The latest news and updates from the Detail Library

Understanding Thermal Bridging and PSI Values

Understanding Thermal Bridging and PSI Values

In this post we will explore thermal bridging, how it impacts buildings and the different types of thermal bridges. We will then look at Psi values and what they are used for. Finally we will share information about our recent work on calculating our own detail...

May 2024 – New Details

May 2024 – New Details

Something a little different for you this month. We've been talking for some time about creating a template for our members that includes the different construction build ups that are featured in the library. Finally, it is a reality! Our Construction Build Ups...

How to Draw a Reflected Ceiling Plan

How to Draw a Reflected Ceiling Plan

This blog post follows our earlier post titled Introduction to residential lighting: an architect’s guide. That article is an introduction to the different types of artificial lighting within a domestic setting, types of light fixtures, LEDs, light temperature,...

April 2024 – New Details

April 2024 – New Details

This month we are looking to the outside and focusing on external works details, specifically retaining wall details, cappings and copings for freestanding walls. This set consists of: Solid brickwork garden wall with coping, capping and creasing tile details Robust...

Residential Lighting Design – An Architect’s Guide

Residential Lighting Design – An Architect’s Guide

Both natural and artificial lighting can help to elevate a residential space. Whilst the orientation of a building, size and location of windows controls the natural daylight and quality of a space, artificial light can add warmth on dark days and transform spaces at...

March 2024 – New Details

March 2024 – New Details

This month we are excited to share another set of details that have been requested regularly by our members. This set consists of external wall insulation details. This particular set shows a solid blockwork masonry wall with non-combustible mineral wool insulation...

Types of Partial Fill Cavity Insulation

Types of Partial Fill Cavity Insulation

Partial fill cavities are some of the most commonly built in the UK. We have created a set of details to help in detailing this type of insulation. In areas exposed to very severe wind driven rain, partial fill cavities are the more robust solution for both rendered...

February 2024 – New Details

February 2024 – New Details

This month we are excited to share another set of details that have been requested regularly by our members. This set consists of partial fill cavity wall details. In areas exposed to very severe wind driven rain, partial fill cavities are the more robust solution for...

Pitched Roof Ventilation and Membranes: A Guide

Pitched Roof Ventilation and Membranes: A Guide

Understanding ventilation is crucial when designing a pitched roof. Not only does it ensure the longevity of the roof, but it also prevents a myriad of problems that could arise from trapped moisture, condensation and poor air circulation. Much of the guidance...

January 2024 – New Details

January 2024 – New Details

These new details are the second half of a two part set exploring slate roof details. The set explores traditional slate roof construction, looking at how different junctions are detailed using traditional lead specifically in an extension setting, to complement...

U-Value Requirements – Do you need 150mm cavities?

U-Value Requirements – Do you need 150mm cavities?

The updated Approved Document L: Conservation of fuel and power, Volume 1:Dwellings; 2021 edition incorporating 2023 amendments – for use in England which came into force on 15 June 2023, attempts to integrate u-value requirements for both new dwellings as well as...

December 2023 – New Details

December 2023 – New Details

We are bringing you something a little different this month. Something we have been working on for a little while - a full set of electrical symbols, signage symbols and hazards. This set will be super useful for marking up your M&E plans, health and safety and...