Soul Home: NCC 6 to 7-Star Transition

Simone Mathews from Soul Home guides you through what you need to know about the legislation changes that require all new home builds to reach a minimum 7-Star specification. These enhanced regulations mean that new homes are being built with improved energy efficiency at their core.

As new building requirements come into effect across Australia, the way we construct homes is undergoing a significant transformation. The National Construction Code (NCC) is evolving from a 6-star to a 7-star energy efficiency standard, aiming to create more energy-efficient buildings. This change means that when you build your new home, achieving a 7-star energy rating is essential. This will help reduce energy consumption, lower your energy bills, and promote a healthier, more sustainable living environment.

Understanding the 7-Star Rating

Achieving a 7-star rating for your new home involves considering various factors, including your home’s orientation, climate zone, and the building materials you choose. Key design choices—such as the colour of your roof, the material of your façade, the type of insulation you use, and, most importantly, the windows and doors you select—all play a critical role in reaching this new standard.

Windows and Doors: A Key Factor in Boosting Your Rating

Among the elements that contribute to your home’s energy efficiency, windows and doors offer one of the most straightforward ways to boost your star rating. In climate zones such as Tasmania, Victoria, and the ACT, improving the thermal efficiency of your windows and doors is essential. This might involve choosing frames made from materials that offer better insulation or upgrading to Low E glass or double glazing to reduce heat transfer.

Even if you’re building outside these areas, you may still need to consider better-performing glazing to meet the 7-star requirement. In fact, by increasing the thermal performance of your windows and doors, you could improve your star rating by up to one full star, allowing you to maintain your desired design aesthetic without compromising on energy efficiency.

Customising Your Home’s Comfort with a Mixed Houselot

One effective strategy to achieve a 7-star rating is to use a mixed houselot approach for your windows and doors. Not all windows in your home need the same level of thermal performance. For instance, north and west-facing windows that gain more summer heat might benefit from higher-performing frames or double glazing. Similarly, living areas where heat loss is more significant could be improved with timber framing, which offers better insulation. The key takeaway here is that there are numerous ways to customise your home’s comfort and temperature through your window and door selection.

Working with Your Builder, Designer, or Architect

When navigating the new energy efficiency standards, it’s essential to collaborate closely with your builder, designer, or architect. Discuss your priorities, whether it’s energy performance, design aesthetics, or budget, and ensure that your home’s design and construction methodology align with your goals.

Understanding that windows and doors play a crucial role in creating an energy-efficient home means you’ll be well on your way to living in a comfortable, 7-star-rated home year-round.

We’re here to help you navigate these changes and find the perfect windows and doors to suit your needs. Explore our range of energy-efficient products and start your journey toward a more sustainable home today. Visit your local Stegbar showroom, get in contact or call 1800 681 168 to find the perfect solutions for your next project.