INCA Case Study: Buckley View, Rochdale

Background and Requirements:

Rochdale Boroughwide Housing was looking for a skilled partner to work on a series of refurbishment projects which would form part of an ongoing strategy to identify ways to meet Greater Manchester’s target of becoming carbon neutral by 2038.

The main aims of this project in stunning Smallbridge, situated at the foothills of the Pennines, was to improve the energy efficiency of 23 homes and significantly reduce carbon emissions using a whole-house, fabric-first approach.

After extensive inspection, K Systems identified that:

– The external façade and sheathing boards on the existing, poorly insulated timber frame structures required removal
– Cavity wall and roof insulation needed replacing
– A new EWI was to be installed
– Ventilation needed upgraded
– Windows and doors needed swapped

K Systems worked in close partnership with our approved installer, Profac, to appoint a suitable EWI solution and complementary finish.

Solution, Specification, Challenges and Results:

The sheathing boards were replaced with A1 rated carrier boards and the K Systems M, mineral wool insulation, system was specified. This system not only generates exceptional thermal performance and provides high levels of fire resistance (A2-s1, d0), but also boasts exceptional environmental qualities – by choosing it, K Systems not only demonstrates its innate understanding of best-suited solutions but its dedication to sustainable working.

The bespoke system specified for Buckley View was designed using 110mm non-combustible mineral wool insulation to meet the desired u-value of 0.20W/m2K, improved from 0.43W/m2K. This meant homes were more energy efficient, warmer, and less expensive to heat – a major bonus given the current cost of living crisis.

For the finish, K Systems specified a unique finish of VBriQ+ clay brick slips. This cost-effective, lightweight traditional clay brick slip system replicates traditional brick construction on low-rise buildings like the Buckley View bungalows.

Our unique and innovative VBriQ+ clay brick slip finish was specified due to its robust, durable characteristics and wide range of colours. The brick slips were actually supplied in three colours, which totally transformed the facades aesthetically and with their low maintenance and element resistance qualities, will ensure the homes avoid cracking and maintain their appearance over time.

This project required some intricate technical detailing which was an initial challenge for K Systems but one that was tackled head on and overcome with ease.

Bespoke technical detailing included the use of pistol brick slips around window heads and eaves to create a colour contrast to the main walls, and a band of silicone thin coat render was added as a design feature around the doors – yet again showcasing K Systems’ unrivalled attention to detail.

Completed Refurbishment:

K Systems prides itself on having an inspiring and effective solution for every style, and this project is just one example of how it provides the flexibility to fulfil any specific design criteria.

K Systems tailored the specification process for the project based on the set and very specific requirements of Rochdale Boroughwide Housing and its properties, and every single request / objective of the client was not only met but exceeded in the refurbishment.

The design and delivery of the refurbishment not only received 100% satisfaction ratings from all parties involved, but has also gained external recognition for its excellence and already been shortlisted for three prestigious industry awards:

– Large Scale Project of the Year at the North West Energy Efficiency Awards
– Sustainability Project of the Year at the Aico HomeLink Community Awards 2022
– Best Retrofit Initiative at the Northern Housing Awards

Overall, an outstanding and successful refurbishment by the K Systems team that has given Buckley View in the North West a new lease of life.