INCA EWI Case Study: The Rise Bungalows, Buckinghamshire

Wallcoatings Ltd (WCL) successfully delivered a high quality External Wall Insulation (EWI) refurbishment scheme to three residential properties at 37, 39 and 41 The Rise on behalf of Fairhive Homes.

Although these homes fell outside the original funded improvement programme, Fairhive Homes recognised the importance of ensuring consistency across the wider development and commissioned WCL to complete the works to the same specification. The project was delivered in full compliance with PAS requirements, ensuring the properties benefited from the same high standards of thermal performance, quality assurance and long-term durability as those included within the main programme.

A key challenge on the project was balancing enhanced thermal performance with planning requirements. The local planning constraints required the external appearance of the properties to be maintained, meaning the completed façade had to closely replicate the existing brickwork.

To achieve this, WCL installed an External Wall Insulation system incorporating Structherm’s ArtBrick finish, successfully delivering the required thermal improvements while preserving the established character and appearance of the homes. Careful attention to detail throughout the installation ensured the finished properties blended seamlessly with the surrounding streetscape.

The project adopted a fabric-first approach to improving energy efficiency, with the External Wall Insulation system providing a significant enhancement to the thermal envelope of each property.

Following completion of the EWI works, properties 39 and 41 were further upgraded with the installation of solar photovoltaic (PV) panels and battery storage systems. These renewable energy technologies complement the insulation measures by reducing household energy demand, increasing self-generated electricity and helping residents benefit from lower ongoing energy costs.

The integration of fabric improvements with renewable technologies demonstrates a holistic approach to residential retrofit, maximising energy performance while supporting Fairhive Homes’ wider sustainability objectives.

Throughout the project, WCL maintained a strong focus on quality, compliance and customer satisfaction. Delivering works to PAS requirements ensured that every stage of the installation met recognised industry standards for workmanship, design and performance.

Despite the additional planning considerations and specialist façade finish, the scheme was completed successfully, delivering a high-quality outcome that met both the client’s expectations and local planning requirements.

The completed refurbishment has transformed the performance of the three properties while maintaining their original architectural character. The new External Wall Insulation system has significantly reduced heat loss, improved internal comfort and enhanced the long-term durability of the building fabric.

Resident feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with tenants expressing their satisfaction with both the quality of the workmanship and the noticeable improvement to the comfort and appearance of their homes.

This project demonstrates how careful planning, technical expertise and attention to detail can successfully overcome planning constraints to deliver a sympathetic, high performing refurbishment that provides lasting environmental, economic and social benefits for both the client and residents.