INCA Case Study: Basildon Community Retrofit Project


 

Basildon Community Retrofit Project


Project Type: Refurbishment

Building Type: Low Rise, Residential

Architect: N/A

System Designer: EWI Pro Insulation Systems

Installer: Thrift Energy

System & Finish: EWI Pro EPS & Silicone Render

U-Value Before: 1.70 W/m²K

U-Value After: 0.30 W/m²K

Set in the Essex town of Basildon, this landmark retrofit project stands as a powerful example of how External Wall Insulation can transform not only buildings, but lives. Delivered in partnership with EWI Pro and expertly installed by Thrift Energy, the project involved upgrading a series of low-rise social homes dating from the 1970s that were suffering from significant thermal inefficiency and visual decline. The scope of the project was to upgrade 19 domestic properties and substantially improve their thermal performance.

The system used in this project was EWI Pro’s high-performance EPS insulation board combined with a silicone-based render finish, specifically engineered to deliver excellent thermal efficiency, durability, and aesthetic excellence. EPS is a lightweight, cost-effective insulation material that offers outstanding thermal performance. Before work commenced at this project, the homes had an average U-value of 1.7 W/m²K, offering little in the way of insulation. Post-installation, the U-value has been reduced to 0.3 W/m²K; providing residents with a vastly improved living environment in addition to an exterior facelift.

The silicone render not only provides a clean, crisp finish but also features high resistance to weathering and algae which ensures the buildings remain attractive with minimal maintenance. The aesthetic uplift has been profound and the workmanship by Thrift Energy demonstrates their installation mastery. With a proven track record of delivering energy-saving measures through government-backed schemes such as ECO and SHDF, Thrift Energy has played a key role in reducing fuel poverty, lowering carbon emissions, and improving living conditions for thousands of residents – now including those in Basildon.

Technically, the project presented a range of challenges. The buildings remained fully occupied during works, so Thrift Energy had to manage the installations with meticulous care and resident liaison. Access constraints and a variety of external fixtures such as drainpipes and satellite dishes required adaptable detailing and on-site coordination with EWI Pro’s technical team. Each home was substantially different in shape and size; no two installations were the same but both EWI Pro and Thrift Energy demonstrated an adaptable and flexible approach to ensuring the result is a seamless, high-quality finish.

This project has done more than improve thermal performance—it has significantly impacted the lives of those who live in these homes. Residents have reported warmer, quieter interiors, reduced reliance on heating, and a greater sense of pride in their homes. For many, this has translated to lower energy bills, improved physical health, and a renewed connection to their community. The work can be seen as a transformational step forward in making Basildon’s housing stock fit for the future.

By combining technical excellence, social impact, and aesthetic renewal, this retrofit project is a true showcase of what can be achieved through External Wall Insulation.

By combining technical excellence, social impact, and aesthetic renewal, this retrofit project is a true showcase of what can be achieved through External Wall Insulation.

Spokesperson

EWI Pro

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