A refurbishment programme carried out by Newham Council has seen the improvement of 15 timber framed properties on Douglas Road and Ravenscroft Close in Canning Town, E16. With the aim of improving the thermal insulation of the 1960s pre-fabricated houses, and increasing the sustainable elements of the build, the works included the replacement of the timber cladding with PVC-U cladding from Swish Building Products.

The PVC-U alternative was used to maintain a higher quality of finish over a longer period of time without the associated cost of upkeep as it requires less long term maintenance.

In addition to the extra thermal insulation offered by the Open V cladding the substructure was also fitted with 50mm wall insulation, in accordance with Part L (0.2). A breathable vertical membrane was fitted behind the cladding to deter moisture build-up while ventilation grills were installed at roof and ground level to ensure a continuous and clear air path through the cavity.

The Douglas Road and Ravenscroft Close refurbishment also included the stripping and renewal of existing roof coverings, as well as upgrading the single glazed timber windows to double glazed PVC-U units. Front and rear entrance doors, as well as garage and utility doors were also replaced with PVC-U alternatives, while new front door canopies helped to complete the transformation of the properties.

Regional sales manager for Swish Building Products, Carl Phillips said: “The refurbishment of these 15 properties is proof of just how easy it is to improve even the most inefficient and poorly performing houses. Our products, coupled with the other sustainable and energy efficient elements installed by the Newham team have helped to create warm, comfortable homes – a critical factor at a time when energy costs are rising, and the fuel poverty gap widening.”