At EWI Pro, we specify many projects throughout the UK. They vary in size, scope, and system application. From large-scale commercial projects to small-scale residential, we cover every type of project. As we’ve discussed recently, we provide a comprehensive range of testing processes. These include wind-load tests, moisture testing, and pull-out tests. Our Technical Team also provides expert U-value calculations to ensure the system is suitable. In our new series of blogs, we will shine a light on specific projects and the build-ups they utilise. Our next entry is a spectacular Mineral Wool onto Block project.

Project details

– Substrate: New Blockwork
– U-Value change: 2.4W/(m2K) – 0.3W/(m2K)
– Insulation: Mineral Wool
– Insulation thickness: 120mm
– Basecoat: EWI-225 Premium Basecoat
– Topcoat: EWI-076 Premium Bio Silicone Render – 1.5mm grain size
– Colour: 20001 Pure White
– Location: Staines
– Installer: Eugene

The build-up – Mineral Wool onto Block

The use of Mineral Wool offers a long list of benefits on top of excellent thermal performance. Mineral Wool has a thermal conductivity of 0.036W/m²K, which at 120mm achieves a U-value lower than the required industry standard. Acoustic insulation and an A1 fire rating are other benefits that Mineral Wool offers for the property. The dual-density batts of the product provide acoustic insulation; the outer layer is compressed during manufacturing and as a result, the boards are dimensionally stable.

The insulation is ideal for use with a breathable thin-coat render system as Mineral Wool is vapour-permeable. The installer (who in this case study, is also the homeowner) has paired the insulation boards with EWI-076 Premium Bio Silicone Render at the behest of the EWI Pro Business Development Team. Eugene worked closely with the team and attended our Training Academy, with the final property façade a testament to both his dedication and our teachings. The Premium Bio Silicone Render provides a freeze-proof and hydrophobic envelope for the property. Perhaps more importantly, given the positioning of the property on the river bank, EWI-076 offers active protection against biological growth; slow-releasing antifungal agents maintain the fresh appearance of the façade.

Benefits of the products – Mineral Wool

The major product used in this project is Mineral Wool. Whilst an expensive solution, it provides a plethora of benefits, some of which include:

1. Thermal Performance: Mineral wool insulation provides excellent thermal resistance, meaning it effectively reduces heat transfer, keeping the interior of a building warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Its thermal conductivity is typically in the range of 0.035 to 0.040 W/m.K, making it a great choice for thermal insulation.
2. Fire Resistance: Mineral wool is non-combustible and has a melting point above 1000°C, making it a top choice for fire safety. It can slow down the spread of fire, providing valuable extra time for building evacuation.
3. Acoustic Insulation: Mineral wool’s dense, fibrous structure makes it excellent for soundproofing. It absorbs sound vibrations and mitigates noise pollution, promoting a quiet, peaceful interior environment.
4. Moisture Resistance: Although mineral wool is not fully waterproof, it has water-repellent properties. This prevents it from absorbing water, which would reduce its insulative capabilities. It also has excellent capillary properties, ensuring water does not move across the insulation layer.
5. Durability: Mineral wool is highly durable and retains its insulation performance over the life of the building.
6. Environmentally Friendly: Mineral wool insulation is made from abundant, natural materials and/or recycled content. It’s sustainable and does not deplete the earth’s resources. Plus, the energy saved by its insulative properties significantly outweighs the energy spent in production.

Benefits – Premium Bio Silicone Render

However, our Premium Bio Silicone Render also holds fantastic benefits for the building’s exterior:

1. Anti-Algae and Fungus: The key feature of this type of silicone render is its active resistance to biological growth like algae, mould, and fungi. This is an important factor in maintaining the aesthetics and structural integrity of the building as these organisms can cause discoloration and degradation of the facade.
2. Weatherproof: Silicone renders are highly resistant to weather conditions. They are impermeable to driving rain and yet allow water vapour to escape from the building interior. This breathability helps prevent dampness and condensation issues within the building.
3. Long-Lasting Aesthetics: Silicone render maintains its colour and texture for a long time. It’s resistant to UV light, which means it doesn’t degrade or discolour with time and exposure to sunlight. This keeps the building looking newer for longer.
4. Low Maintenance: Thanks to its resistance to biological growth and harsh weather conditions, silicone render requires minimal maintenance. This makes it cost-effective in the long run.
5. Flexibility: Silicone render has good flexibility, which means it can withstand the natural expansion and contraction of the building without cracking.

Combining mineral wool insulation with a silicone render that actively fights biological growth provides a system that effectively manages heat, noise, fire risk, and moisture while maintaining an attractive and durable facade.