The aim of the Energy Performance Building Directive (2002/91/EC) is to reduce the consumption of energy in buildings in such a way that it will inspire more energy efficiency without impairing the level of thermal comfort of the occupants (refer to Figure 1). Malta as a full member of the European Union is to abide by the provisions of the Directive, even though it seems that it is no easy task.

The aim of this dissertation is to investigate and study how insulating materials used in local construction methods may enhance the thermal performance of a typical Maltese building envelope.  The study provides a practical insight on how various insulation options within the cavity of a globigerina limestone and concrete blockwork wall effects the U-Value of the wall.  This study investigates insulation materials such as expanded polystyrene, stonewool, glasswool with/without a reflective coating.  Results demonstrate that in order to be in compliance with the local building regulations it is a must to use insulation within the cavity of the current building construction methods.  Also, enhanced thermal performance is achieved when the insulating material is coated with a reflective surface.  This dissertation quantifies in tangible terms the effectiveness of insulating materials in today’s modern buildings.