Manchester
Case Study
Known throughout the world as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, Manchester has a proud history in science, politics, music, arts and sport. And today the city combines this heritage with a progressive vision to be a city that delivers surprise and delight in equal measures.
Client: Manchester Council
Project Size: 150 properties
Building Type: Wimpey No-Fines concrete
Project Background
In January 2022, Structherm were invited to provide their specialised knowledge for the renovation of 150 residential properties in Manchester.
These properties, constructed using Wimpey No-Fines concrete, required refurbishment, specifically through the application of an
External Wall insulation system (EWI) with a brick effect and textured render finish.
The existing EWI, installed approximately two decades ago, no longer met the current standards. Additionally, the previous system had suffered from vandalism, making the properties unattractive to the local residents.
The residents were delighted with the thermally efficient and visually appealing homes, as they experienced enhanced comfort in terms of living temperatures.
Moreover, they were particularly pleased with the significant savings on their energy bills, which brought them great satisfaction with the excellent work that was achieved.
The effectiveness of the environmental and sustainability aspects in this project were demonstrated by the significant cost/environmental savings that were achieved through the avoidance of disposing
of the materials that would typically be discarded. Significant embodied energy was saved by not needing to remove and dispose of the existing EWI system. Embodied energy refers to the total energy consumed
throughout their lifecycle, including the energy required for extracting, processing, manufacturing, transporting, and installing the materials used in their construction, but also their disposal. It takes into account both the direct and indirect energy inputs associated with the building’s materials and components.
Outcomes / Challenges:
- The rising material and labour costs and the
economic climate at the time were all a challenge for Structherm. - There was also the added complication of making the old EWI system contribute to the thermal performance of the new system whilst ensuring that the product conforms to current standards.
- Winter working and inclement weather were also a challenge.
- Along with coordination with other trades as ASHP’s and other measures were installed.
- Prominent city location adjacent to the Etihad Stadium meant challenging traffic conditions and restrictive parking.
- Also, dealing with the nuances of an ‘industry first’ and the learning curve that comes with installing a new system over the top of an old one.
Head Office
Westdale
Doncaster Road, Askern, Doncaster, DN6 9JD
Call Us
01302 700700