The client wanted to achieve a modern and contemporary look, whilst improving thermal efficiency. Therefore, a unique brick effect render finish with various thickness feature pods on the façade was selected.

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These social housing blocks situated in a cul-de-sac consisted of traditional rendered (in part) brick built maisonettes with a flat roof. The works involved the external refurbishment of two occupied three storey residential blocks.

Situated approximately 5 miles from the centre of Liverpool and programmed to be completed over a 12 month period.

The works consisted of the following.

• Removal of chimneys and replacement of roof tiles including loft insulation.

• Replacement uPVC windows and doors.

• Provision of external rendered insulation system.

• Provision of communal TV aerial system.

Guildmore had constant site management on hand at all times throughout the works and residents were encouraged to engage. The residents were consulted at an early stage by the client and prior to commencement on site together with Guildmore. The works involved working closely with the residents organising access for the window element of the works.

THE PROJECT

The decision was made to overclad the blocks using Soltherm Ultimate HD Silicone system with DecoBrick W HD render.

Soltherm Ultimate Silicone EWI system is a BBA approved external wall insulation system incorporating Dual Density Mineral Wool (DDMW) with a silicone render finish, designed to increase a building’s thermal efficiency & weather resistance.

CHALLENGES FACED

As with any project, this project required attention to detail. It was the first time Guildmore had installed the brick effect render; they carried out the installation to their usual high standard, with on-site support and training on hand via our Technical team.

Due to the Covid pandemic they did experience certain difficulties in procuring elements of materials but overall, this did not affect the completion of the project.

There were some unexpected works such as the necessary removal of the existing render to facilitate the installation of the insulation works.

LESSONS LEARNED

The programme was tight and did not allow any leeway for extra works.

The supply chain (Installers, distributors, manufacturers) must be engaged earlier together with site visits to enable all to fully understand the requirements of the project.

WORK CARRIED OUT

The works consisted of the following.

• Removal of chimneys and replacement of roof tiles including loft insulation.

• Replacement uPVC windows and doors.

• Provision of external rendered insulation system.

• Provision of communal TV aerial system.

PROJECT MANAGEMENT

Over the 12 month duration of the project it was managed by a full time site manager, along with weekly visits by Guildmore’s Project Manager and monthly visits by Guildmore’s H&S Consultant.

THE RESULT

The aim was to reduce heating costs for tenants that in turn will help to reduce any that are in fuel poverty, whilst improving the appearance of the properties.

Installing Soltherm’s Ultimate HD Silicone A2,S1,d0 fire rated system with incorporating varying thicknesses of mineral wool to achieve projections within the elevation has created a modern contemporary look to the façade by utilising both silicone render and brick effect finishes. Using 100mm DDMW (Dual Density Mineral Wool) meeting minimum 0.30W/m2K along with 120mm to 230mm (various thicknesses) has reduced heating costs and therefore CO2 emissions and achieved an EPC rating of C.

PROJECT NAME:

Beechwood Gardens

SYSTEM(S) INSTALLED:

Ultimate HD Silicone 230/100mm.

BBA 18/5557 PS4

DecoBrick W HD

ETA 19/0231

M2:

1,700

TYPE OF BUILDING:

Residential Low Rise

SUBSTRATE & U VALUE

Cavity Wall. 0.29 U Value

INSTALLER:

Guildmore

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