Standardized methods for thermal modelling of building components are essential to ensure fair and objective comparison between products in the international construction market. By placing all components on the same "scale," such standards foster transparency and innovation. The development of EN ISO 10077 exemplifies this approach, offering a consistent methodology to assess the thermal performance of window and door profiles—typically industrial products from a single manufacturer. This standardization has contributed to healthy competition and significant performance improvements across the window industry over the past two decades.

However, the situation becomes more complex when dealing with composite building elements, such as ventilated façades, balconies, or lintel details. Such components comprise insulation materials, anchors, cladding panels, and structural elements from different manufacturers. These components and details are assessed using EN ISO 10211 and EN ISO 6946. The multiplicity of involved products and manufacturers often introduces variability and complexity, making it harder to ensure consistency and fairness. Moreover, the increased geometric complexity (often 3D), combined with greater flexibility in interpretation and modelling assumptions under current normative frameworks, can lead to grey areas that may impede fair competition and hinder collective progress toward improved thermal performance.

This presentation addresses these challenges by examining practical examples that illustrate the influence of modelling assumptions within the current EN ISO standards. Furthermore, we explore the limitations of the underlying physical models and show, through case studies, how more advanced modelling approaches can, in certain cases, offer a closer approximation of real-world behaviour.

This presentation begins with an overview of the key ISO standards used to assess thermal performance. It then introduces the BCCA certification schemes that ensure the reliability of numerical thermal calculations. The presentation concludes with an overview of product certification and how thermal performance is integrated into the process, illustrated by recent developments in the certification of wall-to-floor junction elements.

Time to enjoy some coffee while you expand your network.

In this talk, we will explore the critical role that certified Passive House components play in achieving net-zero energy buildings. We will delve into the technologies and practices that make these components efficient and sustainable and demonstrate how they contribute to improving energy efficiency and easing planning process and quality assurance.

This presentation will explore how the Belgian building sector is working toward Zero Emission Building (ZEB) compliance, with a specific focus on the building envelope. It will highlight key aspects of the current Belgian energy performance regulations, and demonstrate in particular how professionals address thermal bridges in practice. The presentation will also reflect on how regulatory and technical developments may shape future compliance pathways, with a focus on the testing of the real performance of building envelope.

Enjoy a good lunch meal while mingling and exchanging ideas with the other participants and speakers.

Broaden your knowledge with an expert-guided tour of "Hamster", the new hot box - cold box testing facility at Buildwise. We will form smaller groups for the tours to ensure that everyone has a great experience. In parallel, those waiting have the opportunity to network and/or listen to stimulating pitch presentations.

Voluntary opportunity to continue networking until 16:30.