part of its broader national focus on sustainability - initiatives that have earned MKM the prestigious Ecovadis Bronze status, underscoring the company’s dedication to sustainable operations. Passivhaus is not just gaining traction in private developments; social housing providers are also recognising its benefits. Over 750 Passivhaus social housing units have been completed across the UK, with more in the pipeline, demonstrating the scalability of these standards (Passivhaus Trust). Passivhaus construction has unique challenges, including airtight construction, superior windows, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery.
06 Construction UK Magazine - End of Year Review 2024
The growing demand for Passivhaus and sustainable construction The Sort Trae Passivhaus project is a prime example of how MKM is enabling sustainable building on a national scale. As more developers seek to meet the increasing demand for Passivhaus construction, MKM is well-positioned across its 130 branches to provide the specialist materials required to deliver high-quality, energy-efficient homes.