INCA Case Study: 54 North Homes, Headingly

54 North Homes Project Showcases Wetherby’s PAS-Compliant Roofline Closure System in Landmark Retrofit Project

A landmark energy efficiency scheme led by Equans, in partnership with Wetherby Wall Systems, part of the ROCKWOOL Group and social housing provider 54North Homes, has transformed two residential buildings in Leeds and set a new benchmark for retrofit innovation in the process.

The project, covering Wood Lane Court and St Mary’s Court, delivered extensive upgrades to 98 homes. These improvements enhanced thermal comfort, reduced energy bills, and significantly lowered carbon emissions. A key pioneering element of the scheme was the use of Wetherby’s Roofline Closure System at Wood Lane. This was one of the first projects to benefit from the system since its approval for PAS-compliant applications in early 2024.

Upgrades were completed to two blocks of one-bedroom flats, including the addition of external wall insulation to help retain warmth. The works also included the installation of new energy-efficient heating systems and improved ventilation to reduce dampness and the risk of mould.

For the external works, Wetherby recognised contractor and INCA member, Thomas Niamh Contracting Ltd were appointed to expertly install the Wetherby Stone Wool system to a mix of masonry and timber frame substrates. This solution also provided the added advantage of an A2 fire rating. The system was installed comprised 12mm STS Construction Board, with 100mm non-combustible ROCKWOOL Stone Wool insulation directly fixed to the board.

At St Mary’s Court (see images 1, 2 & 8), the façade was brought to life using WWS HECK 4S Silicone ‘K’ 1.5mm textured render, delivering a modern, durable finish with lasting visual impact. A sleek grey tone (G 4502-Y) was chosen for the ground floor to provide a grounded, architectural base, a lovely green shade (2030-G10Y) was used for the passageways, while a brighter cream was applied to the upper elevations to lift and lighten the building’s overall appearance. This smart combination not only enhances kerb appeal but also reflects light beautifully—creating a clean, contemporary look that complements the building’s new energy-efficient credentials.

At Wood Lane (see images 3,4,5,6,7), HECK 4S render in a bright blue colour (4020-B10G) was used in the recessed walkways, to contrast against the brick areas. At the rear, HECK 4S in an orange colour (3030-Y50R) was applied in a tone that complimented the brick slips, with the blue finish again used to accent recessed areas.

As both buildings feature multiple passageways and balconies, the installation required careful attention to detailing, particularly around doorways (see image 8). At St Mary’s Court, new timber framing and sheathing boards were installed within the passageways to support the insulation system.

The Asbestos Challenge

To avoid extending the existing asbestos-tiled roof, the innovative Roofline Closure System was installed on the gable areas of Wood Lane. In order to prevent disturbing the asbestos, Thomas Niamh Contracting carefully dropped the system by the height of a brick slip and created a brick soldier course above, as shown in image (7), the roofline detail follows the slope of the existing roof with precision.

The chosen solution was the Wetherby Detail A4, incorporating a 781 grind-in profile. This option is suitable for existing overhangs of less than 40mm, or less than 50mm in high-exposure zones.

Using a roofline closure system in conjunction with external wall insulation provides significant benefits. It prevents rainwater ingress at the junction between the wall and the roof, protects both the insulation and the building structure from moisture damage, and reduces the risk of damp and thermal bridging. These advantages all contribute to the longevity and effectiveness of the overall system.

Delivering Results for Residents and the Environment

These improvements are expected to reduce energy bills by up to £400 per household each year and cut carbon emissions by as much as one tonne per home annually. This is the equivalent of driving a car around the world nine times.

Following the completion of the works, the U-value of the external walls was significantly improved, from 1.41 W/(m²K) to 0.28 W/(m²K). Demonstrating a substantial enhancement in thermal performance and energy efficiency. Many homes that were previously rated as low as EPC E have now achieved Energy Performance Certificate ratings of B, delivering a significant uplift in energy efficiency.

Voices from the Project

Sean Corcoran, Regional Director at Equans, said: “Much of the carbon produced nationally comes from existing homes, and projects like this are essential to meet national net zero targets. These improvements help create a healthier, more sustainable future. I’m proud we’ve brought our low-carbon housing expertise to this project and that it is making a real difference for the people living in these flats.”

Joanna Chambers, Director of Assets and Growth at 54North Homes, said: “It’s fantastic to see the energy efficiency work completed on these homes, making them warmer and more affordable to run for our customers. Each home has undergone extensive improvements. This is an important step toward meeting our carbon reduction commitments, ensuring that all our homes meet at least EPC C by 2030 in line with government targets.”

Janet Zealand, a resident at St Mary’s Court since 1976, shared: “The changes are already making a real difference to us in terms of our bills. It’s lovely and warm all the time now. We used to need extra heaters just to feel comfortable.”