Overheating in buildings is becoming an increasingly important issue in the UK, especially with rising temperatures and more frequent heatwaves. To address this concern, the TM59 Overheating Assessment has been developed as part of building regulations to help designers and architects ensure buildings provide a comfortable living or working environment during hot weather. At Gradwell Group, we specialize in TM59 Overheating Assessments, helping you comply with regulations while ensuring your building remains comfortable, efficient, and sustainable.

What is TM59 Overheating Assessment?

The TM59 Overheating Assessment is a methodology developed by CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers) to assess the risk of overheating in new and existing buildings. This assessment looks at how a building responds to heat under various conditions and determines whether there is a risk that occupants will experience discomfort due to high temperatures.

Why is TM59 Overheating Assessment Important?

1. Meeting Building Regulations
   The TM59 assessment is a requirement for many developments, particularly in residential and commercial buildings, to ensure compliance with energy efficiency regulations.

2. Climate Change Adaptation
   As global temperatures rise, overheating in buildings is becoming more prevalent. TM59 assessments help identify risks and enable designers to adapt buildings for future climate conditions.

3. Improved Comfort
   By addressing overheating concerns early in the design process, TM59 assessments ensure that building occupants can enjoy a comfortable indoor environment, even during extreme heat events.

4. Sustainability
   Managing overheating helps improve a building’s energy performance, reducing the need for excessive air conditioning, which in turn reduces energy consumption and the building's carbon footprint.

5. Health and Well-being
   Excessive heat can affect both physical health and mental well-being, particularly for vulnerable individuals. A TM59 assessment helps ensure that buildings are safe and comfortable to live or work in.

How Does a TM59 Overheating Assessment Work?

1. Data Collection

Our team begins by collecting key information about the building, including its design, layout, orientation, glazing, insulation, and ventilation systems.

2. Modelling the Building

Using advanced software, we model the building’s internal temperature variations over different seasons and external conditions. This helps us predict whether the building is at risk of overheating.

3. Thermal Performance Analysis

We assess the building’s thermal performance to understand how it responds to heat. This includes examining passive design strategies, such as shading, ventilation, and thermal mass, that can help manage heat.

4. Overheating Risk Evaluation

Based on the thermal model and analysis, we evaluate the risk of overheating, identifying potential areas of concern and recommending appropriate mitigation measures.

5. Recommendations

Our team provides tailored recommendations to address overheating risks, including changes to building materials, ventilation strategies, shading, and cooling solutions.

What Are the Key Features of a TM59 Overheating Assessment?

• Ventilation – Effective natural or mechanical ventilation can significantly reduce overheating risks by promoting air movement and cooling.
• Shading – Incorporating shading techniques, such as external blinds or overhangs, prevents excessive solar heat gain.
• Thermal Mass – Using materials that absorb and store heat, such as concrete or brick, helps to regulate indoor temperatures during the day and night.
• Building Orientation – The position of the building relative to the sun can affect how much solar heat it gains. Proper orientation can help reduce overheating.
• Glazing and Insulation – The amount and type of glazing (windows) and insulation in the building affect how much heat is retained inside.

Why Choose Gradwell Group for Your TM59 Overheating Assessment?

• Expert Knowledge – Our team of experienced assessors is highly skilled in TM59 assessments and the latest building regulations.
• Comprehensive Solutions – We offer a full range of services to ensure your building meets all regulatory requirements while maintaining occupant comfort.
• Sustainability-Focused – We prioritize environmentally friendly and energy-efficient strategies that reduce your building’s carbon footprint.
• Tailored Advice – We provide customized recommendations that suit your building’s unique needs and challenges.

Get Your TM59 Overheating Assessment Today

If you’re planning a new development or renovation, the TM59 Overheating Assessment is a vital step in ensuring the long-term comfort, sustainability, and compliance of your building. Contact Gradwell Group for expert advice and TM59 assessments tailored to your project. Let us help you create buildings that are comfortable, energy-efficient, and built for the future.