External wall insulation (EWI) is suitable for all types of non-residential projects including industrial, commercial and public buildings such as offices, shops, hospitals and schools.
Aesthetic Choice
In this sector, the architect generally has more freedom and the aesthetic creativity offered by the choice of render and cladding really comes into its own. The wide range of colours, textures, and facings offered by today’s EWI systems means that there is a solution available to suit every project whatever the architectural preference, company image or planning restrictions.
High Technical Performance
Aesthetics is just one part of the solution though; modern EWI systems are robust enough to continue to deliver a high level of performance years after they were first installed. The combination of insulant and protective finish ensures that the entire thickness of the supporting wall remains dry and warm. This avoids structural damage, reduces ‘thermal bridging’ and minimises the risks of condensation and mould on the walls. The excellent weather-proofing properties of EWI are especially important for buildings that are located in harsh environments or could be exposed to impact or physical damage.
Excellent Thermal Efficiency
Finally, let’s not forget the insulation itself. EWI offers a complete, structurally sound envelope which acts like a ‘tea cosy’ around the building. With building regulations and standards becoming ever more stringent and energy prices soaring, EWI can achieve higher wall insulation U-values than other more traditional ways of insulating buildings.
Its outstanding thermal performance has distinct long-term advantages for the occupants of the building including a comfortable environment in which to live or work and reduced heating costs. What’s more, the insulation doesn’t have to be thick; modern high performance insulations are thinner than more traditional types offering advantages for building footprint and room size.
