Kingspan WoodTherm Adds a Touch of Luxury

One of the latest facade systems from Kingspan Insulated Panels, which combines all the benefits of insulated panel construction with the beauty of a durable natural wood veneer, is bringing a touch of luxury to a new community facility in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.

Newcastle based architects Purves Ash specified Kingspan WoodTherm complete wall and facade system in Dark Brown to face parts of the West End Customer Services Centre in Benwell, which houses a number of community services in one location.

Ces Maddison, Director of Design at Purves Ash explained: “We chose Kingspan, in consultation with Robertsons the contractor, because WoodTherm was the best product to do the job. We liked its resemblance to timber and decided to put it in high profile positions on the building. This has made a big aesthetic impact and we’re very pleased with the result. Other reasons for the specification included the panels’ sustainability.

The building is a great success and we would certainly use WoodTherm again.”

In partnership with Prodema, Kingspan has produced and is the sole supplier of the Kingspan WoodTherm complete wall and facade system. The system’s strong, pleasing finish is supported by built-in regulation compliant insulation, making it suitable both practically and aesthetically for a whole range of buildings.

Kingspan WoodTherm can only be installed as a secret fix system which allows a smooth façade with all panel fasteners hidden from view. As with all Kingspan systems, the cladding is extremely fast and simple to install, reducing build times, providing a rapid, weathertight envelope and taking the architectural facade off the critical path. The full system is available with the Kingspan Total Guarantee, offering thermal and structural performance guarantee.

Andy Patel, Divisional Technical Manager at Kingspan Insulated Panels said “We are constantly working to advance façade technology and maintain our position as market leader. This attractive product, which gives a luxurious appearance yet is highly durable, is a result of these advances.”

The West End Customer Services Centre, which cost £2m to build, is part of a citywide tranche of Public Private Partnership developments for Newcastle City Council, through Newcastle and North Tyneside Local Improvement Finance Trust Company (NNTLIFT Co.) and its construction partner Robertson Construction North East. It occupies the corner site of the former Majestic Cinema in Benwell and officially opened its doors in February this year.

The facility provides a new Public Library; an IT Suite; and meeting rooms. It will also be home to the Housing Benefits Agency and allow access to a host of external public service agencies.

Kingspan WoodTherm has an ECOsafe insulation core, containing no CFC’s or HCFC’s with a low Global Warming Potential, achieves an A rating according to the Green Guide to Specification and is available in FIREsafe LPCB insurer-approved form for assured fire performance. It is also fibre-free, removing the risk of loose fibres being released and causing irritation.