Understanding Passivhaus is a simple guide to the Passivhaus standard. The book explains the principles behind Passivhaus thinking, and explores numerous construction methods for achieving the Passivhaus standard.What is Passivhaus?Why design a Passivhaus?PHPPCertificationPrinciples of Passivhaus DesignTechnical requirementsBuilding fabricForm factorInsulationThermal bridgeAirtightness and air leakageBuilding services and ventilationWindowsSolar designShadingSummer ventilationRoof lightsTypes of ConstructionMasonry constructionTimber frameStructural Insulated Panels (SIPS)Insulated Concrete Formwork (ICF)Mixed methods of constructionConstruction DetailsSolid concrete with rendered external insulationInsulated concrete formworkSolid masonry with larsen trussesMasonry cavity wallTimber frame with larsen trussesTimber I joist frameSIPS constructionTimber frame with external renderCase StudiesA selection of wonderful examples of Passivhaus designs and construction methods, with more case studies added for this second edition.