Modern construction often combines multiple materials—such as timber, steel, concrete, and glass—to create visually striking and structurally efficient buildings. While mixed-material construction offers architectural flexibility and strength, it also introduces complexity when it comes to assessing Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs).
At Urgent EPC, we provide accurate Residential EPCs and Same-Day EPCs that reflect the unique performance challenges of mixed-material buildings.
What is Mixed-Material Construction?
Mixed-material construction refers to buildings designed with a combination of different structural and finishing materials. Examples include:
Timber and Steel Hybrids – Lightweight timber with steel frames.
Concrete and Glass – Popular in modern offices and luxury apartments.
Brick with Composite Cladding – Traditional designs upgraded with modern façades.
These combinations can improve durability and aesthetics but also affect insulation, airtightness, and energy performance—all of which are central to EPC ratings.
How EPC Assessments Evaluate Mixed-Material Buildings
When assessing a mixed-material building, EPC assessors consider:
Thermal Bridging
Differences between materials can create weak spots where heat escapes.
Insulation Compatibility
Certain materials, such as steel or glass, may require higher-grade insulation.
Air Tightness
Mixed joints and layered structures can lead to gaps that affect efficiency.
Glazing Performance
Large glass façades impact heat gain and loss significantly.
Heating and Cooling Systems
The building’s design often demands advanced HVAC systems to balance performance.
👉 Read about our assessment process on the About Us page.
Impact on EPC Ratings
Positive Impacts:
When designed well, mixed-material construction can optimise insulation and reduce energy demand.
Use of sustainable timber or recycled materials improves EPC scores.
Integration of renewables like solar panels offsets material weaknesses.
Negative Impacts:
Poor detailing between materials can cause heat loss.
Heavy reliance on glass without shading or coating reduces performance.
Steel and concrete without insulation can lead to low thermal efficiency.
👉 For fast compliance, explore our Same-Day EPC service.
EPC Recommendations for Mixed-Material Buildings
Typical recommendations from an EPC report may include:
Improving external wall insulation across material junctions.
Installing low-emissivity glazing on glass-heavy façades.
Sealing joints and improving airtightness.
Using smart heating controls to balance varied thermal zones.
Adding renewable energy sources like PV panels to compensate for higher energy demand.
Why EPC Ratings Matter in Mixed-Material Projects
For Developers – Ensures compliance before sale or lease.
For Architects – Informs design strategies to balance aesthetics and efficiency.
For Investors & Landlords – Higher EPC ratings improve property value and tenant appeal.
Next Steps
If you are developing or managing a mixed-material building:
Arrange an EPC to assess performance across all material types.
Review EPC recommendations for targeted energy-saving upgrades.
Use Residential EPCs for homes or Same-Day EPCs for urgent compliance.
👉 Check our Pricing Plan or Contact Us to book your EPC today.
Final Word
Mixed-material construction buildings bring innovation and design flexibility, but they also challenge energy efficiency assessments. By addressing thermal bridging, airtightness, and glazing performance, these properties can achieve strong EPC ratings while maintaining modern architectural appeal.
At Urgent EPC, we specialise in providing accurate, fast, and professional EPCs tailored to complex building designs.
👉 Book your Same-Day EPC now to ensure your mixed-material property achieves its best possible rating.
