When you make energy-efficient construction decisions, you can expect that your building will cost less to operate, produce fewer greenhouse gas emissions and be a more comfortable place to live, work, study or play.

Schools and universities in particular have high daytime use and crowded conditions. Temperatures can soar by midday, making it difficult for students and lecturers to focus. However installing air-conditioning (or heating in winter) would result in unacceptable running costs.

Clay bricks have well-known thermal insulating properties, making buildings naturally cooler in summer and warmer in winter. This saving is further enhanced by designing the building with cavity walls (a double leaf wall with an air cavity between).

Unlike other building materials, the high thermal mass of clay brick prevents a “hot-box” effect in high summer temperatures. Rooms stay considerably cooler than ambient temperatures, allowing students to concentrate throughout the day.

Air quality and noise are also factors that hinder student performance.  Clay masonry regulates air humidity so that pupils and teachers can enjoy an environment close to the preferred human comfort zone even in the wettest or driest climate conditions.