A hybrid External Wall Insulation (EWI) design created by Structherm has earned them an INCA (The Insulated Render and Cladding Association) award for Refurbishment. The innovative design was created for use in an energy efficiency improvement project delivered by Unitas Stoke-on Trent.
Unitas, Stoke-on-Trent City Council’s repairs and property maintenance company, initially worked with Structherm on a pilot project to use their Structural EWI system to improve the insulation, structure and overall appearance of 12 crosswall properties in Smallthorne.
Liam Gratty, Head of Asset Management & Investment at Unitas Stoke-on-Trent, said: “This project is one of many great examples of how Unitas and their supply chain can collaboratively provide market leading improvements to the homes of Stoke-on-Trent residents.”
“Not only does this offer a high-quality product and finish, but we are also improving thermal comfort, the living environment and street scene whilst contributing to the Carbon Reduction agenda.”
“This award is welcome recognition for the hard work done by everyone involved.”
Hybrid solution
The INCA award-winning housing project, carried out on seven properties in Norton, Stoke-on-Trent, improved on the design of the pilot project to create a ‘hybrid’ of the original specification. The structural challenges posed by the old crosswall design and the energy efficiency requirements made for a unique refurbishment project.
As well as essential improvements to the functionality of the homes, it was a requirement that the homes were modernised and in keeping with the surrounding area as part of the refurbishment project. Unitas, Structherm and installers, Westdale Group, were able to use an innovative Artbrick render system, which matches the appearance of the existing brickwork to ensure continuity across the properties.
The partnership between Structherm as system designer, Unitas as main contractor and Westdale Group as installer was critical to the success of the project.
John Sparrow, Sales & Marketing Director at Structherm said: ““It was an absolute pleasure to work with Unitas on this project and we are delighted with the end result. We regard the winning of the INCA refurbishment award to be a result of the real three-way partnership.”
“Each organisation worked closely together from design to completion in order to overcome the challenges, resolve all issues and deliver an exceptional result for the client and, most importantly, for the residents who are delighted with their new look properties and are also looking forward to significant and ongoing reductions in heating costs.”
Mrs Sidley, a resident at one of the refurbished homes in Barks Drive, commented on the impact the work has had on her home: “The team have done such a great job — it looks like a new build house from the outside.”
“I have noticed a huge difference in my heating bill and my home feels warmer this winter.”
Structherm has dedicated the INCA award to long-standing employee, Virginia Walker, who sadly passed away this year.
