Swisslab external wall insulation (EWI) from Alumasc, has been used in the colourful refurbishment of a social housing scheme in Shettleston, Glasgow.

The South Greenfield Render Project is a 3.2million refurbishment programme implemented by Shettleston Housing Association to upgrade the insulation and improve the aesthetics of a scheme of 1960’s tenement flats.

Alumasc’s Swisslab EWI system is regularly used for regeneration projects as it eliminates cold bridging, condensation and mould growth and protects the structural fabric of the building with an effective life in excess of 30 years.

As a major element of the retrofit works, over 10,000m2 of Swisslab was installed. The overall combination of the insulation and external render has improved thermal performance from the original U-Value of 1.36 w/m2k to 0.3 w/m2k.

The Swisslab system for this scheme was specified with 80mm EPS insulation on the majority of properties, however due to a past history of flooding, extruded polystyrene (XPS) insulation was used in the lower areas of the installation.

The system was finished with Silkolitt, Alumasc’s silicone render, in 12 varying colours. John Gilbert of John Gilbert Architects in Glasgow, explains his vision for the colourful exterior:

“We felt that using colour brought life and interest to the tenements and, combined with the changes we made at each entrance, enhanced the experience of walking down the street.”

Going on to talk about the Alumasc products used in the project, John said: “We specified Alumasc because the range of colour choices was good and the value of the product was sound. We have worked with Alumasc on projects spanning the last 20 years, and have no problem in using their products time and time again.”