Hunters Close Case Study

Some 132 properties in Hunter Close, Plymouth have been upgraded with the application of SPSenvirowall’s Wall System 2 solution.

Mi-Space, working with the Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO), were appointed to install external wall insulation (EWI) to 132 Service Family Accommodation properties in Hunter Close to reduce mould and damp issues and increase energy efficiency.

The client criteria was a dry fix system to resolve the issues at the Wimpey No-Fines and Laing Easiform properties. Due to the existing relationship between Mi-Space and SPSenvirowall, the approved installer chose the Wall System 2 application due to previous experience utilising the system and the value added service which accompanies working with SPSenvirowall which includes reliability and high standards of the product, on-site inspections, in-house training, customer and technical support.

Several challenges presented itself on this project, where existing substructures were 30-40mm out of level and cold bridging had to be avoided to the reveals. Mi-Space’s expertise along with SPSenvirowall technical support resolved these issues with additional dubbing whilst bringing the windows forward within the new installation to avoid cold bridging.

The SPSenvirowall system used in Hunter Close utilised 14,000m2 of 90mm enhanced grey EPS and 1.5mm EnviroSil. The SC59 silicone topcoat colour was selected from an extensive range of colours which was then applied to the façades of the properties, providing a fresh and consistent look to the estate which is in-keeping with the DIO image. In addition to external wall insulation, Mi-Space also replaced the roofs, installed firebreaks, installed loft insulation, provided boiler upgrades where required, AIB asbestos removal and installed new windows and doors.

There was no negative impact on customers while work was going ahead, Mi-Space’s extensive experience allowed for minimal disruption to the daily routine of tenants. The system provided an exceptional u-value calculation of 0.23W/m2k a huge impact on the energy efficiency of the properties from the previous approx. 1.61W/m2k, contributing to reduced energy consumption and CO2 emissions.