Natural light is a powerful tool for improving well-being, reducing reliance on artificial lighting and making spaces more comfortable to work in. This is where Factory Assembled Insulating Rooflights (FAIRs) excel. If you have a building project that requires a solution for diffusing natural light from above whilst maintaining insulation and energy performance, understanding FAIRs is crucial.
What are FAIRs?
Unlike traditional methods where components are pieced together on-site, a FAIR is a complete rooflight unit that includes the rigid foam spacer, GRP sheets and insulating core, manufactured and assembled under strict factory conditions.
This means the entire unit arrives at your construction site as a single, sealed component, ready to be installed as the roof progresses.
How Do FAIRs Improve Building Performance?
The core advantage of FAIRs lies in their impact on building performance. They help buildings perform in three critical areas: energy efficiency, thermal efficiency and airtightness.
1. Thermal Efficiency and Reducing Cold Bridging
FAIRs are designed to help minimise the issue of thermal bridging. Their assembly allows for the integration of continuous, high-performance insulation. They create a thermal barrier that aligns with the insulation layer of the roof itself, helping to reduce any thermal bridging that can occur. There are no gaps, no compressed insulation and no weak points. The result is U-values as low as 0.87 W/m²K.
2. Airtightness
Air leakage is a silent energy thief. Drafts moving through gaps in a building can account for a huge portion of its heat loss, leading to uncomfortable drafts, higher energy bills and potential moisture issues within the structure.
The controlled environment of a factory allows FAIRs to be manufactured and sealed to meet airtightness standards. When correctly installed, the FAIR creates a single, airtight seal with the roof structure like a normal roof panel would do.
3. Enhanced Energy Efficiency
A FAIR is designed to let in natural light through the roof panel, reducing the reliance on electrical lighting and thus reducing energy bills for the building. Allowing in more natural light also creates a more comfortable working environment for employees.
The Advantages of FAIRs
GRP FAIRs offer some advantages over alternative materials. Advantages of FAIRs include:
- Ease of installation – The installation process for a FAIR is remarkably fast, with each panel being able to be fitted into place as the other roof panels are being installed.
- UV protected – FILON FAIRs are supplied with outer skins including Filon Protect, a highly durable, UV-resistant polyester film, factory bonded to the weather face. This extends the durable working life of the sheet and limits sheet yellowing.
- Long-term energy savings – This is the most significant financial benefit. By allowing more natural light to enter, the building can reduce its reliance on electrical lighting, resulting in substantial energy bill savings for the building occupier throughout the structure’s lifespan. This makes FAIRs a powerful tool for meeting and exceeding building regulations, such as Part L2.
Why Choose FAIRs for Rooflight Solutions?
When weighing up your options for an upcoming project, here is a definitive checklist on why choosing FAIRs for rooflight solutions is the smartest decision you can make.
For Architects and Designers
FAIRs allow you to specify with confidence. You can be assured that the designed thermal performance will be achieved in reality. They help you meet targets and deliver a higher quality, better-performing building for your client.
For Main Contractors
If using composite panels for your roof system, FAIRs are necessary. GRP FAIRs are tough and durable, providing excellent light diffusion.
For Building Owners and Developers
You get peace of mind. The combination of long-term energy savings, minimal maintenance and freedom from leaks protects your investment and enhances the comfort and appeal of your property. The operational cost savings directly improve your bottom line.
By choosing FAIRs, you are investing in a guaranteed performance outcome. You are choosing lower lifetime costs, unparalleled quality assurance, and a simpler, faster build process.
Want to specify FAIRs for your next construction project? Talk to one of our experts today.
FAQs
What does FAIRs stand for?
FAIRs stands for Factory Assembled Insulating Rooflights. This signifies that the entire unit is assembled into a single, performance-guaranteed component in a quality-controlled factory environment, unlike traditional site-assembled rooflight systems.
Why should I choose FAIRs for my rooflight solution over a site-assembled rooflight product?
You should choose FAIRs for your rooflight solution when specifying for a roof that uses a composite panel system. FAIRs are a necessary addition if your project requires rooflights to increase the amount of daylight diffused into the building.
What are the advantages of using FAIRs?
- Thermal performance – FAIRs by Filon can achieve U-values as low as 0.87 W/m²K.
- Airtightness – Factory-applied seals create an air barrier.
- Energy efficiency – Letting in more natural light into a building reduces the reliance on electrical lighting, thus reducing the building’s energy bills.