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.

The project completed by Naylor Jones is a fantastic demonstration of how newly built properties can develop communities. The new build property has an EPS system to achieve the desired U-values.

Project details

– Substrate: Timber Frame
– U-Value change: 0.13 W/m²K
– Basecoat: EWI-225 Premium Basecoat
– Finish: EWI-075 Silicone Render
– Colour: 20001 Pure White
– Location: Averley
– Installer: Naylor Jones

The build-up

Given that the properties were new builds, external wall insulation was a consideration right from the onset. The system chosen was our EPS system, which significantly lowers the property’s U-value. The values achieved were in line with Building Regulations for new builds. Silicone Render offers a weatherproof and durable facade.

The project

This ambitious project saw the construction of seven exquisite houses, a mix of detached and semi-detached homes, all designed with a modern, eco-conscious approach. Set on rehabilitated waste/brownfield sites, these homes are a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship and urban regeneration. EWI Pro specialises in cutting-edge external wall insulation systems. Our ethos is built around sustainability, energy efficiency, and enhancing the lifespan of buildings. Naylor Jones brings a wealth of experience in bespoke construction and renovation projects, prioritising craftsmanship, quality, and client satisfaction.

We share a vision for creating environmentally friendly living spaces that do not compromise comfort or design. Our collaboration leveraged the strengths of both organisations, integrating EWI Pro’s energy-efficient solutions with Naylor Jones’s construction expertise. We employed a timber frame construction method chosen for its sustainability, speed of build, and thermal performance. This choice underscores our commitment to reducing the carbon footprint and enhancing the energy efficiency of the homes we build.

Our business ethos is centred around sustainability, quality, and integrity. We believe in the power of collaboration to achieve outstanding results that benefit our clients and the wider community and environment. This project exemplifies our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in sustainable construction, showcasing how innovative practices can lead to creating beautiful and environmentally responsible homes.

Energy efficiency measures

By selecting a previously underutilised waste/brown land site, this project stands as a sterling example of environmental stewardship and urban regeneration. Our approach involved extensive remediation efforts to transform the site into a safe, healthy environment suitable for residential development. This mitigated the environmental hazards of such lands and revitalised the surrounding area, turning a once-neglected space into a thriving community. Each home within the project is equipped with an air source heat pump (ASHP), a system that extracts heat from the outside air to provide heating and hot water. This technology was chosen for its efficiency, lower carbon emissions, and ability to significantly reduce homes’ reliance on non-renewable energy sources. ASHPs represent a forward-thinking solution to heating that aligns with our goal of creating homes that are not just energy-efficient but are also proactive in combatting climate change.

Using triple-glazed windows across all properties is a testament to our dedication to energy efficiency and living comfort. Triple glazing offers superior insulation, reducing heat loss more effectively than double glazing. This feature is pivotal in creating homes that are warm in the winter and cool in the summer, leading to lower energy consumption and a significant reduction in heating bills. Moreover, the enhanced sound insulation properties contribute to a serene living environment, undisturbed by external noise.

Design philosophy

A central pillar of this project’s design philosophy was fostering a strong sense of community among residents. This was achieved through thoughtful site layout planning, including strategically placing homes, communal areas, and pathways to encourage social interactions. Shared green spaces were designed not just as areas of natural beauty but as communal hubs for recreation, socialising, and community events. This design ethos extends beyond the physical structures to imbue residents’ sense of belonging and community spirit, reflecting our belief that homes should be part of vibrant, supportive communities.

From the onset of the project, recognising the potential disruption that construction work could cause to the local community, multiple meetings were held with residents to inform them about the project, its timeline, and the anticipated disruptions. These sessions served as a platform for transparent communication, allowing residents to voice concerns, ask questions, and provide feedback, which were then addressed in our construction planning. Measures were taken to minimise noise, dust, and traffic disruptions, including scheduling work during less intrusive hours and maintaining clean and orderly construction sites. This proactive approach helped build trust and understanding between the project team and the local community, ensuring the construction phase was as unobtrusive as possible.

Community impact

Beyond the construction phase, the project was designed to strongly emphasise creating a sense of community among residents and integrating the new development seamlessly into the existing neighbourhood fabric. A layout that promotes interactions was thoughtfully incorporated to encourage a vibrant community life. These elements were designed not only for the new residents but also to be accessible and welcoming to the wider local community, fostering a sense of inclusiveness and connection.

The project’s eco-friendly ethos was communicated to the local community as a testament to our commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. The project minimised its environmental footprint during the build phase by employing sustainable construction practices and materials. Furthermore, features like air source heat pumps, triple glazing, and the use of timber frames not only enhance the sustainability of the homes but also serve as a tangible demonstration of eco-friendly living practices to the community. This aspect of the project was shared with residents, highlighting our dedication to building homes and promoting a sustainable lifestyle.

Our commitment to lower carbon emissions was integral to the project design and a key point of discussion with the local community. Implementing air-source heat pumps and focusing on energy efficiency are pivotal in reducing each home’s carbon footprint. These efforts align with broader environmental goals and serve as a practical example of how residential developments can contribute to combating climate change. Moreover, by sharing these initiatives with the local community, we aimed to inspire and encourage residents to adopt similar eco-friendly practices in their homes, contributing to a wider culture of sustainability.