Knauf Insulation Launches ThermoShell EWI System
Responding to the need to upgrade the energy efficiency of the existing UK building stock, Knauf Insulation is launching its ThermoShell External Wall Insulation (EWI) system, as an effective method for upgrading solid masonry walls whilst delivering high levels of thermal performance.
Knauf Insulation’s ThermoShell EWI System is a cost effective solid wall solution that avoids any internal disruption, so it is particularly ideal for large residential properties, flats and office buildings, where installing internal wall insulation is not an option.
The system has been designed for the lifetime of the property, protecting the existing façade from the effects of weathering and extending the longevity of the building. Installing the ThermoShell system also provides the opportunity to enhance and upgrade the appearance of existing properties. The flexibility of Knauf Insulation’s EWI system means it can be installed over a variety of existing substrates from brick and stonework and concrete, to clay blockwork.
The cost-effective system can upgrade a property to current Building Regulation thermal standards and beyond, drastically reducing carbon dioxide emissions and in turn helping to significantly lower energy bills.
Knauf Insulation’s EWI offering is available in two system versions, one that incorporates rock mineral wool and the other using grey expanded polystyrene (EPS), depending upon the specification requirements of the property under consideration.
ThermoShell comprises 10mm hand or machine applied bonding mortar, with either rock mineral wool or EPS insulation fixed with mechanical fixings. The insulation is then coated with a 5-7mm layer of reinforcing mortar, which can be applied by either hand or machine. One of the most important elements of the system is an alkali resistant glass fibre mesh (minimum of 165g/m2) which is installed for protection with a minimum overlap of 100mm. A quartz sand aqueous primer is then applied over the top providing superior adhesion before lastly putting a topcoat render over the entire system.
Gary Peacey, EWI Development Manager at Knauf Insulation, explains: “There are approximately seven million solid wall construction dwellings in the UK. In order for the Government to reach its Kyoto obligations in carbon reduction, then all of these dwellings will require thermally upgrading by 2050. Knauf Insulation’s Internal Wall Insulation System along with their External Wall Insulation System are the ideal solutions for upgrading existing solid wall constructions and in particular for buildings requiring a hybrid solution.
“Both systems give developers and installers alike greater choice and flexibility in specifying the right application for improving thermal efficiencies, to suit the particular project requirements.”
For more information on Knauf Insulation’s ThermoShell EWI system please visit http://www.knaufinsulation.co.uk
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