A private development for contemporary urban living in Bristol is benefiting from the latest advancement in vacuum insulation technology and exceptional thermal performance with the Kingspan OPTIM-R E Roofing System.

The Old Library is an exclusive new-build featuring 36 spacious studios and apartments in the vibrant, North Bristol neighbourhood of Cotham. The classic exterior design complements the surrounding Victorian architecture, whilst the contemporary interior provides stylishly finished living spaces.

The building includes several small roof-top balconies, which are above heated spaces and offer an extension to the living areas. Installers at Youngs Roofing noted that “the need to retain low threshold heights whilst meeting the demanding U-value of 0.14 W/m2.K provided a challenge” for this project. The Kingspan OPTIM-R E Roofing System was the chosen solution.

Kingspan OPTIM-R E comprises a vacuum insulation panel, Kingspan OPTIM-R, completely encased within a high performance PIR insulation board. With an ultra-slim 80 mm thick design, it delivers an outstanding thermal conductivity of 0.009 W/m.K.

The encasing PIR insulation board provides complete protection for the vacuum insulation panel, allowing fast installation. Utilising Kingspan OPTIM-R flex infill strips, of the same thickness, enabled installers to easily infill awkward spaces and accommodate penetrations through the insulation layer.

Kingspan Insulation provided detailed information regarding the fitting of the Kingspan OPTIM-R E Roofing System, ensuring the ratio of Kingspan OPTIM-R E panels to OPTIM-R flex infill strips was optimised. This ensured that the U-value requirements were met with a minimal construction depth, without compromising on aesthetic design.